Put ’Em on the Couch — Episode 89: What’s the Point of Grandparents? In this heartfelt episode, host Jason McCoy and cohost Nelson Beaulieu dive into the complex journey of aging — from the political spotlight on leaders like President Joe Biden to the deeply personal struggles of autonomy and independence as we grow older. Along the way, they explore the evolving role of grandparents in our lives: the support, wisdom, and unexpected gifts they offer as families change. Featuring a touching voiceover with a treasured audio clip of Jason’s late grandpa and a special memory shared by his brother Andy, this episode blends personal stories, science, and social commentary to uncover why grandparents matter more than we often realize. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of aging yourself or seeking to understand the powerful place grandparents hold in our families and evolution, this episode offers insight, warmth, and plenty to think about. Don’t forget to listen, subscribe, and share Episode 89 with anyone who values family, aging, and the stories that shape us. Your support keeps Put ’Em on the Couch going strong!
🎙️ Episode 88: "My Parents Had Me Kidnapped" In this gripping solo episode of Put Em On The Couch, host Jason McCoy, college psychology professor and mental health advocate, pulls back the curtain on the dark underworld of the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI)—a billion-dollar network of controversial youth programs, "behavioral boot camps," and residential treatment centers. You’ll hear the harrowing true story of Kelly, a young woman who was forcibly removed from her bedroom in the middle of the night by two strangers wearing shirts labeled only “TRANSPORT.” Her journey—spanning several states from Maryland to Georgia—echoes the chilling experiences recently brought to light by Paris Hilton, who has become a vocal advocate for survivors of TTI abuse. Just like Paris, Kelly’s ordeal began with a decision made not by the state—but by her own family. With the support of her grandparents, her parents researched “what to do with a troubled teen” and signed off on a journey that would leave lasting emotional scars. 🎧 Tune in as we explore: What really happens inside these unregulated programs Why families turn to the TTI as a solution The psychological trauma of youth transport and forced institutionalization How survivors like Kelly are finding their voices—and their healing Whether you're a parent, educator, mental health professional, or just someone who believes in protecting vulnerable teens, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Put Em On The Couch—where real stories meet real psychology. #TroubledTeenIndustry #ParisHiltonTTI #MentalHealthAwareness #YouthTransport #PsychologyPodcast #TTISurvivors #PutEmOnTheCouch #JasonMcCoyPodcast
In this episode of Put Em on the Couch, we ask the 20,000 dollar question" Is College Worth It? This week, we kick off with a striking moment from Harvard’s 2025 Commencement: President Allan Garber’s opening remarks, which sounded a lot like a subtle—but pointed—response to President Trump and ongoing political attacks on higher education. From there, we dive into the bigger question: Is college still worth it? Or is it, as some critics argue, an overpriced scam or outdated rite of passage? Jason and Nelson go head-to-head on the deeper value of college—not just as a place for learning, but also for growth, connection, and challenge. We unpack: 🎓 The rising skepticism around the cost and purpose of college 💡 Whether higher ed truly leans "liberal" or is just being mislabeled 🧠 The difference between critical thinking and political indoctrination ❤️ The social side of college—lifelong friendships, relationships, and more This episode explores the nuance often missing from the “college debate” and asks: Can multiple things be true? Can college be flawed and valuable? Overpriced and transformative? Tune in as we challenge assumptions, push each other’s perspectives, and get into what college really means today.
Season 3 kicks off with a bang as hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dive deep into the mysterious world of the papal conclave following the sudden death of Pope Francis. From Vatican politics to wild conspiracy theories, no question is too strange — or too sacred. Can you bet on the next Pope? Did it really smell that bad in the Sistine Chapel? And what’s the deal with the rumored female Pope? Inspired by the new film Conclave, this episode is a bold, irreverent, and thought-provoking look at one of the world's oldest institutions.
