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Can an algorithm truly support your mental health—or are we just outsourcing intimacy? In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I  takes a deep dive into the world of AI mental health apps like Woebot, Wysa, and Replika.

We’ll explore the research behind these tools, the appeal of 24/7 emotional support, and the potential risks of replacing real human connection with artificial “empathy.” Sarah shares insights from her clinical practice, including how AI can sometimes help—and how it can dangerously fall short.

Whether you're curious about digital therapy, using these tools yourself, or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you think critically about where tech ends and true healing begins

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On this episode of The Hardcore Therapist I spoke to Dr. Kate Quinn i a UK-based clinical psychologist and co-director of Heavy Metal Therapy, a community project that uses heavy music to support mental health. A lifelong metalhead, Kate created HMT to challenge stigma and show how metal can help people process emotions like anger, grief, and loss. Through her clinical work, public speaking, and her podcast The Church of HMT, Kate advocates for embracing difficult feelings and finding healing through music.

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In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I breaks down one of the most misunderstood dynamics in relationships: the difference between emotional intimacy and emotional enmeshment. If you’ve ever wondered whether your deep connection with someone is healthy—or if it’s crossing into codependent territory—this episode is for you.

We’ll explore:

• The key signs of emotional enmeshment
  
  
  
• What real intimacy looks and feels like
  
  
  
• Why those of us with trauma or attachment wounds often confuse the two
  
  
  
• How to begin untangling yourself without losing connection

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Today on The Hardcore Therapist, we’re joined by Rebecca Lore—better known as The Hardcore Cheerleader. From her early days on the sidelines as a high school cheerleader to her lifelong passion for movement, dance, and self-expression, Rebecca shares how she channels energy, joy, and authenticity into everything she does. We dive into her commitment to the straight edge lifestyle, being a mom, work life balance and everything in between.

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In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist Podcast, I explores the psychology behind crowd killing in the hardcore scene. Why does it happen? What emotional and cultural forces drive it? And how is it pushing people out of a community built on connection and catharsis? From toxic masculinity to trauma responses, I try to breaks down the mental health impact of pit culture — and how we can reclaim hardcore as a space for expression without harm.

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Today on the podcast, I'm joined by Mark from Time X Heist, a straight edge hardcore band out of Denver, Colorado. In a scene where few new acts are carrying the torch of the classic youth crew sound, Time X Heist stands out—blending the energy and urgency of late '80s to early 2000s hardcore with a sharp, modern edge. Their new EP, The Unforgiving Minute, just dropped on Heroes + Martyrs Records, delivering three tight, fast, and uncompromising tracks that reflect both their values and their passion for the genre. We’re talking straight edge, hardcore, and what it means to stay true in a changing scene.

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In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I answers a brave listener’s question: “I’m married and I want an open or poly relationship. My partner doesn’t. How do I talk to them about it in a way that respects them but also gets my needs met?” This raw and honest conversation explores the emotional truths behind non-monogamous desires, how to approach difficult conversations with vulnerability and respect, and what to do when partners aren't aligned. Whether you're curious about ethical non-monogamy or navigating it yourself, this episode dives into consent, communication, and what it means to live in integrity with yourself and your relationship. Resources mentioned include Polysecure by Jessica Fern, The Ethical Slut by Dossie Easton & Janet Hardy, Opening Up by Tristan Taormino, and directories like polyfriendly.org and morethantwo.com.

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On this episode of The Hardcore Theraoist I spoke to Flint Beard who is the vocalist and lyricist for Life Force, a straight edge hardcore band from Texas and Oklahoma, signed to New Age Records. Formed in 2018, Life Force blends classic youth crew intensity with sharp socio-political commentary. Outside of music, Flint is a dedicated activist, vegan, and proud nerd—passionate about justice, fantasy lore, and living with purpose. 

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In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I explore the emotional impact of the mother wound—how unmet childhood needs show up in adult relationships, and the caretaking dynamics that often follow. This conversation isn’t limited by gender or relationship type—it’s for anyone navigating patterns of emotional dependency, over-functioning, or confusion between love and rescue.

Learn how to recognize the cycle, break free from trauma-driven connection, and build relationships rooted in wholeness, not wounds.

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On this episode of The Hardcore Therapist I got to speak to Pat Flynn who is a legendary figure in hardcore music, best known as the frontman of Have Heart and Fiddlehead. With a powerful voice and introspective lyrics, Pat helped define a generation of melodic hardcore, channeling themes of vulnerability, personal growth, and emotional struggle. Outside of music, he’s also a high school history teacher and a thoughtful advocate for mental health and self-awareness, often exploring the intersection of hardcore ethos and real-life healing.

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