Popcorn Psychology

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Three licensed therapists breakdown and analyze popular movies and characters from the perspectives of an individual, child, and a marriage and family therapist.

Benjamin Stover

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    • Jun 5, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 35m AVG DURATION
    • 138 EPISODES

    4.6 from 192 ratings Listeners of Popcorn Psychology that love the show mention: favorite podcasts ever, joker, brittney, psychology, favorite movies, popcorn, psychological, quite a bit, diagnosis, stop reading, logan, mental illness, great movie, analyze, disorder, treatment, hannah, comic book, characters, breakdown.


    Ivy Insights

    The Popcorn Psychology podcast is a fascinating and unique exploration of the intersection between movies and psychology. As a listener, I have thoroughly enjoyed delving into the psyche of various characters and analyzing their motivations and behaviors. The hosts, Ben, Hannah, and Brittney, all professional psychologists with different specialties, offer insightful and critical perspectives on each movie they discuss. The discussions are both lighthearted and serious when needed, creating a perfect balance for listeners.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the diversity in movie selection. The hosts choose a wide range of films, from beloved classics to contemporary blockbusters. This ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy and analyze. Additionally, the hosts' different backgrounds in trauma, child psychology, and marriage and family therapy bring unique viewpoints to the table, enriching the analysis and making it well-rounded.

    Another highlight of this podcast is how it combines entertainment with education. Each episode provides an opportunity for listeners to learn about various mental health conditions and gain a deeper understanding of human behavior. As someone interested in psychology but not necessarily well-versed in it, I appreciate how the hosts explain concepts clearly without overwhelming or alienating non-experts.

    However, one downside to this podcast is the presence of mouth noises that may be bothersome for listeners with misophonia. While I personally haven't been bothered by them, I understand how they can be distracting or even distressing for some individuals. It would be beneficial if these noises could be edited out in future episodes to ensure a more enjoyable listening experience for all.

    In conclusion, The Popcorn Psychology podcast is a must-listen for anyone who loves movies and wants to delve deeper into their psychological aspects. The hosts' professional expertise combined with their engaging discussions make each episode both entertaining and informative. Despite minor drawbacks like mouth noises that may bother certain listeners, this podcast remains an excellent source of insights into the complexities of human behavior portrayed in popular films.



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    Latest episodes from Popcorn Psychology

    Godzilla Minus One: Moral Injury & Collective Trauma

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 96:37


    IT'S GODZILLLLLAAAAA!!!! We are finally facing the notorious giant with Godzilla Minus One. This has been a highly requested movie since it came out in 2023. Join us as we break down the concept of moral injury seen in the main character, as well as the collective trauma experienced by the Japanese people after WWII. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Starship Troopers: Adolescent Development & Propaganda

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 85:56


    By fan request, we are diving into the 1997 cult classic, Starship Troopers! We break down how adolescent development is demonstrated with the main characters. We also explore the power of propaganda as this movie is a satirical look on facism and the propaganda that serves it. Buckle up and look out for bugs!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Inside Out 2: The Impact of Anxiety

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 80:06


    Welcome to Season 8!!! We kick off with the 2024 sequel, Inside Out 2! We discuss the introduction of Anxiety as a significant shake up to the emotional control board. We explore various therapeutic interventions to manage anxiety and how the movie does a decent job of demonstrating some of these interventions. Hold on to your sense of self and join us!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    My Big Fat Greek Wedding & Enmeshment

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2025 111:35


    Happy Valentine's Day! This year you all picked "My Big Fat Greek Wedding". Enjoy as we dive into the concept of enmeshment: what that means, the factors that can create enmeshment, and the impact of enmeshment on an individual's development. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    A Christmas Story: Kids & Their Parents

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 96:39


    Be careful, this episode is FrA-Gee-Lay!! We dive into the holiday classic, A Christmas Story. We discuss the child dynamics centered within the film as well as parenting styles and the relationship between Mom and Dad. Join us as we try not to shoot our eyes out!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Home Alone: Family Issues, Holiday Stress, and KEVIN!!!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 95:55


    Happy Holidays ya filthy animals! In this episode we will be breaking down the 1990 Holiday Classic: Home Alone! We will be discussing the challenges of being a gifted child, the roots of behavior issues, family problems, holiday stress, and dissociation. We're gonna give you to the count of ten to tune in! One, two...ten! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: Accepting What Makes You Different

