Between Sessions with Justin and Challee

Justin and Challee
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Weekly

Hosted by two experienced clinicians, this podcast dives into real conversations about mental health, healing, and everyday life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, relationships, or just trying to keep it together — we’re here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. No judgment, no jargon — just honest talk and practical tools for your mental wellness journey.

  1. 6d ago

    Hogwarts Needs a Therapist: Let's Talk About It

    Challee, and Justin are diving into a playful Harry Potter character-by-character lens to discuss grief, trauma, neglect, perfectionism, self-esteem, identity, family dynamics, and accountability. They connect fictional backstories to mental-health themes while noting that the conversation is educational and not a substitute for professional care. Key Topics Harry: childhood grief, emotional neglect, repeated trauma, and the possibility of PTSD are discussed, alongside confidence and relationships. Ron: being overshadowed by accomplished siblings and his famous best friend contributes to feelings of inferiority and low self-esteem. Hermione: perfectionism, anxiety about grades, and exhaustion from overcommitment lead into a conversation about academic pressure, parenting, and progress over perfection. Neville: his parents’ permanent incapacitation, childhood loss, and feeling inadequate within his family form the basis of a discussion about trauma and eventual recognition. Petunia: resentment toward her sister’s magical world, grief over losing Lily, and the Dursleys’ permissive parenting are examined. Nymphadora: her ability to change her appearance prompts questions about identity, while her family background and wartime choices complicate the discussion. Voldemort: his orphanhood, early cruelty, and troubled family history raise questions about complex needs, responsibility, and whether early support could have changed his path. The hosts frame fictional character analysis as conversation and reflection, not clinical diagnosis or professional mental-health advice. Takeaways “Perfection, it does not exist. Progress is important.”“it can still be neglect even though his basic needs were met, it can still be emotional neglect.”“So I feel like some type of inferiority work would have been good.”“Loss may not be through death, but loss of the way that things were.”“what is my true identity?”“He did not heal.”Chapters 00:00 Welcome and mental-health disclaimer 00:28 Why Harry Potter characters are going to therapy 02:03 Harry Potter: grief, neglect, trauma, and confidence 05:15 Ron Weasley: feeling second-best at home and with Harry 06:33 Hermione: perfectionism, burnout, and academic pressure 10:20 Neville Longbottom: family trauma, loss, and finding his place 13:23 Petunia Dursley: sibling resentment, grief, and parenting 15:05 Tonks: identity, family expectations, and war 18:04 Voldemort: a painful history and the limits of accountability 22:56 What the hosts loved about the character breakdown

  2. Oct 19

    If We Could Go Back to Our 20s, Here's What We'd Tell Ourselves

    The conversation explores the insights and realizations that come with transitioning from one's twenties to thirties, emphasizing personal growth, self-acceptance, and the pressures faced during the earlier decade. Justin and Challee reflect on their experiences, the expectations they had, and how their perspectives shifted as they matured. Key Topics The shift in mindset after turning 30The importance of self-love and self-acceptanceLessons learned from career and relationshipsThe value of trying new things and failing forwardThe significance of reflection and growthTakeaways Your twenties are a time of learning and experimentation, not perfection.Loving yourself is essential for happiness and healthy relationships.It's okay to change your mind and switch paths; failure is part of growth.Acknowledging progress helps build confidence and motivation.Your brain fully develops after 25, influencing decision-making and relationships.Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Transition to Thirties03:05 The Pressure of Expectations in Twenties06:02 Finding Identity and Self-Acceptance10:17 Lessons Learned from Career Paths19:50 Embracing Change and Moving ForwardLinktree-Vote for Justin as Next Top Host! 💚 https://tophost.org/2026/justin-reynolds-2 https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  3. Oct 12

