Psychology and Stuff

In this episode of Dr. Alison Jane Martingano welcomes Dr. Regan Gurung and Dr. Georjeanna Wilson-Doenges to explore the emerging science of eco-spirituality, which examines how experiences in nature can become a gateway to a deeper well-being and connection in the world. Dr. Gurung, a professor at Oregon State University, has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles and 15 books, and had previously served as Chair of the Psychology Department at UW-Green Bay. Dr. Wilson-Doenges, is a current UWGB psychology professor with expertise in environmental psychology and previous host of this podcast. The conversation dives into the psychology of awe, sacred spaces, and spiritual experiences which can shape how we connect. This episode also explores different activities that can be brought into the classroom to explore eco-spirituality. Virtual reality technology for environmental contact, and ways to navigate feeling out of control in an uncontrollable world are additional topics explored in this episode.

Join us in this episode where Dr. Alison Jane Martingano invites assistant professor of theatre and dance at UWGB, Alan Kopischke, to discuss the commonalities of those in theatre and psychology. They explore how understanding the emotions, values, and motives of others is important in both realms and how both disciplines can help the other better understand human behavior and emotion. The two also discuss the ways that different theatre and psychology concepts apply to the real world, specifically in increasing empathy and perspective-taking. Listen in to hear more about the advice a theatre professional has for those in both the psychology and theatre worlds.

As the NFL Draft heads to the Green Bay community, host Dr. Alison Jane Martingano invites a panel of experts to explore the powerful impacts of sports fandom. Joining her in this episode are Dr. Cody Hubbard, professor of sports commerce; Dr. Galen Trail, renowned expert in sports consumer behavior and marketing; and Dr. Aaron Mansfield, professor of sports management. Together, they dive into how fandoms, rivalries, and game rituals influence emotions, mental health, and even physical health. The guests explain reasons why team connections impact emotions and health. The guests also discuss the unique bond between the Green Bay Packers and their community, unpacking the psychology behind the loyalty and support fans have for the team. Listen in to hear more about how being a fan can potentially affect life, for better or worse.

What makes UWGB and the students the students that go there great? In this special episode Dr. Alison Jane Martingano invites UWGB Chancellor Dr. Michael Alexander, and Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr. Ryan Martin, to answer that question. They discuss their roles at the university, the best parts about UWGB and its students, as well as the benefits of attending college at UWGB. The guests also consider the advice they would give to help students when they run into difficult times, including how to balance it all, avoid burnout, and how to access university supports. Listen in to hear more about the ways UWGB helps students grow and the inspiring perspective Dr. Alexander and Dr. Martin have about the goals of the university!

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano features Dr. Kaanthan Jawahar, a Psychiatrist with expertise in alcohol-related brain damage. The impact of societal pressures, cultural norms, and myths are examined in the discussion around drinking. The two discuss differences in drinking culture between the United States and the United Kingdom - where Dr. Jawahar practices. In addition to social impacts, this episode discusses the neurological effects of drinking, including the science behind blacking out, hangovers, and alcohol dependency. Listen in to hear more about the science and culture behind drinking, and to learn if common strategies for lessening the effects of drinking are myths or facts.

In this engaging episode of Psychology and Stuff, host Dr. Alison Jane Martingano sits down with Dr. Shannon Baird and Navy Special Operations Veteran Nikko Wheeler to discuss the psychology of Special Operations. They discuss the mental skills needed to be a part of a special operations team which include self-awareness and self-regulation. Dr. Baird explains the role of a cognitive enhancement practitioner and the exercises that are used to help special operators train for pressure-filled performances as well as the transition support in and out of missions. Nikko Wheeler shares his own experiences with these trainings as well. Additional themes of trusting yourself, the importance of connections, and ways to cope with chronic stress are discussed. Listen in to learn more about this intriguing field and the mental preparation needed to work in high-stress situations.

In this episode, Dr. Jason Cowell, and Dr. Georjeanna Wilson-Doenges, psychology professors at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, reflect on the understanding of morality. They discuss how situations, environments, and even certain times of the day influence the ability to act morally. The guests converse about what morality is and how culture as well as individual values can impact one's sense of morality. Listen in to gain insights into different theories and beliefs about morality and ways to structure your life to increase the ability to act morally.

