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Mind the Force

Kristine McPartlin

Welcome to Mind the Force Podcast, where Star Wars fandom meets mental health awareness. Hosted by Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate, we dive into the intersections between the Star Wars universe and real-life mental health journeys, unpacking the wisdom that our favorite characters and stories offer for resilience, healing, and growth. Each episode, we explore themes of trauma, identity, courage, and connection, using these tales from a galaxy far, far away as a lens to discuss mental wellness in a relatable, thoughtful way.

We believe that storytelling has a powerful role in shaping how we view ourselves and our struggles, and Star Wars is a universal language that connects fans from all walks of life. Whether you're a lifelong Jedi, a Sith sympathizer, or somewhere in between, Mind the Force invites you to explore these stories with an open mind and heart.

Join us as we navigate mental health topics with empathy, humor, and hope, celebrating the strength within ourselves and each other. May the Force be with you as we journey together toward greater understanding, insight, and empowerment in both the Star Wars universe and our everyday lives.

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20 episodes
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S1 · E30
August 19 · 50 min
Ep XXX: You Had to Be There: Star Wars in Theaters Today
What makes us feel like we need to experience a movie in theaters? In this episode of Mind the Force, Kristine and James look at the psychology behind the theatrical experience and what it means for the future of Star Wars on the big screen. From nostalgia and fandom identity to spectacle, FOMO, and shared cultural moments, we explore why some movies become events while others struggle to pull audiences away from home. As Star Wars enters a new theatrical era, we ask what it will take to make the galaxy far, far away feel unmissable again. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mindtheforce.bsky.social Substack: https://substack.com/@mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E29
July 8 · 54 min
Ep. XXIX: Doctor Aphra: Representation Without Perfection
For Pride Month, Kristine and James dive into Doctor Chelli Lona Aphra: rogue archaeologist, tech genius, walking red flag, and one of Star Wars’ most compelling queer characters. Through Aphra’s relationships, betrayals, family wounds, and moral grayness, we explore representation without perfection, survival without healing, and the freedom to be fully complicated. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mindtheforce.bsky.social Substack: https://substack.com/@mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E28
May 27 · 34 min
Ep. XXVIII: Jar Jar Binks: A Tale of Dehumanization
Jar Jar Binks has spent decades as the butt of the joke, but there is more to him than that. This week on Mind the Force, we look at Jar Jar as an outsider, a disruptor, and an unexpectedly important part of The Phantom Menace. We also discuss the backlash to the prequel era, how that criticism spilled onto Ahmed Best, and what his experience tells us about the darker side of fandom. This episode is about reappraisal, empathy, and the cost of turning dislike into dehumanization. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mindtheforce.bsky.social Substack: https://substack.com/@mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E27
May 14 · 40 min
Ep. XXVII - Shmi Skywalker: A Mother's Quiet Power
In this Mother’s Day episode of Mind the Force, we reflect on the quiet power of Shmi Skywalker. Too often remembered only as Anakin’s mother, Shmi deserves to be seen on her own terms: as a woman of dignity, tenderness, and extraordinary strength. We explore what Shmi represents in the Star Wars saga, from motherhood under oppression to the sacred and mythic echoes surrounding her character. This episode is a tribute to the kind of maternal love that is selfless, enduring, and too often overlooked. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mindtheforce.bsky.social Substack: https://substack.com/@mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E26
April 29 · 1 hr 2 min
Ep XXVI - The Clones: Personhood in the War Machine
In Ep. XXVI of Mind the Force, Kristine and James explore the clones not as individual fan-favorite characters but as a collective military body shaped by obedience, war, and disposability. They are joined by LCSW Stacy Pellettieri for a thoughtful conversation about identity, depersonalization, brotherhood, and what it means to be treated as function first and person second. Together, they examine how the clones were designed for sameness, yet still fought to assert individuality through names, bonds, and personal choice. They touch on thoughtful comparisons to our real-life military, reflecting on how soldiers can become abstractions during conflict and how support after service does not always match the sacrifices made. Through the lens of Star Wars, the conversation opens onto larger questions about personhood in war and what society owes the people it asks to serve. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mindtheforce.bsky.social Substack: https://substack.com/@mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E25
