Shows
Mind the ForceEpisode XXII - Star Wars Holiday Special Featuring an Exclusive Interview with Director Steve BinderIn 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....
2025-12-021h 06
Mind the ForceEp XXI - Spaceballs and the Healing Power of LaughterIn 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, playfulnes...
2025-11-1751 min
Mind the ForceEp. XX - Mace WinduOn 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 perf...
2025-10-201h 38
Stitch PleaseHow Star Wars Costumes Tell Their Own Stories with Kristine McPartlinThis week on Stitch Please, Lisa and Mind the Force Podcast host Kristine McPartlin geek out over the secret language of Star Wars fashion from Luke’s hopeful robes to Darth Vader’s villain chic. They laugh about the Empire’s tiny hats, dissect Jedi linen minimalism, and revel in Queen Amidala’s 20 yard gowns. It’s a hilarious, insightful dive into how every stitch in a galaxy far, far away tells a story and yes, sometimes that story is simply “Nazis bad.”====Where You Can Find Kristine! MInd The Force Podcast====...
2025-10-0826 min
Mind the ForceEp. XIX - C-3POIn 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 r...
2025-08-051h 29
Why Do People Do That?Escaping into Empires: Star Wars and the Psychology of FandomIn this episode, we journey to a galaxy far, far away to explore the very real psychology behind fandom. Using Star Wars as our launchpad, we dive into the emotional draw of expansive fictional universes and why they resonate so deeply with us. From analyzing iconic characters to unpacking the societal nuances reflected in their stories, we ask the timeless question: why do people do that? Our guest, Kristine McPartlin — host of @MindtheForce , a podcast dedicated to examining mental health through the lens of Star Wars—joins us for a thoughtful conversation on how fiction mirrors reality. Together, we explore...
2025-07-271h 09
Mind the ForceEp. XVIII - Pregnancy in Star WarsIn 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 charact...
2025-06-181h 05
Impostrix Podcast75. Blerd Out Loud Fandom works wonders for mental health. Frfr.
In this episode of Impostrix Podcast, host Whitney Knox Lee explores
the vibrant world of fandom and how it brings joy, connection, and validation.
Whitney is joined by Kristine McPartlin, co-host of the multi-award winning Mind
the Force Podcast, a show where Star Wars fandom meets mental health.
Kristine shares how she discovered Star Wars during the
pandemic and how it has become a significant part of her life, offering
community, respite from this world, and helps with mental health.
2025-05-1455 min
Mind the ForceEp. XVII - Jango FettIn 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...
2025-05-062h 01Stitch PleaseStitching a Tribute to the Met Gala’s Black DandyThis week on "Stitch Please", Lisa is serving fashion, history, and fierce creativity as she dives into the upcoming Met Gala theme inspired by the iconic Black Dandy. Joined by style-savvy guests Julian Collins and Kristine McPartlin, the convo unpacks the power and legacy of Black Dandyism, shines a spotlight on Black designers, and dishes out bold, brilliant outfit inspo. From runway dreams to real-life stitching, they explore what this theme means for the sewing community—and how you can rock your own unique style with confidence and flair. Get ready for fashion talk with flair, culture with heart, and...
2025-04-3028 min
Mind the ForceEp. XVI - The Psychology of Fandom with Gayle SteverIn 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 b...
2025-03-261h 23
Mind the ForceEp XV: Why the Dark Side with Dr Owen MuirIn 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...
2025-02-251h 21
Mind the ForceEp XIV: Celebrating Star Wars Podcast DayEpisode 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 less...
2025-02-071h 06
Heard!: Afros & Audio Interview Series with Talib JasirFandom, Mental Health, and Star Wars: The Journey of Mind the Force with Kristine McPartlin Trigger warning: this episode discusses sexual assault and the trauma associated. In this episode of Heard, Afros & Audio's interview series, host Talib Jasir engages in a dynamic conversation with Kristine McPartlin, the creator of the Mind the Force podcast. Kristine reflects on how the 2020 pandemic introduced her to the Star Wars universe and inspired her to explore its rich storytelling elements through the lens of mental health advocacy. Kristine shares her own therapeutic journey after a traumatic experience and explains how the mental health themes within fictional characters became a powerful tool for self-reflection and h...
2025-02-0544 min
Dripping in BlackDripping in the Force featuring Kristine McPartlinIn this episode of the Dripping in Black Podcast, guest host Dominic Lawson engages in a deep conversation with Kristine McPartlin, the creator of the Mind the Force Podcast. They explore the intersection of Star Wars and mental health, discussing how storytelling can reflect personal experiences and foster community. Kristine shares her journey into the Star Wars universe during the pandemic and how it inspired her to create a podcast that examines characters through a mental health lens. The conversation delves into the importance of sharing personal stories, understanding trauma, and the connection between mental and physical health, all...
2025-01-281h 03
Mind the ForceEp XIII: Tarkin, Part III, Condition AssessmentIn 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 di...
2025-01-181h 17
Mind the ForceEp XII: Tarkin, Part IIOn 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!
2024-10-231h 47
Mind the ForceEp XI: Tarkin, Part IOn 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 AbbateMind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.c...
2024-08-202h 37
Mind the ForceEp X - Barriss OffeeOn Ep X of Mind the Force, we cover the life and times of Fallen Jedi turned mystic healer, Barriss Offee. From her troubled days as a padawan to the dark halls of the Inquisitorius, we take a look at this classic Star Wars redemption arc.And we are excited to bring on James Abbate as our permanent co-host! Welcome to Mind the Force, James! Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James AbbateMind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindthe...