In this episode, Brittany Berkovitz, Alicia Gerstner, and Courtney Covill, mental health professionals at The ATT Center for Counseling, reflect on navigating relationships and friendships. They discuss how self-love plays a role in both creating and maintaining social connections. The difficulties of dating apps, and the struggles of learning to put yourself out there are also points of conversation. The guests share that The ATT Center runs a Self Love group aimed at helping educate individuals on self-love and releasing self-doubt which is available to join. Listen in to gain insights into how to build connections, and ways to practice taking care of yourself.

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano sits down with Amity Cooper a trained mental health professional, Lifebook facilitator, and entrepreneurial coach. They discuss the impact of technology on therapy, especially the use and ethical considerations of virtual reality.

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano discovers the critical role psychologists play in enhancing the mental performance of artists such as singers and dancers. The discussion features insights from Dr. Chelsea Wooding, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant and former competitive dancer with extensive experience in both athletics and the performing arts, and Dr. Elisa Monti, co-founder of the Voice and Trauma Research and Connection Group. Together, they share research and practical strategies that support the mental resilience and creative expression of performers.

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano interviews Dr. Ryan Martin, Dean for the College of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, about sadness, mood, depression and the New Year. Dr. Ryan Martin (aka the Anger Professor) is a leading expert on emotional wellness. His work has been featured by the New York Times, NPR's Invisibilia, BBC Radio's Digital Human, TED.com, and other major media outlets.

In this engaging episode of Psychology and Stuff, host Dr. Alison Jane Martingano sits down with Dr. Matt Coleman, Executive Director of Giving Multiplier. Dr. Coleman shares insights on charitable giving, discussing what motivates people to donate, from emotional connections to causes to the reinforcing "warm glow" of making a positive impact. He also highlights research showing that the joy of giving often lasts longer than the satisfaction from everyday purchases, making charitable contributions a boost for both recipients and donors alike. As the holiday season approaches, this episode offers practical and thought-provoking ideas on how to give meaningfully and maximize the impact of donations. Use code "stuff" to get an additional matching rate by visiting givingmultiplier.org/stuff

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, host Dr. Allison Jane sits down with Dr. Quishan Liu, a new assistant professor in the Psychology Department at UW-Green Bay, to explore the fascinating intersection of psychology and mathematics. Dr. Liu shares her research on how cognitive and emotional factors, like math anxiety, influence problem-solving and decision-making. Together, they discuss why math anxiety begins as early as primary school, how cultural attitudes shape our relationship with math, and how teachers and parents can help reduce math-related stress. Dr. Liu also reveals insights from her study on decimals and fractions, showing why some problem-solving strategies are more effective than others. If you've ever felt intimidated by numbers, you won't want to miss Dr. Liu's advice on practical ways to overcome math anxiety and her tips for integrating math into everyday life—whether it's through cooking, games, or even Monopoly! Tune in to learn how fostering a love for math can positively impact individuals of all ages.

In this episode, Dr. Janet Schwartz, a forensic behavioral psychologist and president of Forensic Fraud Research Inc., reflects on her career investigating white-collar crime. Dr. Schwartz also introduces her concept of "Authentic Intelligence," discussing how mental, emotional, and spiritual intelligence converge to support resilience and fulfillment. Listen in to gain insights into her groundbreaking work and learn practical ways to harness inner strengths for personal growth and balance in a complex world.

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Alison Jane sits down with Dr. Danielle Sneyd, UW-Green Bay's new Assistant Teaching Professor for Psychology and an expert in legal psychology. With a focus on the fallibility of eyewitness memory, Dr. Sneyd sheds light on how memory's natural vulnerabilities—like flaws in encoding, storage, and recall intersect with biases and suggestive tactics, influencing courtroom outcomes and sometimes even leading to wrongful convictions. Tune in as Dr. Sneyd unpacks the psychological science behind eyewitness errors and explores what these findings mean for the justice system.

In this episode, Dr. Alison Jane interviews Dr. Aaron Weinschenk, Director of the Social Sciences and Public Policy domain and the Ben J. and Joyce Rosenberg Professor of Political Science at UW-Green Bay. They explore the topic of political engagement, delving into why some individuals actively participate in politics, why others abstain, and why some fall in between. Dr. Weinschenk shares insights on the influences of family socialization, social identity, and contextual factors that shape individuals' political involvement. He also discusses his research on the role of genetics in understanding the likelihood of political engagement.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jason Cowell explores the dynamics of the popular subreddit "Am I the Asshole?" (AITA), emphasizing how it serves as an important platform for individuals seeking validation and connection. Dr. Cowell argues that AITA allows users to find their community, affirming moral convictions shaped by years of personal experience. In this space, people grapple with complex issues of right and wrong, often concluding that moral clarity is elusive unless significant harm is involved. This quest for validation is deeply intertwined with our identities, as we yearn for acceptance and reassurance that our beliefs are justified. Ultimately, Dr. Cowell highlights that the motivations behind seeking such validation often stem from feelings of isolation in judgment—underscoring a fundamental human desire for connection and affirmation in an increasingly judgmental world.