April 15 · 33 min
Ep. XXV - Dooku: The Clone Wars and the Downfall (Part II)
In Ep XXV of Mind the Force, Kristine and James follow Count Dooku into the Clone Wars. They unpack how Dooku’s need for control turns into strategy, how “necessary” choices become routine, and what it costs when people become pieces on a galactic board. From his role as the calm face of the separatist cause to the brutal irony of how his story ends, this episode traces Dooku’s downfall—and the moment he learns he was never the one in control. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mindtheforce.bsky.social Substack: https://substack.com/@mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E24
April 1 · 29 min
Ep. XXIV - Dooku: How Good Intentions Make a Sith Lord (Part I)
In Ep XXIV of Mind the Force, Kristine and James explore Count Dooku’s life before the Clone Wars—starting with his childhood and tracing how he grows from a promising Jedi into someone convinced the system is beyond saving. They unpack the disillusionment that shapes him, the way moral clarity can harden into certainty, and how “necessary” choices quietly become a doorway to control. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios: www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E23
February 25 · 1 hr 22 min
Ep. XXIII - Mon Mothma: The Emotional Cost of Doing the Right Thing
Mon Mothma doesn’t carry a lightsaber; she carries the Rebellion. In Ep XXIII of Mind the Force, Kristine and James take a close look at what Mon’s kind of leadership actually demands: restraint under pressure, conviction without applause, and the quiet endurance of choices that can’t be clean. We trace how her public composure becomes a survival skill, how sacrifice shows up in her personal life, and why “doing the right thing” can leave a person isolated, exhausted, and forever changed. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. The Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E22
Dec 2, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
Ep. XXII - Star Wars Holiday Special Featuring an Exclusive Interview with Director Steve Binder
In this very special episode of Mind the Force, Kristine and James dive headfirst into one of the strangest, most infamous, and most fascinating corners of the Star Wars universe: The Star Wars Holiday Special. We explore how the 1978 special came to be, what it reveals about the early days of the franchise, and why its cult status continues to grow decades later. From Wookiee family dynamics to surreal musical numbers to the legacy of Life Day, we unpack the chaos, the charm, and the unexpectedly heartfelt intentions behind this once-lost piece of Star Wars history. And for the first time on Mind the Force, we bring you an exclusive interview with legendary director Steve Binder, who shares: What it was really like bringing the Holiday Special to life His creative vision and how it collided with studio demands Behind-the-scenes stories that have rarely been told His reflections on the special’s impact—and how he feels about its reputation today Throughout the episode, Kristine and James discuss the emotional resonance hidden beneath the camp: the way nostalgia shapes our relationship to media, the comfort of holiday traditions, and how even the quirkiest pieces of pop culture can connect us to joy, community, and our younger selves. Whether you love the Holiday Special, hate it, or simply marvel at its existence, this episode offers fresh insight, warm humor, and a rare conversation with the artist behind the madness. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E21
Nov 17, 2025 · 51 min
Ep. XXI - Spaceballs and the Healing Power of Laughter
In this lighthearted episode of Mind the Force, Kristine and James blast off into the world of Spaceballs, Mel Brooks’ hilarious spoof of Star Wars. Along the way, they explore the film’s history and behind-the-scenes magic — from Brooks’ creative process to the cultural moment that made the parody such a classic. Beyond the jokes and absurdity, the conversation turns to the healing power of laughter: how humor helps us process what we love, release tension, and stay connected to one another. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just need a good laugh, this episode celebrates how joy, playfulness, and self-awareness can help us find balance in even the strangest galaxies. Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E20
Oct 20, 2025 · 1 hr 38 min
Ep. XX - Mace Windu
On Ep XX of Mind the Force, Kristine and James explore the emotional and psychological depth of Jedi Master Mace Windu, unpacking how discipline, duty, and emotional suppression shaped one of Star Wars’ most complex figures. They’re joined by Gilbert Barjon, a mental health professional who brings a neurological and therapeutic lens to understanding Mace’s inner world and the human truths reflected in his story. Was Mace Windu’s rigidity a reflection of inner peace or internal conflict? How does the burden of leadership shape a person’s mental health, especially when they’re expected to embody perfection? And what can we learn from his downfall about trauma, control, and self-trust? Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E19
Aug 5, 2025 · 1 hr 29 min
Ep. XIX - C-3PO
