Minds Over Magic is where fantasy and psychology meet.
Hosted by Katya, a romantasy fan, and Katheryn, a psychotherapist new to the genre, we explore romantic fantasy through both fandom passion and psychological insight.
Our first season covers Fourth Wing, and our second season explores Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros.
Each weekly episode dives into plot twists, character struggles, and themes of survival, power, and love — with lively banter, thoughtful analysis, and plenty of dragons. So grab your book and join us as we explore the magic, the romance, and the psychology behind the pages.
Iron Flame Ch. 61 – 66: What Would You Sacrifice for the People You Love? — Lilith & Xaden
We've reached the end of Iron Flame!
In this episode of Minds Over Magic, we explore the psychology behind Chapters 61–66 of Rebecca Yarros' Iron Flame. Together we discuss Lilith's sacrifice, Xaden's impossible decision, Andarna's long-awaited reveal, and what these moments teach us about love, identity, and the choices people make when there are no good options.
We also look at some of the biggest criticisms readers have had about Iron Flame and ask whether we sometimes judge fictional characters more harshly than they deserve.
This is our final Iron Flame episode before a short summer break from our main podcast. We'll still be sharing romantasy and psychology content throughout August, before returning in September with a brand new format as we dive into Onyx Storm—this time with full spoilers and discussions centred around the book's biggest psychological themes.
⚠️ This episode contains spoilers for the entirety of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame.
Keep your mind sharp and your heart open.
20 Jul 2026
Iron Flame Ch. 55–60: Can You Ever Truly Know Someone? — The Second Signet
Can you ever truly know someone?
This week we're discussing Chapters 55–60 of Iron Flame and one of the biggest relationship questions in the series: Do we need to know everything about someone to truly trust them?
We also explore:
Why our minds fill in the gaps when information is missing.
Why we still seek our parents' approval as adults.
Whether helping those who have wronged us is a reflection of their values—or our own.
The psychology behind Jack Barlowe's hunger for power.
Join us as we unpack the psychology behind Rebecca Yarros' characters and discover what their stories can teach us about ourselves.
⚠️ Spoilers for Fourth Wing and Iron Flame.
6 Jul 2026
Interview with Beth Ann Bautiste — The Scent of Sea and Ash
In this episode of Minds Over Magic, we're joined by fantasy author Beth Ann Bautiste to discuss her debut novel, The Scent of Sea and Ash.
We talk about Beth's writing journey, the inspiration behind the story, and how she built a world filled with unique cultures, creatures, and magic. Along the way, we explore some of our favourite psychology-inspired topics, including found family, resilience, fate versus choice, and why readers are so fascinated by romance tropes.
Whether you've already read The Scent of Sea and Ash or you're simply curious about the book, this spoiler-light conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the novel and the creative process behind it.
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
8 ratings
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