🎙️ Put Em On The Couch is back for Season 3, and we’re diving in headfirst—no seat belts, no apologies. In this special Season Premiere, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beauieu kick things off with a candid, no-holds-barred preview of the bold, bizarre, and brain-twisting topics coming your way. Ever wonder why females orgasm, what’s really going on with Grandma, or why the penis looks the way it does? Curious if luck is real, or whether cursing is actually all that bad? Well, get ready—because we’re unpacking it all on the couch. As we celebrate two years on the air (shout out to our Couch Surfers!), we're leveling up with fresh perspectives, wild questions, and even deeper dives into the human mind and behavior. Season 3 is shaping up to be our most daring and dynamic yet. We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support. Keep the feedback, suggestions, and episode shares coming—we love hearing from you and couldn't do this without you. So, grab a seat on the couch. Let’s get into it. 🛋️💭
Episode 84: Let's Talk About Last Words: From Suicide Notes to Death Poetry In this compelling episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu explore the powerful concept of last words, diving into everything from famous last statements of historical figures to suicide notes and death poetry. What do these final words really say about a life lived, and what can they teach us about human psychology and mortality? Jason enriches the conversation by weaving in insights from psychological research, including the work of Todd Kashdan (George Mason University), Kurt Gray (University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill), Heather Servaty-Seib, and Kathryn Mannix. They explore the significance of final statements, addressing questions such as, "What would your last words be?" and whether it's truly necessary to think about death or if it only serves as an anxiety-inducing distraction. Join Jason and Nelson as they reflect on the intersection of death awareness, psychological research, and the fascinating role that last words play in understanding our lives and our legacy. Key Topics: Famous last words of historical figures Suicide notes and death poetry Psychological research on mortality and death anxiety Todd Kashdan’s insights into death and anxiety Kurt Gray’s research on human behavior and mortality Exploring what last words reveal about a life’s meaning The impact of thinking about death on mental health and well-being Tune in to Put Em On The Couch for a thought-provoking discussion about death, mortality, and the lasting words that define us.
In this 83rd episode of Put Em on the Couch, we break down 10 clear signs that suggest President Donald Trump may be steering our country towards Autocracy. Nelson and I rewind Trumps recent speech to a joint session of congress. Using the President's own words, we analyze his rhetoric and discuss how it mirrors that of authoritarianism. Tune in to find out what all of this might mean for the future of American democracy. References: Arendt, H. (1973). The origins of totalitarianism. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich. Friedrich, C. J., & Brzezinski, Z. K. (1956). Totalitarian dictatorship and autocracy. Harvard University Press. Hetherington, M. J., & Weiler, J. D. (2009). Authoritarianism and polarization in American politics. Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511627012 Pepinsky, T. (2017, January 9). Life in authoritarian states is mostly boring and tolerable: Americans have an overly dramatic view of what the end of democracy looks like. The Big Idea. https://www.brookings.edu/blog/the-big-idea/2017/01/09/life-in-authoritarian-states-is-mostly-boring-and-tolerable/
"They Not Like Us: College Professors Squabble Up Over the Drake vs Kendrick Lamar ‘Diss’course" Description: In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, college professors Jason McCoy (psychology) and Nelson (political science and history) squabble up over the ongoing Drake vs Kendrick Lamar "Diss'course"—a year-long back-and-forth between two of the biggest icons in hip-hop. With nearly a dozen diss tracks thrown, Kendrick Lamar's anthem They Not Like Us has become the centerpiece of this highly charged feud. In this lively and sometimes incendiary conversation, Jason and Nelson dissect the tension between these two artists, exploring everything from Drake's shifting genre versatility and his critics’ accusations of being a "culture vulture," to Kendrick’s status as a lyrical genius and a hip-hop icon whose music often offers a history lesson. As the discussion heats up, the professors debate the greater sociopolitical implications of their rivalry, touching on themes of class, power, and representation in modern music. Whether you’re firmly in one camp or just curious about what all the fuss is about, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for hip-hop, rap, and black culture. Tune in for an academic yet passionate exploration of the ultimate Diss'course. Join the conversation! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Reach out via email at putemonthecouch@gmail.com, or leave a comment on Apple or Spotify to share your take on the Drake vs Kendrick debate.
Episode 80: The Price of the Ticket: Professor Lettie Gore on Confronting White Supremacy In this eye-opening episode of Put 'Em on the Couch, Professor Lettie Gore joins host Jason McCoy to dive deep into the ongoing fight against white supremacy and the cost of racial injustice. Drawing from her powerful work in social justice, Professor Gore exposes the brutal realities Black Americans continue to face—being "hunted and murdered" simply for existing. She reflects on what she calls the "Great White Awakening," the surge of awareness around racism and police brutality that many experienced during the pandemic. Yet, as Professor Gore points out, this awareness is far from enough, and she fears that the urgency of confronting systemic racism is fading. With a nod to James Baldwin’s "The Price of the Ticket," she underscores the profound cost Black Americans pay just to survive, let alone thrive, in a society built on white supremacy. In this raw and honest conversation, Professor Gore challenges the very idea of a "Great America," asking: When was that, exactly? Throughout the episode, Professor Gore urges all listeners—especially white Americans and so-called allies—to go beyond performative allyship and take tangible, sustained action in dismantling racial injustice. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the depth of racial injustice and the moral responsibility we all share in confronting it.
In this Episode, Professor McCoy delivers a classroom lecture on Social Psychology. Here, he traces the history - specifically the early research into human performance, social facilitation, attributions/judgements, impressions and decision making, and attitudes.
In this 78th Episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu launch Season 3 with a New Year's Show about Health and Wellness. Easier said than done, Getting and Staying Fit is more than maintaining a certain weight, visiting a gym and/or dieting. Whether your resolution in the new year is to be better, do better or something in-between, we offer some practical advice for how to make those change commitments "stick"!!!!
