

- 19
- Episodes
- 2025
- First episode
About Uncensored Mind
Join Ioanna as she dives deep into the highs, lows, and everything in between of being in your twenties. From mental health and psychology to women’s health, society, and politics, this podcast is a real, raw conversation about navigating life’s biggest questions while figuring it all out. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or just trying to find your way, Inside Our 20s offers honest insights, relatable stories, and practical advice to help you live your fullest, most authentic life. Tune in and let’s grow together.
- Publisher
- Ioanna Philomena
- Category
- health & fitness
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 2 Feb 2025
- Latest episode
- 8 Oct 2025
Latest episodes
19 episodes in the feed.

8 Oct 2025
Uni Bites: Concussion & Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
In this episode of Uni Bites, we break down concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in a student-friendly, science-based conversation. From what happens in the brain after a hit to the head, to the short- and long-term symptoms, recovery timelines, and emerging research, we cover it all. We also explore concussion subtypes, ongoing symptoms, and how modern treatment and active recovery strategies help protect brain health. Plus, we unpack what CTE is, who it affects, and why research on this degenerative brain disease matters. Whether you’re an athlete, student, or just curious about brain science, this episode gives you the tools and knowledge to understand concussions and take them seriously. Follow Uni Bites for more digestible discussions on big uni topics! - Ioanna x

6 Oct 2025
4. Functional Freeze: Stuck but Still Functioning
Ever feel like you’re crushing deadlines, showing up for everyone else, but inside you’re exhausted, disconnected, or just… stuck? You might be experiencing functional freeze. In this episode, we dive into what functional freeze is, why it happens, and how your nervous system reacts to chronic stress, trauma, or burnout. Drawing on insights from trauma experts and research, we explore the signs to watch for — from brain fog and emotional numbness to fatigue and indecision — and share practical strategies to “thaw” and reconnect with yourself, including grounding exercises, movement, mindfulness, and creative therapies. Whether you’re in your 20s navigating work, study, or relationships, or just curious about why we sometimes feel stuck even when life looks “normal,” this episode will help you understand and reclaim your energy, presence, and motivation. Sources and insights from: Liz Tenuto, Deborah Serani, Julia Childs Heyl, Benjamin Fry, Supatra Tovar, Cheryl Groskopf, and more. Tune in and learn how to move from autopilot back to feeling alive. - Ioanna x

5 Sept 2025
Uni Bites: Dimensional Way of Diagnosis
Is diagnosis just about labels and categories, or can it be something more human? In this Uni Bites episode, we explore Nancy McWilliams’ dimensional approach to diagnosis — a way of understanding mental health that goes beyond rigid checklists. We’ll break down the difference between categorical vs. dimensional models, why McWilliams sees diagnosis as both helpful and risky, and how her focus on personality structure brings nuance to understanding people. Whether you’re studying psych or just curious about mental health, this episode shows why diagnosis can be a starting point, not an endpoint. 🎵 Music Credit Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b?utm_source=chatgpt.com) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

3 Sept 2025
Uni Bites: Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury can happen in an instant — from a fall, accident, or sports hit — but its effects can last a lifetime. In this Uni Bites episode, we break down what TBI is, how it happens, how we measure severity, and what it means for recovery and mental health. From the Glasgow Coma Scale and post-traumatic amnesia to the role of neuropsychologists in rehab, we’ll cover the science behind brain injury, the differences between mild and severe cases, and why recovery is never one-size-fits-all. Perfect for psych students, health students, or anyone curious about how brain injuries are assessed and managed. 🎵 Music Credit Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b?utm_source=chatgpt.com) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

2 Sept 2025
Uni Bites: Status of Psychoanalysis
Freud’s theories of dreams, the unconscious, and meaning have shaped psychology and culture for over a century — but are they actually scientific? In this Uni Bites episode, we break down Agnes Petocz’s article The Scientific Status of Psychoanalysis Revisited and explore the major criticisms of psychoanalysis, from claims that it’s unfalsifiable to accusations that it’s already been disproven. Perfect for psych students, health students, or anyone curious about the clash between science and theory in psychology. 🎵 Music Credit Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b?utm_source=chatgpt.com) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

2 Sept 2025
Uni Bites: Cognitive Screening Tools
Cognitive screeners are like health check-ups for the brain; quick, practical, and super common in healthcare. In this episode, we’ll break down what they are, when they’re used, and why they’re not the same as a full neuropsychological assessment. From the MMSE and MoCA to the ACE-III and culturally responsive tools like KICA, we’ll explore their strengths, limitations, and why context always matters. Perfect for psych students, health students, or anyone curious about how clinicians screen for cognitive changes. 🎵 Music Credit Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b?utm_source=chatgpt.com) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

25 Aug 2025
3. Is Hustle Culture Affecting Our Lives
Hustle culture has convinced us that being busy is the same as being successful — but at what cost? In this episode of Inside Our 20s, I dive deep into how the constant pressure to do more, achieve more, and be more is quietly taking a toll on our mental health, relationships, and well-being. We’ll explore: What hustle culture really means The hidden costs of glorifying productivity Why women are often hit the hardest Simple, realistic ways to step back and protect your peace If you’ve ever felt guilty for resting or like you’re “falling behind,” this conversation is for you. ✨ Listen now and learn how to redefine success on your own terms. 🎵 Music Credit Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/ben-mcelroy/tenderness - Ioanna x

