183: Why The Middle Finger Isn't Actually Offensive

Roula and Rosie dive into the weird and wonderful world of hand gestures — from what they mean across different cultures to why Roula just can’t bring herself to flip the bird.They explore how something as simple as a thumbs up can shift from friendly to passive-aggressive, why some cultures speak with their hands while others barely move them, and the hilarious cultural misunderstandings that come with it. Roula even shares why the middle finger feels “off” to her and how she’s replaced it with a more empowering gesture: the peace sign (or, as she jokes, the “vagina” sign).Topics coveredThe surprising meanings behind gestures across cultureWhy Roula refuses to use the middle fingerThe social evolution of hand gestures (from peace signs to hearts)How cultural context shapes how we interpret body languageWhat hand gesture from your culture is often misunderstood?Related episodes13: The Emoji Debate You Didn't Know You Needed--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast