Explore every episode of the podcast Mentally Morbid

Join us for our final episode as we celebrate our time together as Mentally Morbid, quiz ourselves on what we've learned, and celebrate Kinsey's 30th birthday. Stay mental, stay morbid!

Phillip Zimbardo wanted to understand how the roles of prisoners and guards influence their behaviors. He was not expecting the students acting as guards to physically assault the student prisoners to the point of the prisoners begging for release. Welcome to our last official story as Mentally Morbid! 

Trigger warning: this episode includes information about death and dying. 

Death has historically been a fear for many people, and for good reason. During this episode, Kinsey highlights factors that cause death anxiety and what populations statistically are more comfortable with dying. We also learn that there was a president that died of buttermilk. Any guesses?

50 First Dates was a movie that highlighted the struggles of one woman who lives with anterograde amnesia. This week, Anni shares the story of Michelle Philpots, the inspiration for the film, and how amnesia impacts the brain and her day-to-day life. We also share an important announcement. 

Trigger warning: this episode talk about sexual acts of children prompted by an adult.  
The birth of Bruce and Brian Reimer was typical; two healthy boys of middle class parents in the 1960’s. What happened only months later was far from typical as Bruce underwent surgery that changed the course of his life forever. This week, Kayla shares the story of David Reimer and how one psychologist went too far in his research. 

Grammar is hard. Reading incorrect grammar is more hard. This week, Kinsey explores the research behind reading bad grammar and how it can elicit the fight or flight response. But first, we talk private practice, anglerfish, and narwhals. 

Road rage is an experience that most drivers are on the receiving end of at least once in their life. Listen in as Anni shares statistics and information about why this occurs in the wild. Also, Kevin needs therapy. Probably. 

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses abduction, sexual assault, and abuse of a child.

The abduction of Kara Robinson is well known after her story surfaced in the mainstream media. She found strength in sharing her story and using her voice for both herself and for those who do not have one. But what about her parents? In this week's episode, Kinsey shares information on how child abduction affects the parents and the families of the victims. 

Mass Hysteria has been in mainstream media for decades, but what is it? Listen in to this week's episode as Anni shares the story of The Dancing Plague and how researchers try to explain the phenomenon. We also find out how long we can go without talking to each other. 

Bing Crosby’s song “White Christmas” is a classic during the holiday season.  This week, Kayla presents research that suggests a relationship between this popular song and hallucinations. We also are dressed up again…. Because Christmas!

Ethics are highly valuable in the world of research, but how far were scientists willing to go to collect data? In this episode, Kayla shares the Tuskegee Study- a well known experiment known for its ethical violations and how it was the catalyst for current regulations in research. Also, apparently permanent tattoos are not always permanent. 

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses murder and sex work. 

Sex workers are often known to have high victimization rate among homicide and other severe crimes. But why aren’t we doing anything about it? Join us this week as Kinsey shares the terrible story of Joel the Ripper and why he chose this population for murder. We also talk about the history of our girls trips as we prepare for the next adventure. 

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses war crimes including murder, rape, and mutilation.
The Milgram Experiment is well known for its ethical dilemmas and prompts discussions on obeying authority. During this episode, Anni describes the horrors of the My Lai Massacre to explain authority and how humans are strongly influenced by those they deem “in charge.” In other news, WE BEEN BAMBOOZLED!  

Rejection is a normal part of people’s lives, but what feelings are associated with it and what function does it serve in our social lives? Kayla focuses on the evolutionary psychology encompassing the phenomenon of rejection. And…..we are not going to make it through this walking competition…. 

Trigger Warning: This episode contains details of murder. 

The bystander effect is a popular topic used as an introduction to experimental psychology. But is the Kitty Genovese case an accurate take on this problem? Listen in to this week’s episode as Anni shares the details of the original case and what research says about it today. Also, we are The Walking Witches!

Halloween sparks nostalgia for many, but what is it that we are actually feeling? Join the team as Kinsey explains the different types of nostalgia and find out what some of our favorite Halloween memories are. Also, we wore costumes!

Trigger Warning: This episode contains details of religious trauma, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse. 
In recent news, mom-influencer Ruby Franke has been arrested after her 12 year old son, who showed evidence of being tied up, climbed out of a window and sought help from a neighbor. In this episode, Kayla explains how these children could be victims of religious and spiritual trauma. But first, Anni finds her calling. Roller derby!

