1The 24-hour news cycle isn’t just keeping us informed—it’s shaping our emotions, our stress levels, and even our worldview. In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we take a hard, honest look at the psychological toll of living in a constant stream of political headlines, breaking news, and social media commentary.

We explore how information overload can lead to anxiety, burnout, and hopelessness—and why the human brain is wired to fixate on threat-based stories. From doomscrolling to political polarization, we unpack the cognitive, emotional, and social processes at work when the news becomes overwhelming.

In this mind-bending episode, Doug and Kendall dive headfirst into the viral rise of Delulu Culture—a TikTok-driven trend where people proudly embrace delusional thinking as a confidence tool. From “If I believe it hard enough, it will happen” to manifesting dream jobs and relationships, Gen Z has turned magical thinking into a pop psychology phenomenon. But is it a form of hope... or just well-disguised denial?

Doug (our psychology professor) brings in the science of cognitive distortions, belief systems, and developmental psychology, while Kendall (our counselor) breaks down how fantasy-based thinking can show up as both a coping mechanism and a clinical red flag. Together, they unpack how delulu culture blurs the lines between empowerment and avoidance.

Have you ever been told to “romanticize your life” or “walk like you’re the main character”? If so, you’ve already brushed up against the viral trend known as Main Character Energy (MCE). It’s all over TikTok, Instagram, and pop culture—encouraging you to step into the spotlight, reclaim your narrative, and treat your everyday life like a movie where you’re the star.

Sounds empowering, right? Well… maybe. But here’s the thing: when does confidence turn into conceit? And how do you know if you're stepping into your power or just curating a highlight reel?

In this episode of Naked Psychology, we dig into the psychology behind this trend—what it gets right, where it goes wrong, and how to build real, grounded confidence that doesn’t depend on likes, applause, or aesthetic filters.

Psychology of Love Bomb.  In this eye-opening episode, Doug and Kendall dive into the explosive world of love bombing—when affection comes on strong, fast, and dangerously sweet. At first, it feels like a fairy tale: constant attention, grand declarations, and overwhelming praise. But beneath the surface, love bombing is often a tool of manipulation and emotional control. Drawing from both academic theory and clinical insight, the duo unpacks the psychological roots of this behavior, its connection to narcissism and insecure attachment, and how to recognize when affection becomes a red flag. Whether you've been love-bombed, know someone who has, or want to understand the difference between genuine love and romantic overload, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical advice.

After a three-month hiatus, Naked Psychology with Kendall and Doug is back! In this candid and reflective episode, we delve into the psychology of returning—whether it’s returning to work, routines, or reclaiming your space after time away. We unpack why transitions can be so mentally exhausting, how your brain adjusts after a break, and why it’s perfectly normal to feel off-balance when jumping back in.

From personal stories to psychological insights, we explore everything from return-to-work anxiety to identity shifts during downtime. Plus, we share what we’ve been up to, how stepping back can be a mental health move, and what’s ahead for Season 2.

Get ready for a thoughtful, fun, and slightly vulnerable episode that reminds you: you’re not the only one trying to find your footing again.

In this special episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we explore the "Psychology of Leaving" as we prepare for a break before returning on August 1, 2025. Saying goodbye, even temporarily, can stir up mixed emotions—both for those leaving and those being left behind. We dive into the psychology behind endings and transitions, why it’s so hard to let go, and how to embrace change with a positive mindset. We'll share our reflections on the journey so far, what we've learned, and what to expect when we return for Season 2. Tune in for one last conversation before we take a pause, and thank you for being a part of our community. See you in August!

How we perceive our bodies can have a profound impact on our mental health. In this episode, we discuss the psychological aspects of body image and offer advice on how to cultivate a positive self-view. Whether you’re struggling with body image issues or looking to improve your relationship with your body, this episode provides valuable insights.

In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we explore the "Psychology of Dreams" and what our dreams might be trying to tell us. Dreams have fascinated humans for centuries, from ancient interpretations to modern psychological theories. But what’s really going on in our minds when we dream? We’ll dive into the science behind why we dream, the different types of dreams, and the potential meanings hidden within our nighttime visions. We also discuss common dreams, like falling or being chased, and explore what they could reveal about our waking lives. Whether you’re a vivid dreamer or rarely remember your dreams, tune in to uncover the mysteries of the dream world and how it connects to our deepest thoughts and emotions.

In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we’re diving into the world of personality tests—are they helpful tools for self-discovery, or just modern-day horoscopes in disguise? From the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to the Big Five personality traits, we explore what these assessments claim to reveal about who we are and how accurate they really are. Can a test really help you understand yourself or your relationships better? Or are we just putting ourselves into convenient little boxes? We’ll unpack the science behind personality testing, discuss their uses (and misuses), and reflect on why so many of us are drawn to learning “what type” we are. Whether you're a die-hard INFJ or just curious about what makes personality tests so appealing, tune in for a candid look at the psychology behind the labels. 

In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we explore why we laugh and what makes things funny. We delve into the psychological mechanisms behind humor and discuss its mental health benefits, like stress relief and mood improvement. Plus, we have some fun ourselves, going a bit off the rails as we dig into the science of laughter. Tune in for a light-hearted yet insightful look at the power of humor!