Shrink The Box

For the last episode of this season, team STB gets real with those pesky inner monologues (as promised in the Carrie: Sex and the City episode). Plus, what's the connection between 80s comedy-thriller Lovejoy and The Matrix? We explore actors who have come back from obscurity with aplomb. We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In our final character episode of this season, we put Carrie from Sex and the City on the couch. Nemone looks at why Sex and the City hasn’t aged well, and Ben talks about diversity in the privileged, white world of the show. We get into Carrie’s shopping habit, low self-esteem, and why everyone in the show is SO obsessed with relationships, even though the women really have no need for them. We also get a primer on the Bechdel test, and how you can tell if a show is sexist without knowing it. And if you want to check out more on the patriarchy and diversity, have a listen to our episodes on Sydney from The Bear.     We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  Find how to view the shows we’ve talked about here.   CREDITS  We used clips from episodes of Sex and the City. It’s available to watch on NOWTV/SKY.  Starring:  Sarah Jessica Parker – Carrie Bradshaw  Cynthia Nixon – Miranda Hobbs  Kim Cattrall – Samatha Jones  Kristin Davis – Charlotte York  Created by:  Darren Star  Candace Bushnell  Directed by:  Susan Seidalman  Nicole Holofcener  Alison Maclean  Michael Fields  Darren Star   Produced by:  Darren Star  Michael Patrick King  John P. Melfi  Jenny Bicks  Sarah Jessica Parker  Cindy Chupack    We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put Jackson Lamb from Slow Horses on the couch. Gary Oldman’s version of Mick Herron’s character has become household name, and you can see why. A man with many layers, a million secrets, and a lightning rod for other’s emotions – perhaps he is the perfect Freudian analyst. Nemone gives us a crash course in transference and counter-transference, looks at why people mask and create false selves, and what drives people into a career where they hide their true selves from everyone, including themselves.     This is the PERFECT watching companion to Season 4 of Slow Horses, coming 4th September on AppleTV+!  And if you want to look at false selves, then listen back to our episode on The Morning Show’s Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon.   We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes)    CREDITS  We used clips from Season 1 of Slow Horses. It’s available to watch on AppleTV+.   Starring:  Gary Oldman - Jackson Lamb  Jack Lowden - River Cartwright  Kristin Scott Thomas - Diana Taverner  Saskia Reeves - Catherine Standish  Rosalind Eleazar - Louisa Guy  Christopher Chung - Roddy Ho  Created by:  Mick Herron  Will Smith  Directed by:  James Hawes  Jeremy Lovering  Saul Metzstein  Produced by:  Iain Canning  Hakan Kousetta  Jamie Laurenson  Gail Mutrux et al.    We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put Raymond Holt on the couch. We look at how this trailblazing policeman (the first black, gay police captain in the force) stands out from the rest of the precinct. We learn how family dynamics inform behaviour and what it takes to be a great leader. Nemone looks at a diagnosis of ASD or Asperger’s Syndrome for the captain, and Ben gives a heartwarming tribute to the great actor who played him, André Braugher. We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1) Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes) CREDITS We used clips from episodes of Brooklyn 99. It’s available to watch on Netflix. Starring: Andy Samberg - Jacob "Jake" Peralta Stephanie Beatriz - Rosa Diaz Terry Crews - Terrence "Terry" JeffordsMelissa Fumero - Amy Santiago Joe Lo Truglio - Charles Boyle Chelsea Peretti - Regina "Gina" Linetti Andre Braugher - Raymond Holt Dirk Blocker as Michael Hitchcock and Joel McKinnon Miller as Norm Scully Created by: Dan Goor Michael Schur Directed by: Craig Zisk Julie Ann Robinson Troy Miller Dean Holland Jason Ensler Produced by: Dan Goor Michael Schur David Miner Phil Lord Christopher Miller (both; pilot) Luke Del Tredici David Phillips We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put Moira Rose on the couch and take a deep dive into her narcissistic tendencies, and what effect that has on the rest of the Schitts. Nemone explains how narcissism is not as easy to spot as its widespread use would have you believe. We also discuss the collection of wigs that Moira keeps in her closet and why they are transitional objects. And if you’re interested in hearing more on narcissism, then check out our episode on Game of Thrones’ Cersei Lannister. We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes) Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1) Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes) CREDITS We used clips from episodes of Schitt’s Creek. It’s available to watch on Netflix. Starring: Eugene Levy - Johnny Rose Catherine O'Hara - Moira Rose Daniel Levy - David Rose Annie Murphy - Alexis Rose Created by: Daniel Levy Eugene Levy Directed by: Jerry Ciccoritti Paul Fox Produced by: Eugene Levy Dan Levy Fred Levy Andrew Barnsley Ben Feigin Kevin White David West Read We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If characters in ‘trapped’ dramas escape, is that the end of the show? Ben and Nemone explore The Handmaid’s Tale and Severance as examples. Plus, Ben reacts to a listener’s ‘constructive’ feedback and Nemone explores Polyvagal Theory to explain why we might react in the way we do from childhood trauma.  We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes)   Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1)  Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes)  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone discuss The Wire’s ‘Bubbles’ aka Reginald Collins. An informant and heroin user, a man with a fragile support network who finds himself stranded while trying to forge closer bonds with those around him. Nemone tells Ben how unconditional love is the hardest thing to give an addict, and the key to helping them start their journey to sobriety. Plus we hear wisdom from Gabor Maté. Our episode on the Queen’s Gambit has great insights into addiction if you’re looking for even more on this subject.     