The Broken Brain

What happens when larger social issues intersect with our individual lives? We are surrounded by social, environmental, economic, and many other factors that interact with our psychology and the ability to live our lives. Dr Sebastienne Grant is a psychologist who studies the intersections of individual and societal wellbeing, social justice, environmental concerns, community interconnection, and acts of compassion. --- Get involved with The Broken Brain by sharing the show with others, leaving a positive review, or becoming a member of our Patreon. Learn more at: www.dwighthurst.com/support

Dr Don St John joins the program to discuss his approach to healing from trauma and becoming a whole and healthy self. His treatment strategies include the use of Somatic Techniques to tie the mind and body together for deeper psychological healing. Follow his work at www.pathsofconnection.com --- Consider becoming part of the Broken Brain by supporting and sharing the show, gaining access to the bonus materials on our patreon: www.patreon.com/brokenbrain

In the 1960s, Walter J Miller travelled around the USA performing lobotomies for the media and the public, as well as training staff in psychiatric facilities. As the inventor of the Transoptical method of lobotomy, Miller unfortunately caused thousands of people to receive this dangerous, and often very damaging, procedure. This episode is the monthly dive into mental health history. These episodes are released every Thursday on The Broken Brain's Patreon feed, www.patreon.com/brokenbrain

You know (and love) Sharon, frequent cohost and All-Things-Marvel Correspondent for The Broken Brain. She is here today to share all about K-pop, her invovlement and interest in this movement, and how it has culturally and politically had an impact in Western culture. As a former politician herself, Sharon understands the nuances of advocacy and has seen movements has heavy influence on young people and voters. Follow Sharon's work at www.speak-up.co Consider contributing to the Broken Brain by visiting www.dwighthurst.com/podcast to see how you can get invovled.

Christopher Morris is the author of the new book "We Are All Made of Scars," which tells the story of the extreme difficulties caused by living with his mother's alcohol addiction, and how this caused pain for him and for her. His story is one of vulnerability, pain, trauma, and healing. ---- If you would like to contribute to the podcast, please share your story or questions at www.dwighthurst.com/podcast You can also find ways to support the show and become part of the Broken Brain patron community.

Ande Welling is a fantastic therapist and expert in Dance & Movement Therapy. A while back she gave this wonderful training for Mental Health clinicians, and I was lucky enough to rediscover this recording I made of her presentation. ---------- Consider becoming part of the Podcasting action by filling out a survey, contacting directly, or supporting the show. Go to www.dwighthurst.com/podcast to learn more.

Joe Shaeppi is a therapist who uses adventure and adrenaline to amplify trauma recovery. This triggers a type of stress known as Eustress, or healthy stress. He also discusses the use of technology in psychological assessment, and the research behind the heathy aspects of playing video games. Follow his work, or use the free assessment tools on his website: https://solsten.io/ -------------- Consider supporting The Broken Brain, get bonus materials, and promote access to mental health care by visiting www.dwighthurst.com/support

Happy Mario Day! March 10, or MAR10, is a day to remember and celebrate our favorite Italian Plumber, and his expansive squad of characters. This episode focuses on psychological benefits of approaching the world the way we play video games, which some psychologists call the Mario Effect. This episode is a Thursday Thistory, a weekly feature for Patreon subscribers which appears once per month on the regular feed. Hope you enjoy this sample! Subscribe to the entry level Brainiac level to hear the rest, as well as other bonus materials. www.patreon.com/brokenbrain www.dwighthurst.com/support

How we feel about ourselves has a powerful effect upon what choices we make, our quality of life, and the relationships we have with others. Our self-to-self relationship can amplify happiness, health, or create obstacles. The way we relate to ourselves is also heavily influenced by experiences and treatment from others. Sheleana Aiyana is an expert in trauma recovery, healing from childhood events, and self-concept. She is the author of Becoming the One: Heal Your Past, Transform Your Relationship Patterns, and Come Home to Yourself, as well as a companion workbook with self-healing principles & exercises. Consider supporting and participating with the Podcast by visiting www.dwighthurst.com/support. See the various was to get involved, gain access to bonus materials, and help promote access to mental health care.

