Hugs in the Wild™ – A Human Connection Experiment
Hugs in the Wild™ to TEDx Talk
As a TEDx speaker, Angela leads Hugs in the Wild ™ — a bold, real-world experiment in human connection. By asking the simple question, “Do you want a hug?”, she demonstrates how small, intentional acts of connection can break barriers, spark courage, and remind us of the power of genuine human interaction. Hugs are more than a gesture — they’re a bridge, a spark, a way to reconnect in a world that often feels disconnected. Through her work, Angela explores the science, the stories, and the magic that happens when we choose to connect with others — one hug at a time. Click "Learn More" and watch the TEDx talk now.
Welcome to The Official Hug Dealer™ Brand
Where hugs meet adventure and connection roams free.
It’s about rediscovering what happens when we dare to connect again. As The Official Hug Dealer, I created Hugs in the Wild™—a real-world series where spontaneous hugs meet unscripted stories. Each episode captures raw, honest moments of connection—out on the streets, in parks, airports, markets, or wherever kindness decides to show up. No script. No actors. Just real people, real conversations, and real hugs, in the wild. Watch episodes YouTube @angiepennella15 and give a #HugintheWild!
Conversations that connect.
A series and social movement to keep the connection conversation going, I created Hug & Tell™. This is micro-series where hug talk meets real life—sometimes it’s me and my co-host diving into hug topics and making things fun and light, and other times it’s me out in the wild interviewing people about hugs, kindness and connection. Hug & Tell™ opens up honest dialogue about consent, connection, and the courage to reach out. Tune in on my YouTube channel @angie_pennella15.
Taking kindness on the road.
The Hug Tour™ is a traveling movement of kindness, connection, and community on the road. At every stop, I create simple yet powerful moments—whether it’s sharing a hug, writing a note of encouragement, supporting local causes, or surprising strangers with acts of love. Each city brings its own flavor of kindness, but the mission stays the same: to spread love and encouragement, and community one hug (or act of kindness) at a time.
Exploring what I learn when I connect.
The Hug Report™ is where I share my findings and insights from connection— real stories, lessons and connections. Part storytelling, part research — The Hug Report™ dives into what hugs reveal about human behavior, healing, and connection. Through short videos and real-world experiments, I shares insights on why I reach out and how small acts of connection can shift our emotional wellbeing and sense of belonging.