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano interviews Dr. James Kabrhel, Associate Professor of Chemistry at UW-Green Bay's Sheboygan Campus, about misinformation, pseudoscience, and education. They explore how misinformation spreads through social media, the psychology behind how we process information, and the reasons we feel compelled to share it. Dr. Kabrhel explains how our emotional engagement with negative content, along with social media algorithms, contributes to the spread of misinformation. He also offers strategies for educating ourselves to engage with online content more mindfully.

In the season premiere of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano interviews Dr. Lisa Lamson, a historian at UW-Green Bay, about the intersection of history and psychology. They discuss Dr. Lamson's research on Black childhood and schooling in 19th-century Baltimore, exploring how historical empathy allows for a deeper understanding of the past without projecting modern-day emotions. Dr. Lamson also reflects on the complexities of working with archival materials and how historical context plays a key role in developing informed and responsible citizens today.

In the final episode of this season, Alison Jane is in coversation with Dr. Ryan Martin and Dr. Christine Smith from the University of Wisconson - Green Bay on the term and topic of "bridezilla". Tune in to hear interesting perspective on this topic that is timely for Alison Jane as she is planning a wedding!

In this very special episode, Alison Jane interviews six student researcher from the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay on research topics ranging from anxiety in schools, charitable donations to psychopaths getting enraged online.

How WEIRD is psychology research? In this episode, Alison Jane interviews Dr. Kris Vespia, Director of the Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning here at UW - Green Bay on the topic of the WEIRDness of psychological research. WEIRD is an acronym which stands for Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic.

Are pet owners more empathetic than non-pet owners? In this episode, Alison Jane and two of her undergraduate students at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay share their research on pets and empathy with Dr. Georjeanna Wilson Doenges, Professor and Chair of Psychology at UW - Green Bay.

Why do we blame the referees in sport? In this episode, Alison Jane interviews Dr. Thomas Gretton, Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay about his research on elite referees in sport.

Can you change your accent? In this episode, Alison Jane interviews Dr. Elisa Monti, President and Co-Founder of the Voice and Trauma Research and Connection Group & Dr. Elif Ikizer, Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Tune in for this fascinating conversation!

Why do innocent people confess? In this episode, Alison Jane interviews Dr. Fabiana Alceste, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Butler University. Dr. Alceste studies the social and cognitive processes around false confessions. Tune in for this engaging and informative conversation!

What's your fitness goal? In this episode, Alison Jane is in conversation with Dr. Joanna Morrissey, Associate Professor, and Chair of the Sport, Exercise & Performance Psychology Program at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay and Carol and Megan who are fitness instructors at Jazzercise in Green Bay, WI on the topic of fitness goals. Tune in for tips, motivation, and more!

In this special episode, Alison Jane is in conversation with six members of the Psychology Department at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay: Dr. Ryan Martin, Dr. Georjeanna Wilson-Doenges, Dr. Jason Cowell, Dr. Thomas Gretton, Dr. Abigail Neubauer, and Dr. Chelsea Wooding on the topic of thriving in academia. Tune in to find out about this and more!

Alison Jane is in conversation with Dr. Chelsea Wooding on the topic of sport and performance psychology. Is mental performance just for athletes? Tune in to find out about this and more!

Alison Jane is in conversation with Dr. Michael Nuccitelli on the topic of cyber predators. Who is the most vulnerable to cyber predators? Tune in to learn this and more!

Alison Jane is in conversation with Dr. Ryan Martin on the topic of conspiricies. Who is more likely to believe in conspiracies? Tune in to learn this and more!

Alison Jane is joined by Dr. Georjeanna Wilson-Doenges for a conversation about climate change. Will climate change alter our psyche? Tune in to learn this and more!

In this episode, Alison Jane is joined by Dr. Ryan Martin an in depth discussion about catharsis. Is catharsis effective? Tune in to learn this and more!

In this episode, Alison Jane is joined by Dr. Sara Konrath and Dr. Jason Cowell for a lively discussion about empathy. Is empathy on the decline? Do young people today lack empathy? Tune in to learn this and more!