Tim Lewis is a Psychologist, Author, and Survivor of family violence. When he was 28 his father murdered his mother, and then killed himself. Tim shares the story on the podcast, and in his book "Daddy: A Son's Reckoning with Personal and Collective Trauma in America." Tim has routed the energy from his trauma into studying, educating, and providing treatment for those with complex trauma and PTSD. This is a powerful episode focused on recovery and survival. Learn more about Tim's work at his website, www.drtimlewis.com, and read his book for more information about systemic and individual trauma.

What makes family? How do we define connection, and what are the actions that separate those that care from those that simply claim to care? Marvel's new series Echo showcases these issues, and much more. Join Sharon and Dwight discussing things like family, relationships, power dynamics, culture, and colonialism. Sharon also shares her experiences working with the indigenous people in Manitoba while she was the Health Minister, and differences between saviorism and true empowerment.

You've heard of the Placebo Effect, which is the tendency to experience improvement in disease or complication because we expect it to get better. But do you know about the Nocebo effect? Turns out we also experience negative side effects and health problems more often when we expect them. This psychological dynamic has implications for counseling, medical care, parenting, and more. Michael Bernstein is a researcher and co-editor of "Nocebo Effect: When Words Make You Sick." He joins the show to tell us more about this important part of our lives, of which we are often unaware. Goto www.dwighthurst.com to participate with the show and support mental health advocacy.

Welcome to Thursday This-story, a dive into the history of mental health practices. This is a new feature for the podcast, appearing once a month on the main feed, and every Thursday on the Patrons Only Bonus Materials. Today's Thistory lesson is a look into the history of the mental health crisis or suicide help line. A practice since the 1950s, the creation of telephonic ways to cope with mental health needs has an interesting history, a partnership between spiritual and secular programs, and a precursor for modern telehealth. To hear bonus materials like this, goto patreon.com/brokenbrain and become a Brainiac patron!

Sharon & Dwight are focused on "The Marvels" today, discussing issues like relationship repair, hope, self-image, and what it's like when your concept of someone is nudged one way or another.

A long overdue return to the topic of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Kelly Tuttle is an advocate, expert, and author who joins the podcast to give guidance about life with TBI, including her own story of recovery and acceptance. You can read more in her book "After The Crash." Check out the ever evolving resources and materials at www.dwighthurst.com, related to the show and supports for mental health.

Please be aware, this episode deals with issues related to a case of murder-suicide. Audrey Laura White is an expert in grief, loss, and major life trauma. She shares her story about coping with extreme loss due to violence, as well as the myths, research, and reality of healing through grief over the loss of loved ones. Visit www.dwighthurst.com to view the resources, programs, and episodes of the podcast, as well as ways to support the show and people in need of mental health treatment.

Brian Bachand is a friend of the show from way back. He is a specialist in motivation, making difficult decisions, creating plans, and aspects of how human beings experience change. He is also active in nonprofit, charity, and fundraising work with many different organizations. In addition he's a cool guy and a great person who uplifts those around him. What should we do headed into a New Year? Let's find out! Visit www.evolutionevolution.com to learn more about Brian's work. Go to www.dwighthurst.com to learn more about The Broken Brain, support the show, and find an ever expanding bunch of resources for fun, education, and self-empowerment.

Selwyn Jones is a Community advocate and the Uncle of George Floyd. Liz Darden is a City Councilwoman in Harrison, Arkansas, called by some "the most racist town in America." They are the founders of the Nonprofit Organization Hope929, organized to help promote racial equality and community opportunities to disenfranchised individuals. They join today to share information about their approach to "Helping people UP instead of just helping them OUT," finding treatment, vocational rehab, and housing opportunities for those in need. Follow their work and listen to their podcast "Setting it Straight With Selwyn Jones." Goto www.dwighthurst.com to find free resources and to support the show, and check out the new Substack: www.dwighthurst.substack.com.