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2024 14:31


    Enjoy this bite sized holiday appetizer exclusively recorded using the new Spreaker content app! Hope you enjoy our mini discussion on acceptance and finding strength in what makes us different than the rest of the herd!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    House of the Dragon Live at Fan Expo Chicago 2024 with Dr. Vanessa Hintz

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2024 42:59


    [CW: discussions of abuse and trauma]Please enjoy our live panel from Fan Expo 2024! We discuss House of the Dragon with Dr. Vanessa Hintz! We mostly focus on the dynamic between Rhaenrya and Alicent and their differing experiences within the patriachy of the Seven Kingdoms. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Addams Family Values: Stunted Development, Anti-Social Traits, and Family Systems

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 111:12


    Happy Halloween! We are excited to join force with Dr. Benjamin Taitz of MyHeroTherapy once again to bring you this Mysterious and Ooky Sequel on Addams Family Values! We will be covering the stunted development of Fester due to being infantilized, the predatory and criminal behavior of Debbie, and the family dynamics of the Addams family on display!  Duh duh de Dun!! Snap snap!!*Note Technical issues impacted us during this recording due to weather.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Nope: Sibling Dynamics & Dissociation

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 85:46


    Happy Halloween! We are heading back into the cinematic universe of Jordan Peele to discuss 2022's Nope. We explore the sibling dynamic between OJ & Emerald and how their father's death impacted them individually as well as their relationship to each other. We also discuss the interesting presentation of Jupe in the way that he is dealing (or not dealing) with his childhood trauma. So strap into your saddle and giddy up!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    District 9: Dehumanization, Empathy, and Forced Perspective Change

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2024 81:47


    Trigger warnings: Violence, Poverty, Racism, OppressionThis episode is for HUMANS ONLY! NON-HUMANS BANNED! We are taking on the 2009 Academy Award Nominee for Best Picture: District 9! We will be addressing the burning question that seems to plague our species: "How do people do this and think it's ok?!" (Spoiler alert) they dissociate, dehumanize, and delegitimize the group they are othering. This time we examine how it happens, why it happens, and what happens when the tables suddenly turn all through the lens of science fiction! Tune in and let us know what you think!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    The Breakfast Club: Parental Influence & Societal Roles w/ Molly McAleer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2024 146:38


    [Trigger warning as we discuss domestic violence, parental abuse, suicide, and briefly mention sexual assault] School is back in session and we are already in detention! But never fear because joining us is a very special guest: Molly McAleer! We break down the five members of The Breakfast Club: Bender, Claire, Andrew, Brian, & Alison. We discuss a variety of topics: parental influence on our sense of self, societal roles, the general misery of adolescence, suicide, familial abuse, and more. Though this episode is almost as long as a Saturday detention, we hope its more insightful and entertaining.You can find Molly McAleer on her podcasts: Trend Lightly and Mother May I Sleep With PodcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Jumanji & Trauma Reactions

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 128:31


    In the jungle you must wait, til the dice read five or eight! We are jumping into the 1995's Jumanji! We will be discussing the four main characters: Alan, Sarah, Judy, & Peter; and how they all demonstrate different reactions to trauma. We cover a variety of topics: selective mutism, pathological lying, identity issues, and arrested development. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Princess Mononoke & Values

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 103:53


    We are travelling back to Studio Ghibli to discuss the beloved Miyazaki film, Princess Mononoke! We use the wide spectrum of characters to discuss the concept of values. We explore how values are formed and also how values influence our choices. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Portrait of a Lady on Fire: Autonomy & Actualization

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2024 100:17


    [CW: discussions of suicide]Happy Pride! Join us as we discuss Portrait of a Lady on Fire! We break down the themes of autonomy & actualization represented by the various female leads. We also explore the idea of abstract grief and have a lengthy discussion on suicide, specifically within the LGBTQIA+ community. If you are experiencing suicidal thinking and/or feel at risk of suicide, you can contact the following supports: The Trevor Project    call @  1-866-488-7386 or text @ 678-678 National Suicide Hotline    call or text @ 988Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Batman: Mask of the Phantasm: Arrested Development, Egocentrism, and Facing your Shadow

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2024 77:24


    In today's episode we break down the animated classic Batman: Mask of the Phantasm! This film was truly ahead of its time and the stellar voice cast masterfully covered the mental anguish Bruce Wayne experiences as he battles his internal family system about whether upholding an oath of vengeance sworn as a child or living a happy life best honors his departed parents. In this episode we cover the topics of Arrested Development, Egocentrism, and the Jungian concept of Shadow Work. Stay out of the abyss!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Arrival: Communication & Existentialism

