What makes family? How do we define connection, and what are the actions that separate those that care from those that simply claim to care?  Marvel's new series Echo showcases these issues, and much more. Join Sharon and Dwight discussing things like family, relationships, power dynamics, culture, and colonialism. Sharon also shares her experiences working with the indigenous people in Manitoba while she was the Health Minister, and differences between saviorism and true empowerment.

You've heard of the Placebo Effect, which is the tendency to experience improvement in disease or complication because we expect it to get better. But do you know about the Nocebo effect? Turns out we also experience negative side effects and health problems more often when we expect them. This psychological dynamic has implications for counseling, medical care, parenting, and more. Michael Bernstein is a researcher and co-editor of "Nocebo Effect: When Words Make You Sick." He joins the show to tell us more about this important part of our lives, of which we are often unaware. Goto www.dwighthurst.com to participate with the show and support mental health advocacy.

Welcome to Thursday This-story, a dive into the history of mental health practices. This is a new feature for the podcast, appearing once a month on the main feed, and every Thursday on the Patrons Only Bonus Materials. Today's Thistory lesson is a look into the history of the mental health crisis or suicide help line. A practice since the 1950s, the creation of telephonic ways to cope with mental health needs has an interesting history, a partnership between spiritual and secular programs, and a precursor for modern telehealth.  To hear bonus materials like this, goto patreon.com/brokenbrain and become a Brainiac patron!  

Sharon & Dwight are focused on "The Marvels" today, discussing issues like relationship repair, hope, self-image, and what it's like when your concept of someone is nudged one way or another. 

A long overdue return to the topic of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Kelly Tuttle is an advocate, expert, and author who joins the podcast to give guidance about life with TBI, including her own story of recovery and acceptance. You can read more in her book "After The Crash." Check out the ever evolving resources and materials at www.dwighthurst.com, related to the show and supports for mental health.

Please be aware, this episode deals with issues related to a case of murder-suicide. Audrey Laura White is an expert in grief, loss, and major life trauma. She shares her story about coping with extreme loss due to violence, as well as the myths, research, and reality of healing through grief over the loss of loved ones.  Visit www.dwighthurst.com to view the resources, programs, and episodes of the podcast, as well as ways to support the show and people in need of mental health treatment.   

Brian Bachand is a friend of the show from way back. He is a specialist in motivation, making difficult decisions, creating plans, and aspects of how  human beings experience change. He is also active in nonprofit, charity, and fundraising work with many different organizations. In addition he's a cool guy and a great person who uplifts those around him. What should we do headed into a New Year? Let's find out! Visit www.evolutionevolution.com to learn more about Brian's work. Go to www.dwighthurst.com to learn more about The Broken Brain, support the show, and find an ever expanding bunch of resources for fun, education, and self-empowerment. 

Selwyn Jones is a Community advocate and the Uncle of George Floyd. Liz Darden is a City Councilwoman in Harrison, Arkansas, called by some "the most racist town in America." They are the founders of the Nonprofit Organization Hope929, organized to help promote racial equality and community opportunities to disenfranchised individuals. They join today to share information about their approach to "Helping people UP instead of just helping them OUT," finding treatment, vocational rehab, and housing opportunities for those in need. Follow their work and listen to their podcast "Setting it Straight With Selwyn Jones." Goto www.dwighthurst.com to find free resources and to support the show, and check out the new Substack: www.dwighthurst.substack.com. 

Mel Schwartz is a Psychotherapist who applies principles of Quantum Physics in his practice. Examining dynamics of matter and energy has helped Mel to develop techniques for anxiety reduction, healing from trauma, and much more. To learn more about Mel's work visit melschwartz.com  Learn about how you can support the Broken Brain: www.dwighthurst.com/support. Thanks for listening!

Sharon Blady was kind enough to stop on by the virtual studio to record an episode about Santa, the myth, the legend, and why people do what they do with this tradition. Including a peek into (surprise) the world of Marvel Comics...in which Santa uses his powers as a powerful mutant to help and protect children. Wow. If you like RPG play then please download the free gift of a simple one-shot tabletop game "A Bunch of Santas," at www.dwighthurst.com/santa You can click the picture of Santa hats to get the pdf of the game rules and character sheets.