Mind the Force
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...
Ep XXXIII - Nomi Sunrider & The Weight of Grief
How do you rebuild your life after unimaginable loss?
In this episode of Mind the Force, Kristine and James explore the story of Nomi Sunrider, a Jedi whose journey begins with tragedy. Through her experiences with grief, motherhood, and unexpected responsibility, we examine the pressures of resilience and the challenge of finding purpose after loss.
Can we move forward without leaving the people and lives we've lost behind? Join us as we explore how Nomi's story reminds us that healing doesn't mean forgetting.
Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate
Produced...
Ep XXXII: How Myths Make Worlds, Part II: The War Comes Home
In Part Two of our Star Wars vs. Nolan’s The Odyssey series, Kristine and James explore what happens when survival changes you. From Odysseus returning home after war to Anakin, Obi-Wan, and the clones carrying the effects of conflict, we look at trauma, control, isolation, and the challenge of reintegrating into ordinary life.
At the center is one question: when the danger is over, how do you learn to live beyond the version of yourself built to survive?
Hosts: Kristine Smith & James Abbate
Produced by: Press Record Studios
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XXXI - The Stories We Inherit: Star Wars vs Nolan’s The Odyssey (Part I)
In Part One of our Star Wars vs. Nolan’s The Odyssey series, we explore how family stories shape identity long before we are old enough to question them.
From Telemachus growing up in the shadow of Odysseus to Luke Skywalker discovering the truth about Anakin, we look at absent fathers, inherited expectations, family roles, and the fear of becoming the people who came before us.
From intergenerational trauma to understanding vs excusing our parents, how much of who we are is truly ours and how much is a story we inherited?
...
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...
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/mindth...
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
<...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
Pr...
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...
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 Stu...
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/mindthefor...
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
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.
<...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, playfulnes...
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 perf...
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 r...
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 charact...
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...
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 b...
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...
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 less...
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 di...
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!
<...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.c...
Ep X - Barriss Offee
On 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 Abbate
Mind the Force Website: https://mindtheforce.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindth...
Ep IX - Chewbacca
On 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 Gibson
https://linktr.ee/hb_gibson
Julie A Christiansen
https://linktr.ee/leverage_u
https://www.angersolution.com/
Host: Kristine Mc...
Ep VIII - Star Wars Podcast Day
On 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/
Ep VII - Cad Bane
On 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...
Ep VI - Anakin Skywalker, The Beginning of the Fall | Condition Assessment
On 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/
Ep V - Anakin Skywalker, The Beginning of the Fall | Character Analysis
On 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 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 or treat listeners with any kind of psychol...
Ep IV - Anakin Skywalker, From Girls to Gods | Condition Assessment
On 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/
Ep III - Anakin Skywalker, From Girls to Gods | Character Analysis
Here 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 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. Nowh...
Ep II- Anakin Skywalker: The Early Years | Condition Assessment
On 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/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 l...
Ep. I: Anakin Skywalker: The Early Years | Character Analysis
From 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 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 o...
Mind the Force Podcast Trailer
This 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!