Episode Title: "Could Shooting Bambi Help Save Mother Earth?" Podcast Description: 🎧 Episode 82: Could Shooting Bambi Help Save Mother Earth? | Put Em on the Couch In this thought-provoking episode, we’re putting Mother Nature on the couch to explore our complex relationship with her. From bizarre weather events to the psychology behind anthropomorphizing non-living things, we dive deep into how we perceive and interact with the planet. Freud would have a lot to say about our maternal metaphor, and we discuss how our conservation efforts (or lack thereof) have left Mother Nature “hormonal” and in need of care. We also challenge traditional views with the controversial idea that hunting might actually help save the Earth. You’ll hear why “shooting Bambi” could be more beneficial than you think for conservation efforts. Plus, we explore the history of Earth Day, how weather impacts politics, and why we’re still at Mother Nature’s mercy. 🌍 Listen now to discover how we can help Mother Nature thrive, one controversial idea at a time. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners! Don’t forget to share this episode with friends and family who care about the planet.
Episode 77: The Psychology of Greed | Put Em On The Couch Podcast In this 77th episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dive deep into the complex and often controversial topic of greed. What drives us to want more—whether it’s wealth, power, or possessions? How does greed shape our happiness, behaviors, and society at large? We explore: What is greed and its roots in human nature. The psychology of greed: Is it a personality trait or a temporary emotion? How greed negatively impacts well-being and life satisfaction. Paul Piff’s studies using Monopoly to demonstrate how wealth affects behavior. The upside of greed: Can it fuel capitalism and economic growth? Greed as addiction: How the cycle of acquisition can become never-ending. The impact of greed on society, from greedy billionaires to unethical behaviors. The difference between the desire to acquire versus the fear of losing. This thought-provoking episode unpacks the forces that drive human behavior and the implications of greed—both on a personal and societal level. Don’t miss out on this important conversation! A Special Thank You & Merry Christmas! As we wrap up the year, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners for your continued support. Merry Christmas! May this season bring joy, reflection, and meaningful connections. Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you. And don’t forget to share this episode with your friends and family—let's keep the conversation going! Keywords: Greed, Psychology of Greed, Dispositional Greed, Capitalism, Wealth, Monopoly Study, Paul Piff, Behavioral Addiction, Dark Triad, Emotional Instability, Greedy Billionaires, Social Comparison, Happiness, Put Em On The Couch Podcast.
In Episode 76 of Put Em On The Couch, Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dive into the fascinating spectrum of giving—from the cold, calculating behavior of psychopaths to the boundless generosity of extreme altruists. We explore the psychology behind why we give, what motivates us, and how giving shapes our relationships and society. Along the way, we discuss Paul Slovin’s research on “warm glow,” the neurobiology of generosity, and whether non-human animals display altruistic behavior. Nelson shares a personal story of the best gift he’s ever given, while we also tackle tough questions: Can giving ever be truly selfless? Why do we expect gift-givers to be mind-readers? And why is giving sometimes more about the giver than the recipient? Plus, we look at the politics of charitable giving, the costs of bad gifts, and share a story about a friend who gave a kidney to a complete stranger. It’s an episode that will make you rethink what it means to give. As always, thank you to our amazing listeners! In lieu of gifts or monetary contributions, you can show us some love and appreciation by liking, following, commenting, and rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support means the world to us and helps us continue to bring you more engaging and thought-provoking content.
Episode 75: The Art of the Con – Exploring the Psychology and Tactics Behind Famous Con Artists In this gripping episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu take a deep dive into the world of con artists—those charismatic manipulators who make deception an art form. From 19th-century fraudsters like Samuel Thompson to modern-day scammers like Anna Sorokin (aka Anna Delvy), this episode explores the fascinating techniques and psychology behind the perfect con. We break down the lives of some of history's most infamous conmen, including the legendary Ferdinand Waldo Demara, who successfully posed as a Canadian Navy surgeon, a prison warden, and even a college professor. We also explore the motivations behind cons like the "Nigerian Prince" scam and discuss the fascinating charisma that makes con artists so compelling. Whether you're curious about the psychology of persuasion, the traits that make a successful conman, or why we sometimes idolize these criminals, this episode has it all. We explore classic cons, modern scams, and discuss how confidence and charm play a pivotal role in pulling off the perfect deception. Plus, we get into the psychology behind successful cons, such as the "foot-in-the-door" technique, and debate whether even conmen can get conned themselves. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by human behavior, persuasion, or the fascinating world of deception. Listen now to discover: The story of Samuel Thompson, New York’s first “confidence man” The psychology of persuasion and the dark triad of personality traits How Anna Sorokin conned her way into the high society and landed on Dancing with the Stars Why con artists like Frank Abagnale and Ferdinand Waldo Demara are so compelling Like, share, and subscribe to Put Em On The Couch for more deep dives into the minds of fascinating figures in history!
