Barking Mad is a podcast that explores the world of mental health with honesty, warmth and humour. The name isn’t a criticism of people living with mental illness, but a nod to the idea that parts of the mental health system, myths and assumptions around it can seem “barking mad” and are worth questioning. Psychiatrist Dr Cathy Owen (35+ years’ experience) and co-host Peter Dowling answer real questions, challenge stigma, and unpack complex topics in an accessible, engaging way. For information only; not medical advice; some topics may be distressing; seek appropriate help as needed.
Barking Mad
Claim This Podcastby Dr Cathy Owen and Peter Dowling
44 episodes
Updated Daily
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇦🇺
24
Podcast Authority
BetaPoorBased on show quality, social media presence, reviews, charts, and more
Quality47
Social0
YouTube0
Engagement0
Podcast Overview
Barking Mad is a podcast that explores the world of mental health with honesty, warmth and humour. The name isn’t a criticism of people living with mental illness, but a nod to the idea that parts of the mental health system, myths and assumptions around it can seem “barking mad” and are worth questioning. Psychiatrist Dr Cathy Owen (35+ years’ experience) and co-host Peter Dowling answer real questions, challenge stigma, and unpack complex topics in an accessible, engaging way. For information only; not medical advice; some topics may be distressing; seek appropriate help as needed.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
8/20/2024
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24
Podcast Authority
BetaPoorBased on show quality, social media presence, reviews, charts, and more
Quality47
Social0
YouTube0
Engagement0
6
Excellent Areas
2
Good Performance
11
Growth Opportunities
excellent
Episode Length
25 minutes
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good
Show Experience
24 episodes over 1.1 years
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Every 16 days
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Recent Episodes
July 1, 2026
Episode 43: All Bets Are Off: The Psychology of Gambling Addiction
<p>Summary</p><p>In this episode, Cathy and Peter explore the psychology of gambling addiction, its prevalence in Australia, and the behavioral and mental health aspects involved. We discuss how gambling impacts individuals and communities, and what can be done to address problem gambling.</p><p>Keywords</p><p>Gambling addiction, mental health, gambling psychology, Australia, problem gambling, gambling harm, addiction, gambling regulation, gambling behavior, mental health disorders</p><p>Key topics</p><p>The prevalence of gambling in Australia and its societal impact</p><p>The psychological mechanisms that make gambling addictive</p><p>Design elements in casinos that encourage continued play</p><p>The distinction between recreational gambling and gambling as a mental health disorder</p><p>The role of mental health comorbidities in problem gambling</p><p>Regulatory challenges and industry practices in gambling</p><p>Practical self-assessment questions for gambling problems</p><p>Resources and support options for those affected by gambling addiction</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Exploring the World of Gambling</p><p>03:17 Understanding Gambling Addiction</p><p>06:14 The Psychology Behind Gambling</p><p>08:51 The Impact of Gambling on Society</p><p>11:25 The Role of Government in Gambling</p><p>14:05 Identifying Problem Gambling</p><p>17:00 Finding Help and Support</p><p><br></p><p>Resources</p><p>Gambling Help Online Australia - https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/</p><p>Gamblers Anonymous - https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.au/</p><p>Australian Gambling Research Centre - https://www.gamblingresearch.org.au/</p><p><br></p><p>Questions</p><p>If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com </p><p><br></p><p>Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources:</p><p><br></p><p>Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/</p><p>Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/</p><p>E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/</p><p>Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/</p><p>1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/</p><p>National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015</p><p>Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem</p><p>Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
June 16, 2026
Episode 42: Trust No One: the Psychology of Conspiracy Theories
