Awake at the Wheel

Dr Oren Amitay and Malini Ondrovcik
  • 5.0 (1)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Clinical Psychologist Dr. Oren Amitay and Registered Psychotherapist Malini Ondrovcik each week as they tackle hot-button issues from every angle. With sharp clinical insights, lived experience, and a bit of out-of-the-box thinking, Malini and Oren dive deep into today’s social and psychological trends, leaving you ready to form your own take. Malini runs a multidisciplinary clinic and specializes in trauma, ADHD, anxiety, chronic pain, and more, with a strong focus on culturally competent care. She’s worked extensively with first responders and even serves as an expert witness in trauma cases. Dr. Amitay brings nearly 30 years of expertise in therapy, assessment, and university lecturing, focusing on mood, personality, and relationship issues. He’s a frequent expert witness, well-versed in psychological evaluations, and has a few academic publications under his belt. Get ready for lively discussions, and insightful perspectives.

  1. APR 9

    Social Media Turned Bullying Into Content

    In this episode, Malini and Dr. Amitay delve into the alarming rise of the "flip the camera" trend, a form of online bullying that blends in-person humiliation with digital permanence. They explore how this behavior dehumanizes victims, amplifies cruelty, and the societal and developmental implications behind it. Main Topics: -The mechanics and evolution of the "flip the camera" bullying trend -The psychological impact on victims and the role of social media algorithms -The societal and developmental factors fueling this behavior -Legal and parental responsibilities in preventing cyberbullying -Strategies for parents, schools, and communities to address and mitigate online cruelty Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the "flip the camera" trend and its connection to traditional bullying 1:48 - The problematic nature of the trend and its embedding in social hierarchy and public humiliation 2:42 - Dehumanization and desensitization of bullies and viewers 3:11 - The permanence and 24/7 nature of online bullying and its effects on victims 4:11 - Personal anecdotes and societal observations about the trend’s influence 4:59 - How viewing cruelty as entertainment dehumanizes others in real life 5:21 - Incidents escalating to violence, including cases where victims have shot their tormentors 6:29 - The role of demand and supply in the proliferation of harmful behavior online 7:13 - The normalization of humiliating pranks and their long-term impacts 8:30 - Media influence and the normalization of antisocial behavior through advertising 9:03 - Developmental aspects, particularly how social status drives teenage participation in bullying 10:13 - Parenting and educational responsibilities to curb this trend and enforce accountability 11:22 - The role of social media algorithms and legal frameworks in addressing online bullying 12:30 - The sociopathic nature of this behavior and the importance of accountability 13:45 - The normalization and escalation of cruelty fueled by social rewards and fame 14:39 - The harmful long-term consequences, including suicide, and societal responsibility 16:43 - Potential legal reform and the importance of teaching empathy and morality in schools 18:22 - The influence of social media on empathy development and social norms 19:33 - Early bullying behaviors and how technology exacerbates and amplifies them 20:22 - The importance of parental monitoring and setting examples for responsible online behavior 22:19 - Practical advice for parents on how children can avoid escalating or participating in online cruelty 23:16 - The importance of detachment and not engaging in bullying, lessons for parents and children 23:54 - Encouraging audience reflection on the trend's popularity and societal impact 24:09 - Closing remarks and final thoughts on responsible social media use and community action Note: The episode emphasizes the importance of societal, parental, and educational efforts in combatting online cruelty and fostering empathy among youth. We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    25 min

  2. MAR 25

    Is Healthy Masculinity Even Possible Anymore?

