Best Zeitgeist Movement Podcasts (2025)

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Freud Enters the Chat: Psychodynamic Therapy 1:17:48

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3d ago1:17:48

1:17:48

Margaret took the captain’s chair for this one, and I was just along for the ride—straight into the deep waters of psychodynamic and psychoanalytic therapy. We start with the basics: what do these words actually mean, and why do they still make some clinicians roll their eyes while others swear by them? From Freud’s infamous couch to modern relatio…

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Alyson Stoner: What Happens When You Grow Up in the Spotlight? 1:32:14

10d ago1:32:14

1:32:14

This episode might feel like a gut punch, in the most important way. Margaret and I sat down with Alyson Stoner to talk about what it means to be raised in the spotlight, what happens when systems prioritize performance over people, and how we reckon with that legacy in healthcare. There’s a vulnerability here that caught me off guard and I think t…

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Suicide Risk Assessments: Using Predictive Models in a Personalized Way 1:41:36

21d ago1:41:36

1:41:36

Margaret and I sat down to speak on a topic we rarely hear spoken plainly: suicide. We didn’t plan to tidy anything up or wrap it in easy language. Instead, we tried to sit with it—the fear, the responsibility, the human ache behind it all. We talk about how suicide shows up in our clinical work, how it’s shaped us personally, and why we both belie…

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Religious Trauma and Broader Visions of Spirituality in Healthcare 1:01:27

25d ago1:01:27

1:01:27

This episode felt like a deep exhale. Margaret runs solo today, as she sat down with Dr. Hillary McBride—psychologist, author, and researcher—to talk about embodiment, trauma, and the radical act of tuning back into ourselves. We talked about what it means to feel your feelings in your body, why disconnection often begins as protection, and how ple…

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Why People Die By Suicide: Theories Through History 1:11:50

1M ago1:11:50

1:11:50

While in psychiatry we avoid using declarative or certain language about mechanisms, it can be helpful to think about the narratives that drive people to behavior that will ultimately end their life. In this episode Margaret and I review the Durkheim principles of suicidality following the four categories: anomic, fatalistic, egoistic and altruisti…

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Eating Disorders for Psychiatrists: Part 2 52:36

1M ago52:36

52:36

It’s Part 2 of our deep dive into eating disorders—and this time, we’re going even deeper. We kick off by unpacking our mock therapy session with Dr. Helen Liljenwall, which unexpectedly hit close to home for all of us. Then we take a sharp turn into the medical realities of starvation, including refeeding syndrome, the female athlete triad, and wh…

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Eating Disorders for Psychiatrists: Part 1 58:18

2M ago58:18

58:18

This is Part 1 of our two-part deep dive into eating disorders—and we’re starting at the beginning. Margaret and I sit down with psychiatrist and eating disorder specialist Helen Liljenwall, MD to walk through the basics: What are the major types of eating disorders? What do they actually look like in real life? And how do we treat something that’s…

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The History and Process of Psychiatric Detainment 1:14:41

2M ago1:14:41

1:14:41

Margaret and I talk about what it feels like to care for patients who remind us a little too much of ourselves, especially when we’re also the ones filling out the paperwork for a psychiatric hold. We dig into what a 5150 (or 5585) really means, how to sit with that kind of authority, and the emotional mess of seeing a patient’s fear reflect your o…

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The History of Burnout (And Our Maslach Scores) 1:03:13

2M ago1:03:13

1:03:13

In this episode, Margaret and I take on burnout—what it actually is, where the term came from, and how to tell when you’re not just tired, but something deeper is cracking. We dig into the history, the Maslach Inventory, moral injury, and why burnout isn’t in the DSM (yet). We also share our own unhinged burnout moments (yes, mine involves harmonic…

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The Heart of Psychiatry 1:23:07

