Pauwke Berkers

Yosha Wijngaarden, an assistant professor at Erasmus University focused on media interactions, joins Pauwke Berkers, a full professor who studies the sociology of popular music. They dive into how social awkwardness shapes daily life and relationships. From navigating post-pandemic interactions to dissecting awkwardness in comedy, their insights illuminate its cultural dimensions. They even discuss the creative potential of sociology, including unconventional topics like yodeling. Perfect for anyone who's ever felt a little out of place!

Pauwke Berkers, a full professor of Sociology of Popular Music, and Yosha Wijngaarden, an assistant professor of Media and Creative Industries, delve into the intriguing realm of awkwardness in social interactions. They reveal how awkwardness isn’t a mere personal shortcoming but a complex sociological phenomenon shaped by cultural contexts. From navigating post-pandemic social situations to exploring coping strategies like humor and avoidance, their insights uncover how societal norms influence our often uncomfortable connections.

Yosha Wijngaarden, a media and creative industries scholar, and Pauwke Berkers, a sociology professor specializing in popular music, delve into the complex world of social awkwardness. They discuss how awkwardness in interactions is shaped by social contexts rather than personal traits. The duo reflects on navigating these dynamics in a post-pandemic landscape, emphasizing insights from their empirical research. Listeners will find relatable anecdotes and a fresh perspective on managing discomfort in everyday social scenarios.