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  • Dr. Jessica Borelli: How to Beat Social Anxiety | S6E6

    Dr. Jessica Borelli: How to Beat Social Anxiety | S6E6
    2026/06/26
    **Trigger Warning: This content has explicit references that may be sensitive to certain audiences

    In this episode of Decoding Social Life, we sit down with Dr. Jessica Borelli, a psychologist, researcher, and professor at UC Irvine, to unpack the growing challenges of anxiety, insecurity, parenting, and relationships in today's world.

    Whether you're navigating anxiety, building healthier relationships, raising children, or simply trying to better understand yourself, this conversation offers practical insights backed by decades of psychological research.

    Chapters:
    1:00 Welcome Dr. Jessica Borelli
    2:10 How Dr. Borelli Met Her Husband
    4:00 What Is Relational Savoring?
    9:00 Understanding Attachment Relationships
    13:00 Different Relationship Pathways
    26:00 High-Energy vs. Low-Energy People
    30:00 Smartphones, Social Media & Modern Dilemmas
    42:00 Funny College Stories
    50:00 Overcoming Insecurity
    1:02:00 The "Cloud Trick"
    1:04:00 Why Anxiety Grows When We Avoid It
    1:11:00 Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from the conversation.

    Connect with Dr. Borelli: https://www.drjessicaborelli.com

    Connect with us:
    @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST
    @EVENTSBYDSL
    @SUMIRSRIVASTAVA
    @HENRY.FITZHUGH

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support.
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    1 時間 14 分
  • Are People Becoming Socially Awkward? S6E5

    Are People Becoming Socially Awkward? S6E5
    2026/04/24
    Today's Topic: Are people becoming more socially awkward… or are we just interacting differently? In this episode, we break down what’s really happening with social behavior in today’s generation. As two guys who naturally put themselves out there, we’ve started to notice a shift—people are more hesitant, more reserved, and often unsure how to engage in real-world conversations. While we bring this up now, it's important to recognize this is not EVERYONE.

    We get into the small moments that reveal a bigger trend: starting conversations, buying someone a drink, reading social cues, and even the fear of being looked at in public. We also debate where people are actually socializing today. Bars, clubs, gyms, curated events, and whether structured environments are replacing organic interaction.

    We touch on why sports have become a safe space for connection, how networking is evolving, and how lifestyle habits (and even technology) may be shaping social confidence. From awkward encounters to deeper cultural shifts, this episode is all about decoding what it means to be social in 2026.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Intro & Today’s Topic
    02:00 First Moves: How Conversations Actually Start
    3:30 Are People Becoming More Socially Awkward?
    05:00 Breaking Out of Your Shell 06:15 Just Try It: Building Social Reps
    08:00 Why It Feels Like Everyone’s “Running”
    08:55 Are Gyms Actually Social Anymore?
    10:00 Why Networking Still Matters
    11:20 Changing Goals, Standards & Social Priorities
    13:00 Awkward Interactions We’ve Experienced
    18:50 The “Going Out” Debate (Bars vs Staying In)
    22:00 Curated Events vs Public Spaces (Partiful vs Bars)
    24:00 Cultural Shifts in Social Behavior
    26:55 The “iPad Kid” Effect
    28:00 Final Thoughts

    BECOME A SUPPORTER OF DECODING SOCIAL LIFE: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss

    Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EventsByDSL

    Previous: https://youtu.be/ASxj2dWuZ3g?si=pCubF82W2gQTa6_C

    Come to our next Event: https://partiful.com/e/pV39H1TETb5H2GRwcrI0?c=lSeqASn5

    #social #events #socialevents #networking #podcast #meetingnewpeople #communication #community #genz #conversations #society #culture #DSL
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    30 分
  • What We Learned after 2 Years of This Podcast | S6E4

    What We Learned after 2 Years of This Podcast | S6E4
    2026/04/17
    In this episode, we take a step back and reflect on what two years of building this podcast has actually taught us. From recording on a $15 mini mic to producing inside a professional studio, this is a real conversation about growth, consistency, and what it takes to build something from nothing. We break down the early days in San Francisco, the first moments of traction, and how small wins turned into long-term momentum. Along the way, we talk about the realities of editing, content strategy, quantity vs. quality, and why we made the decision to never stop — even when things weren’t moving as fast as we wanted.

    This episode goes beyond podcasting. We get into networking, interviewing, business decisions, working with guests, and navigating the production side of things. We also open up about lessons learned from the people we’ve met, the mistakes we’ve made, and how our mindset has evolved over time. If you’re building something, creating content, or trying to figure out your own path, this episode gives you a real look at what that journey actually feels like two years in.