2M ago1:23:07

1:23:07

This might be our nerdiest episode yet—and that’s saying something. In our Season 2 kickoff, Margaret and I sit down with Dr. Margo Funk, psychiatrist and QTC whisperer, to explore the strange, stressful overlap between psychiatry and cardiology. We talk about our worst fears on call, how to spot when an EKG is lying to you, and why it might be tim…

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How It Started, How It’s Going: Season 1 Wrap-Up 47:49

3M ago47:49

47:49

Season 1: complete! In this wrap-up episode, Margaret and I reflect on what it’s been like building this show from scratch—while also being full-time psychiatry residents. We talk about favorite episodes, unexpected challenges, what we’re still figuring out, and what’s ahead for Season 2. We also answer listener questions about training, creativity…

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Couples and Sex Therapy: Myths and Truths (Part 2) 56:19

3M ago56:19

56:19

In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Nikki Haddad, we went from couples therapy theory to Simpsons cosplay, and yes—it was as chaotic and illuminating as it sounds. Margaret and I roleplay Homer and Marge in a fictional session while Nikki breaks down what’s actually happening between us (emotionally, not just cartoonishly). Along the way, we tal…

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Couples and Sex Therapy: Myths and Truths (Part 1) 1:01:26

4M ago1:01:26

1:01:26

In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Nikki Haddad—Margaret's residency best friend, couples and sex therapist, and one of the most thoughtful psychiatrists I know—to break down what makes romantic relationships so damn hard. We get into myths we’ve carried (and tried to shake), how sexual issues are rarely just about sex, and why our training in m…

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Q&A from YOUR listener submissions 55:44

4M ago55:44

55:44

We opened up the inbox and wow… y’all really came through. In this first-ever Q&A episode, Margaret and I answer your questions about coping during med school, surviving feedback, dealing with emotional exhaustion in residency, and why outpatient goodbyes feel like actual breakups. I also overshare about marathon training (again), Margaret brings t…

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Is Trauma Stuck in My Hips? 1:15:09

4M ago1:15:09

1:15:09

This week, I learned I have a pelvic floor. And yes, I realize I’m a doctor and should’ve known that already. Margaret and I talk with pelvic floor physical therapist and viral educator Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, who somehow made me breathe through my butt on mic. We cover everything from incontinence and pelvic pain to TikTok fame, trauma-informed…

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Trying to Meditate: Part II 4:35

4M ago4:35

4:35

In the last episode, Preston demonstrated to Margaret how to properly conduct a mindfulness meditation session. Due to popular demand, the sage spiritual guide is back. Takeaways: Preston can’t lead a meditation Margaret shouldn’t let him try — Watch on YouTube: @itspresro Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc. — Produced by D…

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Our Favorite Coping Skills for Working in Stressful Times 1:16:31

4M ago1:16:31

1:16:31

In Episode 16, Preston and Margaret dive into the chaos of overnight residency, the reality of sleep deprivation, and how mindfulness can backfire when your brain just won’t sit still. From ruined meditations to hot girl walks through hospital hallways, they unpack what real-world coping actually looks like—before, during, and after the hardest mom…

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Alcohol: Examining Alcohol culture, history, and use disorder 1:33:00

5M ago1:33:00

1:33:00

In Episode 15, Preston and Margaret open a bottle—of questions, stories, and science—about alcohol use disorder. What do we get wrong about “moderate” drinking? Why is detox more dangerous than most people realize? And how does alcohol quietly reshape identity, relationships, and the brain itself? With their signature blend of honesty and humor, th…

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Social Anxiety & the Loneliness Epidemic 1:22:57

5M ago1:22:57

1:22:57

In Episode 14, Preston and Margaret dive into social anxiety disorder and the loneliness epidemic. From embarrassing childhood memories to awkward club encounters, they explore how social anxiety shows up in everyday life and how it differs from normal nerves. They also discuss the surgeon general’s definition of loneliness, the role of social medi…

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Marathoning and Mental Health 1:25:38

