Michael O. Johnston
@professorjohnst.bsky.social
Associate Professor of Sociology at William Penn University | Host
at 🎤 https://tinyurl.com/2s45jnpn | 🕮 https://tinyurl.com/fadpfv5j | 📄 http://tinyurl.com/y3vw4q2m
at 🎤 https://tinyurl.com/2s45jnpn | 🕮 https://tinyurl.com/fadpfv5j | 📄 http://tinyurl.com/y3vw4q2m
My most recent article #Club #Rules: #Symbolic #Boundaries and the Making of a #Regular at Mulligan’s is now available to read via Online First at Social Currents (the official journal for Southern Sociological Society).
Check it out here: journals.sagepub.com/eprint/ENGAY...
Check it out here: journals.sagepub.com/eprint/ENGAY...
Club Rules: Symbolic Boundaries and the Making of a Regular at Mulligan’s - Michael O. Johnston, 2025
This ethnographic study examines how the identity of “regular” is constructed, maintained, and sometimes denied at Mulligan’s, a small-town, golf-themed bar in ...
journals.sagepub.com
October 27, 2025 at 12:40 PM
My most recent article #Club #Rules: #Symbolic #Boundaries and the Making of a #Regular at Mulligan’s is now available to read via Online First at Social Currents (the official journal for Southern Sociological Society).
Check it out here: journals.sagepub.com/eprint/ENGAY...
Check it out here: journals.sagepub.com/eprint/ENGAY...
Any of my followers read Donald A. Schön?
Some of his work was an extension of John Dewey's work on experiential education (with a particular focus on reflection - making a distinction between reflection "in action" and what he called reflection "on action").
Some of his work was an extension of John Dewey's work on experiential education (with a particular focus on reflection - making a distinction between reflection "in action" and what he called reflection "on action").
October 17, 2025 at 7:15 PM
Any of my followers read Donald A. Schön?
Some of his work was an extension of John Dewey's work on experiential education (with a particular focus on reflection - making a distinction between reflection "in action" and what he called reflection "on action").
Some of his work was an extension of John Dewey's work on experiential education (with a particular focus on reflection - making a distinction between reflection "in action" and what he called reflection "on action").
Excited that Becoming a Regular is conditionally accepted at Social Currents! This ethnography explores how barroom patrons earn & negotiate the informal status of “regular” and what that means for identity, ritual, & belonging.
a man in a pink shirt holds a red cup in his hand
ALT: a man in a pink shirt holds a red cup in his hand
media.tenor.com
September 28, 2025 at 1:40 AM
Excited that Becoming a Regular is conditionally accepted at Social Currents! This ethnography explores how barroom patrons earn & negotiate the informal status of “regular” and what that means for identity, ritual, & belonging.
I'm currently stuck on finding research that has been conducted on student experience with college (or high school) hangouts (whether it be dorms OR someone's house). I'm interested in the experiences that students have in these social spaces and the value they place on them.
September 17, 2025 at 1:14 PM
I'm currently stuck on finding research that has been conducted on student experience with college (or high school) hangouts (whether it be dorms OR someone's house). I'm interested in the experiences that students have in these social spaces and the value they place on them.
2026 MSS Annual Meeting (March 26-29 in St. Louis, MO) - Call for Submissions (closes October 17, 2025) 📢📢 themss.org/2026-annual-... 🧵1/4
2026 Annual Meeting
themss.org
September 3, 2025 at 12:35 PM
2026 MSS Annual Meeting (March 26-29 in St. Louis, MO) - Call for Submissions (closes October 17, 2025) 📢📢 themss.org/2026-annual-... 🧵1/4
Day 1 of 16th year teaching Sociology at William Penn University. What a great feeling it was to be back on campus today!
August 25, 2025 at 9:47 PM
Day 1 of 16th year teaching Sociology at William Penn University. What a great feeling it was to be back on campus today!
Call for Papers
We’re preparing an edited volume to extend the conversation from Home Cultures about the impact of #artificialintelligence on #homeculture.