    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    2:51 Today’s Topic
    3:30 Backstory — 2 Years On Air
    4:30 Mini Mic Days 5:30 SF Origins
    5:51 First 10K Views
    6:30 Riverside Days
    7:30 Editing Process
    8:10 Quantity vs. Quality
    9:05 We Never Stop
    9:23 Keeping the Business Afloat
    9:57 In-House Production
    11:00 The Networking Side
    12:10 Interviewing & Meeting People
    15:00 Casting Continued
    16:00 Content Strategy
    17:00 Create Your Own Path
    20:00 Podcasting with Guests
    21:30 Looking Back 2 Years Ago
    28:15 Favorite Guests
    29:30 Life Lessons
    31:00 What is “Decoding”?
    35:00 Nightmare Agents & Managers
    37:50 Production Side
    40:00 YouTube & Strategy
    47:00 Final Thoughts

    BECOME A SUPPORTER OF DECODING SOCIAL LIFE: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss

    Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EventsByDSL
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    50 分
  • Matt Macedo: The Vertical Director | S6E3

    Matt Macedo: The Vertical Director | S6E3
    2026/04/10
    In this episode of the Decoding Social Life Podcast, we sit down with director Matt Macedo, one of the top voices in the rapidly growing world of vertical storytelling. Known for his work in vertical drama series, Matt has built a reputation as a director who has specialized in the craft—creating fast-paced, high-retention content designed for today’s audiences. We break down what it actually means to be directing verticals, how these mini-series are changing the entertainment industry, and why more actors and creatives are moving into this space. Matt shares his full journey—from his first vertical project to working with actors on set, casting decisions, and navigating real challenges during production. We also dive deep into auditioning, self-tapes, and what directors are really looking for, along with the biggest mistakes actors make and how to stand out. From set etiquette and networking to handling pressure and turning down projects, this episode gives a real, behind-the-scenes look at a format that’s quickly becoming a major force. Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or just curious about where the industry is headed, this episode gives you a clear look into the world of vertical series—and how to position yourself in it.

    Chapters:
    1:00 Intro
    1:52 Matt’s Story
    2:52 What is a Vertical Mini-Series?
    4:22 Working with Actors
    6:00 Pre-Production
    8:10 Casting
    9:38 Difficult Birthday Set Experience
    11:30 Vertical Cover Art
    14:19 Matt’s Favorite Projects
    15:50 Matt’s First Vertical Project
    17:36 Crazy Fans & Boundaries
    18:10 Set Etiquette
    19:25 Turning Away Projects
    21:10 Future Writing Plans
    22:20 Vertical Cast & Crews
    24:00 Staying Calm on Set
    25:34 Handling Difficult Situations
    27:08 Networking
    28:20 Gentle Guide Style
    29:50 “Watering Your Plants”
    31:50 Why People Trash Talk Verticals
    32:50 Actor Issues
    33:30 Actor Checklist & Auditioning Advice
    38:44 Intimacy Scenes & Stunts
    41:40 Verticals as a Stepping Stone
    42:20 Outro

    Thank you Matt! We look forward to more collaborations in the future!

    Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EventsByDSL

    Connect with Matt: @MATTMACEDO

    #verticals #minidrama #vertical #miniseries #director #MattMacedo #Hollywood #MiniHollywood #Production

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support.
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    43 分
  • How to Handle Difficult Meetings | S6E2

    How to Handle Difficult Meetings | S6E2
    2026/04/03
    Today's Topic: How to Handle Difficult Meetings

    In this episode of the Decoding Social Life Podcast, we break down one of the most important — and overlooked — skills in business and life: how to handle difficult meetings. Whether it’s high-pressure client conversations, tense negotiations, or moments where everything feels like it’s going sideways, we dive into the mindset and strategies that help you stay composed and in control. We talk about why meetings don’t always go as planned, how to manage nerves when the pressure is on, and why putting the client’s interest first can completely shift the dynamic.

    From learning how to slow a conversation down, to processing before reacting, to controlling your emotions when things get heated — this episode is packed with real, actionable insight. We also introduce concepts like the “Chef in the Kitchen” theory. Plus, we share personal stories from our own difficult meetings and what we learned from them. If you want to show up sharper, communicate more effectively, and turn tough situations into opportunities — this episode is for you.

    Chapters:
    1:00 Intro - Today's Topic (How to Handle Difficult Meetings)
    2:09 Lead with Value
    2:53 Meetings Don't Always Go Great..
    4:14 Locked-In Nerves
    6:04 Put the Clients Interest FIRST
    6:50 Don't Waste Time
    8:20 Relatability
    9:00 Process, Then Reply
    11:47 Control Your Emotions
    18:16 Define the Objective
    19:08 Negative Comments
    23:12 Stay In Touch
    23:33 The "Chef in the Kitchen" Theory
    26:51 Listen More Than You Talk
    28:00 "Golden Nuggets"
    30:00 Our Own Difficult Meetings
    34:20 Show Up
    37:00 Not a Hobby
    37:50 Ask Better Questions
    38:00 Shoot Your Shot
    39:30 Reconnect Later Down the Road
    40:21 Belief
    41:20 Sell Me This Pen
    43:21 Slow the Meeting Down
    45:00 Bring it Back to Solutions
    46:20 Outro

    Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EventsByDSL

    Come to our next Event: https://partiful.com/e/pV39H1TETb5H2GRwcrI0?c=lSeqASn5

    #BusinessTips #leadership #EntrepreneurMindset #CommunicationSkills #Negotiation #meetings #ProfessionalDevelopment #careergrowth #businessmindset #podcast