    Awake at the Wheel | Ep 103 In this episode, Malini Ondrovcik and Dr. Oren Amitay unpack the confusing and often damaging messages men receive about masculinity, sexuality, hygiene, and emotional expression. From online shame and cultural stereotypes to bias in therapy and mental health training, this conversation explores how young men are being shaped by fear-based narratives rather than nuance, confidence, and self-awareness. The discussion examines how social stigma around men’s bodies, sexuality, and even basic hygiene reflects a deeper crisis in how masculinity is understood. Malini and Oren challenge simplistic labels, question the influence of toxic messaging, and make the case for more emotionally intelligent, gender-sensitive approaches in both therapy and public discourse. This episode is a candid look at the pressures men face, the myths that distort male identity, and the importance of creating spaces where men can explore who they are without shame. In this episode: -The stigma around men’s hygiene, body awareness, and sexuality -How masculinity myths affect self-esteem and help-seeking -The role of shame, stereotypes, and online narratives in shaping male identity -Why bias against men in mental health spaces creates real clinical harm -The limits of rigid, manualized therapy when deeper emotional work is needed -Why therapists need self-awareness, nuance, and emotional regulation -How to support men in exploring identity, emotion, and masculinity without judgment -The importance of authentic therapeutic relationships in helping men heal Timestamps: 00:00 - Are men okay? Confusing messages about masculinity and hygiene 01:20 - The online debate around touching your body and being perceived as gay 02:19 - How toxic masculinity myths shape young men’s behavior 03:10 - The history of terms like cuckold and pegging and their psychological impact 04:09 - How stereotypes undermine male self-esteem and hygiene 05:08 - Shame, stigma, and why men avoid asking for help 06:48 - Bidets, masculinity, and cultural discomfort 08:05 - Anal health, shame, and gender norms 09:35 - Propaganda, simplistic narratives, and mental health discourse 10:21 - The decline of nuance in guidance for men 11:42 - “Not washing the booty” as a distorted symbol of masculinity 12:22 - Social media narratives and male identity formation 13:19 - Why therapists need stronger critical thinking 14:04 - Systemic problems in mental health training and practice 15:28 - How anti-male bias affects therapy 16:50 - The impact of cultural messaging on treatment outcomes for men 17:28 - Confidence, authenticity, and sexual identity 18:28 - Emotional regulation and therapist self-awareness 19:11 - Online groupthink and professional echo chambers 20:36 - The need for trauma-informed, gender-sensitive therapy 22:10 - Why men hide their struggles and emotions 23:41 - Building strong therapeutic alliances through empathy 24:38 - How to spot propaganda in gender and mental health research 26:02 - Fostering resilience and nuance in therapy training 27:50 - Helping men challenge harmful norms 29:20 - Creating safe spaces for men to explore masculinity 31:13 - Practical strategies for therapists working with men 33:18 - Rigid treatment models vs. emotion-focused work 35:01 - The limits of CBT and manualized app We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    44 min

  3. MAR 12

    The Male Victims Nobody Acknowledges | Domestic Violence Reality

    Awake at the Wheel | Ep 102 In this episode of Awake at the Wheel, Dr. Oren Amitay and Malini Ondrovcik are joined by Dr. Dina McMillan—social psychologist, author, and expert on abuse dynamics—to discuss an issue that is rarely talked about: domestic violence against men. While public conversations about intimate partner violence often focus on female victims, research suggests that male victims of domestic abuse are far more common than many people realize. In this episode, Dr. McMillan shares insights from decades of research and international experience examining abuse dynamics, societal bias, and the barriers men face when seeking help. The discussion explores why male victims of domestic violence are often overlooked, how stigma and cultural narratives discourage men from reporting abuse, and how bias within legal systems, academia, and social services can shape how cases are interpreted and handled. Dr. McMillan also explains how patterns of manipulation, psychological abuse, and coercive control operate in relationships, and why recognizing these patterns—regardless of gender—is critical for protecting victims and creating a more just system. This episode challenges common assumptions and encourages a more nuanced understanding of domestic violence, men's mental health, and intimate partner abuse. Heart and Mind with Dr. Dina McMillan - https://www.youtube.com/@HeartandMindwithDrDinaMcMillan https://www.drdinamcmillan.com Canadian Centre for Men and Families - https://canadianmenandfamilies.org/ Earl Silverman Shelter for Men - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earl_Silverman_Shelter_for_Men  https://www.drdinamcmillan.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the topic of domestic violence against men 00:53 Dr. Dina McMillan's background and recent move to the US 02:28 Lack of Canadian statistics and misconceptions about male domestic violence 02:57 Common misconceptions and societal biases 03:53 Statistics from Australia and the US on male victims 05:41 Dynamics of abuse involving large men and petite women 07:59 Mental health risks and societal neglect of male victims 09:30 Statistics and reporting biases in Canada and the US 12:18 Court system biases and the manipulation by abusers 15:26 Impact of media and societal perceptions on bias 19:17 Bias in family courts and judicial decision-making 24:00 Gender biases in legal and social systems 28:23 The need for anti-bias training in judiciary and law enforcement 32:56 Shelters for men and the systemic neglect 35:57 Recognizing patterns of abuse in high-profile cases 37:40 Men's self-perception and societal influence 39:52 Statistics on bidirectional abuse and societal myths 43:49 Bias in law enforcement and court decisions 46:30 Possibility of relationship recovery and the importance of skills 49:19 What individuals can do to address domestic violence issues 53:48 The importance of speaking out and societal change 57:46 Resources and how to find Dr. McMillan 58:47 Closing remarks and next steps for awareness If you enjoy discussions about psychology, relationships, mental health, and social issues, make sure to subscribe to Awake at the Wheel for more thoughtful conversations with experts and practitioners. We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    1h 4m