Trigger Warning: This episode contains graphic details of murder and addiction. 
The Suitcase Killer, Melony McGuire, murdered her husband in 2004. In her attempt to throw off police, she began to describe his gambling addiction, claiming that his death could be possibly related to the mob. Join the team as Kinsey describes the details of gambling addiction and possible treatments. We also learn of each other’s sleeping habits. 

Trigger Warning: this story contains murder of children and graphic details of true crime.
Mary Bell found herself unwanted, abused, and used by the adults around her. At the age of eleven, she murdered two children with an accomplice. Listen in to this week’s episode as Anni shares information on antisocial personality disorder and how it impacted the behaviors of a young girl. 

Conspiracy theorist, Alex Jones, has been in recent news for claims that the Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax. But who are his followers and why are they following? Join the team as Kayla explains the psychology behind conspiracy theories and characteristics of those who believe them. Also, WE’RE FAMOUS!

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses hate crimes.

Matthew Sheppard’s story warns of the danger that members of the LGBTQ+ have felt for decades, if not centuries. In this episode, Kinsey brings gene research into the debate between environment and genetics related to sexuality.  

Attachment Theory has been a part of the conversation in psychology and therapy since the 60’s. Listen in this week as Anni shares how learning attachment styles can be helpful not only when talking about children, but how this can influence adult relationships as well. We also learn how our careers are fake. 

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses infidelity and trauma. 
Jenifer Faison shares her experience of her then husband’s several infidelities during their relationship, in the new docuseries “Betrayal: The Perfect Husband”. In this episode, Kayla explores betrayal trauma and how it can impact mental health. Also, laundry is hard. 

Trigger Warning: this episode talks about homicide. 
The Manson Murders have been popular in the media for decades and Leslie Van Houten has recently been released. But why was she drawn to Manson to begin with? In this episode, Kinsey teaches the crew how hybristophilia could explain Van Houten’s desire for Manson. We also learn that Anni has an aversion to “gray meat.” 

Howard Hughs was one of the greats in the world of film until he began mentally deteriorating, spiraling into his own world. Join the team as Anni shares his story and how his symptoms took over his life. We also discuss how Ken and Barbie have a point. 

There are several types of delusions that accompany some of the diagnoses in the DSM-5, but not all of them made the cut. Listen in as Kayla shares the symptoms of Capgras Syndrome, a rare delusion that has people questioning their loved ones in a changeling-like scenario. We also discuss how much Kinsey spends on shampoo. 

Trigger Warning: this episode talks about grooming, sexual assault, and kidnapping. 
Her tragic story is infamous for happening in plain sight, but there were signs of grooming. In this episode, Kinsey shares the stages of grooming and how perpetrators use manipulation to their advantage. In other news, Kinsey knows where Paddington is from. It’s not where you think. 

The Conjuring is well known for it’s elements of horror and entertainment, but do you know the original story? Join us as Anni shares why and how people are prone to believing in the supernatural. We also find out if turkeys swim. 

Trigger Warning: Discussion of medical emergencies and traumatic brain injury. 
In most psychology courses, there is the introduction of the different parts of the brain and their functions. But what if those parts are injured? Join the team as Kayla shares the story of Phineas Gage and his unfortunate fate with an iron bar. We also find out what a bingus is. 

Trigger Warning: Discussion of homicide, pedophilia, child abuse. 
In the case of the Menendez Brothers, there were several lines that were clearly crossed. During this episode, Kinsey and the team consider different perspectives of the laws surrounding ethics of medical professionals. Also, anteaters are related  to sloths and armadillos apparently. 

Trigger Warning: Deep discussion of extramarital affairs and cheating. 

In the midst of the drama among the cast of Vanderpump Rules, a scandalous relationship poses the question of why people cheat on their partners. In this episode, Anni brings the stats of who cheats and introduces listeners to Esther Perel. Also, we find out that Kayla is definitely mint chocolate chip ice cream. For sure. 

Trigger Warning: This episode includes graphic information about medical procedures. 
Lobotomies have been popular in mainstream media, but have you ever heard of someone’s first hand account? Join us as Kayla shares the chilling story of how ice-pick lobotomies came to be and the first-hand account of Howard Dully, one of the youngest patients of Dr. Freeman. Also, Anni tells  us how much she hates us (it’s a lot).

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about homicide and parental loss.
The phrase “stages of grief” highlight the intense emotions after losing a loved one, but what about the ripple effects that linger afterward? In this episode, Kinsey shares that life after loss can bring growth amidst the pain. We also find out why Kayla would never be Kinsey’s landlord. 