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2024 106:51


    Join us today as we discuss one of Hannah's favorite movies of all time, Arrival! We break down the use of communication in the film and how it relates to communication both in and out of therapy. We also explore the film's theme of existentialism and radical acceptance. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Barbie: What Was I Made For?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2024 107:47


    Hi Barbie! In this episode, we are once again joined by our beloved friend, fellow therapist, and real life Barbie: Rachel Harrison. We discuss sense of self vs systemic identity. We also explore the themes of codependency and life changes. So put on your favorite pink outfit and join us!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

    Saltburn: Antisocial Personality Disorder & Dysfunctional Families

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2024 88:13


    Welcome to Season 7! We have heard your cries and we are starting with Saltburn![content warning: this episode includes discussions of abuse]We attempt to understand Oliver Quick through the lens of antisocial personality disorder. We also discuss the Catton family as a model for dysfunctional family systems. 

    Never Been Kissed: Neurodivergence & Predatory Relationships

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 126:36


    [CW: Discussions of predatory relationships including references to assault] This year's winner of our Valentine's Day poll is Never Been Kissed! Listener beware if you are precious about this movie because we truly rip it apart. We first break down the characters of Josie and Rob. We discuss the potential of neurodivergence in regards to Josie and the impact of failed dreams via Rob. We spend a good chunk of this episode focusing on the predatory and reprehensible relationship between Josie AND A MAN WHO THINKS SHE IS A TEENAGER! So hang on to your favorite feather boa, cuz this is gonna be a bumpy ride.

    Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: Why You Need Your Memories

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2024 113:08


    Would it be better to forget than remember when pain is involved? We try to answer that question in our PATREON picked episode on Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. We analyze the two main characters: Clementine & Joel. We also rip apart the ethics (or lack thereof) behind the “medical professionals” responsible for the forgetting procedure. Join us as we try to outrun the memory police!Thank you, Kayla!

    Seinfeld & Festivus: Trauma & Personality Disorders

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2023 73:22


    Happy December 23rd! Or how its known in the Costanza household: HAPPY FESTIVUS! Join us as we round out 2023 by getting out our metal poles and discussing the Festivus episode of Seinfeld. We discuss how trauma is represented by George Costanza as well as how Festivus is a holiday made by and for someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. We wish you all a happy new year and we hope you all win your family's feats of strength!!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Jingle All the Way and Being a Present Parent

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 85:43


    Merry Christmas! This holiday season we break down (and hate on) the 90s kid classic, Jingle All The Way! We discuss the representation of parenting via Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad. We also explore the destructive nature of consumerism. Hope you all don't mind our ribbing of a modern classic that unfortunately does not hold up in any way.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Fried Green Tomatoes: Identity & Chosen Family

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2023 113:24


    Join us as we discuss the 90s classic: Fried Green Tomatoes! We are once again joined by Rachel Harrison, our close friend and art therapist. We discuss identity through the experiences of the three main characters: Idgie, Ruth, and Evelyn. We also discuss the importance of chosen family and community. Tawanda!!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Whiplash: Tough Love vs Abuse

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2023 125:33


    In this episode we are joined by Tessa Marie Hoffman as we break down the 2014 critically acclaimed film, Whiplash. We discuss the “teaching” tactics displayed in the movie and evaluate the differences between preparing students for the realities of a difficult career and narcissistic abuse. We also explore the power dynamics of mentor/student relationships, specifically within the entertainment industry. Find out more about Tessa on IG @tessamariehoffman or at tessamariehoffman.netThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    The Shining: Domestic Violence, PTSD, & The Psychology of Kubrick

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2023 123:09


    [CW: This episode contains lengthy discussions throughout about domestic violence] Happy Halloween! We are finally taking the windy mountain road to the Overlook Hotel to discuss The Shining! We are joined by Dr. Scott Jordon (aka Zombie Scotty)! We ask the question, would seeing ghosts give you PTSD? We have a very serious discussion about the domestic violence shown in the relationship of Jack and Wendy as well as its impact on their son, Danny. We also touch on the variety of ways that Kubrick uses aspects of filmmaking to provoke a psychological response within us. Join us! But don't go into room 237!!Where you can find Dr. Scott:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN5ddGv-AuqOj7iwdBxt_eQtwitter.com/Dark_LoopsThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    The Addams Family: Psychopathy and Enmeshment

