In this thought-provoking episode of Mind Cake, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Balick, a leading psychologist and long-time mental health advocate, to explore the profound effects of technology and social media on our minds and society.

Drawing on his extensive experience as a clinician, academic, and media personality, Dr. Balick breaks down the psychological impact of living in an always-connected world. From the addictive nature of scrolling to the pressure of curated online personas, we discuss how digital technology is reshaping our relationships, self-perception, and mental health.

Join us as we dive into:

• The science behind why we’re hooked on our screens.
• How technology affects mental health and social connections.
• Practical tips for creating healthier boundaries in the digital age.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a parent worried about screen time, or simply someone feeling overwhelmed in a hyperconnected world, this episode offers insights and strategies for navigating modern life with your mental health intact.

Links

Aaron Balick | Psychology Applied Mind Cake Newsletter

Merch Mind Cake Podcast by MindCakePodcast | Redbubble

It’s Christmas Eve, and the Mind Cake team is throwing a festive bash! In this special holiday episode, we’re joined by some very special guests from past episodes who pop round to join the party. Expect laughter, surprises, and plenty of light-hearted holiday chaos as we reflect on the year and celebrate with some Mind Cake-style cheer.

So grab a mince pie, settle in, and join us for a Christmas Eve like no other—packed with good vibes, a sprinkle of wisdom, and maybe a little too much eggnog. Merry Christmas from all of us at Mind Cake!

This week on Mind Cake, we are thrilled to host the legendary video game designer Howard Scott Warshaw, the creative mind behind iconic Atari games like Yar's Revenge and the infamous E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Join us as Howard takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from the dawn of video gaming to his transition into psychotherapy. In this episode, we explore:

• 🎮 The Atari Days: Howard shares his experiences at Atari, the unique work culture, and the creative process behind developing Yar's Revenge, one of Atari's best-selling games.

• 💡 Creative Challenges: Discover how Howard tackled the seemingly impossible task of creating the E.T. game in just five weeks, and the lessons learned from this high-pressure project.

• 🧠 Mental Health Journey: Howard opens up about his personal struggles, the impact of his career on his mental health, and how becoming a therapist transformed his life.

Howard's story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the human spirit. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that delves into the highs and lows of a pioneering career in video games and the healing journey that followed.

#MindCakePodcast #VideoGameHistory #Atari #MentalHealthAwareness #Creativity #Resilience

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Once Upon Atari: How I Made History by Killing an Industry by Howard Scott Warshaw

Watch Atari: Game Over trailer on IMDb