22 Aug 2025
Uni Bites: Evolutionary Psychiatry
In this episode, we take a closer look at evolutionary psychology — the study of how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have been shaped by evolution. Why do we think the way we do? How have survival and reproduction influenced everything from our social relationships to our decision-making? We’ll explore the key principles of evolutionary psychology, address some of the debates and criticisms, and unpack how this perspective connects to modern psychology. By understanding the evolutionary roots of human behavior, we can gain new insight into the challenges and strengths of being human today. Whether you’re a psychology student, curious learner, or just someone fascinated by human behavior, this episode offers a thoughtful and engaging introduction. 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): Golden Summer (Lenny B) by Fortune Cookie (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

20 Aug 2025
Uni Bites: Neuropsychological Assessment
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of neuropsychological assessment — what it is, why it’s used, and how it helps us understand the brain–behaviour relationship. From uncovering cognitive strengths and weaknesses to guiding diagnosis and treatment, neuropsych assessments are a vital tool in both clinical and research settings. I’ll walk you through the key principles, the purposes behind different assessments, and even explore a case example to bring the concepts to life. Whether you’re a psychology student, a professional in the field, or just curious about how our brains are tested and understood, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in to learn how these assessments shape the way we support individuals with brain injuries, developmental conditions, and mental health challenges. 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): Golden Summer (Lenny B) by Fortune Cookie (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

11 Aug 2025
2. How to Focus on Things You CAN Control
In this episode of Inside Our 20s, we’re unpacking something we all wrestle with — the need for control. Not the colour-coded-calendar kind, but the deep, human desire to feel like we have a say in how our life unfolds. We’ll explore the neuroscience behind why our brains crave agency, how hustle culture and social media distort that wiring, and what happens when our pursuit of control becomes performative instead of grounding. Drawing on research from Nature Neuroscience, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, and clinical psychology, I’ll share four key areas we can control — and why focusing on them protects our mental health. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or powerless lately, this is your reminder: you can’t control everything — but you can always control something. And that’s where your power lives. 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) Golden Summer – Fortune Cookie, Lenny B (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) | License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ - Ioanna x

14 Jul 2025
1. How to Help Someone Who is Struggling: A Guide For Friends and Family
This episode was inspired by one of you, someone asked me: “How do you help someone who’s struggling mentally, especially if they’re a close friend or family member? And how do you bring it up without making them feel worse?” Honestly, it’s one of the most important things we can talk about. In this episode, I walk through how to recognise the signs that someone might be struggling, how to start the conversation, what support actually looks like (without trying to be their therapist), and how to gently encourage professional help while still protecting your own mental health too. Happy Listening - Ioanna 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): Golden Summer – Lenny B (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

13 May 2025
Being a ‘Helper’ When You’re Struggling To
Ever found yourself holding space for others while quietly falling apart behind the scenes? In this episode, I'm opening up about what it’s like to be the “helper” — the therapist, mentor, support person — when you’re not okay either. Whether you’re a psych student, a behaviour therapist, or just that friend everyone turns to, this one’s for you. We’ll talk about the invisible pressure of being the strong one, what compassion fatigue actually feels like, and how to keep showing up without losing yourself in the process. This is a vulnerable, heart-to-heart chat — not just about helping others, but remembering to help yourself too. 💛 Let’s talk about the messy, human side of being in the helping space. 🎧 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): Golden Summer – Lenny B by Fortune Cookie (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

29 Apr 2025
Understanding the ABC's of Behaviour
In this episode of the Rising Minds Podcast, we break down the ABCs of behaviour, a powerful tool used in behavioural therapy to understand and shape actions. Whether you're a clinician, parent, or student, understanding the ABCs can help you identify what triggers certain behaviours, how those behaviours unfold, and the consequences that reinforce them. We’ll dive into real-world examples, including how to apply this model in therapy and everyday life, to help you improve habits, break negative cycles, and make lasting changes. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to use the ABCs to influence and improve your behaviour and that of others.

10 Mar 2025
Episode 6: Quarter Life Crashout
Your 20s are supposed to be the best years of your life… so why does it feel like one long existential crisis? From career anxiety and financial stress to the pressure of having everything figured out by 25, this episode is all about breaking down the myths of young adulthood. Spoiler: No one really knows what they’re doing, and that’s completely okay. We’re talking: 💭 The unrealistic expectations we put on ourselves 💰 Why financial stress is making it impossible to “thrive” 🎢 The messy reality of career paths (hint: they’re never linear) 🧠 Mental health, burnout, and learning to slow down ✨ How to navigate your 20s on your own terms If you’ve ever felt lost, behind, or like you’re the only one who doesn’t have a 10-year plan, this episode is for you. And if you found it helpful, share it with a friend who needs the reminder! 🌐 Check out my website for mentoring, tutoring, and student resources: https://psychinprogress.weebly.com (https://psychinprogress.weebly.com) 📲 Follow me on Instagram & TikTok: @PsychInProgress 🎶 License for Intro Song on Podcast —> Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

