In this episode, Bree and Mendy share the mic with the real-life Dana, whose wisdom and hilarity take center stage. Together, they unpack listener stories, including Denise’s poetic third-grade hustle, Dr. Greg's unforgettable gaseous mishap, and an anonymous caller’s crockpot weed discovery. Plus, they welcome a special WEDDING story from Shaneisha Wofford. Oh, and Bree gets mooned by a familiar fanny during a Zoom call... Can you guess who it is?

Thank yous: A huge thank you to our surprise guest Dana for joining us -- and to all the callers—Denise, Dr. Greg, Shaneisha Wofford and our anonymous callers, we love your awkward stories.

About Shaneisha Wofford: Shaneisha Wofford, JD, MA, is a fourth-year graduate student pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology. A passionate resource to her community, she navigates life awkwardly but adventurously as an introvert who often finds herself wrapped in books and research. Shaneisha’s love for curiosity fuels her daily goal of positively impacting at least one person per day. Follow her story on Instagram.

You can find out more about Shaneisha’s journey on her Instagram @nemos_journey, or visit our full website for more information about her.

Connect with us:

• Share your awkward stories with Bree and Mendy! Submit anonymously or not through the Well That Was Awkward form.
• Follow us on Instagram: @awkwardsagemedia
• Leave us a voice memo or thoughts on Dana’s advice through the Well That Was Awkward Website!
• Support us by buying a coffee at Buy Me a Coffee
• Get your Monk Manual with a discount at Monk Manual using code AWKWARD.

We’ll be back next time with more awkward stories—remember to hit follow and join us for more unexpected laughs!

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.

In this hilariously awkward episode, Bree and Mendy dive into the story of Matthew, whose European adventures take a turn for the awkward when he finds himself navigating a boomerang relationship. From navigating the tricky dynamics of an on-again, off-again relationship to getting stood up at just the wrong time, this story hits all the right notes of cringe, humor, and surprise.

Key highlights include:

• The unique dynamics of boomerang romances and how Matthew found himself in a series of geographical "on-again, off-again" relationships.

• The awkwardness of being stranded in a foreign country with no money, no job, and no backup plan.
• A sweet moment of redemption when Matthew’s professor offers him a life-changing opportunity.
• We want to take Well,That Was Awkward all over the world! So we're selling T-shirts (and other merch), just like Matthew -- Get your awkward merch here: https://www.awkwardsage.com/productionservicesstore/merch

References:

• Check out Bree’s high school friend, Nancy (Hilliard) Joyce’s website. Nancy was cool in high school, but she’s phenomenal now! Here’s her website: Nancy Hilliard Art
• You can find Nancy on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/nancyjoyceart/

• 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.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only. Please, dear listener, do not look to this podcast for relationship or financial advice. We don't know what we're talking about!!!

Correction: When Bree followed up with Nancy Hilliard to get her permission to be mentioned in this episode, Nancy clarified that she did NOT have permission to be in the smokehouse. Oops! Hope we don't get you in trouble, Nancy!

We’ve got some news, folks! Bree and Mendy are taking a little breather… sort of. While we’re still here for all your awkward needs, we’re mixing things up a bit and going bi-weekly. That’s right, we’ll be dropping new episodes every other week.

📅 What’s New?

• Episode Drops Every Other Week: You can still get your awkward fix, just with a little more anticipation built in!
• YouTube Goodness: We’re not leaving you hanging! Between episodes, catch us on YouTube for exclusive video clips. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out!
• Stay Connected: Join our Facebook group and mailing list to keep the awkwardness flowing. Who says the fun has to stop just because we’re not in your ears every week?

📬 We Want Your Stories! Got an awkward story that’s been sitting on your chest like a heavy, embarrassing secret? Let it out! Send it our way, and it might just end up featured in an upcoming episode. We promise we’ll only laugh a little… okay, maybe a lot.

👯‍♂️ Join the Awkward Squad: Don’t forget to hop into our Facebook group and sign up for our mailing list. Let’s keep this awkward party going!

🔔 Subscribe, Like, and Stay Awkward! Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on YouTube. New content, laughs, and all the awkward goodness you crave—coming your way every other week!

Here’s how to 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

In this episode of Well, That Was Awkward, Bree and Mendy share an incredible story from one of their listeners, Paul, whose journey from a law school student to a soldier during the Vietnam War takes a surprisingly hilarious and awkward turn. Get ready to hear about Paul's unique draft experience, his run-ins with bullies during basic training, and an unexpected assignment with nuclear weapons!

