Inside Our 20s

Ioanna Philomena
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  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Ioanna as she dives deep into the highs, lows, and everything in between of being in your twenties. From mental health and psychology to women’s health, society, and politics, this podcast is a real, raw conversation about navigating life’s biggest questions while figuring it all out. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or just trying to find your way, Inside Our 20s offers honest insights, relatable stories, and practical advice to help you live your fullest, most authentic life. Tune in and let’s grow together.

Episodes

  1. 10/08/2025

    Uni Bites: Concussion & Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

    In this episode of Uni Bites, we break down concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in a student-friendly, science-based conversation. From what happens in the brain after a hit to the head, to the short- and long-term symptoms, recovery timelines, and emerging research, we cover it all. We also explore concussion subtypes, ongoing symptoms, and how modern treatment and active recovery strategies help protect brain health. Plus, we unpack what CTE is, who it affects, and why research on this degenerative brain disease matters. Whether you’re an athlete, student, or just curious about brain science, this episode gives you the tools and knowledge to understand concussions and take them seriously. Follow Uni Bites for more digestible discussions on big uni topics! - Ioanna x

    7 min

  2. 10/06/2025

    4. Functional Freeze: Stuck but Still Functioning

    Ever feel like you’re crushing deadlines, showing up for everyone else, but inside you’re exhausted, disconnected, or just… stuck? You might be experiencing functional freeze. In this episode, we dive into what functional freeze is, why it happens, and how your nervous system reacts to chronic stress, trauma, or burnout. Drawing on insights from trauma experts and research, we explore the signs to watch for — from brain fog and emotional numbness to fatigue and indecision — and share practical strategies to “thaw” and reconnect with yourself, including grounding exercises, movement, mindfulness, and creative therapies. Whether you’re in your 20s navigating work, study, or relationships, or just curious about why we sometimes feel stuck even when life looks “normal,” this episode will help you understand and reclaim your energy, presence, and motivation. Sources and insights from: Liz Tenuto, Deborah Serani, Julia Childs Heyl, Benjamin Fry, Supatra Tovar, Cheryl Groskopf, and more. Tune in and learn how to move from autopilot back to feeling alive. - Ioanna x

    12 min

  3. 09/05/2025

    Uni Bites: Dimensional Way of Diagnosis

    Is diagnosis just about labels and categories, or can it be something more human? In this Uni Bites episode, we explore Nancy McWilliams’ dimensional approach to diagnosis — a way of understanding mental health that goes beyond rigid checklists. We’ll break down the difference between categorical vs. dimensional models, why McWilliams sees diagnosis as both helpful and risky, and how her focus on personality structure brings nuance to understanding people. Whether you’re studying psych or just curious about mental health, this episode shows why diagnosis can be a starting point, not an endpoint. 🎵 Music CreditMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-bLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    4 min

  4. 09/03/2025

    Uni Bites: Traumatic Brain Injury

    Traumatic Brain Injury can happen in an instant — from a fall, accident, or sports hit — but its effects can last a lifetime. In this Uni Bites episode, we break down what TBI is, how it happens, how we measure severity, and what it means for recovery and mental health. From the Glasgow Coma Scale and post-traumatic amnesia to the role of neuropsychologists in rehab, we’ll cover the science behind brain injury, the differences between mild and severe cases, and why recovery is never one-size-fits-all. Perfect for psych students, health students, or anyone curious about how brain injuries are assessed and managed. 🎵 Music CreditMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-bLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    9 min

  5. 09/02/2025

    Uni Bites: Status of Psychoanalysis

    Freud’s theories of dreams, the unconscious, and meaning have shaped psychology and culture for over a century — but are they actually scientific? In this Uni Bites episode, we break down Agnes Petocz’s article The Scientific Status of Psychoanalysis Revisited and explore the major criticisms of psychoanalysis, from claims that it’s unfalsifiable to accusations that it’s already been disproven. Perfect for psych students, health students, or anyone curious about the clash between science and theory in psychology. 🎵 Music CreditMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-bLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    5 min

