Freud & Felons

Yalda Safai MD

Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons.

  1. 17h ago

    Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity: Criminal Responsibility and Mental Illness

    Is the insanity defense just a loophole in the criminal justice system, or is it one of its most misunderstood safeguards? In this episode of Freud and Felons, Dr. Yalda Safai explores the origins of the insanity defense, the extremely strict standards defendants must meet, and why public outrage often doesn’t match reality. Using landmark cases like John Hinckley Jr., Andrea Yates, and James Holmes, Dr. Safai reveals how the defense actually operates, who can truly use it, and the life-altering consequences that follow, debunking myths about it being an “easy way out"". Highlighting the sobering gap in mental health care that often goes ignored until tragedy strikes, Dr. Safai argues that the real loophole is a system that only acts after a crime has occurred. 00:00 The McNaughton rule origin 04:23 Andrea Yates insanity defense case 06:18 Trial, conviction, and mental illness 11:55 Insanity defense burden and process 15:12 Understanding the insanity defense 16:02 Critique of the insanity defense For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  2. Jul 10

    The Dangers of Unsupervised Ketamine: The Disturbing Reality of Matthew Perry’s Death

    In this episode of Freud and Felons, Dr. Yalda Safai examines the story of Matthew Perry’s fatal overdose and unpacks how ketamine evolved from a wartime anesthetic to an unregulated, billion-dollar telehealth commodity. This episode explores how Perry’s case is not just about celebrity or addiction, but about the rise of companies mailing ketamine directly to consumers with minimal oversight or medical evaluation. Dr. Safai explains the legal loopholes that fueled this market, the differences between approved and off-label ketamine use, and the critical risks of at-home unsupervised treatments. She also details the official warnings issued by the FDA and major medical associations, key warning signs to look out for when considering ketamine therapy, and who should never receive ketamine due to potentially life-threatening complications. 00:00 Illegal ketamine supply to Matthew Perry04:47 Ketamine's journey from street to clinic07:40 Off-label use of ketamine10:53 FDA warning on home ketamine use13:49 Risks of unsupervised ketamine use18:15 Contraindications for ketamine therapy For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  3. Jun 26

    How Cults and Conspiracy Theories Spread: The Psychology of Shared Delusions

    Ever wondered how cults are formed, or why conspiracy theories and misinformation can spread so powerfully, even among smart, logical people? In this episode of Freud and Felons, Dr. Yalda Safai dives deep into the concept of shared delusions to explain how rigid group beliefs take hold and rapidly multiply, turning fiction into a reality that entire communities buy into. Learn about cults like Jonestown and Heaven's Gate, who used group psychology to convince large numbers of people to follow extreme, even deadly, beliefs, why no one is completely immune to groupthink, and how our modern environment—especially online algorithms and social media echo chambers—makes us even more vulnerable to these collective delusions. Find out how political and anti-science movements also use similar tactics to manipulate group perception, reshaping not just minds but identities. 00:00 Understanding shared delusions 03:33 The Jonestown tragedy and its impact 08:57 Echo chambers and group loyalty 10:01 Cult-like political movements 13:46 Discussing vaccine misinformation dynamics 18:39 Handling unhealthy group dynamics For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  4. Jun 12

    Homeless, Addicted, and Arrested: How Sarah Overcame Trauma and Found Healing

    Join Dr. Yalda Safai in this episode of Freud and Felons as she speaks with Sarah, who opens up about her difficult journey through addiction, untreated mental health issues, and repeated interactions with the criminal justice system. Sarah recounts how childhood trauma and unaddressed pain led her to dependency on prescription pain pills, which eventually spiraled into homelessness and alcohol addiction. Learn all about the lack of effective support systems, the many barriers to accessing mental health and addiction treatment, and how these failures often result in cycles of incarceration and relapse. Sarah also reflects on her experiences in jail, the lack of follow-up care after release, and the importance of peer support and decriminalization for real change. 00:00 Struggles with health and homelessness 03:05 Developing dependence on pain medication 06:16 Feeling rejected by family 11:12 Struggling with painkiller addiction 13:14 Struggling to access treatment 18:35 Hospital visit and misunderstanding 21:40 Wishes for mental health support 25:03 Struggles with finding effective help For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  5. May 29

    Is Cannabis Really Safe? The Link Between Potency, Psychosis, and Violence

    Explore the unsettling reality of high-potency cannabis and its link to psychosis, violent crime, and legal controversy. In this episode of Freud and Felons, Dr. Yalda Safai dives deep into cases where marijuana use led to psychotic breaks and tragic outcomes, highlighting how today's concentrated THC products differ dramatically from those of the past. Learn how THC hijacks key brain systems, why certain groups—like teens and those with a family history of schizophrenia—are at greater risk, and why both the legal system and society need to reconsider their approach to cannabis regulation and education. 00:00 Exploring cannabis induced psychosis03:12 Effects of high-potency marijuana08:29 THC's impact on brain function10:08 Impacts of high THC products14:53 Cannabis, psychosis, and legal issues For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  6. May 15