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2023 90:37


    Are you creepy, spooky, mysterious, or kooky?? Well you've come to the right place because we are talking about The Addams Family!! We are specifically diving into the 1991 film and we are joined by Benjamin Taitz! We ask the eternal question: are the Addams Family a family of "psychopaths"? We also break down the relationship between Fester and his "adoptive" mother, Ms. Craven, as a textbook example of how enmeshment is used within an abusive dynamic. Join us if you dare! Find Ben here: @MHQPodcast-twitter, facebook taplink.cc/mhqThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Special Live Episode from FanExpo Chicago 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2023 49:32


    Enjoy this live episode from Fan Expo Chicago 2023! Ben and Brittney chat with a live audience about a variety of topics from the portrayal of therapists in film/tv to surprising places that we have found positive mental health messaging. We touch upon several different pieces of media, from Ted Lasso to Bluey to the MCU. Thank you to everyone who attended live and asked such thoughtful questions!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Inception with Dr. Isaac Taitz: Consciousness, Dreaming, & Shame

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2023 108:21


    Stay awake! Because we are finally delving into the multilayered dream space of Inception! We are joined by a super knowledgable guest on therapeutic dreamwork: Dr. Isaac Taitz. We discuss the real components of dreams and consciousness demonstrated in this sci-fi movie. We also continue our discussions on grief, specifically when grief is tangled up in shame. Lastly, we answer the question: Can you really incept a person with an idea?? Where you can find Dr. Isaac Taitz:www.allmindhealth.comhttps://www.facebook.com/allmindhealthTwitter: @AllMindHealth1Instagram: @allmindhealthYoutube: @allmindhealthThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Wakanda Forever: Layers of Grief

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2023 109:04


    Wakanda Forever! This will come as no surprise to anyone but this episode will be mainly about grief and the myriad of ways we can experience grief and process grief. We discuss grief not only through the fictional characters of this movie but also through the significant real-life loss of Chadwick Boseman. So bring your tissues and an open heart as we dive into this heavy topic. ❤️This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Up w/ Raiders of the Lost Podcast!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2023 90:30


    Hello!! We are doing a very special crossover episode with Raiders of the Lost Podcast, hosted by twin brothers Anthony and James Deveney who break down your favorite movies from the past and present. We are finally talking about Pixar's Up, a highly requested film by fans. As this is a hyrid episode, we get a bit more into the actual making of the film and behind the scenes trivia as well as discuss themes of mental health. So join us as we fly all the way to Paradise Falls!!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    The Mummy: Why Do People Go On Adventures??

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2023 96:15


    Hello our fellow adventurers! After many many many fan requests, we are jumping on our camels and venturing into 1999's The Mummy! We are joined by an awesome guest, Charlene MacPherson, as we explore the psychology behind exploration. We also discuss the difference between individualism and collectivism as well as how this movie compares to a D&D campaign. Join us and don't read out loud from any ancient books!How to find Charlene:@NAT20therapy- Facebook, Insta, Twitter, Bluesky, www.nat20therapy.com@MHQPodcast-twitter, facebooktaplink.cc/mhqThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Spider-Man No Way Home: Corrective Experiences, Grief, & Empathy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2023 122:51


    Join us as we swing into 2021's Spider-Man: No Way Home, the third Spider-Man installment with Tom Holland. We wanted to discuss this movie and this character due to Ben's contribution to the recently published book, Spider-Man Psychology: Untangling Webs. You can find the link below! In this episode we will be discussing corrective experiences, grief, & empathy. Enjoy as we attempt to keep all three Peter Parkers straight through out the discussion!Link to book:https://bookshop.org/p/books/spider-man-psychology-untangling-webs-travis-langley/18819647?ean=9781684429332This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    A Goofy Movie: Parenting Styles & Parenting Teens

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2023 91:32


    Well Garsh! We have a new episode today with the beloved animated 90s movie, A Goofy Movie! We break down the four commonly known parenting styles as well as discuss the difficult journey of parenting a child into adolescence. Ayuck!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Fantastic Mr. Fox: Narcissistic Personality Disorder & Its Impact on Family Dynamics

