Episode
Best TV Kisses Ranked: New Girl, Parks & Rec & The Female Gaze
- Podcast
- Wonder In The Weeds
- Published
- Feb 18, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3298
- Processing state
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Summary
In this special Valentine's Day episode of Wonder in the Weeds , we take a brief pause from the heavy news cycle in Minneapolis to find a little joy in the fire. We’re breaking down our favorite on-screen romances, analyzing why mutual respect creates the best chemistry, and discussing the "female gaze" in media. Finally, we end with The Wonder : a spotlight on the incredible resilience of the Minneapolis community, including how neighbors and businesses like the Modern Times Cafe are organizing to support one another. In This Episode: Favorite Kisses: We break down the famous "trench coat" kiss between Nick and Jess in New Girl and why it remains the gold standard for on-screen chemistry. Parks and Recreation: Why Ben and Leslie represent a "meeting of the minds" and true partnership. Rivals to Lovers: Discussing the dynamic in Red, White & Royal Blue and the concept of "competition" as a form of intimacy. The "Female Gaze": A look at why characters written by women feel more respectful and genuine. The Wonder: An update on Minneapolis mutual aid, where neighbors are feeding neighbors and the Modern Times Cafe is providing free food to the community. Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro: Life in Minneapolis & The PSA 04:01 - Valentine's Special: Our Favorite Movie & TV Kisses 05:16 - New Girl: The Nick & Jess "Trench Coat" Kiss 16:32 - Parks & Rec: Ben & Leslie’s mutual respect 22:28 - The "Female Gaze" & Writing Men with Respect 44:10 - Moonstruck & My Lady Jane 51:52 - The Wonder: Minneapolis Mutual Aid & Modern Times Cafe Let's Connect: Website: TheWonder.Life Get full access to Cristie Ritz-King, PsyD at critzking.substack.com/subscribe