Hoarding has been used in entertainment for quite some time, but do you know the psychology behind this behavior? Listen in as Anni shares short stories to emphasize the extreme outcomes of living with hoarding disorder. We also assess Kinsey to see if she falls in the clinical range…. Yikes. 

Trigger Warning: This episode includes animal abuse. 
The Milgram Experiment is a widely known study in the world of psychology, but do you know about the debate that followed it? Join us in this Girls Trip episode as Kayla shares a “Shock the Puppy” experiment that has Anni and Kinsey on the verge of tears. 

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of the Holocaust and trauma revolving around this topic. 

Kinsey takes us for a dive into how critical race theory was wrongly used to justify the horrible actions taken by the most infamous “doctor” in the Holocaust, Josef Mengele. But before that, Anni gets roasted for having a backa’the-brain…

Most of us remember the fascinating hot mess express “The Jerry Springer Show,” but do we know why none of us could look away? Why do people love to watch others fail? Join the team as Anni shares the psychology behind deriving pleasure from someone else's misery. Also, Anni and Kayla find out where Kinsey works…. After two years. 

Trigger Warning: This episode contains content that includes suicide, cults, child abuse, religious trauma, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. 
Cults are some of the main sources of entertainment in media and have become a topic of interest over the past several decades. But do you know the psychology behind them? Join the crew as Kayla explains the ins and outs of how cults recruit new members, the types of people who are susceptible, and how the survivors move forward after cult-life. Also, find out Kinsey’s new recipe for ice cream. 

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about murder, suicide, assassination, and abuse. Alex Murdaugh has gained the title of one of the most infamous attorneys in the United States. As his trial for murdering his son and wife comes to close, Kinsey shares their story and invites Spencer Tyson, J.D., a criminal defense attorney, to help unravel the facts. This episode is in two parts, so be sure to listen to the previous episode for more on the story.

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about murder, suicide, assassination, and abuse. Alex Murdaugh has gained the title of one of the most infamous attorneys in the United States. As his trial for murdering his son and wife comes to close, Kinsey shares their story and invites Spencer Tyson, a criminal defense attorney, to help unravel the facts. This episode is in two parts, so be sure to join us next week for more on the story.

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about child abuse, trauma, medical trauma, manipulation, and homicide.
Everyone knows the story of Gypsy Rose, but do you know the story of Clauddine Pitre? Listen in this week to Anni, with guest Ashley Olevitch, tell the story of the generational trauma that could have led to her ultimate demise.

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about sexual abuse, physical abuse, suicide, and trauma. 
Known for her unique case, Sybil and her experience with multiple personalities (now known as DID) took the world by storm. From libraries to the big screen, she was widely known as the woman who had 16 different alters. Join the crew as Kayla tells the story that will have you rethinking what you know as fact.

Spoiler Alert! This episode talks about all seasons of Love is Blind! 
Do you think Love is Blind? Could you sit in a pod and find the love of your life? Listen in as Anni brings psychology to the world of reality television. Kinsey also shares her extreme aversion to men playing guitars. 

Have you ever wondered why you are always drawn to the same genre of books? Or why your best friend refuses to read something you love? *cough cough* Well, look no further! Join the crew as Kayla dives into a research study that finds correlations between your personality and your favorite books! We also go DEEP into explaining why no one can understand Anni’s messages.

What does the research say about friends with benefits? You will find out as we welcome guest, Thomas Skurja, this week because Kinsey decided to bring the perfect topic for siblings to discuss: sex with friends. 

Ever wonder about the world of fetishes? Maybe you’re already in it and wonder where it comes from. Either way, join us as Anni shares some interesting insights behind foot fetishes and where they stem from. 

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide, ambiguous loss, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and terminal illness.

Robin Williams is known as one the many actors that we lost too soon, but do we have a clear understanding as to why? Listen in as Kayla explains a terrible disease that served as a silent killer and whose origins are still unknown.

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about child abuse, murder, and manipulation. Casey Anthony’s case is a well known topic of conversation, but have you ever thought about her psyche? Join the crew as Kinsey shares the details of the case and they discuss the impact of the media and a possible diagnoses based on the DSM-5. We also learn that Kinsey re-wears socks… so there’s that.

Trigger Warning: This episode talks about child abuse. 

Rebirthing Therapy sounds good on paper, but what about in practice? Join in as Anni brings us a sad tale of Candace Newmaker, who was killed as a result of negligence, malpractice and pseudoscience. Plus, Kayla and Kinsey have several reasons to yell at Anni.