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2023 100:34


    Hello! We venture back into the cinematic universe of Wes Anderson with the stop motion animated feature, Fantastic Mr. Fox! We discuss the diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder and how it presents in our main charater, Mr. Fox. We also explore how this diagnosis not only affects Mr. Fox but his nuclear family, extended family, and his entire animal community. So don't waste any more cussing time and check out this episode!!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Richard Wiseman's On Your Mind

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2023 25:40


    Today, we have a special treat for you as we feature an episode from the new podcast "Richard Wiseman's On Your Mind," co-hosted by Richard Wiseman, Britain's only professor in the Public Understanding of Psychology, and science journalist Marnie Chesterson. Together, they delve into the captivating topic of persuasion, exploring how the power of persuasion can be used for good, the psychological tricks used to persuade people, and ways to protect ourselves from marketing strategies. In this episode, all these questions and more will be answered.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    LOTR: The Return of the King - Chosen Family, Purpose, & Heroism

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2023 109:39


    We are once again joined by the fantastic Justine Mastin as we complete our LOTR journey with The Return of the King. We discuss the theme of chosen family seen throughout the film as well as purpose and heroism. There may be a day that we stop watching this film, but it is not this day! So get it over with and throw that ring in that mighty big volcano and join us!! Find Justine Mastin @mindbodyfandom on IGThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3252280/advertisement

    Terminator 2: Schizoaffective Disorder & Normalized Criminal Behavior

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2023 118:27


    [CW: mild references to SA] Come with me if you want to live! In this episode we time travel into Terminator 2. We discuss the movie's diagnosis of Sarah Connor having schizoaffective disorder. We dive into the movie's portrayal of mental health services within an intensive institutionalized setting. We also break down John Connor as a kid who was raised by an unconventional parent who normalized a number of behaviors that would be considered criminal by mainstream society.

    Everything Everywhere All at Once: Intergenerational Trauma & Nihilism

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2023 139:24


    Welcome to Season Six of Popcorn Psychology!! We are kicking off this season with the 2023 Oscar winner for Best Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once! We deep dive into the subject of intergenerational trauma between the main character Evelyn with both her father and her daughter. We also explore the movie's themes on nihilism and existentialism. Come listen and don't get sucked into the bagel!!

    500 Days of Summer: Situationships, Adjustment, and Depression

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2023 99:51


    Happy Valentine's Day! Let's travel back in time to the height of quirky hipsterdom, 2009, and dive into 500 Days of Summer! This movie has been heavily requested for almost the entire time we've been doing the podcast. As the movie reminds us several times, this is NOT a love story! So we will be breaking down the concept of “Situationships”, what are they, how do you end up them, and how to get out of them. So check it out unless you want to end up like a Tom.

    Thank You For Smoking: Gaslighting, Moral Flexibility, & Work/Life Balance

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2023 94:51


    Surprise! In this episode we are joind by Dr. Andy Luttrell, Psychology Professor at Ball State University and host of Opinion Science Podcast. We are talking about the 2005 film, Thank You For Smoking! We mainly discuss the main character played by Aaron Eckhart. We break down the themes of gaslighting and moral flexibility that are heavily featured in the film. We also discuss work/life balance and the psychological ramifications of your work being your life when your work is taken from you. Thank You For Listening!

    The Grinch: Holidays, PTSD, and Situational Triggers

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2022 105:30


    Happy Holidays as we land in Whoville to talk about The Grinch!! In this episode we focus the 2018 animated adaptiation from Illumination! We include aspects of the 1966 an 2000 versions to be inclusive of their genius! We are joined by Stanford professor and host of Know What You See podcaset, Dr. Brian Lowery for this epsiode! We discuss PTSD and the situational triggers that can present around this time of year. Be forewarned, we may get a little Grinchy in this episode! So sit down and join us as we ask the question: was the Grinch's heart really 2 sizes too small??

    Bonus Episode: Interview with the creators of The Retaliators

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2022 61:34


    [Content Warning: mentions of sexual assault and violence towards women] In a special bonus episode, we have an interview with the creators of the new movie The Retaliators! We are joined by the screenwriters, Darren Geare and Jeff Allen Geare, and the lead actor, Michael Lombardi! We discuss the inspiration for the movie as well as the psychological components of both writing and starring in a movie that involves significant trauma, violence, and grief. We hope you enjoy this peek behind the movie curtain!

    Hook: Anxiety, Parenting, & Cluster B Diagnoses

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2022 111:02


    Happy Holidays! In our first holiday episode of 2022, we traveling to NeverNeverLand in Steven Spielberg's Hook!! We mainly break down the characters of adult Peter Pan and Captain Hook. We discuss a variety of topics: anxiety and irritability, dissociative amnesia, parenting when you never had parents, cluster B diagnoses, grooming, and more. Joining us for this jampacked episode is an amazing guesst, Dr. Tara Sanderson! So sprinkle some fairy dust, think some happy thoughts, and fly away with us!!You can find Dr. Tara Sanderson on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @drtarasanderson & at her website www.drtarasanderson.com

    Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - Ecological Grief, Individuation, and Internal Family Systems

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2022 110:27


    Welcome back to the Tolkien-verse! We are diving back into the Lord of the Rings trilogy with The Two Towers. We are joined by Justine Mastin, therapist and author of Starship Therapise and The Grieving Therapist. We touch upon a variety of themes: grief and loss, ecological grief, individuation, Jung. We also discuss Internal Family Systems and how that is demonstrated via Gollum/Smeagol. You can find Justine here:website: justinemastin.comsocial: @mindbodyfandom on fb, insta, and twitterbook: Starship Therapise: using therapeutic fanfiction to rewrite your lifebook: The Grieving Therapist: caring for yourself and your clients when it feels like the end of the world

    Reservation Dogs: The Impact of Suicide and Grief Within a Community

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2022 89:20


    [Content Warning: In depth discussion on suicide] In honor of National Native American Heritage Month, we are discussing the critically acclaimed tv series, Reservation Dogs! Specifically we explore the first season but there are mild spoilers for season two, so listen with caution if you are not caught up. This is also a pretty heavy episode as our main topic of discussion is suicide and the impact of suicide on the main four characters: Elora, Willie Jack, Cheese, and Bear. We also talk about the generational trauma shown within their community and how that impacts the ability to process and heal from grief. Resources discussed in this episode:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255Sponsoring an Indigenous therapist: https://www.inclusivetherapists.com/sponsorship

    Popcorn Psychology Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2022 0:40


    Popcorn Psychology Trailer

    popcorn psychology
    Coraline: Neglectful Parents, Under-stimulated Children, & Grooming

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2022 115:50


    [Content Warning: In-depth discussion on the abuse tactic of grooming] In our second Spooky Season episode of 2022, we are going into the claymation world of Coraline! We are joined by a live action guest, Eric Wesselmann, to discuss some heavy topics for a child based movie so listen with caution if there are young ears around. We dive deep into the dynamic between Coraline and her parents who are presented as neglectful workaholics. We examine how this dynamic leads to the under-stimulation of Coraline and makes her vulnerable to the grooming demonstrated by the “Other Mother”. So join us…and if you find any spooky doors in your new old house…leave them alone!!Where you can find our guest:Department webpage: https://psychology.illinoisstate.edu/faculty/all/profile/?ulid=edwesseTwitter: @EricWesselmann Film blog: https://www.normaltheater.com/118/Film-CULTure

    Hocus Pocus: The Importance of Listening to Children

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2022 86:34


    Get your two favorite sisters and your skin-bound spell book because we are talking about Hocus Pocus!! We discuss Adjustment Disorder and how it presents with the character of Max as he adjusts to moving to Salem. We also examine the importance of listening to children when they share about bullying, feeling unsafe, etc. And last but certainly not least, we explore the enmeshed sibling relationships between all three Sanderson Sisters. Happy Halloween!

    Encanto: Perfectionism, Co-Dependency, & Intergenerational Trauma

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 111:46


    By popular demand, we are dropping an extra episode before our Spooky Season starts on the newly beloved movie, Encanto!! We are joined by a dear friend and excellent therapist, Paulina Chirinos. We explore the theme of perfectionism within the Madrigal family and how it is a response to the intense trauma experienced by their matriarch, Alma. We also discuss how this trauma created co-dependency, not just within the family but with their small town. So join us as we DO talk about Bruno and much more!!Info on our guest:Paulina ChirinosLicensed Clinical Professional CounselorLCPC, RYTChicago, IL(872) 814-6044

    Inside Out: Why Do We Have Feelings?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2022 77:53


    Do you ever look at someone and wonder, ‘What is going on inside their head?'” That's right folks! We are finally discussing Inside Out! We tackle the eternal question: Why Do We Have Feelings?? We also discuss emotional intelligence, the idea of good feelings vs bad feelings, and what it means to “grow up”. So hold on tight to your imaginary friend and join us!!

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