Abstract deadline: Nov 28, 2025
📧 abstracts to: Michael O. Johnston, Ph.D. – johnstonmo@wmpenn.edu
#CFP #AI #Sociology #Design
We’re preparing an edited volume to extend the conversation from Home Cultures about the impact of #artificialintelligence on #homeculture.
Abstract deadline: Nov 28, 2025
📧 abstracts to: Michael O. Johnston, Ph.D. – johnstonmo@wmpenn.edu
#CFP #AI #Sociology #Design
August 25, 2025 at 1:42 PM
Call for Papers
We’re preparing an edited volume to extend the conversation from Home Cultures about the impact of #artificialintelligence on #homeculture.
Abstract deadline: Nov 28, 2025
📧 abstracts to: Michael O. Johnston, Ph.D. – johnstonmo@wmpenn.edu
#CFP #AI #Sociology #Design
We’re preparing an edited volume to extend the conversation from Home Cultures about the impact of #artificialintelligence on #homeculture.
Abstract deadline: Nov 28, 2025
📧 abstracts to: Michael O. Johnston, Ph.D. – johnstonmo@wmpenn.edu
#CFP #AI #Sociology #Design
On Friday and Saturday I had the privilege to take part in #NewStudentOrientation where I shared info about the tech that students use at William Penn University. It was a great honor to meet all of these fine students before classes even begin. Here is the cover page for my presentation:
August 25, 2025 at 1:01 AM
On Friday and Saturday I had the privilege to take part in #NewStudentOrientation where I shared info about the tech that students use at William Penn University. It was a great honor to meet all of these fine students before classes even begin. Here is the cover page for my presentation:
Scaffolded assignments mirror how people become professionals.
Becker saw this in med school. Fine saw the same in MFA programs.
Students build competence through guided practice, not just final tasks.
Structure matters. Belonging grows when learning has a path.
#HigherEd #TeachingMatters
Becker saw this in med school. Fine saw the same in MFA programs.
Students build competence through guided practice, not just final tasks.
Structure matters. Belonging grows when learning has a path.
#HigherEd #TeachingMatters
July 29, 2025 at 12:56 AM
Scaffolded assignments mirror how people become professionals.
Becker saw this in med school. Fine saw the same in MFA programs.
Students build competence through guided practice, not just final tasks.
Structure matters. Belonging grows when learning has a path.
#HigherEd #TeachingMatters
Becker saw this in med school. Fine saw the same in MFA programs.
Students build competence through guided practice, not just final tasks.
Structure matters. Belonging grows when learning has a path.
#HigherEd #TeachingMatters
Are you an escape room designer? I'm researching how designers shape player experiences and emotions in escape rooms. I'd love your insights! Complete this short survey here: forms.office.com/r/bvMkTcDXxe #EscapeRoom #GameDesign #Survey
Microsoft Forms
forms.office.com
July 18, 2025 at 6:05 PM
Are you an escape room designer? I'm researching how designers shape player experiences and emotions in escape rooms. I'd love your insights! Complete this short survey here: forms.office.com/r/bvMkTcDXxe #EscapeRoom #GameDesign #Survey
Call for Panelist!
I'm seeking a last-minute panelist for my #SSSP2025 session: #InsurgentProductions: The Use of #Culture for #SocialChange.
Interested? Join @sssp1org.bsky.social + register no later than TODAY (July 15) + DM me.🎭🎶⚽
Details: lnkd.in/gJVdECv5
#InsurgentSociology #Sociology
I'm seeking a last-minute panelist for my #SSSP2025 session: #InsurgentProductions: The Use of #Culture for #SocialChange.
Interested? Join @sssp1org.bsky.social + register no later than TODAY (July 15) + DM me.🎭🎶⚽
Details: lnkd.in/gJVdECv5
#InsurgentSociology #Sociology
LinkedIn
This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn
lnkd.in
July 15, 2025 at 6:46 PM
Call for Panelist!
I'm seeking a last-minute panelist for my #SSSP2025 session: #InsurgentProductions: The Use of #Culture for #SocialChange.
