What Melissa Dahl has said about Embarrassment
2 quotes · 1 episode · Sep 25, 2026
Melissa Dahl, Journalist and author of Cringeworthy: A Theory of Awkwardness, has been quoted on Embarrassment 2 times in 1 episode of TED Radio Hour, most recently on September 25, 2026. Each quote below is verbatim and links to the moment it was said.
In their words
Dahl argues that revealing embarrassing parts of ourselves builds connection, citing research that people like those who spill coffee on themselves.
“we think that like presenting this like perfect version of ourselves to the world is the thing that's giving the good impression, but really people tend to like the people who spill coffee on themselves”
TED Radio Hour: Life can be so awkward. Here's how to embrace the embarrassing (Sep 25, 2026) · Listen from 38:18
Dahl argues that self-conscious emotions like shame, embarrassment and awkwardness prompt important questions about identity and should be given space.
“They're asking you, who are you? How do others perceive you? And who do you want to be?”
TED Radio Hour: Life can be so awkward. Here's how to embrace the embarrassing (Sep 25, 2026) · Listen from 39:25
Episodes
Life can be so awkward. Here's how to embrace the embarrassingTED Radio Hour · Sep 25, 2026 · 50 min
Manoush Zomorodi talks with Ty Tashiro, Liana Finck, Melissa Dahl and Erin Chen about awkwardness, embarrassment, cringe and talking openly about sex.
Melissa Dahl on other topics
- Layoffs · 1 quote
- Cringeworthy: A Theory of Awkwardness · 1 quote