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First Time Energy!

First Time Energy!

Written by: Alexandra Braaksma
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About this listen

First-Time Energy is the podcast about the awkward, chaotic, intimidating, hilarious, and weirdly empowering moments that happen when you do something for the first time.

From panic ordering at unfamiliar restaurants and surviving airport security, to major life moments like buying a house, changing careers, starting over, or doing something that feels way bigger than you—this show dives into the stories, disasters, lessons, and laughs that come with figuring it out as you go.

Hosted by Alex Braaksma, First-Time Energy is for anyone who has ever walked into a new experience thinking, “Cool. I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing.”

New episodes every other week.

2026 Alexandra Braaksma Social Sciences
Episodes
  • My Wig Journey: The First Time I Had to Relearn Confidence

    My Wig Journey: The First Time I Had to Relearn Confidence
    May 1 2026

    Alex opens up about the emotional, vulnerable, and unexpectedly empowering experience of wearing wigs for the first time while navigating confidence, identity, and starting over.
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    47 mins
  • I Accidentally Almost Became PTA President

    I Accidentally Almost Became PTA President
    May 1 2026

    Alex attended a casual sit down for drinks, somehow convinced herself she was about to be recruited into leadership against her will, and spent the entire event mentally rehearsing “no” like she was escaping a trap.

    Are you a volunteer your time parent, or a volunteer your Venmo parent?

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    29 mins
  • Panic Ordering at Starbucks and Pancheros Mexican Grill: Why New Places Make Us Feel Dumb

    Panic Ordering at Starbucks and Pancheros Mexican Grill: Why New Places Make Us Feel Dumb
    May 1 2026

    Why does ordering somewhere new feel like a public intelligence test? Alex dives into the awkward panic, social anxiety, and silent menu spirals that come with unfamiliar places.
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    36 mins
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