Mendy kicks off the episode with a story about her crush on Noam Chomsky and a memorable encounter at MIT, setting the stage for a discussion on parasocial relationships with celebrities. Bree follows up with a hilarious tale of her childhood crush on Ricky Schroder and an embarrassing fan letter gone wrong.

But the real story unfolds when Paul, our listener and self-proclaimed biggest fan, recalls his life-changing draft to Vietnam. With the war raging and uncertainty in the air, Paul navigates the trials of basic training, including gorilla stomps and unusual punishments, only to find himself pulled into an even more bizarre situation—learning to assemble nuclear bombs.

As Paul’s story reaches its climax, he is chosen for a special assignment, leading to a jaw-dropping reveal during a high-stakes NATO inspection. The result? A classic Well, That Was Awkward moment that you won't want to miss.

Tune in for this episode filled with laughter, unexpected twists, and a heartfelt reminder that sometimes, life’s most awkward moments make the best stories.

Question of the week: if you are reading this, who was your first celebrity crush? Email us at wellthatwasawkwardpodcast@gmail.com

• 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.

Advice for world travelers from “Paul”:

“I found it very helpful to read up on the places you intend to visit – not only on the history but also on the current state of their affairs. Then use that knowledge to start conversations with the people who live there and ask for advice about places to visit and where to eat.

Also, read up on the places in said countries you want to visit and try to make sure you get there.

Always be polite, kind and appreciative. No ugly American stuff, and don’t be demanding or rude. Kindness begets kindness😀😘🤗”

Top Five Places that Paul recommends seeing in a hippie car.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Florence, Italy

Paris, France

Vienna, Austria

Lugano, Switzerland

In this episode, Bree and Mendy unravel the hilariously awkward story of Margaret, a high-flying business consultant who unknowingly lets her love for garlic almost derail her career. From her early days as a competitive child to landing prestigious positions at top consulting firms, Margaret's journey is nothing short of remarkable. But when a well-meaning family intervention reveals a very personal issue, Margaret faces an awkward moment that could have jeopardized her professional reputation.

Through laughter and reflection, Bree and Mendy discuss the impact of personal quirks on professional life, the importance of self-awareness, and how even the most embarrassing moments can be turned into valuable life lessons.

• Witness Margaret's ambitious rise in the consulting world and the high stakes of her career.
• Take notes on how to doctor up a kick-a$$ frozen pizza.
• Discover the impact of personal habits on professional reputation.
• Enjoy Mendy and Bree’s Top Five Forces for Guaranteed Feelings of Wellbeing.
• Learn how to ask trusted friends for feedback on hygiene, appearance, and behavior from an actual consultant.
• Affirm the power of turning awkward moments into growth opportunities.

• 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.

Ever felt that cringe-worthy moment when you wish you could take back something you said or did? Join Mendy and Bree as they celebrate the awkward moments we all experience. This week, we hear a story about our worst middle school nightmare -- getting laughed at by a room full of mean girls! Plus our hosts divulge their own awkward stories from the week.

Mendy shares a story about defending her partner at the pool, showcasing how our awkwardness can become a superpower when protecting loved ones. We explore why we're often more assertive in defending others than ourselves.

Bree recounts her mission to spread cheer in a quiet Cape Cod neighborhood, revealing how cultural differences in manners can lead to unexpected reactions.

Our listener Lila takes us back to her 7th-grade cotillion days in Alabama, where a fashion faux pas at the White Ball turns into an unforgettable moment. We discuss:

• The world of cotillion and its impact on social etiquette
• The importance of reading invitations carefully
• How embarrassing moments can sometimes lead to unexpected positive outcomes

We share tips on:

• Owning your uniqueness, even when it feels uncomfortable
• The power of confidence in awkward situations
• Why the Electric Slide is a universal language of fun

Hear about the scandalous disappearance of a cotillion president that shook the community!

Join the Well, That Was Awkward Facebook Group today to see a sketch of Mendy's T-shirt trick!

A special thanks to all of the listeners who took the time to share an episode with your friend this week! (Y'all clearly don't believe in gatekeeping a good dose of schadenfreude...) Did you know that the BEST way to support a podcast is to share it with your friends? It's true!

Aaaand the second best way to support a podcast is to Buy Us a Coffee!

Want a gold star and eternal gratitude from two podcasters? Here are all the ways to connect:

• 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.