    Can AI Replace Therapists? Examining the Dangers of Relying on Chatbots

    Explore the hidden risks of turning to AI chatbots for therapy in this revealing episode of Freud and Felons. Dr. Yalda Safai dives into real-life cases where individuals became dangerously attached to AI, leading to delusions, psychotic breaks, and tragic outcomes, including instances of suicide and preventable deaths. Find out how chatbots can reinforce harmful beliefs, the specific dangers posed to vulnerable populations, and why AI lacks the emotional intelligence and accountability required for real mental health support. Dr. Safai also focuses on the privacy implications of sharing your most personal thoughts with AI systems and highlights the critical difference between genuine human care and what AI can offer. 00:00 Jacob Irwin's AI influence 05:39 Alerting authorities about security threat 06:32 Tragic outcomes linked to AI 09:43 Risks of AI in mental health 14:38 AI limitations in mental health support 16:18 Podcast introduction and call to action For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  7. May 1

    Inside the Minds of Mothers: Postpartum Psychosis and Unthinkable Crimes

    In this episode of Freud and Felons, Dr.Yalda Safai takes an unflinching look at the tragic cases of mothers who killed their children while suffering from postpartum psychosis and were found not guilty by reason of insanity. This episode goes beyond the headlines to examine the disturbing story of Andrea Yates and similar cases, exposing the interplay between mental illness and the criminal justice system. Watch to learn about the medical science behind postpartum psychosis, its symptoms, biological triggers like hormone shifts, immune system changes, and sleep deprivation, and why it's considered a psychiatric emergency. 00:00 Andrea's mental health struggles 04:41 Mental illness and criminal cases 07:32 Understanding postpartum psychosis risk factors 10:48 Immune system changes after birth 14:39 Understanding postpartum psychosis history 16:47 Encouragement for seeking treatment For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

  8. Apr 17

    Surviving TBI and Alcoholism: A Psychiatrist’s Candid Story

    Can traumatic brain injury and alcohol abuse lead to destructive behaviors? Traumatic brain injury and alcohol abuse collide in this episode of Freud and Felons, as Dr. Yalda Safai interviews fellow psychiatrist Dr. Hisbay Ali on his personal journey. They break down the real-life consequences, professional pitfalls, and recovery lessons from years impacted by TBI, addiction, and the criminal justice system. Watch as they break down the sequence of events leading to Dr. Ali’s traumatic brain injury and its immediate aftermath, the challenges faced by professionals—especially doctors—seeking help for mental health and substance use issues, the reality of the criminal justice system, and the broken link between corrections and rehabilitation. 00:00 The bar altercation and injury 03:31 Emergency brain surgery in NYC 08:56 First serious head injury 11:28 CTE, impulse control, and sentencing 13:46 Recovering from impulsivity challenges 15:53 Recovering after a hospital scare 20:18 Struggling with a brain injury 24:38 Quitting alcohol and playing guitar 28:27 Mental health stigma in medicine 31:53 Challenges in mental health care 35:07 Challenges discussing alcohol abuse 37:00 Talking about medical board issues 39:20 Issues with healthcare coverage 43:02 Discussing mental health challenges 47:54 Reflecting on lessons from prison 50:07 Deinstitutionalization and its lasting impact 51:48 Warning about substance misuse 55:02 Closing and future discussions For inquiries: ysafai@gmail.com Check out: https://yaldasafaimd.com/ @YaldaSafaimd on Instagram @YaldaSafaimd on TikTok @FreudandFelons on Instagram Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTsH62PGSr4vAXSfMTmc0? Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freud-felons/id1862484242 Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons. Subscribe if you want to understand the psychology behind today’s toughest headlines. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

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About

Freud and Felons is not another true crime podcast - it's a journey into the psychology of devious human behavior. I'm Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who works with inmates, sits through courtrooms, and, just like you, am fascinated by a good true crime story. Instead of "How", let's dive into the "Why" behind the crimes. Why do upstanding citizens just snap one day and murder their spouses? Why did Ted Bundy have so many fans? What does the word psychopath truly mean? Most importantly, why are YOU so obsessed with a good crime story? Welcome to Freud and Felons.

Information

  • Creator
    Yalda Safai MD
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Yalda Safai MD
  • Show Website
    Freud & Felons