Twin Minds Unwind

Holly Batchelder, PhD
  • 5.0 (11)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Drs Holly & Alison Batchelder are licensed clinical psychologists and twin sisters from Seattle, WA, offering a unique lens on wellness, self-compassion, anxiety, parenthood, and sleep. Their podcast is an ever-evolving story of professional insights and personal stories enriched by listener interactions and diverse guests. With a blend of humor and grounded wisdom, they tackle everything from scientific approaches to the wisdom found in everyday life, actively challenging mental health stigmas and celebrating their twin perspective. https://www.instagram.com/twinmindsunwind

  1. MAY 6

    Matrescence with Hayley Sanchez: Why So Many Moms Feel Lost

    Motherhood changes more than your daily routine, it reshapes your identity, your brain, and your relationships. In this episode, Holly sits down with  Hayley Sanchez, therapist and founder of Matrescence Matters, to talk about matrescence, the often-overlooked developmental transition into motherhood. They explore why so many women feel unprepared for this shift, the pressure to “get it right,” and what’s actually happening psychologically and biologically during this time. The conversation also touches on identity loss, comparison, relationship changes, and the question many mothers ask: “Will I ever feel like myself again?” This episode offers a grounded, honest look at modern motherhood and a reminder that struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. Hayley Sanchez is a wife, mother of two boys, and therapist based in Michigan. She co-runs her private practice, Matrescence Matters, with her partner, where they support men and women throughout the journey to parenthood—from preconception to pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Her work is rooted in non-judgmental, trauma-informed care, helping parents feel supported through the realities of modern motherhood. Hayley enjoys connecting with her community, talking all things motherhood, and supporting moms through the highs and lows of parenting. Outside of her practice, she loves reading, gardening, and spending time by the lake. Website: www.matrescencemattersmi.com Instagram: @matrescencemattersmi Dr Holly Batchelder https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder https://www.hollyphd.com/ -Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    32 min

  2. APR 22

    The Psychology of Fun: Why It Feels Wrong (and Why You Need It)

    In this episode, we explore the science of fun, play, and why so many high-functioning adults struggle to access them. We unpack why fun often feels unproductive or even guilt-inducing, and what your brain is actually doing when you experience joy. We answer: Why does fun feel “wrong” or undeserved? When is fun restorative vs. avoidant? When is guilt about fun actually useful? Why isn’t rest alone enough anymore? Simply put, fun is regulating. And in many ways, it’s what allows us to return to our lives with more energy, connection, and capacity. References & Resources Achor, S. (2010). The Happiness Advantage. Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist. Panksepp, J. (2007). Play and the development of the social brain. Journal of the Canadian Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Alison Batchelder https://www.alisonbatchelderphd.com/ Dr Holly Batchelder https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder https://www.hollyphd.com/ -Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    26 min

  3. FEB 13

    The Hidden Side of Perfectionism: When Not Trying Is Still Trying with Dr. Yesel Yoon

    In this conversation, Dr. Holly Batchelder and Dr. Yesel Yoon explore the complexities of perfectionism, its cultural influences, and the journey towards healing. Dr. Yoon shares insights from her book, 'Letting Go of Perfectionism,' discussing how perfectionism can be both a survival mechanism and a source of distress. They dive into the nuances of perfectionism, including the concepts of over-functioning and under-functioning, and emphasize the importance of self-compassion and redefining 'good enough.' The discussion also covers practical treatment approaches for managing perfectionism and the societal pressures that contribute to these tendencies. Bio  Dr. Yesel Yoon is a Psychologist and Learning Facilitator. She loves bringing people together to learn, reflect, and grow. Her background as a psychologist has given her deep insight into how people learn, build habits, and navigate uncertainty. After a successful career in private practice helping people make meaningful, sustainable shifts in how they work and live, she’s looking forward to applying these skills in organizational contexts—creating group programs, trainings, and resources that help people build the skills the modern workplace demands.  She recently authored the book, “Letting Go of Perfectionism: Stop Striving and Start Living”. In this book, she weaves her personal and professional perspectives to help people get a more nuanced understanding of how perfectionism and striving affect our well being.  https://www.amazon.com/Letting-Go-Perfectionism-Striving-Living/dp/1399817310) You can read more about her and connect with her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/yyoonphd/ -Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Dr Holly Batchelder https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder https://www.hollyphd.com/

