Popcorn Psychology
Three licensed therapists break down and analyze popular movies and characters from the perspectives of an individual, child, and a marriage and family therapist. The podcast offers psychological insights into film narratives and character development. Listeners can support the show through Spreaker.
Episodes
A Knight's Tale: Self-Determination, Chosen Family and Self Care
Listen as we explore the famous popcorn movie, A Knights Tale from 2001. In this episode, we discuss self determination within each of our main characters as well as how important it is to live towards your purpose and values. We also discuss the clear familial bond we see between Wat, Rolland and Will as chosen family. Instead of doing our regular treatment we are discussing self care and how imp
What About Bob!: Differential Diagnosing & Egotistical Therapists
WHAT ABOUT BOB!?!?!?!?!?!? We try to answer that question in our official premiere episode of Season 9! We use Bob as a case study for how to use differential diagnosing. We also rip apart the portrayal of a therapist via Dr. Leo Marvin. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Bridget Jones's Diary: Undiagnosed ADHD in Adult Women & Dating
Happy Valentine's Day! Our poll winner this year is Bridget Jones's Diary! We meant to talk about authenticity and ended up having an indepth conversation on ADHD in women and the impact this diagnosis can have on someone who goes undiagnosed into adulthood. Of course, we also discuss the romantic relationships seen in the movie as well as the societal factors that exacerbate Bridget's self-esteem
Muppets Christmas Carol: Attachment Wounds & Values
Happy Holidays! For our final episode of 2025, we are finally diving into A Christmas Carol, Muppet-style! We discuss the character of Ebenezor Scrooge and why he is so attached to money instead of relationships. We examine how his childhood created attachment wounds that impact the rest of his life until he is supernaturally intervened with on Christmas Eve. From all three of us at Popcorn Psycho
The Family Stone: Grief, Family Dynamics, Meredith.
Happy Holidays! This is our first holiday episode this year! Listen while we discuss what is going on with Meredith, Everett and the rest of the clan! We discuss relationship dynamics when families are going through grief, importance of finding meaning and purpose in your life as well as those expensive shoes being broken willy nilly! This episode features Hannah and Brittney only and we missed ou
Sinners: Systemic Trauma & Musical Healing
Happy Halloween! For our spooky episode of 2025, we are discussing Sinners! This is Hannah and Brittney's favorite movie of 2025 and we are so excited to be talking about it.We discuss many heavy topics: childhood abuse, racial violence, oppressive systems; so be mindful while listening. Below you can find the research referenced by Brittney in this episode:https://lazarussiafa.medium.com/myth-met
KPop Demon Hunters: Identity, Shame, and Healing Connections
Today we are gonna show you how its's DONE DONE DONE as we cover the MOVIE. OF. THE. YEAR. K-Pop Demon Hunters! In this episode we discuss Identity, Shame, and Healing Connections with those closest to you! This film has taken over the hearts of kids and adults everywhere and is absolutley GOLDEN! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/supp
The Neverending Story: Identity, Grief, & Healing Through Stories
Come with us on a journey to Fantasia in this episodes film, Neverending Story. In this episode we discuss the shift in idenity that takes place when we lose a loved one. We discover the stages of grief throughout the film. We also discuss bibliotherapy and using stories to help heal ourselves. Please enjoy this wild ride with us. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcas
The Last of Us LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025
The Trolley Problem meets Zombies! Enjoy this Live episode on The Last of Us (HBO) from FanExpo Chicago 2025!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Thunderbolts Panel Live from FanExpo Chicago 2025
Popcorn Psychology LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025!!! Panel 1 of 2 on Thunderbolts and When Marvel Gets Mental Health Right!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Big Fish: Having a Complicated Relationship With Your Parent
Join us as we take our first trip down Burton lane to talk about Big Fish! We go into depth about the characters of Edward and William and their complicated dynamic as father and son. We explore the motivation behind Edward's tall tales and their impact on his relationship with his son. So get your fishing rod and waders and join us in the deep waters of Big Fish!Become a supporter of this podcast
Moonstruck: Identity Crises and Relationships
When the moon hits your eyes like a big pizzzza pie you will love this move all over again! Listen to this amazing episode on one of our favorite films ever! Hear us explore Identity Crises, Relationships, Grief, End of Life Issues, Cher, and hear the incredible weight of Hannah's massive talent!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/suppor
Thunderbolts*: What Happens When Trauma Gets Superpowers?
Lets Go Thunderbolts!!! Spoilers ahead as we dive into the newest Marvel movie and break down the team of characters: Yelena, Alexei, Bucky, John, Ava, & Bob. We discuss trauma, ego, narcissism, attachment, mood disorders, and more! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Godzilla Minus One: Moral Injury & Collective Trauma
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-psyc
Starship Troopers: Adolescent Development & Propaganda
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-
Inside Out 2: The Impact of Anxiety
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://
My Big Fat Greek Wedding & Enmeshment
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
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!!!