  4. FEB 25

    The Unhappiest Generation Explained | Why Young Canadians Are Losing Hope

    Are you curious about why Canada's youth are reporting unprecedented levels of unhappiness? In this episode, we explore the societal, economic, and cultural factors influencing mental well-being, and discuss practical ways to build resilience and fulfillment in today’s complex world. Key topics: -The shift in happiness among Canadian youth from 2011 to 2025, and why it matters -Economic pressures: rising housing costs, high student debt, and employment challenges -The impact of social media, social comparison, and media narratives on mental health -The role of societal values: wokeness, victim mentality, and cultural divides -The importance of instilling resilience, purpose, and mastery in young people -How different generations have faced crises yet maintained hope and agency -Practical advice for parents and youth: focusing on actionable behaviors, long-term mindset, and intrinsic motivation -The importance of social connections, purpose, and values for true fulfillment -The influence of social media envy and unrealistic lifestyle portrayals 00:01 - Why Canada's youth have become the unhappiest generation  00:38 - Demographic shift in happiness: from 2011 to 2025  1:07 - Countries with similar happiness declines: Jordan, Venezuela, Lebanon, Afghanistan  1:21 - Economic factors: housing prices, job market, student debt  1:50 - Social media impact and the social comparison trap  2:05 - The role of delayed milestones and cultural expectations  3:00 - The influence of social and cultural narratives on youth mental health  3:11 - The divisive effects of wokeism and societal polarization  4:36 - Comparing past crises with today's challenges, and maintaining hope  5:33 - How modeling resilience and perseverance can help youth  6:28 - The privilege and resources available in Canada versus global realities  8:01 - Gratitude and perspective for maintaining mental health  9:13 - The importance of intrinsic motivation and internal values  10:22 - Happiness versus fulfillment: deeper social connections and purpose  11:09 - Role of parents and society in shaping mindset and resilience  12:04 - Financial hardships and shifting metrics of success  13:01 - Realities of housing affordability and delaying adulthood  14:15 - Navigating home life and financial independence  16:52 - The dangers of social media-driven superficial priorities  18:08 - Lessons from delayed gratification and the marshmallow test  19:04 - The impact of societal messaging on children's mindset  19:42 - Fostering mastery, purpose, and resilience in young people  20:10 - How focusing on skills and internal motivation leads to true success  20:44 - The importance of helping children develop a sustainable mindset  21:35 - Practical advice for parents and young adults: values, effort, and perspective  22:24 - Final thoughts: resilience, long-term thinking, and keeping focus We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    23 min
  5. Navigating the Sandwich Generation

    FEB 11

    Navigating the Sandwich Generation

    Awake at the Wheel | Ep 100 In this episode, Malini Ondrovcik and Doc Amitay discuss the challenges faced by the sandwich generation, who are balancing caregiving for both their children and aging parents. They explore cultural expectations, the emotional toll of guilt and resentment, family dynamics, and the importance of self-care. The conversation also highlights practical solutions and resources available for caregivers, emphasizing the need for open communication and support systems. Takeaways The sandwich generation is increasingly common due to an aging population. Cultural expectations can create significant pressure on caregivers. Guilt often arises from feeling obligated to care for parents regardless of past relationships. Family dynamics play a crucial role in caregiving responsibilities. Self-care is essential for caregivers to avoid burnout. Resources and support systems are often underutilized by caregivers. Open communication with siblings can alleviate some caregiving burdens. Recognizing and addressing feelings of resentment is important for mental health. Caregiving can be emotionally draining, requiring awareness of one's own needs. Finding balance in caregiving is crucial for maintaining personal well-being. Sound bites "What happens when your parents need care?" "More than one thing can be true at once." "What are you doing wrong?" "You're a saint for doing this." "The system is completely messed up." Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Sandwich Generation 03:01 Cultural Expectations and Obligations 05:46 The Weight of Guilt and Resentment 09:00 Family Dynamics and Sibling Responsibilities 12:03 Finding Balance in Caregiving 14:51 The Importance of Self-Care 18:09 Practical Solutions and Resources 21:11 The Emotional Toll of Caregiving We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    30 min
  6. Why Everyone Thinks They’re Right (The Psychology Behind It)

    JAN 28

    Why Everyone Thinks They’re Right (The Psychology Behind It)

    Awake at the Wheel | Ep 99 In this episode, Malini Ondrovcik and Doc Amitay explore how perspective shapes our experience of the world — and why black-and-white thinking can intensify stress, conflict, and anxiety. They discuss empathy, critical thinking, the impact of parenting, and how strengthening personal agency helps us navigate complexity without getting pulled into extremes. Takeaways -People interpret events based on their personal perspectives. -Black and white thinking leads to division and misunderstanding. -Empathy is crucial for understanding differing viewpoints. -Parenting plays a significant role in shaping critical thinking. -Recognizing one's own agency can empower individuals. -Societal issues often stem from emotional processing. -It's important to focus on what one can control. -Nuance is often lost in societal discussions. -Understanding hierarchy is essential in relationships. -Critical thinking is necessary for navigating complex issues. Sound bites "We're losing nuance in our discussions." "It's either all good or all evil." "Focus on what you can control." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Societal Concerns 03:39 The Impact of Perspective on Interpretation 07:24 The Dangers of Black and White Thinking 11:10 Empathy and Understanding in Divisive Times 15:07 The Role of Parenting in Shaping Perspectives 19:09 Focusing on Personal Agency 22:50 Empowerment Through Perspective Shift We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    29 min
  7. FAFO Parenting vs Gentle Parenting: Are We Raising Resilient Kids or Doormats?

