

All In The Mind
ABC listen
All In The Mind is ABC RN's weekly podcast looking into the mental universe, the mind, brain and behaviour — everything from addiction to artificial intelligence.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 23, 2025 • 30min
Cruel intentions: how toxic tabloids and celebrity culture changed the way we talk about mental health
Jennifer Leake, a Reporter and producer for ABC RN, dives deep into the evolution of mental health discussions influenced by 2000s tabloid culture. They explore how intense scrutiny of celebrities like Amy Winehouse and Lindsay Lohan shaped public perceptions. Leake reflects on the shift from toxic narratives to a more compassionate dialogue about mental health in the age of social media. The conversation also highlights the psychology behind societal splitting and ongoing challenges in how we communicate about mental health today.

5 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 30min
Is clutter making you feel bad?
Join Rose Kerr, a reporter focused on decluttering and consumerism, alongside Professors Melissa Norberg and Jessica Grisham, who specialize in hoarding and OCD. They dive into the emotional toll of clutter, discussing how it affects mental health and well-being. The conversation reveals why some people struggle with decluttering and offers insights into mindful consumption. They also explore the emerging trend of 'underconsumption' and its cultural implications, advocating for a more compassionate understanding of our relationship with possessions.

Aug 9, 2025 • 30min
Serial killers: answering your questions about how they think
Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Rajan Darjee, Clinical Director of Forensic Behavioural Assessment in Melbourne, shares his insights on the minds of serial killers. He tackles whether these criminals can learn empathy and the reasons behind the male dominance in this crime category. The discussion differentiates between serial killers and mass shooters, revealing altering trends in violent crime. Darjee also explores the complex nature of empathy deficits and the challenges of rehabilitating offenders, making for a captivating dive into criminal psychology.

24 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 30min
Depersonalisation — when nothing feels real
Nathan Dunne, author of 'When Nothing Feels Real,' reveals his gripping battle with depersonalization disorder, sharing the profound impact it has had on his identity and relationships. He recounts a crisis that led to a suicide attempt, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and better treatments. Dr. Emma Cernis, a clinical psychology expert, discusses the symptoms, causes, and the importance of nuanced healthcare, shedding light on this often-misunderstood condition and its effects on personal recovery.

7 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 34min
Divination isn’t scientific, but can it ever be therapeutic?
In this engaging discussion, Shelby Traynor, a reporter and producer who explores mental health topics, and Ryan Findlay, a psychotherapist and tarot reader, dive into the intersection of divination and therapy. They examine how practices like astrology can provide comfort, despite their lack of scientific backing. The conversation reveals the psychological mechanisms behind the Barnum Effect, the role of tarot in self-reflection, and the therapeutic benefits of finding meaning in chaos. Their insights blend skepticism with personal anecdotes, making for a thoughtful exploration of beliefs that shape us.

41 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 32min
Where have all the serial killers gone?
In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Rajan Darjee, a Melbourne-based forensic psychiatrist and clinical director, explores the chilling decline of serial killers in recent years. He analyzes the psychological profiles of these criminals and the effects of advancements in technology on law enforcement. The conversation touches on society's evolving perceptions of safety and how modern interventions have impacted crime rates. Darjee also critiques the haunting legacy of notorious Australian serial killers, highlighting the systemic neglect of marginalized victim groups.

20 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 27min
Kleptomania: when compulsive stealing takes over your life
Sam Chamberlain, a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Southampton, discusses the intricate world of kleptomania, diving into its psychological and emotional complexities. Affected individuals share their personal battles with compulsive stealing, revealing the deep shame and isolation they experience. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding this condition as a legitimate mental health issue and explores various treatment options. Chamberlain also sheds light on the neurological underpinnings and societal judgments faced by those dealing with kleptomania.

22 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 30min
Pyromania vs revenge – why do people light fires?
In this thought-provoking discussion, Nichola Tyler, a forensic psychology expert, and Richard Woods, a seasoned fire investigator, explore the dark world of arson. They delve into the complex motivations behind fire-setting, particularly focusing on young male arsonists. The guests reveal insights into psychopathy distinguishing pyromania from other triggers. Richard shares the crucial techniques used in fire investigation, highlighting the emotional aftermath for communities. They also touch on the alarming relationship between youth behaviors and early interventions.

Jun 26, 2025 • 32min
Munchausen by Proxy: when parents hurt their kids
Brenda Bursch, a medical psychologist and expert from UCLA, dives deep into the unsettling world of Munchausen by Proxy, a disorder where caregivers intentionally harm their children for attention. She discusses the psychological complexities behind this abusive behavior and the impact on the child's well-being. The conversation reveals how medical professionals struggle to identify these cases and explores the dynamic motivations of parents involved. Lastly, listeners hear an inspiring recovery story of a former victim, highlighting the power of support and therapy.

8 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 0sec
INTRODUCING — Criminal Psychology
Dive into the intriguing world of criminal psychology, where motivations for extreme behaviors like arson and theft are examined. Discover the psychological factors that drive individuals to commit crimes and how their backgrounds shape their actions. Explore unique cases such as kleptomania, serial killers, and Munchausen by proxy. This series offers profound insights into the human mind, sparking thought on how understanding these behaviors could help prevent future harm.