Magical Overthinkers Overthinking About Social Awkwardness
Oct 1, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Alex Sujong Laughlin, a journalist and audio producer behind Normal Gossip and Try Hard, dives into the nuances of social awkwardness. She shares personal anecdotes about overcoming catastrophic thinking and the impact of her career on her social confidence. The conversation explores how identity shapes our experiences with cringe and vulnerability, and highlights practical tools like bravery mantras. Together, they challenge the perception of awkwardness as a flaw, illustrating its potential as a creative strength in connecting with others.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Others Notice Less Than You Think
- People overestimate how much others notice their social blunders because of the spotlight effect.
- Minor mistakes often increase relatability via the pratfall effect.
College Reporting Forced Social Growth
- Alex used man-on-the-street interviews in college to force herself to talk to strangers.
- That practice broke her fear of approaching people and helped her career in journalism and podcasting.
The Balcony Laugh That Stuck
- Alex describes a college cringe where she laughed at a movie joke she hadn't seen and was later called out.
- She still remembers the dress and shoes and the guy ghosting her that summer.
