Epilogues and Epiphanies – Movies, TV and the Stories That Shape Us

Twenty years later, they actually got it right. Lyndsey sits down with her friend Bri — who she's known since they were both wide-eyed interns walking to work in New York City — to break down Devil Wears Prada 2.They get into why Miranda was never really the villain, what the film gets surprisingly right about ambition and the cost of loving your work, Nigel's long-overdue character arc, and why the ending hit differently than either of them expected. Plus the clothing analysis you didn't know you needed.Full spoilers throughout. You've been warned.

When The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes was announced, a lot of Hunger Games readers had one reaction: we don't need a book that makes us feel sorry for Snow. They weren't wrong to worry—but the book isn't quite that.Lyndsey sits down with young adult literature teacher Jake Rupp to figure out what it actually is: a story about what systems do to people, what self-preservation costs, and why the most chilling thing about Snow isn't his cruelty—it's how logical it all felt to him.They get into the gap between Snow's internal monologue on the page and what the film can and can't translate, why Lucy Gray breaks through when no one else does, and what it means that he never changed in 64 years.They also talk about Grandma'am's blind faith, Tigris's impossible position, Sejanus's fatal misread, and why District 12 keeps producing the people the Capitol can never fully account for.The line "pure as the driven snow" gets its full due. So does the moment in the woods when Snow finally loses control—and decides he never will again.

An eldest daughter and a couple of berries nearly took down an entire empire. Let's talk about that.  Lyndsey sits down with Jake Rupp - 20-year teacher, young adult literature obsessive, and the person who has watched The Hunger Games an uncomfortable number of times - to break down why Suzanne Collins' story keeps getting more relevant, not less.  They dig into why Katniss Everdeen succeeds not because she's charming but because she's incapable of being anything else, how Peeta and Katniss represent two completely different survival strategies inside a system designed to consume you, what Effie Trinket and Cato actually have in common, why the Capitol's pageantry works exactly as intended, and what it says about us that we can be completely gripped by a story about children killing each other and still miss the point.  Also: a pregnant wife watching the Rue death scene, softball dads as career tribute energy, and the rock. You know the one.  If you loved the books at 13 or 20 and are only now realizing what they were actually about - this one's for you.  Guest: Jake Rupp teaches English, rhetoric, and young adult literature and makes videos about rhetoric online. Find him on TikTok at @hashtagjrupp

What looks like a silly 90s Disney movie turns out to be a surprisingly honest story about growing up, wanting independence, and wanting to stay connected at the same time.  Lyndsey and Ben Wong revisit A Goofy Movie and talk about authenticity, parent-child tension, and why the parts of ourselves we try to hide are often the parts people love most. They explore what the film gets right about the push and pull of adolescence, the fear of becoming your parents, and the vulnerability it takes to just be yourself.  Come for the 90s nostalgia. Stay for the unexpected emotional clarity.

Elphaba made her choice. Glinda made hers. Now what?Lyndsey and PJ Gassman unpack Wicked Part 2: For Good — the friendships that change you, the cost of doing what's right, and why this story resonates so deeply with anyone who's ever had to choose between fitting in and standing up. They explore the film's portrayal of female friendship under pressure, what it means to let someone go without letting them down, and why "good" can't just be a word — it has to be a practice.Whether you've been a Wicked fan since the Broadway original or you're discovering Oz for the first time through the films, this conversation goes deeper than the surface spectacle.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

Superman might be faster than a speeding bullet, but even the Man of Steel has bad days.Lyndsey sits down with musician, podcaster, and Superman super-fan Rick Lee James to unpack James Gunn's 2025 Superman movie. They talk about what happens when the world's most aspirational hero actually struggles — emotionally, physically, and spiritually — and why that makes him more relatable than ever.From Lex Luthor's jealousy complex to Lois Lane refusing to play damsel in distress, from the punk rock lyrics that become Superman's battle cry to the squirrel-saving scene that proves character is in the little things — they go deep into what this story is really about: choosing hope, kindness, and doing the right thing even on your worst day.If you've ever wondered why Superman still matters in a world obsessed with antiheroes, this conversation will hit home.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