16 Feb 2025
Episode 5: Why Your Brain Loves a Good Timeout
🎙️ Episode 5: "Mindfulness and Its Neuroscientific Foundations" Ever wondered what mindfulness really does to your brain? In this episode of Uncensored Mind, we’re cutting through the self-help fluff and diving deep into the neuroscience of mindfulness. 🧠 What you'll learn: ✔️ How mindfulness physically rewires your brain for better focus and emotional control ✔️ The science behind stress reduction and how mindfulness lowers cortisol levels ✔️ Why mindfulness shrinks the amygdala (your brain’s fear center) and strengthens the prefrontal cortex ✔️ How mindfulness helps with anxiety, addiction, and even chronic pain ✔️ Easy, practical ways to train your brain—without needing to meditate for hours Mindfulness isn’t just meditation—it’s brain training backed by hard science. Tune in now and discover how to make your mind work for you, not against you. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple and Youtube! 🚀 #Mindfulness #Neuroscience #MentalHealth #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-bLicense code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

9 Feb 2025
Episode 4: Fight, Flight, or Freak Out | The Real Science of Stress
🚨 Ever wondered why your heart races before a big exam or why stress makes you want to cry, fight, or take a sudden nap? Turns out, your brainstill thinks you’re being chased by a tiger—even when the only real threat is your inbox. In this episode ofUncensored Mind, we break down thescience of stress and what happens in your brainwithin seconds of detecting danger (real or imagined). From theHPA axis and cortisol toDNA changes passed down from stressed-out parents, we’re divingdeep into how stress rewires your brain, your body, and even your future kids. But don’t panic—because just like stress can mess with you, it can also be reversed. We’ll talk abouthow to outsmart your nervous system, rewire your stress response, and take back control before your brain fully convinces you that your to-do list is life or death. 🎧Listen now and learn: ✅ Why your brain treats deadlines like life-threatening predators ✅ How stressliterally changes your genes (but don’t worry, it’s reversible!) ✅ The long-term impact of chronic stress and how to undo the damage ✅ Practical ways tocalm your nervous system and fight back ✨ Because stress isunavoidable, but chronic stress? Not on our watch. 🎶Music Credits: Music from#Uppbeat (free for Creators!): Golden Summer Lenny B - Fortune Cookie (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code:ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

3 Feb 2025
Episode 3: Getting Back on Track | Overcoming Slumps + Listener Questions
We all hit slumps—those days (or weeks) where motivation is nowhere to be found, and everything feels like a struggle. But the good news? Slumps don’t last forever, and you can pull yourself out. In this episode of Uncensored Mind, we’re diving into practical strategies to shake off the funk, refocus, and regain momentum. We’ll cover: ✅ How to recognize when you're in a slump ✅ Simple habits to reset your energy and mindset ✅ The #1 thing holding you back (and how to ditch it) ✅ Why waiting for motivation is a trap—and what to do instead ✅ Listener Q&A: Helping your partner feel more secure + Encouraging goal-setting in relationships If you’ve been feeling stuck, uninspired, or just off, this episode is for you. Let’s get back on track together! 🎵 Music Credit: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ

2 Feb 2025
Episode 1: Welcome to Uncensored Mind | Your Mental Health Rest
In this first-ever episode of Uncensored Mind, we’re diving straight into what this podcast is all about—mental health, psychology, and navigating the rollercoaster of life as a uni student or young adult trying to find balance. I’ll share a little about my journey as a psychology student and behavior therapist, the lessons I’ve learned, and why I’m so passionate about creating this space for open and honest conversations. We’ll chat about the importance of mental health, self-care, and mindfulness—and how these practices can transform the way you experience life. Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek at what’s coming in future episodes, from psychology career tips to practical advice for boosting your well-being. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey where we’ll grow, learn, and support each other. So, whether you’re here for psychology insights, mental health advice, or just a dose of real talk, I’m so glad you’re along for the ride. 🎵 Music Credit: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): Golden Summer - Lenny B (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ 👉 Have a topic you want me to cover or a story to share? Reach out on social media or through the podcast—your voice matters!

2 Feb 2025
Episode 2: University Survival Guide + Tips for Psychology Students
Hey everyone, welcome back to Uncensored Mind! In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to survive (and thrive) during uni life. Whether it’s navigating O-week, staying organized, or tackling lectures, tutorials, and practicals, I’ve got you covered. 📚 And for my fellow psychology students, I’m sharing tips on: Surviving stats classes (yes, you CAN do it!) Breaking down academic articles Acing all those assignments—essays, lab reports, case studies, and more. 🎒 Bonus: I’m also spilling the tea on what essentials to pack in your uni bag! 🌟 Hit play now to make your uni life a little less stressful and a lot more manageable. You’ve got this! 💡 Found these tips helpful? Let me know your go-to uni hack in the comments! 🎶 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b (https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b) License code: ONNDAHSA8IQHB0JZ
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