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.

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:

• Postpartum Support International – Free support groups & therapist directory
• 2020 Mom – Mental health advocacy for moms
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline – Call or text 1-833-943-5746 (24/7)

• Return to Zero: HOPE – Support after pregnancy or infant loss
• SHARE Support – Community for grieving parents

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (24/7)

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.

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.

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.

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.

Episode Description:

Happy Star Wars Podcast Day! On this special episode of Mind the Force, Kristine, and James are waxing poetic about their love of all things Star Wars. Today, we’re joining forces with fans and creators worldwide to celebrate the galaxy far, far away in honor of Star Wars Podcast Day (Feb 7th marks the 26th anniversary of the first Star Wars podcast the internet was ever graced with). Today, we explore the deep connection between Star Wars and mental health and why we do what we do. From the hero’s journey to the lessons of resilience, hope, and redemption, Star Wars offers more than just epic storytelling.

Join the Conversation:

What does Star Wars mean to you? Share your thoughts with us on social media or use the hashtag #MindTheForcePodcast! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—it helps the podcast reach more listeners who need it.

As promised! Recently got put onto Royish Good Looks, and they are some of the best Star Wars song parodies ever!

https://open.spotify.com/artist/08zsyi6FbSP0D1FTrDyo0W?si=CUinqNuaT6aPGOtu25WuYw

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

Please subscribe to the Mind the Force Newsletter for bonus material and more of our big Star Wars thoughts and feels!

https://mindtheforce.com/subscribe 

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.

In Episode XIII of Mind the Force, James, and Kristine wrap up the Tarkin series with a deep dive into the psyche of this complex character, exploring his authoritarian leadership style and the motivations behind his cold, calculated decisions.

Joined by LMFT and Trauma Specialist, Alev Ates-Barlas, we analyze Tarkin’s possible mental health struggles, including his need for control, fear-driven actions, and the lasting impact of his rigid upbringing. How did his environment shape his behavior, and what might have been different with early intervention? And were Tarkin and Vader really that different despite having such different upbringings?

We also discuss the real-world parallels of Tarkin’s traits, the repercussions of his actions on the society around him, and how understanding them can help us reflect on our own tendencies. Tune in for a thought-provoking blend of Star Wars lore and mental health insights!

Alev Ates-Barlas

https://iwellnessuny.com/about-us/alev-ates-barlas-lmft/

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

Please subscribe to the Mind the Force Newsletter for bonus material and more of our big Star Wars thoughts and feels!

https://mindtheforce.com/subscribe

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 substitute for working with a therapist or licensed mental health professional.

On Ep XII of Mind the Force, join Kristine and James as they continue their journey through the mind of Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin during his most formidable years at the military mastermind of the mighty Galactic Empire.

Picking right up from the end of Tarkin, Part I, they discuss the heavy costs of the Empire's brand of "justice", how hubris can blind even the savviest of minds, and ask the hard hitting question on everyone's mind; who was Tarkin's best friend?

A big thanks to Press Record Studios for having us!

If you'd like to record in NYC or remote anywhere in the world, visit Press Record Studios website at www.pressrecordstudios.com

Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pressrecordstudios

And Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pressrecordstudiosny/

A great piece of source material!

Strategy Strikes Back: How Star Wars Explains Modern Military Conflict

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36478363-strategy-strikes-back

Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate

Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce

Please subscribe to the Mind the Force Newsletter for bonus material and more of our big Star Wars thoughts and feels!

https://mindtheforce.com/subscribe 

Mental Health Disclaimer

I am not a medical or mental health professional. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do I 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.

On Ep XI of Mind the Force, Kristine and James roll out the first of two (count em, two!) episodes on everyone's favorite maniacal, military Moff himself, Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin.

Join the fun as they explore the life and mind of this complex fellow, from his wild childhood on the outer rim planet of Eriadu to the hallowed halls at the center of Galactic power.

Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate

Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce

Mental Health Disclaimer

I am not a medical or mental health professional. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do I 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.

On Ep X of Mind the Force, we cover the life and times of Fallen Jedi turned mystic healer, Barriss Offee. From her troubled days as a padawan to the dark halls of the Inquisitorius, we take a look at this classic Star Wars redemption arc.

And we are excited to bring on James Abbate as our permanent co-host! Welcome to Mind the Force, James!

Hosts: Kristine McPartlin & James Abbate

Mind the Force Website: ⁠https://mindtheforce.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mindtheforce/⁠

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/mindtheforce

Mental Health Disclaimer

I am not a medical or mental health professional. Mind the Force podcast is intended for inspirational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Nowhere in this Podcast do I 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.