We Made It Awkward With An Expert: Dr. Jim Coan

In this episode of Well That Was Awkward, Bree and Mendy dive deep into the world of awkwardness and human connection with their first-ever guest, Dr. Jim Coan, professor of psychology and head of the Virginia Affective Neuroscience Lab. Together, they explore the science behind why awkward moments can actually bring us closer, how discomfort creates bonds, and why a cringe-worthy encounter could be the best thing to happen in a relationship. Dr. Coan shares personal stories of awkward moments, from a mistaken kiss in the car to navigating uncomfortable conversations around sex, revealing how these moments shape relationships in unexpected ways. With a background in affective neuroscience, Dr. Coan brings academic expertise to the emotional territory we all know too well but rarely understand. Key Topics: The definition and role of awkwardness in relationships Personal awkward moments, including Dr. Coan's "Car Kiss" story How discomfort and vulnerability build emotional bonds Navigating the blurred lines between cringe and connection How awkward moments can lead to deepening relationships and personal growth Guest Info: Dr. Jim Coan is a professor of psychology at the University of Virginia and director of the Virginia Affective Neuroscience Lab. He’s also the host of the podcast Circle of Willis, where he explores the brain and emotion through interviews with scientists, researchers, and thought leaders. You can listen to Circle of Willis at circleofwillispodcast.com or find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Links Mentioned: Watch Mendy's stand-up sets on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrJI1b-eCqCKV-5KqlNtl1w Listen to Dr. Coan's TED Talk on handholding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UMHUPPQ96c Explore Dr. Coan's podcast, Circle of Willis: circleofwillispodcast.com Connect with Us: Share your awkward stories (Anonymously – or Not!) in writing or by voicemail at Awkward Sage Media Join our Cult of Awkwardness on Facebook – We want to get awkward with you! Facebook Group Follow us on Instagram: @awkwardsagemedia Buy us a coffee and support this podcast at Buy Me a Coffee Get a discount on your Monk Manual at Monk Manual using the code AWKWARD. Remember to click follow wherever you listen to your podcasts and join us next time for another episode filled with laughter, insights, and unexpected twists. You may be awkward, but you are definitely not alone. Remember to click follow wherever you listen to your podcasts and join us next time for another episode filled with laughter, insights, and unexpected twists. You may be awkward, but you are definitely not alone. 🔗 Connect with us: Share your own awkward story (Anonymously or not!) via the WTWA Form  Leave us a voice memo on the WTWA Website  Follow us on Instagram: @awkwardsagemedia Send us an email: [email protected] Support the show at Buy Me A Coffee Save 10% on your Monk Manual at monkmanual.com/AWKWARD using code AWKWARD Don’t forget to follow the show wherever you listen!