Trigger warning: this episode discusses sexual assault and the trauma associated.
In this episode of Heard, Afros & Audio’s interview series, host Talib Jasir engages in a dynamic conversation with Kristine McPartlin, the creator of the Mind the Force podcast. Kristine reflects on how the 2020 pandemic introduced her to the Star Wars universe and inspired her to explore its rich storytelling elements through the lens of mental health advocacy.
Kristine shares her own therapeutic journey after a traumatic experience and explains how the mental health themes within fictional characters became a powerful tool for self-reflection and healing. The conversation delves into the role of storytelling in understanding human behavior, particularly how it fosters safe spaces for open conversations about mental health in Black and Brown communities.
With a background in communication and clinical work, Kristine discusses the process of crafting podcast episodes that merge pop culture, psychology, and history. She highlights the communal nature of fandom, its ability to connect diverse audiences, and how Mind the Force continues to break stigmas surrounding mental health.
Episode Highlights
00:00 – Introduction to Heard! Interview Series 00:14 – Discovering Star Wars during the pandemic 02:04 – Launching the Mind the Force podcast 02:59 – Kristine’s therapeutic journey and inspiration 05:17 – Breaking mental health stigma in Black and Brown communities 09:33 – Exploring the intersection of fiction and mental health 16:17 – Crafting episodes with a historical perspective 21:48 – Analyzing Padmé Amidala’s narrative 23:51 – Navigating emotional complexity through storytelling 24:34 – Choosing themes and topics for the podcast 26:09 – The transformative power of storytelling 26:56 – Personal growth through podcasting 30:48 – Balancing vulnerability and maintaining boundaries 34:41 – Winning the Black Podcasting Award 37:19 – Expanding the Mind the Force platform 40:17 – Final thoughts and a call to action
This episode offers a thoughtful look at the intersection of storytelling, mental health, and fandom. Kristine McPartlin’s journey highlights the importance of creating content that fosters connection, understanding, and transformation. Tune in to discover how Mind the Force bridges the gap between fiction and real-life healing.
Listen to Mind the Force podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7J3sevekwOH18URIIZVZX9?si=91c80c8363694441
To learn more about Kristine McPartlin, co-host of Mind the Force podcast visit https://mindtheforce.com and https://linktr.ee/mindtheforcepodcast
Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com
Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio’s Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.