Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory.

Maybe you’ve heard of “power posing” as a quick fix for confidence. The science behind that famous idea has (kind of) been retracted. In this episode of Human Internet Theory, I look into what happened to the power pose, why the simple “life hack” model failed, and what the latest science says now.

This episode covers:

* The history of the original power pose study and its retraction

* What current research says about postural feedback.

* The small, subjective effect your posture might have on your mood.

* Why a “neutral pose” may be more beneficial than an “expansive” one.

The episode includes three exercises you can use before and during your next recording session. You will practice finding your “baseline neutral pose,” learn a “physical anchoring” technique to get grounded, and integrate “dynamic posture” with your natural gestures. This episode gives you a realistic, evidence-based approach to improving your physical presence and confidence on camera.

RESOURCES:

1. Gesturing while speaking
2. Neck flexion study (June 2025)
3. 50% is slop
4. Carney’s retraction
5. Power poses don’t work
6. Human Internet Theory Newsletter

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About and Support

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Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.

Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaan

Website at https://stereoforest.com/lab

Get StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletter

Produced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.com

Contact Jen at https://jendehaan.com

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Your support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.

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About Jen

Host: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.

Jen's website: https://jendehaan.com

This podcast is a StereoForest production. Made and produced in British Columbia, Canada.