Join the cast of Put Em On The Couch for our election day special coverage.
In this hair raising episode of Put Em On The Couch, we explore the psychology of fear, starting with a chilling reflection on the 1966 mass shooting at the University of Texas. Join me and co-host Nelson as we discuss a range of fears—rational and irrational—beginning with John B. Watson's infamous experiments. Nelson shares his thrill-seeking experiences, while I confront existential fears like extinction and loss of autonomy, drawing on Mary Ainsworth's research in developmental psychology. We also examine Chapman University's latest survey revealing Americans' top fears, including cyberterrorism and corrupt government officials, and how political leaders use fear to manipulate. Our conversation delves into the biology of fear, particularly the role of the amygdala, and the difference between fear and anxiety. We explore quirky irrational fears and the therapeutic potential of fear experiences, as highlighted by researcher Margee Kerr. As we wrap up, we encourage listeners to transform their fears into action as we approach the election, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged and empowered. Tune in for an enlightening exploration of fear—its origins, consequences, and how we can navigate it in our lives! Listen now and confront your fears with us!
Feeling trapped in a cycle of boredom? In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, Jason and Nelson invite you to Shock Your Boredom as they explore the rich history and surprising science behind this often-misunderstood emotion. From the Ancient Greeks’ concept of Acedia to modern experiments that reveal our responses to boredom, discover why this feeling can be both challenging and transformative. Join us as we delve into shocking findings, including a study where participants opted for electric shocks over sitting in silence. With insights from comedian Louie CK and leading researchers like Dankert and Eastman, we’ll uncover how boredom can be a catalyst for creativity and self-discovery. Tune in and learn how embracing boredom might just spark your next big idea! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Share your thoughts on boredom and let us know how you cope with it on social media!
In this captivating episode of Put Em On The Couch, we explore how disgust shapes our moral decisions and political beliefs. Recorded on Friday the 13th, we dive into the unsettling moments from the latest presidential debate between Trump and Harris, examining how these emotional reactions reveal deeper truths about our political psychology. Join us as we dissect the impact of disgust on voting behavior and political orientation. We’ll explore the biology of emotion, the psychology behind moral judgments, and the ways in which disgust influences our perceptions of political debates and candidates. Discover why emotions like disgust are crucial in understanding political ideologies and how factors such as family influence and social dynamics come into play. We’ll also discuss the five prongs of morality and how disgust sensitivity connects to conservative viewpoints. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between emotions and politics, and gain insights into how primal feelings like disgust drive our moral and political choices. Subscribe, listen, and share your thoughts on how disgust influences our decisions on Put Em On The Couch!
Episode 66: You Know What Is WEIRD? | Put Em On The Couch Podcast Welcome to the 66th episode of Put Em On The Couch! In this engaging installment, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu explore the concept of "weird" through four distinct psychological lenses, providing a comprehensive analysis of what makes something appear strange or out of the ordinary. We start with a thought-provoking clip from Gov. Tim Waltz and J.D. Vance using "weird" to critique political ideas and opponents. How does the term shape our understanding and perception of various topics? Jason and Nelson delve into four key perspectives on what defines "weird": Understanding: Does the behavior or idea challenge our comprehension, making it appear "weird" simply because it is not easily understood? Norm Violation: Does the behavior or concept violate societal or cultural norms, leading us to label it as "weird"? Moral Violations: Does the behavior breach moral or legal standards, contributing to its classification as "weird"? Statistical Uniqueness: Is the behavior statistically rare or deviates from the norm, which might make it seem "weird" in comparison to the average? The episode also explores real-world examples, including RFK’s unusual fascination with roadkill and the effects of brain parasites on behavior. Insights from Dan Dennett on microorganisms that influence the brain provide an intriguing addition to our discussion. Additionally, we examine the concept of W.E.I.R.D. (Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, Democratic) and its impact on social science and psychology. How does this framework influence our understanding and categorization of "weird" behaviors? Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Put Em On The Couch for more in-depth explorations of complex topics! If you found this episode insightful, please leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps us reach more curious listeners. Follow us on social media and join the conversation! Keywords: weirdness, psychological lenses, political rhetoric, clinical psychology, James Joyce, brain parasites, RFK, Dan Dennett, W.E.I.R.D., social science, human behavior, understanding norms, moral violations, statistical uniqueness Hashtags: #Weirdness #PsychologicalLenses #PoliticalRhetoric #ClinicalPsychology #JamesJoyce #BrainParasites #RFK #DanDennett #WEIRD #SocialScience #HumanBehavior