    12/03/2025

    FAFO Parenting vs Gentle Parenting: Are We Raising Resilient Kids or Doormats?

    Awake at the Wheel | Ep 98 In this episode, Malini Ondrovcik and Dr. Oren Amitay dive into the rise of “FAFO” (F*ck Around and Find Out) parenting and how it stacks up against gentle parenting. We talk about when kids actually need to feel natural consequences, why accountability and resilience matter more than ever, and how to hold the line—especially with teenagers—without becoming a drill sergeant. We also get honest about what it looks like to stay in charge, earn respect, and still be a human who messes up sometimes. Takeaways FAFO parenting emphasizes natural consequences for children. Gentle parenting may lead to a lack of accountability in children. Parents should guide children while allowing them to learn from mistakes. Teaching resilience is crucial for children's development. It's important to maintain a strong parent-child relationship. Parents need to present a united front in discipline. Changing parenting styles can be challenging but is possible. Authority in parenting should not equate to fear or shame. Self-respect in children is fostered through respect for parents. Parenting methods may evolve as children grow. Sound Bites "F around and find out parenting." "Let them learn the lessons when they're younger." "It's never too late to change." "You have to slowly work it in." "It's about self-agency and regulating behavior." "It's not about creating shame or fear in the kid." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to FAFO Parenting 01:26 The Importance of Natural Consequences 04:26 Navigating Parenting Styles 07:45 Teaching Accountability and Resilience 11:46 The Shift from Gentle to FAFO Parenting 17:57 Implementing Changes with Teenagers 22:18 Maintaining Authority and Respect 28:32 Conclusion: Embracing Imperfection in Parenting We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    32 min
  8. Can ChatGPT Be Your Therapist? The Hidden Risks of AI in Mental Health

    11/19/2025

    Can ChatGPT Be Your Therapist? The Hidden Risks of AI in Mental Health

    Awake at the Wheel | Ep 97 In this episode of Awake at the Wheel, we dive into the messy, fascinating question: Can AI ever really replace a human therapist? Using tools like ChatGPT as a jumping-off point, we unpack where AI can be helpful—and where it becomes downright dangerous. We explore why real healing depends on human connection, empathy, and a genuine therapeutic relationship that no algorithm can truly mimic. We also look at the risks of vulnerable people turning to chatbots for support, the ethical and clinical pitfalls of treating AI like a therapist, and why accessible, high-quality mental health care is more crucial now than ever. Takeaways -ChatGPT isn't a viable replacement for real-life therapists. -Humans are emotional and selective in interactions with chatbots. -Parents should monitor children's online engagement with chatbots. -AI can provide psychoeducational support but not replace therapy. -Therapeutic rapport is crucial for effective therapy. -AI lacks the ability to pick up on non-verbal cues. -Chatbots can reinforce maladaptive beliefs if not used cautiously. -AI should be an adjunct, not a replacement, for therapy. -Proper mental health care access is essential to prevent reliance on AI. -Human therapists provide empathy and insight that AI cannot. Chapters 00:00:53 Introduction to AI in Therapy 00:01:19 The Role of AI in Mental Health 00:01:44 Case Study: Risks of AI in Therapy 00:03:33 Limitations of Chatbots 00:05:13 The Importance of Human Connection 00:10:02 AI as an Adjunct, Not Replacement 00:15:00 Future of AI in Therapy We want your questions! Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video! Email Insta Youtube Facebook Twitter

    27 min
See All (106)

About

Join Clinical Psychologist Dr. Oren Amitay and Registered Psychotherapist Malini Ondrovcik each week as they tackle hot-button issues from every angle. With sharp clinical insights, lived experience, and a bit of out-of-the-box thinking, Malini and Oren dive deep into today’s social and psychological trends, leaving you ready to form your own take. Malini runs a multidisciplinary clinic and specializes in trauma, ADHD, anxiety, chronic pain, and more, with a strong focus on culturally competent care. She’s worked extensively with first responders and even serves as an expert witness in trauma cases. Dr. Amitay brings nearly 30 years of expertise in therapy, assessment, and university lecturing, focusing on mood, personality, and relationship issues. He’s a frequent expert witness, well-versed in psychological evaluations, and has a few academic publications under his belt. Get ready for lively discussions, and insightful perspectives.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr Oren Amitay and Malini Ondrovcik
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    106
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Awake at the Wheel
  • Show Website
    Awake at the Wheel

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