Mel Schwartz is a Psychotherapist who applies principles of Quantum Physics in his practice. Examining dynamics of matter and energy has helped Mel to develop techniques for anxiety reduction, healing from trauma, and much more. To learn more about Mel's work visit melschwartz.com Learn about how you can support the Broken Brain: www.dwighthurst.com/support. Thanks for listening!

Sharon Blady was kind enough to stop on by the virtual studio to record an episode about Santa, the myth, the legend, and why people do what they do with this tradition. Including a peek into (surprise) the world of Marvel Comics...in which Santa uses his powers as a powerful mutant to help and protect children. Wow. If you like RPG play then please download the free gift of a simple one-shot tabletop game "A Bunch of Santas," at www.dwighthurst.com/santa You can click the picture of Santa hats to get the pdf of the game rules and character sheets.

Holiday times are a time of food, folks, and fun. They can also be times triggering for body issues, food concerns, and Eating Disorders. Some of these feelings make us unhappy, and at a certain level can even be life-threatening. Kwint & Gina Kemp are the cofounders of The Greator You, a coaching service for all aspects of health based in Positive Psychology and skill-building. With background in Physical Training and Psychotherapy, they share their wisdom with me today about non-restrictive eating, positive self-regard, and healthy acceptance. Enjoy your holiday and be emotionally and mentally healthy! You deserve it! You can learn more about Kwint and Gina's work at www.thegreateru.com

This episode is for all you Podcast lovers and/or Podcasters out there. Shaun Michael Colon is an independent filmmaker, creator and director of the documentary "Age of Audio," now in post production. This documentary looks into the phenomenon of podcasting, the role it plays in our world, and what the future might hold. Shaun's past work include "Fat Wreck," a deep dive into the pivotal Punk Music label Fat Wreck Chords. Please consider supporting or participating in the podcast by going to www.dwighthurst.com/support. Lots of love to all of you Brainiacs, with an extra dose of love to you patrons of the show.

Valerie Probstfeld is a Nurse Practitioner, Author, and Host of the podcast "To Mom is To Love." Her specialty is working with issues of motherhood, including Post-Partum depression, health management, self-care, fertility, and much more. Follow her work by listening to her podcast and follow her on Instagram @valerie_probstfeld The Broken Brain is made possible by your support. Check out www.dwighthurst.com/support to see all the ways you can help with the show.

The pursuit of external validation, titles, or wealth can contribute to problems such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship stress. It can even get in the way of achieving the goals that drove us in the first place. Nick Jonsson joins the show to discuss how achievement can mask pain. As an athlete & corporate leader, Nick found himself crashing into addiction and depression. In recovery now, he helps others assess how chasing accomplishment at all cost can affect mental health. Follow Nick's work at www.nickjonsson.comFollow Nick's work at www.nickjonsson.com The Broken Brain is supported by you wonderful listeners. Go to www.dwighthurst.com/support to get involved

Loki Season 2 recently became available, and you know what that means! Dwight & Sharon are back to talk about the psychological elements of this run of episodes about our favorite God of Mischief. This episode focuses on breaking toxic patterns, failing better, and figuring out which hard decisions are the right ones to make. Through her experience in government, as Manitoba's Health Minister, Sharon offers some special insight into making balanced decisions for the needs of others. If you would like to support the show and find cool free and bonus patron materials check out www.dwighthurst.com/support, or simply share this episode with a friend or two.

Anton Wormon, @anton.injapan on Instagram, has gained a huge following online from his videos chronicling his experience renovating his home in Japan, in a place largely without renovation culture. His new book "Free Houses in Japan," tells his story of immigrating from Sweden and creating a home in a new community. Anton's story is an example of turning a dream into a goal, pursuing that goal and taking a task that is entirely new and making something beautiful. Consider supporting the Broken Brain by going to www.dwighthurst.com/support. For Patreon members this week enjoy a new episode of The Broken Chat, talking about AI, Ahsoka, and of course a little about podcasting.

Comedian Paul Morissey joins the show today to discuss the importance of laughter, comedy, and the ways we connect through humor. He also shares his own philosophy of living and working as an artist. Among Paul's professional appearances are his work on Dry Bar Comedy, The Late Show with David Letterman, Craig Ferguson, and headlining the 4th of July Armed Forces Entertainment Tour for US Troops in Iraq. This episode is cohosted by London Smith, Actor, Podcaster, Comedian, MD, and creator of the Jock Doc Podcast.