5M ago1:25:38

1:25:38

In this episode, Preston and Margaret take a deep dive into the science of running, exercise culture, and its impact on mental health. They explore the history of running, how it went from an obscure activity to a cultural phenomenon, and the physiological and psychological mechanisms that make it such a powerful mental health tool. They also unpac…

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Parasocial Relationships, Social Media, & How Art Can Help Mental Health 1:30:01

5M ago1:30:01

1:30:01

In this episode Margaret takes the lead as she welcomes art therapist, psychotherapist, and author Amelia Knott to discuss the ethics of being online, parasocial relationships, and the impact of social media on mental health. We explore the blurred lines between personal and professional identities in digital spaces, the therapeutic power of art, a…

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ADHD, Misinformation, and the Chaos of Online Mental Health 1:22:27

6M ago1:22:27

1:22:27

In this episode we are joined by Priyanka Patel, a pharmacist, content creator, and soon-to-be author, to discuss mental health misinformation, ADHD, and the challenges of navigating online discourse about mental health. Priyanka shares her personal journey with ADHD, the barriers she faced in getting a diagnosis, and how social media both helps an…

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Genetic Counseling (How to Approach the Unknown) 1:07:00

6M ago1:07:00

1:07:00

In this episode we sit down with genetic counselor Julia Castro to demystify the world of genetic testing and counseling. They explore how genetic information can help (or sometimes confuse) patients, why more testing isn't always better, and the ethical dilemmas of knowing too much about your future health. Takeaways: Genetic Counseling is More Th…

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Cannabis and Coping: A Mixed Relationship 1:11:29

6M ago1:11:29

1:11:29

In this episode Preston and Margaret explore the endocannabinoid system, cannabis, and its impact on mental health. They break down the science behind CB1 and CB2 receptors, explain why marijuana affects people so differently, and discuss the complex relationship between THC, CBD, and dopamine. Along the way, they tackle myths about cannabis use, a…

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Motivational Interviewing 1:34:21

6M ago1:34:21

1:34:21

In this episode Preston and Margaret are joined by Dr. David Roberts to explore the fascinating world of motivational interviewing (MI)—a counseling technique designed to help patients navigate ambivalence and commit to meaningful change. Dr. Roberts shares insights from his years of experience training psychiatrists and therapists, breaking down M…

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Treating Back Pain and Trending on Tik Tok 1:33:52

7M ago1:33:52

1:33:52

In this episode Preston and Margaret welcome their first guest, neurosurgeon and content creator Dr. Betsy Grunch (aka Lady Spine Doc), for a deep dive into pain—how we treat it, how we misunderstand it, and how the system often fails those who experience it. Takeaways: Pain Is Not Just Physical: Chronic pain isn’t just about physical damage—it inv…

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Exercise, Nutrition and Mental Health 1:18:18

7M ago1:18:18

1:18:18

In this episode Preston and Margaret take a deep dive into the complex relationship between exercise and mental health. They discuss the science behind how movement impacts the brain, debunk common myths about fitness, and explore the psychological barriers that prevent people from incorporating exercise into their lives. Takeaways: Exercise Impact…

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ADHD In the Media 1:16:45

7M ago1:16:45

1:16:45

In this episode Preston and Margaret tackle one of the most talked-about topics in mental health today—ADHD. From the historical roots of the diagnosis to the impact of modern social media trends, they explore how our understanding of ADHD has evolved over time. They discuss the challenges of diagnosing ADHD in both children and adults, the role of…

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Rapport Building 1:21:07

7M ago1:21:07

1:21:07

In this episode Preston and Margaret explore the complex concept of rapport in healthcare. They reflect on the challenges of building meaningful connections with patients and the impact these relationships have on medical outcomes. From awkward early encounters in medical school to techniques they've developed as psychiatry residents, this episode …

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Making it Through Winter: Seasonal Affective Disorder and Winter Mental Health Tips 1:10:28

7M ago1:10:28

1:10:28

In this episode Preston and Margaret embrace the season with a deep dive into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). From the science behind melatonin and serotonin to the cultural and emotional frameworks that shape how we experience winter, this episode covers the biopsychosocial dynamics of seasonal depression. Along the way, they share personal ane…