Jurassic World Rebirth is here, and so is returning guest champion Jordan Kennedy.This time, the franchise trades chaos for Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, and a surprising course correction toward what fans actually love. Lyndsey and Jordan dig into the title that makes no sense, the casting choices that saved it, and why "Killing a Dinosaur Is a Sin" might be the most telling line in the whole film.Along the way, they talk gender dynamics done right (for once), villains destined for dino chow, product placement so obvious it's almost comforting, and why kids in these movies are always physically fine but emotionally fried. Plus: a deeper look at hubris, moral responsibility, and whether we ever actually learn from the stories we keep telling.A Jurassic World Rebirth review that's equal parts sharp commentary, genuine laughs, and thoughtful storytelling analysis.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

Humans are wired for story — not just for entertainment, but for survival. From cave walls to cinema screens, our brains are built to recognize patterns, feel connection, and find meaning through narrative.Lyndsey and Neil Greathouse unpack the invisible scaffolding that holds great stories together — and why we feel so disoriented when that structure breaks down. They dive into the Hero's Journey, the difference between being the guide and the hero, and what it really means when you keep finding yourself stuck in the same "season" of life.If you've ever wondered why certain stories stick — and how to live your own arc with more self-awareness — this conversation is for you.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

Have you ever finished a movie and felt like your heart was about to explode? Or ended a TV series and needed alone time for two days?Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast where host Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) and special guests unpack the thoughts, feelings, and questions that hit after the credits roll. Together, they explore what it means to be human through the lens of movies, TV shows, and the stories that shape us.If you've ever felt betrayed by a fictional character, been inspired to be a better person by something a wizard said, or been sent into a true existential crisis by the latest Pixar film — this is your show.—New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

La La Land looks like a love story, but it's really about what you're willing to give up to become who you're supposed to be.Lyndsey and Justin Jordan (aka @FreddiesRoommate) break down Damien Chazelle's exploration of art, ambition, and heartbreak — from Mia's gut-wrenching audition to Sebastian's questionable life choices. Justin brings the hot takes (including why Ryan Gosling might've been better cast differently), and together they dig into what this film says about chasing dreams, letting go, and the bittersweet endings we don't see coming.If you've ever felt the highs and lows of going after something you love, this one's for you.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

Part two of Lyndsey and PJ Gassman's deep dive into Wicked Part One.They continue unpacking the moments that hit hardest — Elphaba's realization that wanting something badly enough doesn't mean you should keep wanting it, the cost of seeing the world more clearly than everyone around you, and what it feels like to stop performing for a system that was never going to accept you anyway.If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, start there. Then come back for this one — it's where things get real.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

Lyndsey and PJ Gassman dive deep into Wicked Part One — the movie adaptation that brought Oz to a whole new generation.From childhood obsessions with the Broadway cast recording to first impressions of seeing it on screen, they explore how the film reimagines the musical's biggest moments. They dissect Elphaba and Glinda's dynamic, the privilege baked into Oz's social structure, and the darker themes lurking beneath the shine of the Emerald City.Whether you're a lifelong Wicked fan or experiencing Oz for the first time, this conversation has something for you. (Part 2 drops next.)—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

It's a story about digging holes - and also about everything that got buried long before Stanley Yelnats showed up.  Lyndsey and Hillary Scholz revisit Holes and its adaptation from the beloved Louis Sachar novel. They explore what the film gets right about generational emotional attunement (and what happens when it breaks down), the uncomfortable realities of the juvenile justice system in America, and how art can be a medium for empathy and social justice - even when it's disguised as a kids' movie.  If you thought Holes was just about summer camp and treasure, think again.

In this episode, Lyndsey and her friend Joe discuss the movie 'The Princess Bride' and its adaptation from the book. They explore various aspects of the movie, including the characters, the humor, the fight scenes, and the themes of love and determination. They also discuss the idea of honesty and authenticity, as well as the concept of fairness in life. In this conversation, Lyndsey and her guest discuss various themes and takeaways from the movie 'The Princess Bride'. They explore the idea of life not being fair and the importance of acknowledging pain and perspective. They also discuss the character development and motivations of the main characters, including Wesley, Buttercup, Inigo, and Fezzik. The conversation delves into the themes of deceit, love, and the power dynamics in relationships. They also touch on the significance of persistence and the impact of bullying. Overall, the conversation highlights the emotional authenticity of the characters and the lessons that can be learned from their experiences.

Join Host Lyndsey McPherson and guest Mark Hansher as they delve into the classic “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" and topics like the power of hope, entertaining new ideas, and sharing the goodness of life.

Join Host Lyndsey McPherson and guest Chris McPherson as they delve into the award-winning marvel “Everything Everywhere All at Once" and topics like the power of choice, accepting ourselves and accepting others, choosing kindness, and taking responsibility for our own stories.