The use of psychedelic substances in mental health treatment has been studies for many years. Modern use of Ketamine, explored in past episodes, has become common enough to be evaluated as a best practice treatment and is beginning to gain ground with insurance reimbursement. The use of MDMA and Psilocybin mushrooms in treatment of Depression, PTSD, and other disorders is showing fascinating results in research. Chris Tittle is a psychotherapist in Sisters Oregon, and is educated and certified in the use of psychedelics in mental health management. He joins the program to discuss current theories, research, and training for mental health clinicians in this area. Follow Chris' work and private telehealth practice at https://motivatedmentalperformance.com/ --- Follow the Broken Brain on Facebook and Twitter @breakabrain, or on IG @brainiacsahoy. If you want to help keep the virtual lights on, check out www.dwighthurst.com/support

What will it be like when I walk into my first session of Eye-Movement-Desensitization-Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy? Why would I look for this? How can it help me? This episode is a theoretical and practical description of how EMDR is conducted, what issues it addresses, and what you should expect from this powerful technique in healing from trauma. Kathleen Brennan is a trauma-informed psychotherapist who practices EMDR Therapy in Nashville Tennessee. She is a frequent guest on The Broken Brian. You can follow her work at www.kathleenrbrennan.com Consider becoming a patron of the arts by helping The Broken Brain! Check out options at www.dwighthurst.com/support

Karly Beaumont returns to the show to discuss the ins and outs of working in the Nonprofit field. We discuss how nonprofit organizations identify, address and solve problems, tips about working in a challenging field, and the way that Karly brings her talent for filmmaking and podcasting to help in her specific work. This episode is ideal for anyone curious about how nonprofit agencies work, those already working in the sector, or those interested in pursuing a career in nonprofit or human services work. Karly is the founder of the Core Temp Arts network of podcasts, the network that includes The Broken Brain. She is also the host of "That Pop This Life" and "Talking Shondaland," which you can follow at www.coretemptarts.com.

This is a segment that was pre-recorded for the live event for Opioid Awareness on 8/31, but was not used that day due to a time crunch. You can also view the full video of this interview on the Broken Brain YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/brokenbrainpodcast Ryan Luis Rodriguez, friend of the show, is here to talk about the depiction of addiction in movies, specifically when it is done respectfully or more accurately, to discuss the problematic use of substance abuse in fiction, and share specific movies that deals well with this complex issue. Ryan shares his own feelings with addiction while sharing his encyclopedic knowledge of cinema. Follow Ryan's podcasts, "One Track Mind" and "The Reels of Justice."

Attachment theory and understanding our own styles of attachment are foundational to mental health, and one of the most important elements of our psychology. At the same time very few people outside the mental health field talk about it, and unfortunately does not come up in treatment circles often enough. Thais Gibson is a Pastoral Counselor, Therapist, and expert in Attachment Theory. She provides education and techniques for people to understand their own attachment styles, and what to do when an attachment style is insecure from trauma or life experiences. She joins the program today to share her techniques and perspectives. To learn more about Thais and her work go to: www.personaldevelopmentschool.com. If you would like to support The Broken Brain go to www.dwighthurst.com/support to see the various ways you can help the show.

Part 2 of our efforts to provide more meaningful diagnostic information for Batman's Rogue Gallery. We dive right into it this time and ask questions like: Is this villain even mentally ill? Are the stories using bias and public perception of mental illness, sometimes in an exploitive way? What's Arkham's deal anyway? And more. Christian and Dwight Hurst take a deep dive and consider some lesser talked about goons from the list of Batman's enemies. Get invovled with the podcast by going to www.dwighthurst.com/support and learning the ways you can help the show to keep the virtual lights on.

