What happens when introverts and extroverts form deep friendships?
In the newest episode of Proxy with award-winning host Yowei Shaw, I was the surprise guest joining a vibrant (and emotional!) discussion about what drives us crazy about each other — and what we secretly envy.

Together with Ryan Letts (they/them) and Aparna Nancherla, we explored the humor and heart that surface when opposites attract. By the end, there were more than a few tears as we uncovered how these relationships help us grow and understand ourselves better.

Yowei's thoughtful preparation and masterful editing reminded me why storytelling matters. She took a wide-ranging conversation and wove it into something meaningful.

1. Exploring Our Grievances
It started by naming what gets under our skin — from introverts needing space to extroverts craving engagement. The honesty and laughter in this exchange set the tone for everything that followed.

2. Why Introverts Ghost
Ever wonder why an introverted friend might disappear for a while? The discussion unpacked the myth of "ghosting" and reframed it as necessary solitude — a time to recharge, not reject.

3️⃣ When Extrovert Energy Is Too Much (or Just Right)
Sometimes an extrovert's enthusiasm can feel like a tidal wave. But when that energy is grounded in empathy, it becomes a bridge, not a barrier.

4️⃣ Introvert ↔ Extrovert Pet Peeves
We laughed about the quirks that drive each other crazy — the talker who fills every silence, the quiet friend who never picks up the phone — and recognized the small adjustments that make these friendships thrive. We had fun playing a buzzer game to spot our pet peeves.

5️⃣ Finding Validation in Friendships
Our conversation turned tender as we reflected on how friendship with our opposites can validate who we truly are. The episode closes on that emotional note — a reminder that we all need both to share what we truly appreciate about each other.

If you enjoy Proxy, please consider subscribing and supporting Yowei Shaw's incredible work in "emotional journalism."
Her storytelling brings humanity, humor, and heart to every episode — and this one is no exception.

Listen here: [Insert episode link]
Donate or subscribe: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ProxyPodcast
Explore her newsletter: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extrovert-and-140824660 — it's awesome and filled with useful insights!