Host Lyndsey McPherson and guest Jordan Kennedy discuss the Secret Life of Walter Mitty and the idea of taking control of your own narrative. They also discuss the importance of self-compassion and how to navigate challenges with a positive and empowered mindset.

Join Lyndsey McPherson and special guest PJ Gassman in this episode as they examine the hilarious and heavy moments in 2023’s Box Office Hit: Barbie. 

1:30 Heart center overview (Types 2, 3, & 4)1:55 Type 2: The Helper9:13 Type 3: The Achiever23:20 Type 4: The Individualist36:52 Gut center overview37:15 Type 8: The Challenger48:12 Type 9: The Peacemaker55:03 Type 1: The Improver

In this episode, Lyndsey and special guest James Smith discuss the Enneagram personality typing system and its value in understanding oneself and others. They share personal experiences and insights into their own Enneagram types, including Type Three, Type Five, Type Six, and Type Seven. The conversation explores the motivations, strengths, and challenges of each type, as well as their growth paths.Chapters 02:02 Introducing the Guest and Enneagram Type05:23 Discovering the Enneagram07:12 Determining Enneagram Type08:37 The Enneagram Journey18:43 Overview of the Head Center19:40 Enneagram Type Five: The Investigator28:30 Enneagram Type Six: The Loyalist33:18 Enneagram Type Seven: The Enthusiast38:01 Conclusion and Preview of Part TwoResources links page:https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/podcast-episodes/theenneagrampart1

Join Lyndsey McPherson and special guest Mark Hansher in this episode as they explore the power of innocence, the need for others in the healing process, and the power of staying flexible and resilient when things don't go according to plan while discussing the Netflix film, Klaus.

Join Lyndsey McPherson and special guest Kelsey Adams in this episode as they unpack the iconic fashion film The Devil Wears Prada, body image messages of the early 2000s, changing perspectives as we grow up, work-life balance, and more.

Join Lyndsey McPherson and special guest Kyla Keller in this episode as they unpack the Disney sensation, Frozen. Dive deep into the film's core themes of female empowerment, authentic self-expression, and the journey from fear to self-acceptance.

Lyndsey and special guest Hillary Scholz, discuss the movie Pride & Prejudice, the female plight in regency era England, being wrong about your first impressions and the power of love.

Lyndsey and special guest Sarah Keller, discuss the movie Legally Blonde and the contradictory nature of being female in the modern era along with the value of being true to oneself.

Lyndsey in special guest Krystal, discuss the breakfast club societal expectations of women, dance equals life, and much more

Lyndsey and special guest Rick Lee James discuss the Spider-Man saga in modern culture as well as grief and what it means to love our enemies.

Host Lyndsey McPherson and guest Jordan Kennedy discuss the Spielberg classic "Jurassic Park," could vs. should, and how Jurassic Park and TikTok/Twitter are essentially the same.

Host Lyndsey McPherson and guest Abbey Truslow discuss the millennial Tina Fey classic "Mean Girls," the value of being uniquely you, and surviving adolescence in the early 2000s.

Host Lyndsey McPherson and guest Justin Nowicki discuss the 2007 film "Dan in Real Life" and the highs and lows of the human experience.

Host Lyndsey McPherson and returning guest Samantha Thomas discuss the 2013 film "About Time" and the beauty in the ordinary.

Lyndsey and special guest Ryan Hammond (lyndsey's younger brother) discuss Pixar's Inside Out, self-awarenes, and looking for the pockets of good.

What if your resolution this year wasn't about doing more — but about seeing more clearly?Lyndsey kicks off 2023 with a solo episode about why storytelling and art aren't luxuries — they're how we make sense of being alive. She talks about the role stories play in helping us process, connect, and grow, and makes the case for a different kind of new year's resolution: one built around meaning instead of productivity.A short, grounding episode for anyone who needs permission to slow down and pay attention.—Epilogues & Epiphanies is a pop culture podcast hosted by Lyndsey McPherson (MA Counseling) that digs into movies, TV, and storytelling to uncover what they reveal about being human.New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe wherever you listen.Website: https://www.lyndsey-mcpherson.com/

In this very first episode, Lyndsey talks with friend Samantha Thomas (Enneagram 9 and mental health counselor) about Disney's Encanto.  Before listening: Watch Encanto - or this will definitely not make sense :)  Learn about the Enneagram personality typing system https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/type-descriptions