In this thought-provoking episode of Mind the Force, host James Abbate teams up with guest host, Lindsay Riso, an industrial engineer and lifelong Star Wars fan, for a deep dive into the legacy of C-3PO. They explore his origins as a creation of young Anakin Skywalker, his service alongside Padmé Amidala, and his pivotal role in the Rebellion and Resistance. The episode blends Star Wars canon with real-world reflections on AI, examining how C-3PO’s personality—his anxiety, loyalty, and etiquette—touches on deeper questions of emotional labor, programmed servitude, and what it means to be intelligent. With a respectful nod to today’s AI, James and Lindsay also unpack the ethical implications of sentient intelligence—both in a galaxy far, far away and in our own rapidly evolving world. Hosts: James Abbate & Lindsay Riso Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E18
Jun 17, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Ep. XVIII - Pregnancy in Star Wars
In episode XVIII of Mind the Force, Kristine and James explore what it means to be a mother in a galaxy full of war, prophecy, and rebellion! In this deeply personal and reflective episode, we explore the powerful — and often overlooked — stories of pregnancy and motherhood in the Star Wars universe. From Shmi Skywalker’s mysterious and isolating divine conception to Padmé Amidala’s hidden, heartbreaking pregnancy, Hera Syndulla’s leadership while carrying a child during wartime, and Leia Organa’s legacy as a mother burdened by loss, we look at the emotional, physical, and mental tolls these characters faced — and how they reflect the realities many people experience in our galaxy. We honor the complexity of pregnancy and speak openly about the emotional and mental labor of pregnancy. If you or someone you love is struggling, you're not alone. Resources are linked below: Mental & Maternal Health Postpartum Support International – Free support groups & therapist directory 2020 Mom – Mental health advocacy for moms National Maternal Mental Health Hotline – Call or text 1-833-943-5746 (24/7) Pregnancy Loss & Grief Return to Zero: HOPE – Support after pregnancy or infant loss SHARE Support – Community for grieving parents Immediate Help Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (24/7) Who is your favorite mother in Star Wars? What do you wish the galaxy did better to support them? Tag us on social media @MindTheForce and share your thoughts with the hashtag #MindTheForce. Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E17
May 6, 2025 · 2 hr 1 min
Ep. XVII: Jango Fett
In Episode XVII of Mind the Force, we explore the legacy of Jango Fett—Mandalorian, bounty hunter, and father. Often seen as cold and ruthless, Jango’s story reveals a deeper truth about identity, intentionality, and what it means to pass something on. We examine his choice to raise Boba as an unaltered clone, not as a soldier, but as a son shaped by purpose and survival. Joining us is Licensed Mental Health Counselor Don Sinkfield, who offers insight into the psychological importance of family structure, how legacy shapes identity, and why Jango’s form of fatherhood still resonates today. We also dive into Jango’s relationship with Mandalorian culture, his role in shaping the clone army, and what his story teaches us about freedom, love, and generational trauma. This episode is for anyone reflecting on the legacy they’re building—and the armor we wear to protect what we value most. Guest: Don Sinkfield https://helptoadjust.com/ https://www.thenewhopemhcs.com/ Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E16
Mar 26, 2025 · 1 hr 23 min
Ep. XVI - The Psychology of Fandom with Gayle Stever
In Episode XVI of Mind the Force, Kristine and James are joined by celebrity culture and fandom expert Gayle Stever to explore the fascinating world of fandoms. Gayle shares her extensive research on celebrity culture, parasocial relationships, and what drives the intense devotion behind superstar fandoms. From Star Trek and The Hobbit to icons like Michael Jackson and Josh Groban, Gayle dives deep into what makes these fandoms tick and why we are so drawn to larger-than-life figures. We examine the psychological dynamics of fandom—what counts as fandom, what doesn’t, and how these fan cultures reflect broader societal trends. We also take a special look at Star Wars, one of the most iconic and passionate fandoms in the world, and explore what it is about the galaxy far, far away that has sparked such a deep connection for generations of fans. Gayle offers unique insights into how Star Wars fits into the broader picture of fandom culture and the psychological aspects that keep fans coming back for more. Guests: Gayle S. Stever, Ph.D. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gayle_Stever https://gstever.sunyempirefaculty.net/ Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E15
Feb 25, 2025 · 1 hr 21 min
Ep XV: Why the Dark Side with Dr Owen Muir
In Ep XV of Mind the Force Podcast, we delve into the human psychology of the Dark Side with special guest Dr. Owen Muir, a psychiatrist with expertise in trauma, emotional regulation, and human behavior. Together, we explore why individuals are drawn to the allure of "evil," dissecting iconic moments from Star Wars to uncover real-world parallels. What psychological factors lead people to make destructive choices? How do fear, anger, and manipulation play a role in turning toward the Dark Side? Dr. Muir provides fascinating insights into the complexity of human behavior and shares strategies for recognizing and resisting the pull of negativity in our own lives. Guests: Dr. Owen Muir https://www.fermatahealth.com/owen-scott-muir-md-interventional-child-adolescent-psychiatrist-brooklyn/ Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E14
