In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano discovers the critical role psychologists play in enhancing the mental performance of artists such as singers and dancers. The discussion features insights from Dr. Chelsea Wooding, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant and former competitive dancer with extensive experience in both athletics and the performing arts, and Dr. Elisa Monti, co-founder of the Voice and Trauma Research and Connection Group. Together, they share research and practical strategies that support the mental resilience and creative expression of performers.

Listen to the newest episode on: Soundcloud, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano interviews Dr. Ryan Martin, Dean for the College of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, about sadness, mood, depression and the New Year. Dr. Ryan Martin (aka the Anger Professor) is a leading expert on emotional wellness. His work has been featured by the New York Times, NPR’s Invisibilia, BBC Radio’s Digital Human, TED.com, and other major media outlets.

In this engaging episode of Psychology and Stuff, host Dr. Alison Jane Martingano sits down with Dr. Matt Coleman, Executive Director of Giving Multiplier. Dr. Coleman shares insights on charitable giving, discussing what motivates people to donate, from emotional connections to causes to the reinforcing “warm glow” of making a positive impact. He also highlights research showing that the joy of giving often lasts longer than the satisfaction from everyday purchases, making charitable contributions a boost for both recipients and donors alike.

As the holiday season approaches, this episode offers practical and thought-provoking ideas on how to give meaningfully and maximize the impact of donations.

Use code “stuff” to get an additional matching rate by visiting givingmultiplier.org/stuff

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, host Dr. Alison Jane sits down with Dr. Quishan Liu, a new assistant professor in the Psychology Department at UW-Green Bay, to explore the fascinating intersection of psychology and mathematics. Dr. Liu shares her research on how cognitive and emotional factors, like math anxiety, influence problem-solving and decision-making.

Together, they discuss why math anxiety begins as early as primary school, how cultural attitudes shape our relationship with math, and how teachers and parents can help reduce math-related stress. Dr. Liu also reveals insights from her study on decimals and fractions, showing why some problem-solving strategies are more effective than others.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by numbers, you won’t want to miss Dr. Liu’s advice on practical ways to overcome math anxiety and her tips for integrating math into everyday life—whether it’s through cooking, games, or even Monopoly! Tune in to learn how fostering a love for math can positively impact individuals of all ages.

In this episode, Dr. Alison Jane interviews Dr. Aaron Weinschenk, Director of the Social Sciences and Public Policy domain and the Ben J. and Joyce Rosenberg Professor of Political Science at UW-Green Bay. They explore the topic of political engagement, delving into why some individuals actively participate in politics, why others abstain, and why some fall in between. Dr. Weinschenk shares insights on the influences of family socialization, social identity, and contextual factors that shape individuals’ political involvement. He also discusses his research on the role of genetics in understanding the likelihood of political engagement.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jason Cowell explores the dynamics of the popular subreddit “Am I the Asshole?” (AITA), emphasizing how it serves as an important platform for individuals seeking validation and connection. Dr. Cowell argues that AITA allows users to find their community, affirming moral convictions shaped by years of personal experience. In this space, people grapple with complex issues of right and wrong, often concluding that moral clarity is elusive unless significant harm is involved. This quest for validation is deeply intertwined with our identities, as we yearn for acceptance and reassurance that our beliefs are justified. Ultimately, Dr. Cowell highlights that the motivations behind seeking such validation often stem from feelings of isolation in judgment—underscoring a fundamental human desire for connection and affirmation in an increasingly judgmental world.

In this episode of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano interviews Dr. James Kabrhel, Associate Professor of Chemistry at UW-Green Bay’s Sheboygan Campus, about misinformation, pseudoscience, and education. They explore how misinformation spreads through social media, the psychology behind how we process information, and the reasons we feel compelled to share it. Dr. Kabrhel explains how our emotional engagement with negative content, along with social media algorithms, contributes to the spread of misinformation. He also offers strategies for educating ourselves to engage with online content more mindfully.

In the season premiere of Psychology and Stuff, Dr. Alison Jane Martingano interviews Dr. Lisa Lamson, a historian at UW-Green Bay, about the intersection of history and psychology. They discuss Dr. Lamson’s research on Black childhood and schooling in 19th-century Baltimore, exploring how historical empathy allows for a deeper understanding of the past without projecting modern-day emotions. Dr. Lamson also reflects on the complexities of working with archival materials and how historical context plays a key role in developing informed and responsible citizens today.