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Let's unpack how forgiveness is not an emotional response, rather it's a social act! Against a backdrop of cultural polarization and personal disconnection, I explore how unforgiveness shapes the way we show up in our relationships-- and how choosing forgiveness can restore curiosity, responsibility and positively impact society. IG/YouTube: Specimen the Sociologist

Let's debunk what it means to be confident! While folks may limit it to a feeling, I'd argue that confidence is the alignment between your core values and your behavior. If you want to learn how confidence can stabilize your social interactions, produce relational clarity, and bring you contentment-- this podcast is for you! Instagram: @specimenthesociologist Youtube: @specimenthesociologist Linktree: Click Here!

In this episode, I break down what it means to become a secure individual! We explore attachment theory, people-pleasing, and how identity, honesty, and sensitivity shape the way we show up in our relationships. You may not be fully secure at all times, but you can have a secure approach to life! Instagram: @specimenthesociologist Threads: @specimenthesociologist

Let’s talk about the science behind people-pleasing. While it’s often dismissed as a personality trait, people-pleasing is actually a learned behavior shaped by social structures, power dynamics, and our fundamental need for belonging. From Goffman’s dramaturgy to Asch’s conformity experiments, we’ll unpack the sociology behind people-pleasing—and explore how to break free from these patterns. Press play and let’s learn together! IG: @specimenthesociologist

We’re closing out our anxiety mini-series with a review of The Anxious Generation. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt explores how childhood has shifted from play-based to phone-based—and how that shift fuels rising anxiety, depression, and disconnection. In this episode, I break down Haidt’s key insights and share practical ways to build a more resilient generation by strengthening identity and core values—not just cutting screen time. Topics include: Why adolescent brains are especially vulnerable Cultural forces driving disconnection How phone-based childhood impacts mental health and identity Solutions for creating healthier pathways for kids and teens IG: @specimenthesociologist

If you’ve been on this planet for more than two seconds, you’ve probably had your trust betrayed—or betrayed someone else’s. Fear not—your favorite specimen is here to unpack the science of trust: how it’s built, how to identify trustworthy people, and how to become one yourself! Specimen Linktree: Click here!

In this episode, I dive into the Sociology of SNAP—the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—and explore how it reflects America’s values, inequalities, and systems of social control. From the history of food stamps to the modern fight against hunger, I unpack how food, policy, and society are all connected. Small business spotlight: Mojito_cf (Instagram) Specimen Linktree: Click here

I’m back with a cheeky voice memo! This time, I’m exploring the lost art of writing a handwritten letter. In an age of digital messages and quick texts, a letter is a value-based way to communicate that truly brings us closer. You know the drill—listen, share, and don’t forget to subscribe. Sincerely, Yours truly, Kind regards, Cordially yours, Jessamyn Reichmann.

Let's talk about Anxiety! Nope-- I'm not talking about Doechii's song called "Anxiety," I'm talking about an experience that we all share. In this episode, we'll be exploring the sociology of anixety, discussing its definitions, societal trends, and the impact of social media. The conversation delves into two sociological theories—Structural Strain Theory and Postmodern Theory—to understand how societal pressures shape anxiety. I will offer practical solutions (specimen solutions) for managing anxiety, emphasizing the importance of viewing disruptions as opportunities, using anxiety as a roadmap, and the power of forgiveness. The episode concludes with personal reflections on the importance of being present and the benefits of stepping back from social media. If you're curious to learn-- press play and turn that volume up! Resources: DJ Nayiram (IG: djnayiram) Specimen the Sociologist LinkTree: Click here!

Hey there, hi there! What better way to wrap-up our loneliness series then by with a book review. In Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Author Dr. Jeremy Noble investigates loneloiness not just as a deeply personal experince, but as a widespread public health issue. If your curious to learn more about loneliness from a medical standpoint with a sprinkle of creative problem-solving, this podcast is the one for you! Topics discussed: The biological and psychological science of loneliness.The social drivers of disconnection (from stigma to structural inequality).The healing power of creativity, especially for those feeling marginalized or unseen.Practical steps for how individuals, communities, and institutions can respond to the loneliness epidemic. IG: specimenthesociologist

In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, we explore the principle of identity — how it’s formed, what it reveals about us, and why it matters for the health of our relationships and society. Drawing from both sociology and lived experience, Jessamyn Reichmann breaks down how identity takes shape through isolation, conflict, and subtraction. Whether you’re navigating loneliness, disappointment, or simply trying to understand yourself more clearly, this episode offers a thoughtful lens on how identity can serve as both a mirror and a foundation for meaningful change. *The feedback is a wee-bit spicy on this episode! However, the overall message from this podcast is still powerful. Business spotlight: Seattle Jazz Fellowship (@seattlejazzfellowship on IG) Want to sow into this future of this podcast? Donate here.

What happens when life gives you lemons — or, more accurately, disappointment? In this episode, Jessamyn shares practical tools for navigating seasons of setbacks and makes a bold claim: that true, authentic hope is born out of disappointment itself. If you're feeling curious, discouraged, or just in need of an emotional boost, turn up the volume and press play.Want to sow into the vision of this podcast? Click here.

In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, your host Jessamyn Reichmann (that’s “Specimen” with a J!) explores the quiet epidemic of loneliness—not just as an emotion, but as a social and structural issue. From Emile Durkheim’s Anomie Theory to her own personal stories, Jessamyn breaks down how our modern world reshapes connection—and what we can do about it. With warmth, curiosity, and a little cheek, this episode reminds us that loneliness isn’t just about being alone—it’s about feeling unseen. And sometimes, the most powerful way to push back isn’t through grand gestures, but through small, sincere moments. Because every social interaction is a seed—and when planted with intention, it can grow into the kind of connection that changes everything. Business spotlight: Bonhomie Coffee (IG: bonhomiecoffeebar) Want to sow into the vision of this podcast? Click here!

What’s love got to do with it? Absolutely everything. In this episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores how love is not just an emotional or personal experience, but a powerful tool for transformation. She argues that embracing love can lead to healthier relationships and a more mature version of yourself. If you're curious to dive into the concept of love with a splash of sociology, press play and join us for this thought-provoking episode of Principle in a Pod. Want to sow into this platform? Click here.

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade! In Jessamyn Reichmann's case, when life gave her lessons, she recorded a podcast. In today's cheeky voice memo, Reichmann dives into all the impromptu lessons she learned from her friendships. Whether it was discovering that she wasn't always meant for certain friendships, learning how to take up space with others, or figuring out how to build intimacy, Jessamyn shares it all. If you're not in the mood for lemonade but rather a few life lessons, press play and listen to this powerful episode Want to invest into the future of this pod? Sow here.