Interested? Join @sssp1org.bsky.social + register no later than TODAY (July 15) + DM me.🎭🎶⚽
Details: lnkd.in/gJVdECv5
#InsurgentSociology #Sociology
I'm seeking a last-minute panelist for my #SSSP2025 session: #InsurgentProductions: The Use of #Culture for #SocialChange.
Interested? Join @sssp1org.bsky.social + register no later than TODAY (July 15) + DM me.🎭🎶⚽
Details: lnkd.in/gJVdECv5
#InsurgentSociology #Sociology
Belonging isn’t just about being present. It is about how we advance. Social capital, networks, & performance all play a role in who gets ahead & who doesn’t. It isn't enough to fit in. Thrive!
www.linkedin.com/posts/michae...
#Sociology #SenseOfBelonging #Bourdieu #Goffman
www.linkedin.com/posts/michae...
#Sociology #SenseOfBelonging #Bourdieu #Goffman
www.linkedin.com
July 15, 2025 at 2:01 AM
Belonging isn’t just about being present. It is about how we advance. Social capital, networks, & performance all play a role in who gets ahead & who doesn’t. It isn't enough to fit in. Thrive!
www.linkedin.com/posts/michae...
#Sociology #SenseOfBelonging #Bourdieu #Goffman
www.linkedin.com/posts/michae...
#Sociology #SenseOfBelonging #Bourdieu #Goffman
When it rains, it pours.
The concerts for FabFoodie Friday & the Lake Red Rock Annual Hot Air Balloon Race and night glow for opening ceremonies were cancelled.
The story moved inside & online.
Disappointment, memories, & weather updates filled the barroom & social media feeds!
The concerts for FabFoodie Friday & the Lake Red Rock Annual Hot Air Balloon Race and night glow for opening ceremonies were cancelled.
The story moved inside & online.
Disappointment, memories, & weather updates filled the barroom & social media feeds!
July 12, 2025 at 2:13 AM
When it rains, it pours.
The concerts for FabFoodie Friday & the Lake Red Rock Annual Hot Air Balloon Race and night glow for opening ceremonies were cancelled.
The story moved inside & online.
Disappointment, memories, & weather updates filled the barroom & social media feeds!
The concerts for FabFoodie Friday & the Lake Red Rock Annual Hot Air Balloon Race and night glow for opening ceremonies were cancelled.
The story moved inside & online.
Disappointment, memories, & weather updates filled the barroom & social media feeds!
Some of the most meaningful moments in academic life are the ones you don’t see coming. A kind invitation. A quiet acknowledgment. A chance to share your work. Unexpected recognition reminds us: people are listening. Keep going. #AcademicLife #Sociology
July 10, 2025 at 2:22 AM
Some of the most meaningful moments in academic life are the ones you don’t see coming. A kind invitation. A quiet acknowledgment. A chance to share your work. Unexpected recognition reminds us: people are listening. Keep going. #AcademicLife #Sociology
I’m organizing a session @sssp1org.bsky.social that is titled “Insurgent #Productions: The Use of Culture as a Vehicle for Social Change”—we’re looking for one more panelist!
#SSSP2025 #SocialChange #Culture #ArtsForJustice
🧵1/2
#SSSP2025 #SocialChange #Culture #ArtsForJustice
🧵1/2
Bluesky
org.bsky.social
July 9, 2025 at 6:20 PM
I’m organizing a session @sssp1org.bsky.social that is titled “Insurgent #Productions: The Use of Culture as a Vehicle for Social Change”—we’re looking for one more panelist!
#SSSP2025 #SocialChange #Culture #ArtsForJustice
🧵1/2
#SSSP2025 #SocialChange #Culture #ArtsForJustice
🧵1/2
Wouldn't it be interesting if employers offered the same cascading or transfer services that academic presses do. Applicants deemed unsuitable for a job they applied would be offered the service to have their app materials transferred to a more appropriate college or university!
a poster that says rejection is redirecting
ALT: a poster that says rejection is redirecting
media.tenor.com
July 3, 2025 at 3:55 PM
Wouldn't it be interesting if employers offered the same cascading or transfer services that academic presses do. Applicants deemed unsuitable for a job they applied would be offered the service to have their app materials transferred to a more appropriate college or university!