2024-07-121h 38
Mind the ForceEp IX - ChewbaccaOn Ep IX of Mind the Force, Kristine is joined by HB Gibson and Julie Christiansen to discuss Chewbacca and the nuances of what honor means to Wookie culture and his life debt to Han Solo. From the emotional wisdom that comes with age to the mental effects of war and technology on society, this is one you don't want to miss!HB Gibsonhttps://linktr.ee/hb_gibson Julie A Christiansenhttps://linktr.ee/leverage_uhttps://www.angersolution.com/ Host: Kristine Mc...
2024-04-083h 20
Mind the ForceEp VIII - Star Wars Podcast DayOn Ep VIII of Mind the Force, Kristine is solo dolo and paying homage to the 4th annual Star Wars Podcast Day. We are joining over 100 other Star Wars podcasts and dropping an episode to celebrate 25 years of Star Wars podcasts. Kristine talks about her love of the franchise and how the Mind the Force podcast came to be.
Shout out to Daniel at Star Wars Podcast Day for letting us take part in such a fun SW community event!
https://www.facebook.com/StarWarsPodDay
https://www.instagram.com/starwarspodday/
2024-02-1429 min
Mind the ForceEp VII - Cad BaneOn Ep VII of Mind the Force, the topic on the table is the infamous bounty hunter, Cad Bane. Kristine is joined by James Abbate, friend and fellow long time Star Wars nerd, and Simone Rinne, Social Worker & Host of The Mindful Men Podcast. Together they dig into the psychological affairs of one very hardworking but possibly misguided Duros bounty hunter.
Co-Host: James Abbate
Special Guest: Simone Rinne, AASW
https://www.mindful-men.com.au
https://linktr.ee/MindfulMen
Host: Kristine McPartlin
Mind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.co...
2024-02-012h 42
Mind the ForceEp VI - Anakin Skywalker, The Beginning of the Fall | Condition AssessmentOn Episode VI of Mind the Force, Kristine McPartlin is joined by Licensed Psychotherapist, Elisa Peimer, to get her professional thoughts and feelings on Anakin's final days and traumas before his fall to the dark side. We get into accountability, repression, loss, and emotional processing in the final installment of the Anakin Skywalker Trilogy Arc.
Elisa Peimer, LMSW: https://solmentalhealth.com/providers/elisa-peimer/
Host: Kristine McPartlin
Mind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/
Facebook:
2024-01-161h 14
Bantha Milk | A Star Wars Universe PodcastAround the Dejarik Table EP 4 with Gabriel Deshaw & Kristine McPartlinThis week's Star Wars Questions.The Galactic Starcruiser is no more. There is still a super-themed hotel there. What should they do with it?What creative directions do you think they will take Grogu in terms of character growth and story arcs? Considering the newly confirmed Mandalorian and Grogu movie.If Ahsoka joined forces with Maul to take down Palpatine when he asked her on Mandalore, would they have succeeded? You are given complete creative control over the next Star Wars movie(s). What is it about?What are your...
2024-01-161h 06
Mind the ForceEp V - Anakin Skywalker, The Beginning of the Fall | Character AnalysisOn Ep V of Mind the Force, Kristine and Matt examine the final days of Anakin's life before his infamous fall to the dark side.Host: Kristine McPartlin & Matt McPartlinMind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforceMental Health DisclaimerI 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 psychol...
2024-01-042h 25
Mind the ForceEp IV - Anakin Skywalker, From Girls to Gods | Condition AssessmentOn Episode IV of Mind the Force, Kristine speaks to LMHP, Bria Spencer, and gets her take on Anakin's shenanigans in Attack of the Clones and the early days of Clone Wars: The Animated Series.
Host: Kristine McPartlin
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...
2023-12-181h 05
Mind the ForceEp III - Anakin Skywalker, From Girls to Gods | Character AnalysisHere on Ep III, we continue with Anakin's story, beginning with his reunion with Padme in Attack of the Clones and following through to his destiny altering meeting with the Mortis Gods in The Clone Wars: The Animated series.Host: Kristine McPartlin & Matt McPartlinMind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforceMental Health DisclaimerI am not a medical or mental health professional. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowh...
2023-12-062h 16
Mind the ForceEp II- Anakin Skywalker: The Early Years | Condition AssessmentOn Episode II of Mind the Force, we continue our analyzation of Anakin's younger years in conversation with Don Sinkfield, LMHC. Join us as we get his professional insight on Anakin's complicated childhood.Host: Kristine McPartlin Mind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforceMental Health DisclaimerI 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 l...
2023-11-1553 min
Mind the ForceEp I, Anakin Skywalker: The Early Years | Character AnalysisFrom his mysterious birth to his complicated teenage years, we examine Anakin Skywalker on the first episode of Mind the Force. Matt McPartlin joins me as my first Star Wars superfan co-host!Host: Kristine McPartlin & Matt McPartlinMind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforceMental Health DisclaimerI 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 o...
2023-11-022h 56
Mind the ForceMind the Force Podcast TrailerThis is Mind the Force, a podcast about Star Wars & mental health, hosted by Kristine McPartlin. To get the low down, check out our new trailer! Episode 1 coming soon!
2023-10-1101 min
Unravel A Fashion Podcast28 Fashioning the Women of Weeksville Interview with Noel Corbin, Natalya Mills & Kristine McPartlinThis week features the curators and conservator behind the exhibition: Fashioning the Women of Weeksville, currently at the Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn, New York. The show is a rare opportunity to see the material culture of the African American women who lived in Weeksville in the nineteenth and twentieth-century.
In the first half of the episode, Joy and Jasmine talk to the curators Noel Corbin and Natalya Mills.
In the second half of the episode Dana and Jasmine talk to Kristine McPartlin, who is responsible for conserving and dressing the wedding dress featured in the exhibition.
On September 16, 2016, Fashioning...
2017-08-281h 49