Do you often find yourself becoming insta-BFFs with folks who understand your fascination with your favorite character, comic, or show? Join Dr. Vanessa Hintz (she/her), Geek psychologist and pop culture enthusiast, as she provides expert analysis on community and belonging in fandom. Take a deep dive into the psyche of pop culture with discussions of the impact our favorite stories have on our individual identities, relationships, and ways of being.
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Vanessa Hintz Podcasts
Three licensed therapists breakdown and analyze popular movies and characters from the perspectives of an individual, child, and a marriage and family therapist. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.
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Thunderbolts*: What Happens When Trauma Gets Superpowers?
1:49:50
1:49:50
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1:49:50Lets 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! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.…
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Godzilla Minus One: Moral Injury & Collective Trauma
1:36:37
1:36:37
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1:36:37IT'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. Become a supporter of this podc…
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Starship Troopers: Adolescent Development & Propaganda
1:25:56
1:25:56
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1:25:56By 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!! Become a supporter of this podcast: h…
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Inside Out 2: The Impact of Anxiety
1:20:06
1:20:06
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1:20:06Welcome 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 joi…
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My Big Fat Greek Wedding & Enmeshment
1:51:35
1:51:35
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1:51:35Happy 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. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.…
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EPISODE 33: Basgiath Breakdown: Iron Flame
50:45
50:45
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50:45Dr. Vanessa is very much still in her #RomantasyEra, and following up her two-part discussion of Fourth Wing with a critical analysis of Iron Flame - the second in the Empyrean Series by Rebecca Yarros. This book has even more angst, shenanigans, and pearl-clutching moments than the first! This discussion focuses on the intricate dynamics of grief …
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A Christmas Story: Kids & Their Parents
1:36:39
1:36:39
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1:36:39Be 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!! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychol…
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Home Alone: Family Issues, Holiday Stress, and KEVIN!!!
1:35:55
1:35:55
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1:35:55Happy 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! Become a supporter of thi…
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Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: Accepting What Makes You Different
14:31
14:31
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14:31Enjoy 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! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popcorn-psychology--3252280/support.…
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House of the Dragon Live at Fan Expo Chicago 2024 with Dr. Vanessa Hintz
42:59
42:59
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42:59[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. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/popc…
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Addams Family Values: Stunted Development, Anti-Social Traits, and Family Systems
1:51:12
1:51:12
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1:51:12Happy 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 displa…
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Nope: Sibling Dynamics & Dissociation
1:25:46
1:25:46
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1:25:46Happy 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 …
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District 9: Dehumanization, Empathy, and Forced Perspective Change
1:21:47
1:21:47
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1:21:47Trigger 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…
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The Breakfast Club: Parental Influence & Societal Roles w/ Molly McAleer
2:26:38
2:26:38
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2:26:38[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 …
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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. B…
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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…
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Portrait of a Lady on Fire: Autonomy & Actualization
1:40:17
1:40:17
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1:40:17[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 th…
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Batman: Mask of the Phantasm: Arrested Development, Egocentrism, and Facing your Shadow
1:17:24
1:17:24
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1:17:24In 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 …
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Arrival: Communication & Existentialism
1:46:51
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1:46:51Join 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-p…
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EPISODE 32: Basgiath Breakdown: Fourth Wing - PART II
31:27
31:27
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31:27And the conversation about Violet, Xaden, and them CONTINUES! Join Dr. Vanessa in the conclusion of her analysis of the phenomenal Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. Topics include our two powerful prodigies - Violet and Xaden - and their journeys to overcoming adversity, all while balancing love, power, and expectations. Dr. Vanessa focuses on element…
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EPISODE 31: Basgiath Breakdown: Fourth Wing - PART I
35:29
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35:29Dr. Vanessa is living her best #RomatasyEra life, bringing to you her one-of-a-kind take on the worldwide phenomenon Fourth Wing. From the creative mind of Rebecca Yarros, this story is centered on the business of Basgiath War College, which houses some of the most powerful dragon riders in the nation of Navarre. This first breakdown features discu…
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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…
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EPISODE 30: Supernatural Spotlight - Season 5
49:03
49:03
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49:03HEY…ASSBUTT! The most recent detour on her rewatch journey finds Dr. Vanessa all up in the feels! Season 5 of Supernatural is HEAVY, featuring consistent themes of hopelessness, brotherly strife, and all manner of unpleasantness…I mean, the Apocalypse is happening (kind of)! The most AMAZING season for Sam and Dean ever - many would say so!…
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Saltburn: Antisocial Personality Disorder & Dysfunctional Families
1:28:13
1:28:13
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1:28:13Welcome 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: h…
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EPISODE 29: #ConRewind - Emerald City Comic Con
41:24
41:24
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41:24#ConRewind - take two! Dr. Vanessa recounts her first-ever experience at Emerald City Comic Con 2024, which also commemorated her inaugural trip to the city of Seattle! ECCC offered numerous opportunities for FANGIRLing, as well as time to reflect on the commodification of fame and norms in fandom spaces.…
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EPISODE 28: I’m a Barbie Girl - Where’s MY Barbie World?
40:56
40:56
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40:56As one of the most popular films of the last decade, Barbie (2023), is one of Hollywood’s most recent attempts to manufacture nostalgia. Not only does the film capitalize on the connections people have with the most recognizable fashion doll of ever, but Barbie - for decades - has served to motivate and inspire. Join Dr. Vanessa as she discusses th…
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EPISODE 27: Supernatural Spotlight - Season 4
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52:33
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52:33At yet another pit stop on her rewatch journey, Dr. Vanessa is back with more interpretation and conversation concerning all things Winchester. Season 4 of Supernatural was the absolute most! We see more of Bobby. We meet Lucifer and the angels - including our very own, very special, Castiel! This leads to some surprising and complex moral dilemmas…
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Never Been Kissed: Neurodivergence & Predatory Relationships
2:06:36
2:06:36
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2:06:36[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…
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In the first-ever installment of the #ConRewind, Dr. Vanessa shares the perspectives of two very special guests - her mother and sister - and their experiences at Fan Expo: New Orleans 2024. Topics of discussion include the value of fandom, cosplay, and the distinctions between joy and escapism. Y'all know what they say about families that con toge…
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