I connect with people across all disciplines. Why? Because I am a seeker of #KNOWLEDGE . Given our disciplinary differences, the best way to learn is from one another.
If I want to know the 🌎, I must learn from those who live in it. That includes YOU! 🪢💪🤝
#NODISCIPLINE #NODIVIDE #STRONGERTOGETHER
If I want to know the 🌎, I must learn from those who live in it. That includes YOU! 🪢💪🤝
#NODISCIPLINE #NODIVIDE #STRONGERTOGETHER
July 3, 2025 at 1:58 AM
I connect with people across all disciplines. Why? Because I am a seeker of #KNOWLEDGE . Given our disciplinary differences, the best way to learn is from one another.
If I want to know the 🌎, I must learn from those who live in it. That includes YOU! 🪢💪🤝
#NODISCIPLINE #NODIVIDE #STRONGERTOGETHER
If I want to know the 🌎, I must learn from those who live in it. That includes YOU! 🪢💪🤝
#NODISCIPLINE #NODIVIDE #STRONGERTOGETHER
📣 William Penn Univ is hiring a tenure-track Assistant Prof of Psych, starting Aug 2025.
We’re looking for passionate educators ready to inspire students and engage in campus life.
Apply 👉 www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/42...
#AcademicJobs #Psychology @spspnews.bsky.social @psychscience.bsky.social
We’re looking for passionate educators ready to inspire students and engage in campus life.
Apply 👉 www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/42...
#AcademicJobs #Psychology @spspnews.bsky.social @psychscience.bsky.social
William Penn University hiring Assistant Professor of Psychology in Oskaloosa, IA | LinkedIn
Posted 6:44:30 PM. William Penn University (Oskaloosa, Iowa) announces a full-time, nine-month tenure-track position…See this and similar jobs on LinkedIn.
www.linkedin.com
July 2, 2025 at 7:33 PM
📣 William Penn Univ is hiring a tenure-track Assistant Prof of Psych, starting Aug 2025.
We’re looking for passionate educators ready to inspire students and engage in campus life.
Apply 👉 www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/42...
#AcademicJobs #Psychology @spspnews.bsky.social @psychscience.bsky.social
We’re looking for passionate educators ready to inspire students and engage in campus life.
Apply 👉 www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/42...
#AcademicJobs #Psychology @spspnews.bsky.social @psychscience.bsky.social
William Penn University (IA) is hiring a tenure-track Asst. Professor of Psych starting Aug 2025. Passion for student learning, interdisciplinarity, & Gen AI. Teach courses like Intro to Psych, Soc Psych, Lifespan, & Experimental Psych, Neuropsych. ✉️ johnstonmo@wmpenn.edu #AcademicJobs #Psychology
July 1, 2025 at 10:14 PM
William Penn University (IA) is hiring a tenure-track Asst. Professor of Psych starting Aug 2025. Passion for student learning, interdisciplinarity, & Gen AI. Teach courses like Intro to Psych, Soc Psych, Lifespan, & Experimental Psych, Neuropsych. ✉️ johnstonmo@wmpenn.edu #AcademicJobs #Psychology
I'm available to guest lecture (Zoom/Teams or in-person). I’ve spoken on gender & pageantry, innovative methods, festivals, escape rooms, space & design, and belonging in higher ed. I can even set up a joint session w/ my class. DM if interested!
#Sociology #GuestLecture
#Sociology #GuestLecture
July 1, 2025 at 2:23 PM
I'm available to guest lecture (Zoom/Teams or in-person). I’ve spoken on gender & pageantry, innovative methods, festivals, escape rooms, space & design, and belonging in higher ed. I can even set up a joint session w/ my class. DM if interested!