    You Weren’t Meant to Do Life Alone

    In this conversation, Justin and Challee explore the concept of building community, emphasizing its importance for personal growth and emotional support. They discuss the various ways to engage with community, the impact of social media, and the significance of quality relationships over quantity. Key Topics The meaning of community and its benefitsDifferent ways to build and maintain communityThe role of community in mental health and emotional regulationHow social media impacts real-life connectionsThe importance of quality over quantity in relationshipsStarting small and low-risk social interactionsCommunity involvement through volunteering and neighborhood engagementOvercoming social discomfort and introversion in community buildingTakeaways Community can be as simple as a few close friends or family.Leaning on your community is a sign of strength, not weakness.Quality relationships matter more than having many superficial ones.Small acts like a smile or holding the door can impact others.Building community reduces isolation and enhances mental health.It's okay to start with small, low-commitment actions.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Building Community01:16 What Does Community Mean to You?02:25 The Value of Leaning on Your Village04:00 Quality Over Quantity in Relationships05:15 Social Media and Real Connections06:31 Letting Go of Drama and Distractions08:16 Community Events and Local Engagement09:58 Meeting New People and Building Trust11:17 Small Acts of Kindness and Neighborhood Ties12:56 Balancing Introversion and Extroversion14:37 The Benefits of Community Support16:46 Emotional Regulation Through Community18:55 Practicing Kindness in Daily Life20:42 Asking for Help and Vulnerability22:25 Starting Small in Community BuildingLinktree-Vote for Justin as Next Top Host! 💚 https://tophost.org/2026/justin-reynolds-2 https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  4. Oct 5

    You Can Tell Your Therapist THAT?!

    Sex. Money. Parenting. Suicidal thoughts. Even the things you’re afraid to admit. Therapy is a place to talk about it. In this conversation, Justin and Challee discuss various topics that individuals often feel uncomfortable bringing up in therapy, emphasizing that therapy is a safe space for all thoughts and feelings. They explore themes such as discussing sex, criminal activity, suicidal thoughts, personal hygiene, financial stress, and parenting challenges, encouraging listeners to normalize these conversations. Key Topics The importance of openness in therapyTopics often considered taboo like sex and personal hygieneConfidentiality and mandatory reporting in therapyHandling difficult thoughts like suicidal or homicidal ideationThe role of silence and vulnerability in therapeutic progressAddressing trauma and military experiences safelyNormalizing discussions around mental health strugglesEncouraging honesty about family and personal issuesTakeaways Therapy is a safe space for discussing any topic, including taboo subjects.Building rapport and trust encourages clients to share openly.Silence can be a powerful tool in therapy for reflection.Clients should feel empowered to set boundaries and express needs.Discussing difficult thoughts does not mean a client is a danger, but safety is paramount.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Therapy Topics05:43 Breaking Taboos: Discussing Sex10:07 Addressing Criminal Activity and Confidentiality14:23 Navigating Suicidal Thoughts and Emotions18:49 Personal Hygiene and Mental Health21:57 Financial Stress and Therapy22:25 Postpartum Thoughts and Parenting Challenges25:17 The Importance of Open CommunicationLinktree-Vote for Justin as Next Top Host! 💚 https://tophost.org/2026/justin-reynolds-2 https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  5. Sep 28

    From School Struggles to Homeschooling: Finding What Works

    The conversation delves into the decision to homeschool, struggles in traditional schooling, the impact on family dynamics, positive changes from starting homeschooling, challenges and risks of homeschooling, benefits of homeschooling, socialization and structure, and misconceptions about homeschooling. Takeaways Gifted children often struggle with boredom and under-stimulation in traditional schools.Recognizing signs like behavioral issues and headaches can indicate deeper stress.Homeschooling may reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance social skills through community activities.Flexibility and autonomy in homeschooling can foster engagement and self-paced learning.Support systems like online programs with dedicated teachers make homeschooling manageable.Key Topics Signs of under-stimulation in gifted childrenImpact of school environment on behavior and stressBalancing socialization and education outside traditional schoolUsing online programs and flexible schedules in homeschoolingManaging parental stress and household dynamics during homeschoolingChapters 00:00 The Decision to Homeschool03:15 Struggles in School05:38 Recognizing the Need for Change08:00 Impact on Family Dynamics10:19 Positive Changes After Homeschooling14:37 Challenges and Risks of Homeschooling21:01 Benefits of Homeschooling23:56 Socialization and Structure28:44 Misconceptions About HomeschoolingLinktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  6. Sep 21