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/popcor
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: Accepting What Makes You Different
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
[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
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 is
Nope: Sibling Dynamics & Dissociation
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 and Emerald as well as 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 str
District 9: Dehumanization, Empathy, and Forced Perspective Change
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. Thi
The Breakfast Club: Parental Influence & Societal Roles w/ Molly McAleer
[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
Jumanji & Trauma Reactions
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
Princess Mononoke & Values
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
[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
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm: Arrested Development, Egocentrism, and Facing your Shadow
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
Arrival: Communication & Existentialism
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?
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
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. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--
Never Been Kissed: Neurodivergence & Predatory Relationships
[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 g
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: Why You Need Your Memories
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!Th
Seinfeld & Festivus: Trauma & Personality Disorders
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
Jingle All the Way and Being a Present Parent
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.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreake
Fried Green Tomatoes: Identity & Chosen Family
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!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology
Whiplash: Tough Love vs Abuse
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 i
The Shining: Domestic Violence, PTSD, & The Psychology of Kubrick
[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 a
The Addams Family: Psychopathy and Enmeshment
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 exa
Special Live Episode from FanExpo Chicago 2023
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!
Inception with Dr. Isaac Taitz: Consciousness, Dreaming, & Shame
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 y
Wakanda Forever: Layers of Grief
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. ❤️Become a suppor
Up w/ Raiders of the Lost Podcast!
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 disc
The Mummy: Why Do People Go On Adventures??
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
Spider-Man No Way Home: Corrective Experiences, Grief, & Empathy
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 al
A Goofy Movie: Parenting Styles & Parenting Teens
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!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Fantastic Mr. Fox: Narcissistic Personality Disorder & Its Impact on Family Dynamics
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 cuss
LOTR: The Return of the King - Chosen Family, Purpose, & Heroism
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 @mindbodyf
Terminator 2: Schizoaffective Disorder & Normalized Criminal Behavior
[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
Everything Everywhere All at Once: Intergenerational Trauma & Nihilism
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 bag
500 Days of Summer: Situationships, Adjustment, and Depression
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
Thank You For Smoking: Gaslighting, Moral Flexibility, & Work/Life Balance
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
The Grinch: Holidays, PTSD, and Situational Triggers
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
Bonus Episode: Interview with the creators of The Retaliators
[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 mo
Hook: Anxiety, Parenting, & Cluster B Diagnoses
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 gu
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - Ecological Grief, Individuation, and Internal Family Systems
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
Reservation Dogs: The Impact of Suicide and Grief Within a Community
[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 impa
Coraline: Neglectful Parents, Under-stimulated Children, & Grooming
[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 ar
Hocus Pocus: The Importance of Listening to Children
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 relationsh
Encanto: Perfectionism, Co-Dependency, & Intergenerational Trauma
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,
Inside Out: Why Do We Have Feelings?
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!!Become a supporter of this podcast:
Moonrise Kingdom: The Idea of the Emotionally Disturbed Child
We are finally discussing our first Wes Anderson movie, Moonrise Kingdom! We focus on the two main characters, Suzy and Sam. We break down the movie’s idea of an “emotionally disturbed child” and discuss the following topics: intermittent explosive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder; as well as the significant impact of both characters’ home lives on their presentation in the world. So put on
The Batman: Identity, Loss, and Betrayal w/ Special Guest Dr. Travis Langley
In this episode we are firing up the Nirvana and exploring the theme of Something In the Way as we travel back to Gotham City to discuss the newest iteration of the caped crusader in 2022’s The Batman. We are joined by Dr. Travis Langley, author of Batman and Psychology: A Dark and Stormy Knight. We explore the theme of trust in how we can be betrayed by systems. We also break down this film’s por
Marvel and Mental Health Panel Live at Fan Expo Chicago 2022
We have another bonus episode for ya! Recorded live at Fan Expo Chicago 2022, our panel on Marvel and Mental Health. We primarily discuss Moon Knight and its depiction of Dissociative Identity Disorder but we also revisit some other Marvel Disney+ favorites. Hope you enjoy!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
Gone Girl: Betrayal, Identity Development, & The Cool Girl
We finally did it! We are talking about Gone Girl!! This is a very special episode for two reasons. Firstly, we have a special guest, Rachel Harrison, an art therapist and our friend who did the art for our logo. Secondly, It’s a pATREON patron requested video! Don’t forgot, one of the perks for becoming a top tier patron is the privilege of picking the subject of an episode. In this episode, we d