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Attachment Theory, just hanging in there 1:11:12

8M ago1:11:12

1:11:12

In this episode Preston and Margaret dive into the science and personal experiences surrounding attachment theory. They discuss its origins, its modern-day interpretations, and how it shows up in everyday relationships. Takeaways: Attachment is Dynamic: Attachment theory isn’t a fixed diagnosis—it’s a lens to understand how people relate to others …

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Intro, tale of two doctors 1:09:58

8M ago1:09:58

1:09:58

In this debut episode of How to Be Patient, psychiatry residents Preston Roche and Margaret Duncan open up about their personal journeys into medicine and the challenges they’ve faced in connecting with patients—and themselves. From navigating early patient interactions to grappling with their own vulnerabilities, they explore the balance between a…

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Election 2024 Recap: This is Not the End of the Fight (English) 27:38

10M ago27:38

27:38

Hosts Asha Dahya and Monica Morales Garcia reflect on the 2024 election results, from the presidential outcome to ballot measures in ten U.S. states. They are joined by feminist lawyer and researcher Ximena Casas, Charo Valero of the Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Maria Di Franco Quinonez at Equis, and a chorus of feminist leaders from …

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Election 2024 Recap: This is Not the End of the Fight (Bilingual) 27:35

10M ago27:35

27:35

Hosts Asha Dahya and Monica Morales Garcia reflect on the 2024 election results, from the presidential outcome to ballot measures in ten U.S. states. They are joined by feminist lawyer and researcher Ximena Casas, Charo Valero of the Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Maria Di Franco Quinonez at Equis, and a chorus of feminist leaders from …

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Trailer: A Safe Space For Your Ears 3:23

10M ago3:23

3:23

It’s finally time to address our professional relationships with mental health treatment in a clear, calm, and professional manner. It’s time that practitioners start to better understand ourselves, our patients, and our parallel journeys to address mental health struggles in this highly unpredictable cultural climate. It’s time a podcast trailer p…

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U.S. Part 2: The Green Tide Rises (Bilingual) 57:41

10M ago57:41

57:41

In the final episode of Season One, we’re on the U.S.-Mexico border, meeting some of the women at the forefront of bringing the Green Wave to this country. On the cusp of an election that could change the course of reproductive rights for generations, their stories show us that the fight for bodily autonomy has no borders. In the face of extreme an…

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U.S. Part 2: The Green Tide Rises (English) 57:43

10M ago57:43

57:43

In the final episode of Season One, we’re on the U.S.-Mexico border, meeting some of the women at the forefront of bringing the Green Wave to this country. On the cusp of an election that could change the course of reproductive rights for generations, their stories show us that the fight for bodily autonomy has no borders. In the face of extreme an…

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U.S. Part 1: Storytelling, Conversation & Community 43:42

10M ago43:42

43:42

If it’s policy change we want, narrative change is the tool. In this episode, we are highlighting stories of people in the United States who are being harmed by restrictive abortion laws, and how storytelling can be the spark that creates change. Joining the conversation are Green Wave leaders who are bringing the movement to the U.S. - Colombian-A…

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BRAZIL: Crossing Borders For Care (English) 40:58

11M ago40:58

40:58

In this episode, we dive into Brazil’s fight for abortion rights as the country faces increasing Evangelical influence and restrictive laws which aim to pin homicide charges on people seeking abortions. Abortion is allowed in three exceptions, but Evangelical lawmakers are working to advance a landmark case that could make it illegal for victims of…

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BRAZIL: Crossing Borders For Care (Bilingual) 40:58

11M ago40:58

40:58

In this episode, we dive into Brazil’s fight for abortion rights as the country faces increasing Evangelical influence and restrictive laws which aim to pin homicide charges on people seeking abortions. Abortion is allowed in three exceptions, but Evangelical lawmakers are working to advance a landmark case that could make it illegal for victims of…