<p>Summary</p><p>Explore the fascinating world of conspiracy theories, their origins, psychological roots, and societal impact with Dr. Cathy Owen, a psychiatry veteran. Understand why humans are drawn to conspiracy thinking and how to critically evaluate such beliefs.</p><p>Keywords</p><p>conspiracy theories, psychology, human mind, misinformation, critical thinking, history, society, paranoia, internet, psychology of belief</p><p>Chapters</p><p>01:12 The Fascinating World of Conspiracy Theories</p><p>02:08 Historical Origins: Nero and Roman Rumors</p><p>02:35 Evolution of Conspiracies: From Ancient Rome to Apocalyptic Myths</p><p>03:01 Community Spread of Conspiracy Theories in Early Rome</p><p>03:51 Psychological Roots: Uncertainty and the Need for Control</p><p>04:43 Notable Australian Conspiracies: Harold Holt and Azaria Chamberlain</p><p>08:23 The Court Cases and Public Beliefs in Australia</p><p>09:41 Popular US Conspiracies: JFK, Moon Landing, and Area 51</p><p>10:04 Recent Conspiracies: Epstein and 9/11</p><p>10:30 Pattern Recognition and the Human Brain</p><p>11:24 The Role of Villains and Heroes in Conspiracy Narratives</p><p>12:18 Why Cover-Ups Fuel Conspiracy Beliefs</p><p>13:01 Flat Earth and Chem Trails: Modern Conspiracy Examples</p><p>14:25 Celebrity Conspiracies: Paul McCartney and the Dead Theory</p><p>14:53 The Psychology Behind Believing in Chem Trails</p><p>15:37 Vulnerable Populations and Susceptibility to Conspiracies</p><p>16:05 Traits of People Prone to Conspiracy Theories</p><p>16:58 Conspiracy Theories During War and Pandemics</p><p>18:09 The Internet's Role in Amplifying Conspiracy Beliefs</p><p>18:32 Smart People and Conspiracy Beliefs</p><p>19:29 Conspiracy Thinking vs. Paranoia and Delusions</p><p>20:20 Mass Delusions and Misinformation</p><p>21:12 Self-Referential Conspiracies and Personal Paranoia</p><p>21:51 When Does Conspiracy Thinking Turn Into Paranoia?</p><p>22:22 Tips for Staying Grounded and Critical</p><p>23:29 Evaluating Evidence and Avoiding Echo Chambers</p><p>24:18 Respectful Dialogue and Curiosity in Conspiracy Discussions</p><p>25:07 Final Thoughts: Incompetence vs. Conspiracy</p><p><br></p><p>Questions</p><p>If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com </p><p>Resources</p><p>Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources:</p><p><br></p><p>Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/</p><p>Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/</p><p>E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/</p><p>Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/</p><p>1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/</p><p>National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015</p><p>Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem</p><p>Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
June 2, 2026
Episode 41: The Mental Health of Mental Health Carers
<p>Summary</p><p>This episode explores the vital role of family carers in mental health, highlighting their challenges, emotional toll, and the systemic gaps in support. With insights from Margaret a seasoned mental health carer, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how to better support these unsung heroes.</p><p>Keywords</p><p>mental health, family carers, systemic support, emotional toll, mental illness, caregiving, mental health system, Australia</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Carers</p><p>03:02 The Emotional Toll on Carers</p><p>06:25 Navigating the Healthcare System</p><p>11:44 The Role of Carers in Mental Health</p><p>30:22 Closing Thoughts on Supporting Carers</p><p>Resources</p><p>Mental Health Australia - https://mhaustralia.org/</p><p>Australian Government Carer Gateway - https://www.carergateway.gov.au/</p><p>Questions</p><p>If you have a question you would like to hear discussed, please drop us an email at barkingmadpodcast@outlook.com </p><p>Resources</p><p>Feeling out of sorts? Here are some quality mental health resources:</p><p><br /></p><p>Lifeline 131114 or online here https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/</p><p>Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/</p><p>E-Couch https://ecouch.com.au/</p><p>Relationships Australia https://relationships.org.au/</p><p>1800Respect 1800737732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au/</p><p>National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800250015</p><p>Headspace for 12-25 https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-improve-self-esteem</p><p>Kids Helpline for 5-25 https://kidshelpline.com.au/</p><p><br /></p>
44 total episodes available
Deep-dive analytics for Barking Mad
Frequently asked questions
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- What is Barking Mad?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
No, this podcast does not typically feature guests.
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