    29 min

  4. 12/05/2025

    What Really Matters: A Conversation on Values, Self-Worth, and Meaning

    After a year away from the pod, psychologists Dr. Holly and Dr. Alison sit down to talk about what’s been on their minds: values, worthiness, and what actually makes a life feel meaningful. With no script and no plan, this conversation moves the way real life does, honest, a little messy, and surprisingly deep. They unpack why it’s so hard to know what you truly value when you’ve been in survival mode, how your body often knows the truth before your mind does, and why so many of us mistake obligations for values. They also discuss raising daughters who feel inherently worthy, navigating identity shifts, and learning to choose a life that feels like their own, without waiting to earn it. This episode is part catch-up, part love letter to their kids, and part reminder that you’re already enough to start living the life you want. Chapters 02:00 Understanding and Defining Values 12:40 How Experience and the Body Clarify What Matters 20:55 Values, Growth, and Life Transitions 27:00 Teaching Worth and Values to Our Daughters Resources Lundgren, T., Luoma, J., & Hayes, S. C. (2012). The Bull’s-Eye Values Survey. In W. O’Donohue & J. Fisher (Eds.), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (pp. 451–457). Wiley. https://www.actmindfully.com.au/free-stuff/ Dr. Alison Batchelder https://www.alisonbatchelderphd.com/ Dr Holly Batchelder https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder https://www.hollyphd.com/ -Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    41 min

  5. 12/06/2024

    Is Resentment Inevitable? Strategies for Connection and Repair

    In this episode, Dr. Holly Batchelder and Dr. Alison Batchelder discuss the complexities of resentment, its impact on relationships, and practical strategies for healing. They explore the nature of resentment, why we hold onto it, and how it can affect our emotional health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion as key steps in overcoming resentment and reclaiming emotional freedom. Takeaways Communication is key to addressing unmet needs and expectations.Setting boundaries can prevent feelings of resentment from building up.Self-compassion plays a vital role in managing resentment.Resentment often stems from perceived injustices and unmet expectations.Practicing gratitude can help shift focus away from resentment.Resentment can be protective but ultimately hinders emotional growth.Healing from resentment is a gradual process that requires intentional effort. Chapters 00:08 Introduction and Podcast Background 09:12 The Causes of Resentment 14:58 The Impact of Resentment on Relationships 23:35 Strategies for Managing Resentment Dr. Alison Batchelder https://www.alisonbatchelderphd.com/ Dr Holly Batchelder https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder https://www.hollyphd.com/ -Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    30 min

  6. 11/15/2024

    Inside Sport Psychology: Mental Health Strategies for Athletes and Beyond with Dr Tess Kilwein

    In this episode of the Twin Minds Unwind podcast, Dr. Holly Batchelder interviews Dr. Tess Kilwein, a board-certified clinical and sport psychologist. They discuss the growing field of sport psychology, the mental health challenges athletes face, and the importance of self-compassion and mindfulness in performance. Dr. Kilwein shares strategies for managing performance anxiety, balancing personal and professional life, and the need for inclusivity in sport psychology. Guest Bio Dr. Kilwein (she/they) is a board-certified, licensed clinical and sport psychologist practicing in California, Colorado, Tennessee, Wyoming, and PSYPACT® states. They provide sport psychology, mental health, and performance services for Vanderbilt University’s student-athletes, teams, and staff through a comprehensive and integrated performance enhancement and mental health consultation service. Dr. Kilwein is also the founder of Unapologetic Psychology, a clinical practice that provides assessment, psychotherapy, consultation, training, and sport and mental performance services with a unique focus on elite performing, transgender and gender-expansive, and rural populations. They are a Certified Mental Performance Consultant and a member of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee Mental Health Registry, the Canada Olympic and Paralympic Mental Health Network, and the Major League Baseball Players Association Mental Health and Wellness Network. Dr. Kilwein’s clinical specializations include trauma/PTSD, substance use/addiction, masculinity, sex and relationships, transgender and gender-expansive healthcare, and sport and performance psychology. They are also an elected member of the American Psychological Association’s Committee for Rural Health and active in research and advocacy related to identity-based marginalization and health-compromising behaviors (e.g., substance use, sexual behaviors). Takeaways Sport psychology is a growing field that impacts many. Athletes face unique mental health challenges, including performance anxiety. Self-compassion is crucial for athletes to perform at their best. Mindfulness and visualization are effective strategies for managing anxiety. Balancing personal life and performance is a common struggle for athletes. Cultural pressures in sports reflect broader societal issues. Inclusivity in sport psychology is essential for all athletes. Developing mental strength requires active practice and habit-building. Dr. Tess Kilwein https://www.tessmkilweinllc.com/ https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticpsychpllc/ Dr Holly Batchelder https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder https://www.instagram.com/holly.phd/?hl=en-Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    21 min

