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. 

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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. Join us and spread the love!

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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 Psychology, we wish you a peaceful end to this year and tons of love in return for the love we feel from you :)

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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 our Ben while recording! Enjoy! 

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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-metaphor-and-meaning-a-deep-dive-into-the-overwhelming-symbolic-architecture-in-the-movie-24e39197990d

https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2025/04/11881716/sinners-movie-ending-explained-wunmi-mosaku-interview

https://tapmagazine.org/all-articles/sinners-is-a-film-about-black-joy

https://theemancipator.org/2025/04/26/topics/movies-and-tv/sinners-movie-analysis-beautiful-struggle-belong-survive/

https://thedig.howard.edu/all-stories/sinners-have-souls-too-humanization-deep-south-ryan-cooglers-southern-gothic-horror-sinners

https://www.horrorhomeroom.com/black-joy-white-interruptions-sinners-and-the-afrofuturism-of-black-horror/

https://browderfile.substack.com/p/the-psychology-of-sinners-and-the



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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! 

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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. 

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The Trolley Problem meets Zombies! Enjoy this Live episode on The Last of Us (HBO) from FanExpo Chicago 2025!

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Popcorn Psychology LIVE at FanExpo Chicago 2025!!! Panel 1 of 2 on Thunderbolts and When Marvel Gets Mental Health Right!

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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!

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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!

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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! 

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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. 

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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!!

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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!!

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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. 

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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!!

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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! 

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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!

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[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. 

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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.

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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 strap into your saddle and giddy up!

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Trigger warnings: Violence, Poverty, Racism, Oppression

This 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.

[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 Podcast

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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. 

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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.

[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 @ 988

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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!

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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.

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.

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--3252280/support.

[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.

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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!

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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!!

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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.

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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--3252280/support.

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.net

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

[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_eQ
twitter.com/Dark_Loops

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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/mhq

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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.com

https://www.facebook.com/allmindhealth

Twitter: @AllMindHealth1

Instagram: @allmindhealth

Youtube: @allmindhealth

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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 supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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!!

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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, facebook
taplink.cc/mhq



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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=9781684429332

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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.

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!!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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 IG

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

[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.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.

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!!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.