  6. 09/02/2025

    Uni Bites: Cognitive Screening Tools

    Cognitive screeners are like health check-ups for the brain; quick, practical, and super common in healthcare. In this episode, we’ll break down what they are, when they’re used, and why they’re not the same as a full neuropsychological assessment. From the MMSE and MoCA to the ACE-III and culturally responsive tools like KICA, we’ll explore their strengths, limitations, and why context always matters. Perfect for psych students, health students, or anyone curious about how clinicians screen for cognitive changes. 🎵 Music CreditMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-bLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    7 min

  7. 08/25/2025

    3. Is Hustle Culture Affecting Our Lives

    Hustle culture has convinced us that being busy is the same as being successful — but at what cost? In this episode of Inside Our 20s, I dive deep into how the constant pressure to do more, achieve more, and be more is quietly taking a toll on our mental health, relationships, and well-being. We’ll explore: What hustle culture really means The hidden costs of glorifying productivity Why women are often hit the hardest Simple, realistic ways to step back and protect your peace If you’ve ever felt guilty for resting or like you’re “falling behind,” this conversation is for you. ✨ Listen now and learn how to redefine success on your own terms. 🎵 Music CreditMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ben-mcelroy/tenderness - Ioanna x

    16 min

  8. 08/22/2025

    Uni Bites: Evolutionary Psychiatry

    In this episode, we take a closer look at evolutionary psychology — the study of how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have been shaped by evolution. Why do we think the way we do? How have survival and reproduction influenced everything from our social relationships to our decision-making? We’ll explore the key principles of evolutionary psychology, address some of the debates and criticisms, and unpack how this perspective connects to modern psychology. By understanding the evolutionary roots of human behavior, we can gain new insight into the challenges and strengths of being human today. Whether you’re a psychology student, curious learner, or just someone fascinated by human behavior, this episode offers a thoughtful and engaging introduction. 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):Golden Summer (Lenny B) by Fortune CookieLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    6 min

  9. 08/20/2025

    Uni Bites: Neuropsychological Assessment

    In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of neuropsychological assessment — what it is, why it’s used, and how it helps us understand the brain–behaviour relationship. From uncovering cognitive strengths and weaknesses to guiding diagnosis and treatment, neuropsych assessments are a vital tool in both clinical and research settings. I’ll walk you through the key principles, the purposes behind different assessments, and even explore a case example to bring the concepts to life. Whether you’re a psychology student, a professional in the field, or just curious about how our brains are tested and understood, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in to learn how these assessments shape the way we support individuals with brain injuries, developmental conditions, and mental health challenges. 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):Golden Summer (Lenny B) by Fortune CookieLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    9 min

  10. 08/11/2025

    2. How to Focus on Things You CAN Control

    In this episode of Inside Our 20s, we’re unpacking something we all wrestle with — the need for control. Not the colour-coded-calendar kind, but the deep, human desire to feel like we have a say in how our life unfolds. We’ll explore the neuroscience behind why our brains crave agency, how hustle culture and social media distort that wiring, and what happens when our pursuit of control becomes performative instead of grounding. Drawing on research from Nature Neuroscience, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, and clinical psychology, I’ll share four key areas we can control — and why focusing on them protects our mental health. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or powerless lately, this is your reminder: you can’t control everything — but you can always control something. And that’s where your power lives. 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!)Golden Summer – Fortune Cookie, Lenny B | License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

    12 min

  11. 07/14/2025

    1. How to Help Someone Who is Struggling: A Guide For Friends and Family

    This episode was inspired by one of you, someone asked me:“How do you help someone who’s struggling mentally, especially if they’re a close friend or family member? And how do you bring it up without making them feel worse?” Honestly, it’s one of the most important things we can talk about. In this episode, I walk through how to recognise the signs that someone might be struggling, how to start the conversation, what support actually looks like (without trying to be their therapist), and how to gently encourage professional help while still protecting your own mental health too. Happy Listening - Ioanna 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):Golden Summer – Lenny BLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

    30 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

Join Ioanna as she dives deep into the highs, lows, and everything in between of being in your twenties. From mental health and psychology to women’s health, society, and politics, this podcast is a real, raw conversation about navigating life’s biggest questions while figuring it all out. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or just trying to find your way, Inside Our 20s offers honest insights, relatable stories, and practical advice to help you live your fullest, most authentic life. Tune in and let’s grow together.

Information

  • Creator
    Ioanna Philomena
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Ioanna Philomena
  • Show Website
    Inside Our 20s