  7. 10/25/2024

    Decolonizing Mental Health: Trauma-Informed Therapy for BIPOC Communities with Dr. Pavna Sodhi

    In this episode, Dr. Holly talks with Dr. Pavna Sodhi about the power of trauma-informed psychotherapy tailored for BIPOC communities. They explore key mental health challenges, the deep impact of intergenerational trauma, and the importance of decolonizing therapy practices to foster healing and inclusivity. Dr. Sodhi shares insights on normalizing therapy, creating safe spaces, and the role of community care in mental health. Tune in for thoughtful strategies on resilience, cultural humility, and collective healing. Keywords: Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy, BIPOC Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma, Decolonizing Mental Health, Cultural Humility, Systemic Oppression, Community Care, Healing, Resilience, Mental Health Challenges Chapters00:00 Introduction to Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy02:41 Understanding BIPOC Mental Health Challenges05:21 Intergenerational Trauma and Its Impact08:11 Decolonizing Mental Health Practices11:03 Strategies for Healing and Resilience14:00 The Role of Community in Mental Health16:52 Decolonizing Psychology and Inclusivity19:32 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts Guest Bio: Pavna K. Sodhi, EdD (she/her), is a registered psychotherapist, author, speaker, and adjunct professor residing in Ontario, Canada. With over 25 years of psychotherapeutic and research experience, Dr. Sodhi has interacted with a multitude of populations in various clinical, academic, and supervisory spaces. Her professional background and personal narrative offer a unique research perspective regarding culturally responsive trauma-informed work, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) communities, and immigrant mental health. Her research has been featured in national and international scholarly journals and books. She credits her Punjabi-Sikh upbringing and lived experience for her continued interest in these timely topics. As a productive ally, she takes pride in decentring systemic racism, breaking barriers, and encouraging others to be culturally responsive. Her latest book titled, Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy for BIPOC Communities: Decolonizing Mental Health (Routledge) was launched in June 2024.https://www.routledge.com/Trauma-Informed-Psychotherapy-for-BIPOC-Communities-Decolonizing-Mental-Health/Sodhi/p/book/9781032106854 Pavna K. Sodhihttps://www.instagram.com/sunotherapy/?hl=en https://linktr.ee/sunotherapy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share https://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelder-Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    29 min

  8. 10/14/2024

    Intuitive Eating and Body Healing with Evelina Miropolsky

    Join Holly Batchelder as she interviews registered dietitian Evelina Miropolsky, owner of Posy Nutrition, for a deep dive into intuitive eating, Health at Every Size, and healing your relationship with food. Evelina shares her journey from psychology to nutrition, discusses the challenges clients face navigating diet culture, and reveals how shame and societal pressure impact our relationship with food. Whether you’re curious about intuitive eating, struggling with disordered eating, or want to better understand how to foster a compassionate approach to wellness, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways.Guest BioEvelina Miropolsky, MS, RDN, CD is a registered dietitian and owner of Posy Nutrition LLC based in Seattle, Washington. She practices from non-diet, Intuitive Eating, and Health at Every Size frameworks. She is most passionate about working with her clients to challenge beliefs around nutrition and health that have held them back from discovering freedom, pleasure, and connection to food. A seasoned yoga instructor, Evelina also offers classes virtually and in-person. Her summer happy place is swimming in a lake and her winter happy place is curled up in her reading nook with her cat Frankie, a latte, and a book.EvelinaWebsite: ⁠https://www.posynutrition.com/Holly⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollyphd.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠-Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    31 min
See All (42)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Drs Holly & Alison Batchelder are licensed clinical psychologists and twin sisters from Seattle, WA, offering a unique lens on wellness, self-compassion, anxiety, parenthood, and sleep. Their podcast is an ever-evolving story of professional insights and personal stories enriched by listener interactions and diverse guests. With a blend of humor and grounded wisdom, they tackle everything from scientific approaches to the wisdom found in everyday life, actively challenging mental health stigmas and celebrating their twin perspective. https://www.instagram.com/twinmindsunwind

Information

  • Creator
    Holly Batchelder, PhD
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Holly Batchelder, PhD
  • Show Website
    Twin Minds Unwind

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