Specimen the Sociologist

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 gestur...

In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, Jessamyn Reichmann dives into the power of patience! She argues that patience is the tension between who you are and who you're becoming, and it’s through this struggle that true intimacy is built—within yourself and with others. Jessamyn discusses patience's arch-nemesis—frustration—and how frustration shows up in our social behavior. She explains how we can leverage frustration with the tool of patience to become a more refined version of ourselves. Tune in and learn how adopting the principle of patience can radically shape your world

Business spotlight: Kona Kit...

And we thought an identity crisis was a whirlwind? Tune into today’s voice memo to hear Jessamyn Reichmann’s take on receiving mixed signals as a mixed girl.

Clarity is very cutesy, very mindful, very demure.

Spotify playlist: A Mixed Girl Receiving Mixed Signals

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Would you believe me if I said that singleness isn't about your relational status? Instead, it’s about being single-minded in your decision-making.

In this episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores the concept of singleness through the lens of methodological individualism, the current state of romantic relationships in the U.S., and her own personal love life. She discusses the power and importance of embracing a season of singleness.

If you're curious to learn more, press play and turn up the volume!

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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.

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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

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The podcast that you didn't ask for but got! Today we're diving into the sociology behind Kendrick Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show. A performance that referenced the United State's current social-political scene, the resilience of Black people and even a celebrity performance with SZA, Mustard, and Serena Williams.

If you're feeling curious and want to put on your Sherlock Holmes Hat! Press play and learn about both the sociology and science behind Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show.

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Today were going to discuss my favorite f-word and that's friendship! We'll be leveraging the Social Exchange Theory to better understand how we build friendships. This episode will explore how to build healthy relationships by becoming a healthy friend, the principle of reciprocity, and how to honorably leave a friendship.

I believe that friendships are the firm foundation for our social lives and it's time we reexamine them through a sociological lens.

Business spotlight:Frida (IG: shopfrida.co)

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What's a pod without a pea and podcast without a principle! Check out today's episode on empathy and learn how it can cultivate emotional intelligence in your life.

Song: Orange Blossom by GoldFord

Linktree: Specimenthesociologist

I know you’ve heard of conversation starters, but have you ever heard of "conversation enders?" In 2025, we’re all about saving time and mastering the art of gracefully exiting a chat—while keeping it cute and classy!

Linktree: Specimen the Sociologist

Inspired from the 90's sitcom "Sister, Sister!" Jessamyn dives into the science behind our sibling relationships. As she leverages the social concept of kinship and personal stories regarding her three siblings, Jessamyn unpacks not only how siblingship shapes society but how it has shaped her as an individual.

Snuggle up and get ready to dive into the world of siblingship!

Business spotlight: Cane and Table (IG: caneandtable)

Linktree: Specimen the sociologist

Join us as we explore Full House beyond the sitcom. This episode delves into how the show mirrors the journey of clearing out the content of our hearts and taking risks in relationships. We’ll talk about embracing the fullness of a person—the good, the bad, and the ugly—and how this process helps us grow and connect more deeply. Tune in for a meaningful discussion on heart work and the power of embracing others fully. Link: Specimen the Sociologist

Jessamyn Reichmann redefines honor as an active act of giving value, not just respect or loyalty. She explores how honor shows up in social interactions, conversations, and relationships—whether caring for a friend or responding with empathy in conflict.

Tune in for a fresh perspective on how honor can elevate our connections and challenge the way we value ourselves and others

Link: Specimen the Sociologist

Let's put the function into the functionalist theory!

In today’s episode, we explore Emile Durkheim’s functionalist theory, which highlights the role of social institutions like the family in maintaining societal stability. We specifically focus on the role parents play in socializing their children, teaching them how to navigate the world around them.

Whether through intentional guidance or subtle observation, parents shape the values and behaviors that influence how we interact with others. But not all socialization is positive—parents are human, and mistakes can leave lasting impacts. In this episode, we dive into the co...

In today’s episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores discernment as an act of honor in relationships and social interactions. Drawing on her passion for people and sociological insights, she explains how discernment enables honest assessments of others’ capabilities, fostering healthier, more balanced connections. Jessamyn encourages listeners to view discernment not as judgment, but as a valuable tool for honoring themselves and others.

Christy Kioko | IG: christykioko

Relational Intelligence | IG: Dharius Daniels

"Been Through That" by Majid Jordan | IG: Majidjordan

In today’s episode of Specimen the Sociologist, titled "N95," we explore Erving Goffman’s dramaturgical theory, which examines how we, as individuals, take on curated roles to navigate the complexities of social interactions. Goffman’s insights reveal that much of our behavior is a performance, shaped by societal expectations. By the end of this episode, we hope to inspire you to question the roles you’ve adopted and remove the "mask" that may be hiding your most authentic self.