Feb 7, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
Ep XIV: Celebrating Star Wars Podcast Day
Episode Description: Happy Star Wars Podcast Day! On this special episode of Mind the Force, Kristine, and James are waxing poetic about their love of all things Star Wars. Today, we’re joining forces with fans and creators worldwide to celebrate the galaxy far, far away in honor of Star Wars Podcast Day (Feb 7th marks the 26th anniversary of the first Star Wars podcast the internet was ever graced with). Today, we explore the deep connection between Star Wars and mental health and why we do what we do. From the hero’s journey to the lessons of resilience, hope, and redemption, Star Wars offers more than just epic storytelling. Join the Conversation: What does Star Wars mean to you? Share your thoughts with us on social media or use the hashtag #MindTheForcePodcast! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—it helps the podcast reach more listeners who need it. As promised! Recently got put onto Royish Good Looks, and they are some of the best Star Wars song parodies ever! https://open.spotify.com/artist/08zsyi6FbSP0D1FTrDyo0W?si=CUinqNuaT6aPGOtu25WuYw Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Please subscribe to the Mind the Force Newsletter for bonus material and more of our big Star Wars thoughts and feels! https://mindtheforce.com/subscribe Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E13
Jan 18, 2025 · 1 hr 17 min
Ep XIII: Tarkin, Part III, Condition Assessment
In Episode XIII of Mind the Force, James, and Kristine wrap up the Tarkin series with a deep dive into the psyche of this complex character, exploring his authoritarian leadership style and the motivations behind his cold, calculated decisions. Joined by LMFT and Trauma Specialist, Alev Ates-Barlas, we analyze Tarkin’s possible mental health struggles, including his need for control, fear-driven actions, and the lasting impact of his rigid upbringing. How did his environment shape his behavior, and what might have been different with early intervention? And were Tarkin and Vader really that different despite having such different upbringings? We also discuss the real-world parallels of Tarkin’s traits, the repercussions of his actions on the society around him, and how understanding them can help us reflect on our own tendencies. Tune in for a thought-provoking blend of Star Wars lore and mental health insights! Alev Ates-Barlas https://iwellnessuny.com/about-us/alev-ates-barlas-lmft/ Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Please subscribe to the Mind the Force Newsletter for bonus material and more of our big Star Wars thoughts and feels! https://mindtheforce.com/subscribe Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E12
Oct 22, 2024 · 1 hr 47 min
Ep XII: Tarkin, Part II
On Ep XII of Mind the Force, join Kristine and James as they continue their journey through the mind of Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin during his most formidable years at the military mastermind of the mighty Galactic Empire. Picking right up from the end of Tarkin, Part I, they discuss the heavy costs of the Empire's brand of "justice", how hubris can blind even the savviest of minds, and ask the hard hitting question on everyone's mind; who was Tarkin's best friend? A big thanks to Press Record Studios for having us! If you'd like to record in NYC or remote anywhere in the world, visit Press Record Studios website at www.pressrecordstudios.com Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pressrecordstudios And Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pressrecordstudiosny/ A great piece of source material! Strategy Strikes Back: How Star Wars Explains Modern Military Conflict https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36478363-strategy-strikes-back Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Please subscribe to the Mind the Force Newsletter for bonus material and more of our big Star Wars thoughts and feels! https://mindtheforce.com/subscribe Mental Health Disclaimer I am not a medical or mental health professional. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do I diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.
S1 · E11
Aug 20, 2024 · 2 hr 37 min
Ep XI: Tarkin, Part I
On Ep XI of Mind the Force, Kristine and James roll out the first of two (count em, two!) episodes on everyone's favorite maniacal, military Moff himself, Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin. Join the fun as they explore the life and mind of this complex fellow, from his wild childhood on the outer rim planet of Eriadu to the hallowed halls at the center of Galactic power. Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer I am not a medical or mental health professional. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do I diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

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