    Your Future Self Might Need This Plan

    The conversation explores the concept of safety plans, their purpose, and their application in crisis situations. It delves into the components of a safety plan, including warning signs, coping skills, distractions, professional resources, and reasons for living. The conversation emphasizes the importance of tailoring safety plans to individual needs and the benefits of having a safety plan readily available. Key Topics What is a safety plan and why it mattersCommon components of a safety plan including warning signs, coping skills, and resourcesDifferences in safety planning for adults and teensGrounding and distraction techniques during crisesAddressing fears and misconceptions about safety plansThe importance of environment safety and reasons for livingHow to tailor safety plans to individual needsBenefits of having a safety plan readily accessible Takeaways Tailoring safety plans to individual needsHaving a safety plan readily available can ease navigation during a crisis Chapters 00:00 Understanding Safety Plans02:49 Components of a Safety Plan05:47 Coping Skills and Distractions12:50 Safety Plans for Different Age Groups18:07 Making the Environment Safer20:05 Benefits of Having a Safety Plan Resources Stanley-Brown Safety Plan Form- https://suicidesafetyplan.com/forms/ Crisis supports-https://988lifeline.org/ Call/test-988 Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  7. Sep 14

    Grief: Feeling It, Facing It, Finding Your Way

    The conversation delves into the multifaceted experience of grief, exploring the stages, symptoms, and support mechanisms. It emphasizes the individual nature of grief and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and work through it. The process of healing and managing grief is also discussed, highlighting the ongoing nature of the journey. Key Topics The seven stages of grief and their non-linear naturePersonal experiences with grief and denialThe importance of validation and support during griefThe emotional roller coaster and waves of griefPractical ways to support loved ones in grief Takeaways Grief is a multifaceted experience that requires understanding and support.The stages of grief are not linear and can be revisited or experienced in different ways.Healing from grief involves managing the process and finding a path forward while allowing oneself to feel and work through the emotions. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Grief03:02 The Seven Stages of Grief09:53 The Grief Roller Coaster16:48 Understanding Anger and Bargaining19:06 The Stage of Depression22:05 Supporting a Loved One Through Grief27:52 Testing and Finding a Path Forward32:12 Healing and Managing Grief

  8. Sep 7

    Let’s Talk About Suicide: The Conversation That Could Save a Life

    The episode discusses critical suicide awareness and prevention, covering statistics, warning signs, and the importance of having open conversations about suicide including children, teens, and adults. It emphasizes the need for support, understanding, and access to resources for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. September is Suicide Awareness Month! The world is better with you here 💚 Takeaways Suicide awareness and prevention are crucialOpen conversations and support are essential Key Topics Suicide statistics and trends in 2024Warning signs of suicidal ideation in children, teens, and adultsThe importance of talking openly about mental healthHow to approach and support someone considering suicideDifferences between suicidal ideation and plansRole of self-harm in suicide risk assessmentCrisis resources and intervention steps Chapters 00:00 Suicide Awareness Month01:27 Statistics and Trends02:24 Youth Suicide Statistics03:24 Causes of Death and Misconceptions05:26 Talking About Suicide06:25 Warning Signs and Conversations23:09 Understanding Ideation and Plans29:42 Support and Resources Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b Resources Text or call-988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline https://988lifeline.org/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=onebox Treatment Locator https://findtreatment.gov/

See All (64)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hosted by two experienced clinicians, this podcast dives into real conversations about mental health, healing, and everyday life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, relationships, or just trying to keep it together — we’re here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. No judgment, no jargon — just honest talk and practical tools for your mental wellness journey.

Information