Happy Batman Day! Every September 16th we all (at least those who observe) celebrate the creation of Batman in 1939. Christian Hurst, widely known as Dwight's brother, joins to talk about the use of psychological disorders in the Batman stories. This leads to chatting about the basis of diagnosis, representation of mental illness in media, bias, and a lot of side stepping into other superhero and cultural topics. Stay tuned for PART 2 for more discussion of your favorite members of Batman's Rogues Gallery, AND check out @brainiacsahoy on Instagram to see more specific diagnosing and treating of these characters as part of the series "Arkham Asylum Internship." Go to www.dwighthurst.com/support to see all the ways you can support the program on one page!

It's Batman month on the Broken Brain! Watch for new Batman Mental Health episodes and video clips on social media links. To start us off, this episode is a replay of an episode from June 2022, around the release of the film "The Batman." Sharon Blady is the perfect CoHost for this episode. We take a look at this representation of Batman, which above all is a story of trying to discover hope in the face of loss, trauma, and pain. ------- Go to www.dwighthurst.com/support to see various ways to support the show Instagram @brainiacsahoy Facebook www.facebook.com/breakabrain Twitter/X @breakabrain

This is a Patreon Exclusive episode, released in July on the Patron-Only feed. Become a supporter on Patreon to hear this and other special episodes like this one. Dalin & Dwight return to talk about the third episode of the Netflix series, and newest iteration of Anne of Green Gables, "Anne With An E." The discussion covers acceptance, trauma, social anxiety, social change, feminism, and more!

Did you love Marvel's miniseries Secret Invasion? Based on online reactions you may not have... BUT that couldn't stop Sharon and Dwight from taking it apart and analyzing the psychological factors of this Comic-Book, Sci-Fi, Spy-Thriller, Character-Study of our old pal Nick Fury. Specifically we found a lot of interesting elements of relationships, betrayal, and surprisingly healthy conflict management among a very unique married couple. Sharon is a recurring guest and friend, certified nerd, mental health advocate, and former Health Minister of Manitoba, CA. Follow her work at www.speak-up.co Support the Broken Brain by joining our Patreon at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain!

A great conversation about parenting, talking to teens, and confronting our own fears and limitations. Sean Donohue brings his knowledge and infectious excitement to the show. Super fun episode! Sean is a coach and educator for all things Parenting and Family. He is also the creator and host of the Sean Donohue Show, a podcast for parents. Follow him on Instagram @the.familycoach or go to www.parentingmodernteens.com. The Broken Brain's second annual Live event for Opioid Overdose Awareness will be on Thursday 8/31. Watch, listen, and even JOIN the broadcast live. Find links on social media or go to www.dwighthurst.com/live for all the information and links.

Diagnosis of ADHD can lead to both hope and fear. Hope in the form of knowledge, self-acceptance, and increased understanding of ourselves. Fear due adjustment, new self-concept, and social stigma aimed at neurodiverse individuals, especially when there is a lack of useful information. Alice Gendorn joins the show to help those diagnosed with ADHD and increase understanding of this form of neurodiversity. She shares theory and actionable steps to increase success with understanding, tips, insights, and finding strength in our identity, Join in the support & fun that can be found in being a part of The Broken Brain team. Join the show Patreon, get bonus material and be a patron of the arts. www.patreon.com/brokenbrain.

Shari Corbitt returns to the show to discuss ongoing research into the dangers of chronic long-term use of Marijuana. With the legalization of recreational and medical cannabis, and the positive impact that it can have, some have leaned into chronic or daily use of high concentrate THC. In some cases individuals with high levels of long-term overuse are experiencing a psychotic break from reality, even those who have never had psychosis before. This alarming correlation needs further research, but is already observable in patients. Shari describes how this information is used in her work with patients with chronic pain and long-term medical needs. Get involved with The Broken Brain by joining the Patreon at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, get bonus materials and help keep the lights on.

How should we go about picking a treatment program? For problems such as addiction, behavioral health, services for youth, adults, and so on...it can be intimidating to find a therapy or treatment option that meets our needs. Dwight and guest Marsha Stone are here to help. Marsha Stone is CEO and Founder of Foundation Stone, a network of highly focused programs for individuals and families struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. She joins the show today to give tips and guidance for those trying to evaluate and select treatment options. The Broken Brain's 2nd annual Live Broadcast in observance of International Overdose Awareness day is coming up on 8/31! Listen to the end of this episode and watch our social media for instructions on how to watch, listen, or even participate in the broadcast.