#Sociology #GuestLecture
#Sociology #GuestLecture
From rural Iowa, I’ve conducted nearly 100 interviews on @newbooksnetwork.bsky.social/ Sociology. With just two sociologists in the division, podcasting keeps me in conversation with the discipline. It allows me to remain visible, connected, and community—all from a microphone! 🎧🎙️📘
July 1, 2025 at 1:56 AM
From rural Iowa, I’ve conducted nearly 100 interviews on @newbooksnetwork.bsky.social/ Sociology. With just two sociologists in the division, podcasting keeps me in conversation with the discipline. It allows me to remain visible, connected, and community—all from a microphone! 🎧🎙️📘
From escape rooms to beach resorts, emotions are now products. Hochschild, Ahmed, Illouz, Giddens, Massumi, Rosa—they all warned us: #identity, #meaning, and #feeling are #upforsale.
When was the last time you paid to feel something?
Let’s talk #affect and #capitalism.
When was the last time you paid to feel something?
Let’s talk #affect and #capitalism.
June 29, 2025 at 9:29 PM
From escape rooms to beach resorts, emotions are now products. Hochschild, Ahmed, Illouz, Giddens, Massumi, Rosa—they all warned us: #identity, #meaning, and #feeling are #upforsale.
When was the last time you paid to feel something?
Let’s talk #affect and #capitalism.
When was the last time you paid to feel something?
Let’s talk #affect and #capitalism.
Places aren't passive. They’re built from biography, history, memory, and struggle.
A park bench, a church, a town square—none of these are neutral. They carry the weight of who used them, who was excluded, and how people remember.
#Placemaking #Sociology #PlaceMatters
A park bench, a church, a town square—none of these are neutral. They carry the weight of who used them, who was excluded, and how people remember.
#Placemaking #Sociology #PlaceMatters
June 27, 2025 at 6:32 PM
Places aren't passive. They’re built from biography, history, memory, and struggle.
A park bench, a church, a town square—none of these are neutral. They carry the weight of who used them, who was excluded, and how people remember.
#Placemaking #Sociology #PlaceMatters
A park bench, a church, a town square—none of these are neutral. They carry the weight of who used them, who was excluded, and how people remember.
#Placemaking #Sociology #PlaceMatters
#Ethnography = #research + #storytelling.
It’s immersive #fieldwork and evocative ✍️.
We study 🧑🤝🧑 in real time, then ✍️ scenes that bring readers into the moment.
Ethnography is as much about being there as it is making others feel they were.
#qualitativeresearch
It’s immersive #fieldwork and evocative ✍️.
We study 🧑🤝🧑 in real time, then ✍️ scenes that bring readers into the moment.
Ethnography is as much about being there as it is making others feel they were.
#qualitativeresearch
a blurry picture of a city at night with a tall building in the foreground
ALT: a blurry picture of a city at night with a tall building in the foreground
media.tenor.com
June 27, 2025 at 3:11 AM
#Ethnography = #research + #storytelling.
It’s immersive #fieldwork and evocative ✍️.
We study 🧑🤝🧑 in real time, then ✍️ scenes that bring readers into the moment.
Ethnography is as much about being there as it is making others feel they were.
#qualitativeresearch
It’s immersive #fieldwork and evocative ✍️.
We study 🧑🤝🧑 in real time, then ✍️ scenes that bring readers into the moment.
Ethnography is as much about being there as it is making others feel they were.
#qualitativeresearch
What’s strange about 💰? It’s idealized and full of anxiety, performance, & inequality. #Luxislabor. #Affluence_is_complex. #Status is always #managed.
💍 The Sport Marriage, Ortiz
👜 Uneasy Street, Sherman
🍾 Very Important People, Mears
🏔️ Aspen and the American Dream, Stuber
💍 The Sport Marriage, Ortiz
👜 Uneasy Street, Sherman
🍾 Very Important People, Mears
🏔️ Aspen and the American Dream, Stuber
June 26, 2025 at 2:36 PM
What’s strange about 💰? It’s idealized and full of anxiety, performance, & inequality. #Luxislabor. #Affluence_is_complex. #Status is always #managed.
💍 The Sport Marriage, Ortiz
👜 Uneasy Street, Sherman
🍾 Very Important People, Mears
🏔️ Aspen and the American Dream, Stuber
💍 The Sport Marriage, Ortiz
👜 Uneasy Street, Sherman
🍾 Very Important People, Mears
🏔️ Aspen and the American Dream, Stuber