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support.
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    47 分
  • Shawn Royster: What Goes Into Running Massive Events Worldwide | S6E1

    Shawn Royster: What Goes Into Running Massive Events Worldwide | S6E1
    2026/03/27
    ​​In this episode of the Decoding Social Life Podcast, we sit down with global event host and entrepreneur Shawn Royster—who has built his business from the ground up, producing and hosting massive events across the world. Shawn takes us behind the scenes of what it really takes to operate at a global level—from navigating high-pressure environments to executing large-scale events across different cities and audiences. From starting with nothing to building an international brand, Shawn shares the mindset, discipline, and business strategies that allowed him to scale and create opportunities worldwide. We also dive deep into the power of networking and proximity—how one connection can completely change your life. Shawn shares stories working with James Cameron and breaks down exactly how that relationship came into his life.This episode is a masterclass on:• Building a business from scratch• Operating in high-pressure environments• Leveraging relationships to unlock opportunities• Positioning yourself in the right rooms If you're looking to elevate your network, scale your brand, or step into bigger opportunities—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Thank you Shawn! We look forward to more collaborations in the future!Chapters:Introduction to Shawn Royster and his journey 0:30Building a Business from Scratch 2:31How Shawn Got Into Events 8:48How Sports Translates to Business 12:31Getting Better at Communication 18:25Working with industry leaders like James Cameron 30:14Personal Connections & The Power of It 40:01How Shawn Met His Wife "Airport Story" 53:00Guest: @ROYSTERPRODUCTIONS https://www.roysterproductions.com/Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EventsByDSL#DecodingSocialLife #ShawnRoyster #Entrepreneurship #EventProduction #Networking #BusinessGrowth #PersonalBrand #Leadership #HighPerformance #PodcastInterviewBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support.
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    1 時間
  • Julie Nguyen: Matchmaker Explains How to Actually Find Your Soulmate | S5E19

    Julie Nguyen: Matchmaker Explains How to Actually Find Your Soulmate | S5E19
    2025/12/19
    In this episode, we sit down with Julie Nguyen — writer, relationship and dating expert — for a real, unfiltered conversation on dating, marriage, compatibility, where people meet, breakups, and everything in between. Julie Nguyen breaks down what actually makes relationships work (and fail), why dating feels harder than ever, and how self-awareness, boundaries, and intention completely change the game. From first impressions to long-term commitment, this episode dives into the psychology behind connection and the habits that separate healthy relationships from chaotic ones. Whether you’re single, dating, navigating a breakup, or thinking seriously about marriage, this episode offers clarity, accountability, and practical insight you can apply immediately.

    💡 Topics We Cover:
    – Compatibility and long-term alignment
    – Where people really meet today (and why it matters)
    – Breakups, healing, and emotional growth
    – Attraction
    – Communication, boundaries, and emotional maturity

    Connect with Julie Nguyen: https://www.julienguyen.love/

    Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EVENTSBYDSL

    Hosted by: @HENRY.FITZHUGH & @SUMIRSRIVASTAVA 🎧

    📩 Email us: DECODINGSOCIALIFE@GMAIL.COM

    🎬 Season 5 Wrap — Thank You Season 5 of Decoding Social Life marked a major milestone — our first fully studio-produced season. None of this would be possible without the incredible guests who shared their stories and insight, and the listeners who continue to support the show. To every guest this season: thank you for the honesty, perspective, and depth you brought to each conversation. And to our listeners — your support, messages, and engagement mean everything. We’re just getting started. Here’s to an even bigger Season 6.

    #dating #marriage #relationships #comedy #compatibility #breakups #psychology #selfgrowth #podcast

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support.
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    1 時間 13 分
  • Roman Thomson: The Surreal Journey From Hollywood to Worldwide Attention | S5E18

    Roman Thomson: The Surreal Journey From Hollywood to Worldwide Attention | S5E18
    2025/11/21
    In this episode of Decoding Social Life, Henry and Sumir sit down with Roman Thomson — an emerging force in Hollywood whose journey has taken him far beyond Los Angeles. Thomson opens up about the moment he realized he was being recognized around the world, how his Hollywood experiences shaped his identity, and what it feels like when your work suddenly travels farther than you do. From early struggles on set to the surreal experience of global recognition, Roman Thomson shares the lessons, mindset shifts, and behind-the-scenes stories that defined his rise.

    This episode breaks down the reality of chasing a creative dream, building a name in entertainment, and staying grounded when the world starts to notice. Whether you're an aspiring actor, a creator navigating the industry, or someone chasing their next level — Thomson’s story will inspire you to keep going, stay patient, and trust your path.

    Connect with Roman: @RomanThomsonx

    Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EVENTSBYDSL

    Hosted by: @HENRY.FITZHUGH & @SUMIRSRIVASTAVA

    Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3IokfZ4Ct3m27o3BrfcnTc?si=fd843539fb2642be

    Email us: DECODINGSOCIALIFE@GMAIL.COM

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support.
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    46 分