Stranger Things: Trauma, Grief, and Dissociation Live at Fan Expo
!!SPOILERS and Content Warning for Physical and Emotional Abuse!!Check out our live episode on Stranger Things Season 4 recorded live at Fan Expo Chicago 2022! We focus on the trauma, dissociation, and grief symptoms that are present in Eleven and Max throughout Season 4. We also discuss the relationship dynamics that evolve between the other characters in the wake of ongoing horror both human and
Brokeback Mountain: Trauma, Anger, and Homophobia w/Special Guest Patrick Serrano
[CW: discussions of hate crimes and intense violence] Join us for a heavier episode today as we discuss the 2005 award-winning movie, Brokeback Mountain. We are joined by the host of the Lifetime Uncorked podcast, Patrick Serrano. We focus on the two main characters, Ennis and Jack, and explore how homophobia, trauma, and their families of origin impacted their mental health and influenced their r
To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar: The Power of Community
[CW: Discussions about domestic abuse] Hello and Happy Pride! Hop in our Cadillac DeVille as we discuss the 1995 comedy “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar”. We explore the role of community in the various ways it is demonstrated in the movie, both in the LGBT+ community and in the small town our main characters end up in. We also examine the movie’s depiction of domestic abuse and h
Casino Royale: Antisocial Personality Disorder, Attachment, and Trauma
Hop in our Aston Martin and join us as we break down the 2006 James Bond film, Casino Royale! We explore the question: Does James Bond have Antisocial Personality Disorder or is he in a career that encourages antisocial behaviors? We also examine his relationship with the Bond girl of this movie and the trauma that comes with being a 00. And remember…we like our mental health shaken…not stirred.Be
Crazy Rich Asians: Culture Shock, Families, & Marriage
In this episode, we are jumping into our private jet to discuss the modern day rom com classic, Crazy Rich Asians. We explore the varied ways that culture shock can present via classism, immigration status, assimilation, etc. We also, unfortunately, tear apart the ways that Nick does not show up as a partner for Rachel when it comes to managing the complicated social layers and norms of shifting f
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse: Confidence, Grief, and Empowerment
Jump into the multiverse with us as we discuss Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse! We discuss the chronic trauma of being a superhero through constant exposure to grief and loss. We also discuss how to find empowerment in yourself and by helping others, group therapy, and trauma bonding. And remember, “anyone can wear the mask”.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/po
Pride and Prejudice and Anxiety
Welcome to Season 5!! We are riding our carriage to Jane Austen’s England to discuss the 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice. We are breaking down the theme of Anxiety through the characters of Mrs. Bennett, Mr. Darcy, and Elizabeth Bennett. We explore the difference between anxiety that is a diagnosable disorder vs anxiety brought on by the environment or life changes. We also examine how our va
Frozen 1&2: Empowerment & Self Acceptance w/Special Guest Dr. Shelly Clevenger
In this year’s holiday episode, we are heading up to Arendelle to discuss Frozen 1 & 2! We are joined by Dr. Shelly Clevenger to breakdown the themes of empowerment and self-acceptance. We also examine the parenting choices of Anna and Elsa’s parents and it’s impact on their identity as adults. Happy Holidays!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology-
The Fellowship of the Ring: Shame, Dissociation, and Trauma Bonds w/ Special Guests the Southgate Media Group
The Fellowship of the Ring: Shame, Dissociation, and Trauma Bonds:One does not simply discuss Lord of the Rings….so we teamed up with Southgate Productions and headed to Mordor to discuss the first Lord of the Rings film, Fellowship of the Rings! We discuss the impact of shame in the decision making and sense of identity amongst the fellowship. We also discuss the many ways that dissociation prese
Ghostbusters: Psychology Experiments, Social Skills, & The Innovation Mindset
Ghostbusters: Psychology Experiments, Social Skills, & The Innovation Mindset—- In this episode we discuss the social skills of our main characters, the truth behind psychology experiments in college, and the inspiring message of innovation in the movie. Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
The Babadook: Complicated Grief, Sleep Deprivation Psychosis, and Parental Burnout w/Special Guest Kristen Meinzer
We are officially kicking off Spooky Season with The Babadook! We are joined by the magnificent Kristen Meinzer to discuss this 2014 Australian horror movie. We discuss parenting through grief and trauma, parental burnout, and explore the tricky question: is it ok to not like your child?? Join us as we try to get a good nights sleep with The Babadook!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www
Mrs. Doubtfire: Couples Dynamics, Divorce, and Resourcing
Helllloooooooo! This episode we are joined by Dr. Amanda Rios as we discuss the 90s classic, Mrs. Doubtfire. We explore the relationship of Robin Williams’ and Sally Fields’ characters as an example of the over-functioning/under-functioning dynamic. We also discuss the impact of divorce within a family system as a whole. Lastly we touch upon the concept of resourcing in order to use known skills i
Black Panther: Family Secrets, Representation, and Socio-Cultural Wellness w/ Capes on the Couch and Pop Mythology
[Content Warning: brief reference about sexual abuse] In this episode we are joined again by Capes on the Coach with additional special guest: Daniel Jun Kim of Pop Mythology. We fly into Wakanda to discuss Black Panther and the themes of family secrets, culturally bound behaviors, eco -psychology, and the social-cultural links to wellness. Get 20% OFF @manscaped + Free Shipping with promo code PO
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close: Autism Spectrum Disorder and Grief w/ Special Guests Symptom Media
On the 20th anniversary of 9/11 we discuss the tragically beautiful Academy Award nominated film Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. In this episode we discuss the unique journey of Oskar Schell as he processes the life changing event of losing the person who understood him best in the world while simultaneously living through the collective trauma of the September 11th attacks. We are joined by
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