Psychology In Seattle Podcast

Colin Miller, screenwriter and director known for incisive film analysis, joins to unpack this year’s Oscar contenders. They debate stylized adaptations versus fidelity, how studios and franchises dilute art, and where visuals outshine weak screenwriting. Conversations range from Lanthimos and del Toro to F1, Safdie energy, animation sequels, and Oscar eligibility quirks.

Three conversationalists explore tests for on-screen representation, from the Bechdel test to queer and Latino-specific criteria. They debate quotas versus systemic change and set demographic expectations for city-set films. Several films are graded or used as case studies while hosts invent humorous rules to reveal common tropes.

They tackle therapist oversharing, countertransference, and how to give candid feedback without wrecking care. They debate when silence or intervention helps in therapy and whether TV spoilers matter. They list deliberate ways to destroy a relationship—name‑calling, keeping score, contempt, stonewalling, refusal to repair, and avoiding vulnerability. They close with what makes a real apology and why repair matters.

A clinician explains what psychodynamic therapy looks like in practice and why object relations appealed to him. Short reflections cover theory versus technique and how different approaches get blended. Guidance is offered for novice therapists navigating complexity and training choices.

A psychologist playfully diagnoses nearly every major Game of Thrones character using DSM thinking and clinical caution. He debates whether brutality, grief, devotion, or power hunger count as disorders. He calls out internet overdiagnosis and explains when traits cross into antisocial, borderline, PTSD, or sadistic presentations. Expect lively character-by-character clinical critique and myth-busting about fictional pathology.

They dissect early interview reactions and how shock can shape memory. They examine hallway footage and everyday harassment versus targeted threats. They analyze staged performances and media editing that amplify fear. They compare interpersonal dynamics and whether one acted as follower or leader. They question how ordinary behavior masks dangerous intent.

A focused look at parenting and family dynamics surrounding the Columbine shooters. Short segments contrast journal tones and examine what parents did or did not notice. The hosts debate public blame, media reactions, legal fallout, and how families responded in interviews and talks. The discussion highlights tensions between hidden warning signs and parental uncertainty.

A deep dive into Dylan Klebold’s background, schooling, and social life. Conversations about bullying, public versus private selves, and online behavior. Close looks at his violent writings, creative pieces, and the teacher and parental responses. Reflections on detection, motives, and how social status and interpersonal complexity complicate simple narratives.

Johnny Knowing, a practitioner who coaches autistic youth and uses Minecraft as a therapeutic tool. He talks about building rapport through play, Minecraft-based metaphors for emotions, quick-build therapeutic exercises, moderated servers for social skills, and translating game concepts for parents. Short, practical, and playful conversation about therapy through a familiar game.

They compare the Dark Triad (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy) with the Light Triad (Kantianism, humanism, faith in humanity). Research findings, demographics, and tradeoffs between assertiveness and compassion are discussed. A live walk-through of the Light Triad scale and personal test results are shared. Developmental and life experiences shaping light or dark tendencies are explored.