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: The Fight for Three Exceptions - Is It Enough? (English) 43:46

11M ago43:46

43:46

In this episode, we head to the Dominican Republic, which shares an island with Haiti in the Caribbean. We highlight the movement for Las Tres Causales, or The Three Exceptions, hearing different perspectives from activists and organizers about why these exceptions are not enough, but are an important first step in a longer fight. With a focus on i…

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: The Fight for Three Exceptions - Is It Enough? (Bilingual) 43:43

11M ago43:43

43:43

In this episode, we head to the Dominican Republic, which shares an island with Haiti in the Caribbean. We highlight the movement for Las Tres Causales, or The Three Exceptions, hearing different perspectives from activists and organizers about why these exceptions are not enough, but are an important first step in a longer fight. With a focus on i…

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COLOMBIA - From Three Exceptions to Decriminalization (Bilingual) 36:22

11M ago36:22

36:22

The Green Wave picks up momentum in Colombia, when in 2022, the country went from having only three exceptions to the abortion to decriminalizing abortion on all grounds up to 24 weeks of pregnancy - one of the most progressive abortion policies in the world. This all happened in the same year the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, where it…

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COLOMBIA - From Three Exceptions to Decriminalization (English) 36:21

11M ago36:21

36:21

The Green Wave picks up momentum in Colombia, when in 2022, the country went from having only three exceptions to the abortion to decriminalizing abortion on all grounds up to 24 weeks of pregnancy - one of the most progressive abortion policies in the world. This all happened in the same year the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, where it…

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Latinidad, Sex and Sexuality 41:07

11M ago41:07

41:07

In this episode we’re connecting the dots between abortion rights, bodily autonomy and sexual liberation. Because you know what we almost never talk about when we talk about abortion? Sex! Artist, organizer and abortion storyteller Favianna Rodriguez shares her journey toward sexual liberation, an intimate story of how her self-managed abortion all…

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EL SALVADOR - No Exceptions (English) 44:45

12M ago44:45

44:45

In episode two, we journey to El Salvador, a country described by the United Nations as one of the most dangerous places in the world for women. El Salvador has a total ban on abortion, and as a result, women are being jailed for suspected abortions, stillbirths, and miscarriages.This week, we meet Teodora Vasquez, a woman who experienced an obstet…

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EL SALVADOR - No Exceptions (Bilingual) 43:24

12M ago43:24

43:24

In episode two, we journey to El Salvador, a country described by the United Nations as one of the most dangerous places in the world for women. El Salvador has a total ban on abortion, and as a result, women are being jailed for suspected abortions, stillbirths, and miscarriages.This week, we meet Teodora Vasquez, a woman who experienced an obstet…

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ARGENTINA - Birthplace of the Green Wave (Bilingual) 41:46

12M ago41:46

41:46

Our series begins in Buenos Aires, the birthplace of the Green Wave. In 2020, Argentina achieved a milestone by legalizing abortion up to 14 weeks. But a new right-wing president could potentially jeopardize this progress. We meet feminist lawyer Soledad Deza, who represented Belén, a woman who was imprisoned for an obstetric emergency and whose st…

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ARGENTINA - Birthplace of the Green Wave (English) 41:47

12M ago41:47

41:47

Our series begins in Buenos Aires, the birthplace of the Green Wave. In 2020, Argentina achieved a milestone by legalizing abortion up to 14 weeks. But a new right-wing president could potentially jeopardize this progress. We meet feminist lawyer Soledad Deza, who represented Belén, a woman who was imprisoned for an obstetric emergency and whose st…

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Introducing Green Tide Rising 2:42

12M ago2:42

2:42

GREEN TIDE RISING (GTR) is an eight-episode audio and video series that spotlights Latin America's Green Wave movement and how it's shaping some of the most progressive abortion policies in the world, while asking the question: what can those of us fighting for reproductive freedoms in the U.S. learn from their iconic leadership? Through the eyes o…