David Rosen is a friend, a podcaster, musician, and about to release a comedy album where he sings with his pets. So naturally he is here, because we love fun people. They are fun after all. David's podcast, Piecing it Together, is focused on the elements of stories that are repeated and inspire new creativity, where he and his guest watch a new movie and highlight things that remind them of other films. Consider helping out the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or make a one time donation at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain because I just remembered that exists.

David Richards joins the podcast to discuss his novel The Lighthouse Keeper, a journey through memory, mindfulness and trauma told from the point of view of a creative young man apprenticed to a lighthouse keeper. David's writing focuses on healing from trauma, confronting the past, and ultimately accepting ourselves. Please consider supporting the program by becoming an official Brainiac at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain.

Briana Daniels is the Nursing Supervisor for the Spokane Regional Stabilization Center, a Crisis Center operated by Pioneer Human Services. She is here to tell us how her program follows through with mental health treatment for those at need, and as a diversion program to help those at risk for criminal justice involvement. Participate in The Broken Brain Annual Overdose awareness LIVE broadcast August 31! Follow the socials for more details: www.facebook.com/breakabrain IG: @brainiacsahoy Twitter: @breakabrain

Across The Spiderverse is sweeping the multiverse due to great storytelling and groundbreaking artistic style. Now Sharon & Dwight give it the Broken Brain treatment, analyzing elements of internal strife, dysfunctional coping patterns, control issues, and of course our old friend: Trauma. Enjoy this movie with us and break your brain around our discussion. Support the program by joining the Brainiac team over at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain.

Depictions of weight in media are notoriously unhealthy, from unrealistic body-image to negative characterization of people who are larger or heavyset. Dallin Rowell joins the show to discuss the role of heavier weights in story and characters, the fat-advocacy movement, and specific examples of movies & television and how they present "fat" people. Dalin Rowell is a film writer for Slash Film, and a regular contributor to the Broken Brain, cohost/reviewer of the Netflix series "Anne With an E." Follow her work at ; https://www.slashfilm.com/author/dalinrowell/ Support the program by subscribing on Patreon, at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, get bonus materials and be part of the Brainiac crew.

Marian Wilson, RN, PhD, joins the podcast to discuss her research into chronic pain, cognitive behavioral pain management strategies, and the interaction that pain patients have with opiate medication and opioid dependancy. If you would like to join the Broken Brain Patrons, help support the show and get cool bonus materials, hop on over to www.patreon.com/brokenbrain to sign up today!

Dr Akeem Sule is a Psychiatrist in Essex, UK, and founder of the Black Psychiatrists Culture Club, and is a specialist in medication, treatment, and the application of psychological theory to popular culture. He has done tons of work in the use of Hip-Hop as a tool to educate patients about their own mental health, and is now using TV & Movie storytelling to understand our own mental health. We discuss trauma, identity issues, toxic masculinity, racism, and much more. For bonus materials, including video of this and other interviews, consider supporting the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain

Sophie Edwards is a returning guest to The Broken Brain. She is an author, vocal coach, and the creator of "We Have Always Existed," a YouTube series focused on historical accounts of Gender-Fluid and Transgender individuals throughout history. Sophie joins me today to share stories from her research Transgendered people through history. Although open dialogue about Gender may feel new for many people, Gender Identity issues have been around since there has been human culture. Important Spoiler Alert: something being new to one does not make it new for all. Today's episode is all about the understanding that people are people, no matter where or when they are. Follow Sophie's work and learn more about vocal coaching for Trans Women at: sbedwards.gay, and follow her on IG @queer.trans.writer.sophie

Sharon Blady joins to talk about the psychological elements of Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3. We discuss personal community building, trauma, the dynamic of found family and the tricky balance of improving relationships and self while still accepting things as they are. Please share and rate the podcast, and consider becoming a patron of the arts (specifically this show) by setting up your donation at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain.