Decoding Social Life

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Jun 2026

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Decoding Social Life is a weekly podcast hosted by Henry Fitzhugh and Sumir Srivastava covering social life, networking, relationships, health, and personal growth through honest conversations, humor, and real-life experiences. DSL features long-form interviews and discussions with creators, entrepreneurs, actors, athletes, professionals, and guests from a wide range of industries. Decoding Social Life Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More Business Inquiries: DECODINGSOCIALIFE@GMAIL.COM Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support .

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June 26, 2026Episode 61 hr 14 min

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

**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 .

April 24, 2026Episode 529 min

Are People Becoming Socially Awkward? S6E5

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

April 17, 2026Episode 450 min

What We Learned after 2 Years of This Podcast | S6E4

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

April 10, 2026Episode 343 min

Matt Macedo: The Vertical Director | S6E3

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 .

April 3, 2026Episode 246 min

How to Handle Difficult Meetings | S6E2

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 .

March 27, 2026Episode 11 hr 0 min

Shawn Royster: What Goes Into Running Massive Events Worldwide | S6E1

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 0:30 Building a Business from Scratch 2:31 How Shawn Got Into Events 8:48 How Sports Translates to Business 12:31 Getting Better at Communication 18:25 Working with industry leaders like James Cameron 30:14 Personal Connections & The Power of It 40:01 How Shawn Met His Wife "Airport Story" 53:00 Guest: @ROYSTERPRODUCTIONS https://www.roysterproductions.com/ Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EventsByDSL #DecodingSocialLife #ShawnRoyster #Entrepreneurship #EventProduction #Networking #BusinessGrowth #PersonalBrand #Leadership #HighPerformance #PodcastInterview Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support .

December 19, 2025Episode 191 hr 13 min

Julie Nguyen: Matchmaker Explains How to Actually Find Your Soulmate | S5E19

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 .

November 21, 2025Episode 1845 min

Roman Thomson: The Surreal Journey From Hollywood to Worldwide Attention | S5E18

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 .

November 14, 2025Episode 171 hr 0 min

Dr. Firas Mouazzen: The Diet & Exercise Truth Nobody Tells You | S5E17

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Firas Mouazzen—a leading expert in preventive medicine and functional health—to decode everything from nutrition and supplements to stress, sleep, and social habits. Dr. Firas breaks down the science behind what it truly means to live an optimized life, revealing how small, consistent changes in diet and exercise can dramatically improve your physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, boost energy, or simply understand your body better, this episode is your blueprint for sustainable, long-term health. 💡 Topics We Cover: – The truth about vitamins and supplements – How exercise impacts hormones and longevity – Balancing career, health, and social life Connect with Dr. Firas Mouazzen: @FIRASMOUAZZENNMD DR. ANDREA INTERVIEW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPcw5E5J9ME&t=156s Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EVENTSBYDSL Hosted by: @HENRY.FITZHUGH & @SUMIRSRIVASTAVA Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3IokfZ4Ct3m27o3BrfcnTc?si=fd843539fb2642be Become a Supporter of Decoding Social Life: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support Email us: DECODINGSOCIALIFE@GMAIL.COM

October 17, 2025Episode 1627 min

Mishel Eckman: Clocking In for Passion and Saying “Yes” to Marriage Without Hesitation | S5E16

In this episode of The Decoding Social Life Podcast, Mishel Eckman sits down to talk about what it really means to clock in for passion. Mishel opens up about chasing what she loves, getting married young, and learning how to balance ambition with commitment. Her journey is one of drive, courage, and clarity — knowing when to move fast in both love and life. We dive deep into how she’s built a career rooted in passion and self-belief, and how that same mindset shaped her decision to say “yes” to marriage without hesitation. Mishel shares the challenges of staying motivated in an industry that constantly tests your focus and energy, offering real insight into what it takes to keep showing up for your goals even when it’s not easy. This conversation explores love, purpose, and personal growth in a world that often tells you to wait — proving that sometimes the right move is to trust your instincts and go all in. Connect with her: @MISHELECKMAN Connect with us: @DECODINGSOCIALIFEPODCAST @EVENTSBYDSL Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/decoding-social-life--6139708/support .