In our first episode of the season, Ryan and Georjeanna talk about why we should increase empathy with Dr. Alison Jane Martingano. Ryan and Georjeanna also announce that Dr. Martingano is the new host of the podcast going forward!

In our last episode of the season, Ryan and Georjeanna talk about his new book, How to Deal with Angry People. They talk about why he wrote it, what's in it, and even unpack a few strategies for people to think about.

Whether you're lying to your parents so you can go look for a dead body or lying to your parents so you can see a PG film in the theater, our favorite summer movies say an awful lot about the kind of people we've become. Georjeanna, Ryan, and former intern Kelsi talk through their favorite summer movies with a focus not just on why they love them, but where that love comes from.

In this episode our hosts, Ryan and Georjeanna, delve into intriguing research on the science of forgetting and how various factors such as stress, information overload, and the monotonous nature of the pandemic era affect our ability to recall events and daily life during the past three years. We share some personal anecdotes about our cherished and not-so-fond memories during the pandemic. We also ponder the responsibility we have to pass on our memories to future generations to prevent history from repeating itself.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna chat with fellow UW-Green Bay Psychology professor, Dr. Abby Nehrkorn-Bailey, about how we deal with stress and how our emotional responses improve over the lifespan. Using the Socio-Emotional Selectivity Theory, we discuss why this finding makes sense but goes against some of the stereotypes we hold about older people.

In this episode, our host Ryan Martin shares 5 things we all should know about positive emotions. We tend to lump emotions into two categories, positive and negative, but we do that based on how they make us feel and not whether or not they are good for us. Ryan shares thoughts on our search for happiness and ways that positive emotions affect our lives.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna, learn if all the hype in recent press about women being more empathetic than men is legit. We talk with fellow UW-Green Bay Psychology professors Alison Jane Martingano and Jason Cowell about how empathy is measured and how socialization, rather than biological explanations, may be contributing to these findings.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna chat with fellow UWGB Psychology professor, Dr. Macrae Husting about how to build perseverance in kids. We share tips like chunking, stretching, and sticking to it as ways to motivate kids to thrive.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna brainstorm approaches to creating meaningful connections and building community in our workplaces and learning communities. They discuss answers to important questions like, "Why does a sense of community matter?" and "How can we intentionally create places and circumstances that can help us build community?" Join us for the conversation and share your ideas with us online.

In this episode, Ryan Martin and Georjeanna Wilson-Doenges talk with Dr. Regan A.R. Gurung about the psychology of making and keeping friendships as adults Psychology and Stuff is the Psychology Podcast out of Phoenix Studios at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Questions from the audience welcomed. This is a Common CAHSS event.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna chat with fellow UWGB professor and resident superhero expert, Dr. Bryan Carr, about what we can learn about our own emotions from watching superhero movies. From the rage of The Hulk to the dark vengeance of Batman, seeing big emotions play out on screen can teach us how to deal with those same emotions is our mere human lives.

In this episode our hosts talk with Psychology neuroscience professor Dr. Todd Hillhouse and Psychology major Kaitlyn Partridge about the role of serotonin in depression. We discuss the effectiveness of SSRIs and other drugs in treating depression and the complexities involved in treating mental illness with drugs.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna chat with Psych & Stuff all-star Dr. Jason Cowell and Psychology major Karsten Cowan about the negative impacts of adverse childhood experiences on our brains and development and the hope we share to prevent childhood trauma and mitigate the impacts through early intervention.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna talk with UW-Green Bay's new psychology professor, Dr. Abby Nehrkorn-Bailey, about her intriguing research on the impacts of negative views of aging on our health and how physical activity may counteract some of those negative consequences.

In this episode, Ryan and Georjeanna chat with UW-Green Bay's new psychology professor, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano, about her fascinating research on the complex ways that technology, including virtual reality, impacts empathy.

In this first episode of Season 8, Ryan and Georjeanna talk with Educational Psychologist and UW-Green Bay Assistant Teaching Professor Macrae Husting about the growth in popularity of Dr. Carol Dweck's concept of The Growth Mindset. We talk about how this powerful shift in thinking helps people persevere in challenging situations and, as heard in Dweck's powerful TED Talk, the power of adding the word “yet” to our everyday vocabulary.

In our final episode of the season, Ryan and Georjeanna talk with thanatologist and fellow UWGB professor, Dr. Illene Cupit, about ways we can better support people who are grieving. We learn some valuable tips on how to talk with and support people through the bereavement journey.