Welcome to Understanding the Misunderstood! I’m your host, Erika Tinsley—a student deeply passionate about psychology, neuroscience, child welfare, law and policy, and social justice. As someone who has experienced the hardships of navigating my own mental health, I hope that my vulnerability and openness can inspire others to do the same. This podcast is about shining light on what too often stays in the dark. Together, we’ll unpack the complexities of mental health, challenge stigma, and share real stories that inspire empathy and understanding. Join me each episode as we explore the misunderstood world of mental health—and work toward a culture of compassion and awareness. For inquiries, please email us at understandingthemisunderstood1@gmail.com.
Learning the Risks of Treatment: Interview with Ellen Lubensky
In this episode, Erika interviews Ellen Lubensky, an attorney and Stanford graduate who shares her experience with psychiatric medication harm and withdrawal after becoming physically disabled for more than 20 years. Together, they explore informed consent, the risks and limitations of psychiatric treatment, important questions patients and families should ask before starting medication, and non-pharmaceutical approaches to mental health. Ellen also reflects on what she wishes she had known before treatment and what she hopes others can learn from her experience.
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Use code 'THEMISUNDERSTOOD' for 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/themisunderstood
For questions or partnership inquiries, you can email us at: understandingthemisunderstood1@gmail.com
Visit Ellen's websites:
https://ellenlubensky.com/
https://www.thementalhealthchoiceproject.org/
11 Aug 2026
Understanding Relationship OCD (ROCD)
In this episode, Erika delves into Relationship OCD (ROCD), exploring the intrusive doubts, anxiety, and compulsive reassurance-seeking that can make relationships feel confusing and overwhelming. She breaks down what ROCD is, how it can be misunderstood, and why constant questioning about your feelings or relationship doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong. Most importantly, this episode offers an educational and compassionate perspective for anyone struggling with relationship-related anxiety and reminds listeners that they are not alone.
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Use code 'THEMISUNDERSTOOD' for 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/themisunderstood
For questions or partnership inquiries, you can email us at: understandingthemisunderstood1@gmail.com
22 May 2026
Mental Health Awareness Month + 4 Years of Us
In this episode, Erika reflects on Mental Health Awareness Month while celebrating four years of her podcast’s journey. Erika opens up about the personal growth, healing, vulnerability, and challenges that shaped both her life and the creation of the show, sharing how the podcast became a safe space for honest conversations around mental health, trauma, self-discovery, and resilience. Through heartfelt reflections and gratitude for her listeners, she reminds audiences that healing is not linear, vulnerability is powerful, and no one has to struggle alone.
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Use code 'THEMISUNDERSTOOD' for 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/themisunderstood
For questions or partnership inquiries, you can email us at: understandingthemisunderstood1@gmail.com
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
14 ratings
Contact Understanding the Misunderstood
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Understanding the Misunderstood?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