Artist spotlight | IG: Kylamaeo

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In this episode, host Jessamyn Reichmann explores the concept of purity from a fresh perspective, arguing that true purity is synonymous with freedom. She delves into how living a life free from societal expectations allows one to embrace individuality and celebrate the beauty of peculiarity. Jessamyn challenges the conventional views on purity, inviting listeners to rethink what it means to live authentically and without constraint

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In this solo episode, Jessamyn dives deep into the fascinating sociological theory of herd mentality, exploring how we often adopt the behaviors of groups to fit in—sometimes losing sight of our own values and sense of self. Through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, Jessamyn unpacks the reality of social conformity and its impact on personal coherence.

Listeners will walk away with a clear understanding of how herd mentality shapes social interactions, how to identify both healthy and unhealthy social scenes, and the crucial social skills needed to respectfully step away from friendships that no longer serve th...

In this episode, Jessamyn Reichmann delivers an inspiring keynote speech from Roosevelt High School’s “Unity in the Community Day.” Jessamyn encourages listeners—especially younger audiences—to embrace personal growth and challenge the status quo.

Drawing from her own experiences as a second-generation alum, she reflects on how embracing diversity, checking biases, and stepping out of comfort zones can lead to a more authentic, unified community. Jessamyn’s words not only resonate with the students of Roosevelt but offer valuable lessons for all of us to apply in our personal lives. Whether you’re seeking to mak...

Due to technical difficulties, there’s no new episode today. However, you can look forward to a pre-recorded speech on the cost of unity, dropping this Thursday.

Looking ahead, next week we’re getting back into the swing of things with a power-packed episode titled Social Inebriation. We'll explore the herd mentality and what happens when you lose yourself in the social scene. Following that, we'll discuss a new principle: purity, and what it means to be single-minded in your choices.

Thank you for your patience!

In this episode, Jessamyn discusses how true courage comes from leveraging fear and failure to create a greater reality. Learn how embracing both can challenge your values, drive personal growth, and help you move forward with purpose. P.S. Jessamyn’s business spotlight was a bit long-winded!

Business spotlight: @Idobridal on Instagram

Additional resources: Specimen linktree!

From talking about an undercover FBI agent in Miss Congeniality to enjoying a nightcap at a Bavarian-themed pub with her mother, join Jessamyn Reichmann as she reflects on her favorite childhood film and how she’s come to embrace the title of ‘Miss Congeniality’ for herself.

Business spotlight:

Instagram: @Lynnmineral

In this episode, we explore the sociology of self-esteem—unpacking what it truly means to have healthy self-worth. Tune in to learn how to define and nurture your self-esteem, how to manage low moments without falling into the trap of self-doubt, and how to use social interactions as a powerful tool for self-awareness. We dive into practical insights on how to strengthen your self-esteem and navigate life's conversations with courage. Artist spotlight:

Otherworldwine | otherworld.wine on Instagram

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From Friendsgiving to a wine bar and crashing a first date, tune in to this episode to hear Jessamyn talk not only about all the places she visited but also discuss Oh, the Places You'll Go.

Press play and join this spontaneous specimen!

Tune into the sequel of our trailer “It’s a Bird … It’s a plane … It’s Specimen the Sociologist." Learn where our host, Jessamyn Reichmann, has been over the past few months. In this episode, she will explain the story of how this podcast was created out of her personal process of healing and how science became a tool for her to stabilize her social interactions. 

Put your capes on and get ready to fly with this next episode!

Additional resources: https://linktr.ee/specimenthesociologist

Science is cool but being sensible is awesome! In this new segment, Principles in a Pod, Jessamyn dives into the transformative power of forgiveness and how it should be viewed as a social act.

Turn your volume up, press play and get ready to learn!

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What's a voice memo without a splash of spontaneity? In today's voice memo, Jessamyn Reichmann takes a trip to her local grocery store and turns it into an opportunity to highlight how culture is built from our small and consistent social interactions.

Gullet Stuffer | @gulletstuffer on IG

Mojito (Latin/Cuban) food: | @mojitoseattle

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a conversation, wishing it could be the end? Luckily, you're in the right place.

Whether it's the Holidays or a work event, by the end of this episode, you too can gain the social skills needed to exit a conversation while keeping it classy.

Is talk cheap or symbolic? Our words carry the weight of our emotions, lived experiences, and times the mindset of previous generations. These exposures create a filter that can impact how we communicate and understand our social world. Join the host, Jessamyn, as she dives into the science behind communication. Artist spotlight: Zoe Carter-Schwendler (They/Them) | IG: @zoemcarts

https://linktr.ee/specimenthesociologist

Join Jessamyn Reichmann as she takes flight on her debut episode, "It's a Bird ... It's a Plane ... It's Specimen the Sociologist."