Dear Crinkle 85: “I don’t know how to study” and “Saggy Jowls”

In this episode of 'Dear Crinkle,' host Bonnie Burns and her panel—Paula Poundstone, Adam Selmer, and Tony Anita Hall—tackle two heartfelt listener letters with their signature mix of humor and candid advice. The first concerns a 10-year-old struggling with how to study, prompting a lighthearted but surprisingly practical discussion on study techniques like writing by hand, using flashcards, and experimenting with different learning styles. The panel ultimately agrees that seeking help from teachers or tutors is key, though the advice is met with self-aware irony, as the hosts themselves admit they’re not always helpful. The second letter comes from a 62-year-old grappling with self-image issues due to aging, including sagging jowls and wrinkles. The conversation evolves from dark humor about looking like a 'jalopy' to a more compassionate message: embracing aging, focusing on inner well-being, and finding joy in self-acceptance. The episode closes with two uplifting listener updates—one celebrating a fresh start after a 31-year marriage ended, and another reporting a successful resolution to a social conflict over corkage fees. The tone remains warm, irreverent, and ultimately affirming, reinforcing the show’s mission of emotional connection over perfect advice.