Mind the Force

Kristine McPartlin
  • 5.0 (5)
  • TV & FILM
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

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 Star Wars is a universal language that connects fans from all walks of life. Whether you're a lifelong Jedi, a Sith sympathizer, or somewhere in between, Mind the Force invites you to explore these stories with an open mind and heart. Join us as we navigate mental health topics with empathy, humor, and hope, celebrating the strength within ourselves and each other. May the Force be with you as we journey together toward greater understanding, insight, and empowerment in both the Star Wars universe and our everyday lives.

  1. Episode XXII - Star Wars Holiday Special Featuring an Exclusive Interview with Director Steve Binder

    12/02/2025

    Episode 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. And for the first time on Mind the Force, we bring you an exclusive interview with legendary director Steve Binder, who shares: What it was really like bringing the Holiday Special to lifeHis creative vision and how it collided with studio demandsBehind-the-scenes stories that have rarely been toldHis reflections on the special’s impact—and how he feels about its reputation today Throughout the episode, Kristine and James discuss the emotional resonance hidden beneath the camp: the way nostalgia shapes our relationship to media, the comfort of holiday traditions, and how even the quirkiest pieces of pop culture can connect us to joy, community, and our younger selves. Whether you love the Holiday Special, hate it, or simply marvel at its existence, this episode offers fresh insight, warm humor, and a rare conversation with the artist behind the madness. 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/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    1h 6m
  2. Ep XXI - Spaceballs and the Healing Power of Laughter

    11/17/2025

    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, playfulness, and self-awareness can help us find balance in even the strangest galaxies. 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/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    51 min
  3. Ep. XX - Mace Windu

    10/20/2025

    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 perfection? And what can we learn from his downfall about trauma, control, and self-trust? 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/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    1h 38m
  4. Ep. XIX - C-3PO

    08/05/2025

    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 respectful nod to today’s AI, James and Lindsay also unpack the ethical implications of sentient intelligence—both in a galaxy far, far away and in our own rapidly evolving world. Hosts: James Abbate & Lindsay Riso Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    1h 29m
  5. Ep. XVIII - Pregnancy in Star Wars

    06/18/2025

    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 characters faced — and how they reflect the realities many people experience in our galaxy. We honor the complexity of pregnancy and speak openly about the emotional and mental labor of pregnancy. If you or someone you love is struggling, you're not alone. Resources are linked below: Mental & Maternal HealthPostpartum Support International – Free support groups & therapist directory2020 Mom – Mental health advocacy for momsNational Maternal Mental Health Hotline – Call or text 1-833-943-5746 (24/7) Pregnancy Loss & GriefReturn to Zero: HOPE – Support after pregnancy or infant lossSHARE Support – Community for grieving parents Immediate HelpCrisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (24/7) Who is your favorite mother in Star Wars? What do you wish the galaxy did better to support them? Tag us on social media @MindTheForce and share your thoughts with the hashtag #MindTheForce. Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    1h 6m
  6. Ep. XVII - Jango Fett

    05/06/2025

    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 resonates today. We also dive into Jango’s relationship with Mandalorian culture, his role in shaping the clone army, and what his story teaches us about freedom, love, and generational trauma. This episode is for anyone reflecting on the legacy they’re building—and the armor we wear to protect what we value most. Guest: Don Sinkfield https://helptoadjust.com/ https://www.thenewhopemhcs.com/ Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    2h 1m
  7. Ep. XVI - The Psychology of Fandom with Gayle Stever

    03/26/2025

    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 broader societal trends. We also take a special look at Star Wars, one of the most iconic and passionate fandoms in the world, and explore what it is about the galaxy far, far away that has sparked such a deep connection for generations of fans. Gayle offers unique insights into how Star Wars fits into the broader picture of fandom culture and the psychological aspects that keep fans coming back for more. Guests: Gayle S. Stever, Ph.D. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gayle_Stever  https://gstever.sunyempirefaculty.net/  Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    1h 24m
  8. Ep XV: Why the Dark Side with Dr Owen Muir

    02/25/2025

    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 pull of negativity in our own lives. Guests: Dr. Owen Muir https://www.fermatahealth.com/owen-scott-muir-md-interventional-child-adolescent-psychiatrist-brooklyn/ Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate Produced by: Press Record Studios www.pressrecordstudios.com Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce Mental Health Disclaimer We are not medical or mental health professionals. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this podcast do we diagnose or treat listeners with any kind of psychological, mental, emotional, or physical disorder as might be diagnosed and treated by a personal psychologist or other professional advisor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

    1h 22m
See All (23)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

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 Star Wars is a universal language that connects fans from all walks of life. Whether you're a lifelong Jedi, a Sith sympathizer, or somewhere in between, Mind the Force invites you to explore these stories with an open mind and heart. Join us as we navigate mental health topics with empathy, humor, and hope, celebrating the strength within ourselves and each other. May the Force be with you as we journey together toward greater understanding, insight, and empowerment in both the Star Wars universe and our everyday lives.

Information

  • Creator
    Kristine McPartlin
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Mind The Force
  • Show Website
    Mind the Force