As a Matter of Interact

Big news! After years of exploring sociology on As a Matter of Interact, I’m excited to launch my new weekly podcast, Fragmented Moments. While not strictly sociology, this show shares the same curiosity about human behavior, relationships, and the small moments that shape our lives.The new podcast was inspired by my role as Regional Director of Spiritual Care at a hospice company, Fragmented Moments explores real-life stories, reflections, and observations that reveal larger truths about ourselves and the world. This episode introduces the new show, explains its focus, and invites listeners from As a Matter of Interact to join me on this next journey.You’ll hear how even seemingly disconnected moments can offer insight, connection, and understanding—making this show meaningful for anyone navigating life or working in a caring profession.Follow Fragmented Moments and stay updated on future episodes.

This episode was inspired by growing political and ideological polarization in America and the urgent need for sociological, nonviolent responses. Dr. Cohoon examines the human impulse for revenge and why "hitting back" often fails to resolve the problem it aims to address. He draws on sociological insights to explain why punishment exists and who has the authority to enact it. He also shows how people dehumanize their opponents, which is often used to justify violence. The episode concludes with practical solutions that are grounded in both sociological understanding and moral reflection.

Dr. Cohoon explores the social roots of our obsession with busyness. Even though it is exhausting, why do people wear busyness like a badge of honor? Drawing on Max Weber’s classic theory of the Protestant Work Ethic, Dr. Cohoon analyzes how hustle culture moralizes productivity, shapes identity, and distorts priorities. The episode first offers the historical roots of busyness and how it became connected with morality. Next, Dr. Cohoon shows that the problem does not have to do with excessive activity, but rather priorities. The episode concludes by offering practical solutions on how listeners can resist the hustle delusion and live intentionally.

Dr. Cohoon unpacks the nature of academic freedom and why the public so often misunderstands it. He explores the growing disconnect between public perception and higher education’s real purpose and practice. Through three compelling vignettes, he invites listeners to use practical sociology to reflect, not react. Listeners will gain an understanding of academic freedom, problems with public oversight, and what’s really at stake in today’s academic debates.

Dr. Cohoon argues against resiliency as solely an individual act and instead shows that it is a social process. He outlines this sociology of resiliency by first proving that resiliency is not based on independence. Next, he provides the social role of resiliency. The podcast ends with ways to develop and foster resiliency.

Dr. Cohoon examines the common myth that a college degree or attending college makes people liberal. He first explores the myth of the professor’s indoctrination ability. Next, he shows that college is about exposure to critical thinking and people from different backgrounds. Dr. Cohoon explains social norms and how they inform belief systems. Finally, he provides reasons why people perceive higher education as liberal.

Dr. Cohoon sociologically analyzes New Year’s Resolutions and offers guidance for the upcoming year. He first provides the basic social function of New Year’s. Next, he outlines some sociological reasons why New Year’s Resolutions fail. The podcast concludes with practical suggestions on how to have a better year.  

Dr. Cohoon interviews John Zogby, the author of "Beyond the Horse Race: How to Read Polls and Why We Should." John is a pollster, a political consultant, and the Founder and Senior Partner of John Zogby Strategies. In the interview, they demystify political polling by understanding John's professional experience and the ideas laid out in his book. The interview also explores the sociological elements of polling with practical applications that include broader societal implications. Finally, John offers key takeaways from his book and work.

Dr. Cohoon interviews Dr. Alessandra Seggi, the author of "Youth and Suicide in American Cinema." They discuss her key findings along with a sociological understanding of cinema as it relates to suicide and mental illness. Finally, they explore practical implications for audiences and filmmakers regarding pop culture and understanding society.

Dr. Cohoon explores cancel culture from a sociological perspective. He argues that cancel culture provides false security and does not address the root of the problem. Dr. Cohoon suggests that people need to welcome dialogue, discourse, and conflict, and he offers some practical tools.

Dr. Cohoon discusses the concept of hope from a sociological perspective. He argues that hope is social and a process. He concludes the podcast by offering practical ways people can promote hope.

Dr. Cohoon discusses self-care from a sociological standpoint. He points out the differences between sociology and psychology regarding self-care and offers practical solutions.

Dr. Cohoon discusses social interactions as they relate to niceness. He offers insights into the concept of niceness, discusses problems with niceness, and finally suggests a healthy and effective alternative.

Dr. Cohoon explores the relationship between information, disinformation, and reality. He explains how people decide what information is correct, the ways people know truth, and the social construction of reality. The episode ends with practical advice on using the social sciences and critical thinking when making decisions.

Dr. Cohoon discusses marriage from a sociological perspective. He explains the role of marriage, explores its meaning, highlights some challenges, and offers solutions to a healthy marriage.

Dr. Cohoon offers insight into understanding and adjusting to societal change. He examines why societies change, the nature of right and wrong, how people resist change, and the best way to navigate change.

Dr. Cohoon helps listeners understand how sociology can help develop effective solutions to organizational and personal challenges. He does this by teaching people to identify problems and evaluate solutions, utilize empathy to connect with others, consider the impact of systems and society, and practically address problems with sociology.

Dr. Cohoon discusses how people in any business, institution, or nonprofit can align their organization's branding, environment, and goals. He does this through a sociological theory called dramaturgy.

Dr. Cohoon addresses several misconceptions about sociology. Specifically, he shows that sociology is not tied to one ideology, nor does sociology take away personal responsibility. 

Dr. Cohoon provides basic information about sociology and this introductory episode. He offers an understanding of sociology and how it is needed, practical, and applicable.