We talked about AA, Al Anon and Samaritans in the show. Here are links:  AA: https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/  Al Anon: https://al-anonuk.org.uk/  Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/  We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Moira Rose, Schitt's Creek (Season 1)  Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes)   Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1)  Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes)    CREDITS  We used clips from Seasons 1 of The Wire. It’s available to watch on NOWTV.  Starring:  Dominic West - Jimmy McNulty  Idris Elba - Stringer Bell  Lawrence Gilliard Jr. - D’Angelo Barskdale  Wood Harris - Avon Barksdale  Deirdre Lovejoy - Rhonda Pearlman  Wendell Pierce - Detective Bunk  Lance Reddick - Cpt. Cedric Daniels  Andre Royo – Reginald Collins, aka Bubbles  Sonja Sohn - Kima Greggs  Created by:  David Simon  Directed by:  Clark Johnson  Peter Medak  Clement Virgo  Ed Bianchi  Gloria Muzo  Produced by:  Karen L. Thorson  Ed Burns  Joe Chappelle  George Pelecanos  Eric Overmyer  David Simon  Robert F. Colesberry  Nina Kostroff Noble  We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone discuss Helen McCrory’s iconic Poly Shelby from Peaky Blinders. She’s a devout Catholic, but up to her neck in the murky world of bootlegging and murder. Nemone gets into the thorny question of how she might match those up, and reveals how each of us has a ‘silent observer’ inside. We also dive into the history of women’s rights in 1920s England. Look out for some killer lines from our Polly, too. If you like this, you’ll love our look at Cersei Lannister and how to lead violent men using more than physical force, and the toll that takes.   We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Reginald "Bubbles" Cousins, The Wire (Season 1)  Moira Rose, Schitt's Creek (Season 1)  Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes)   Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1)  Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes)    CREDITS  We used clips from Seasons 1&2 of Peaky Blinders. It’s available to watch on BBC iPlayer.  Starring:  Tommy Shelby - Cillian Murphy  Polly Gray - Helen McCrory  Arthur Shelby - Paul Anderson  Ada Shelby - Sophie Rundle  Finn Shelby - Harry Kirton  Lizzie Shelby - Natasha O'Keeffe  Linda Shelby - Kate Phillips  Created by:  Steven Knight  Directed by:  Otto Bathurst   Tom Harper   Colm McCarthy  Produced by:  Katie Swinden  Laurie Borg   We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/take Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!   A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone discuss Tasha Jefferson, aka Taystee, from Orange is the New Black. We get fascinating insights into child states and how difficult they are to escape; attachment theory and why prison can be a better alternative to living in the outside world. Expect to laugh and cry while reliving one of the early bingeable series on Netflix. And if you’re interested in looking further into issues of adoption and racism, check out our episode on The Queen’s Gambit, from Season 1.    We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Polly, Peaky Blinders (seasons 1&2)  Reginald "Bubbles" Cousins, The Wire (Season 1)  Moira Rose, Schitt's Creek (Season 1)  Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes)   Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1)  Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City (selected episodes)    CREDITS  We used clips from Season 1 of Orange is the New Black. It’s available to watch on Netflix.  Starring:  Taylor Schilling as Piper Chapman  Laura Prepon as Alex Vause,   Michael Harney as Sam Healy  Michelle Hurst as Miss Claudette Pelage  Kate Mulgrew as Galina "Red" Reznikov  Jason Biggs as Larry Bloom  Uzo Aduba as Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren  Danielle Brooks as Tasha "Taystee" Jefferson  Natasha Lyonne as Nicky Nichols  Taryn Manning as Tiffany "Pennsatucky" Doggett  Selenis Leyva as Gloria Mendoza  Adrienne C. Moore as Cynthia "Black Cindy" Hayes  Dascha Polanco as Dayanara "Daya" Diaz  Created by:  Jenji Kohan  Directed by:  Michael Trim  Andrew McCarthy  Uta Briesewitz  Jodie Foster  Matthew Penn  Produced by:  Jenji Kohan  Sara Hess  Tara Herrmann  Lisa Vinnecour  Neri Kyle Tannenbaum  Mark A. Burley    We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon’s The Morning Show characters, Alex and Bradley, on the couch. We ask how a person creates a false self at work, what makes Bradley break the mould and find out how Alex could ever have respect for her male boss in the middle of a #MeToo scandal. Stay tuned for more on false selves in our upcoming episodes on Jackson Lamb and Polly Shelby too! We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2) Polly, Peaky Blinders (seasons 1&2) Reginald "Bubbles" Cousins, The Wire (Season 1) Moira Rose, Schitt's Creek (Season 1) Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes) Jackson Lamb, Slow Horses (Season 1) CREDITS We used clips from Season 1 of The Morning Show. It’s available to watch on AppleTV+. Starring: Jennifer Aniston as Alexandra "Alex" Levy Reese Witherspoon as Bradley Jackson Billy Crudup as Cory Ellison Mark Duplass as Charlie "Chip" Black Néstor Carbonell as Yanko Flores Karen Pittman as Mia Jordan Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Hannah Shoenfeld Bel Powley as Claire Conway Desean Terry as Daniel Henderson Jack Davenport as Jason Craig Steve Carell as Mitch Kessler Created by: Jay Carson Directed by: David Frankel Lynn Shelton Roxann Dawson Tucker Gates Produced by: Jennifer Aniston Reese Witherspoon Kerry Ehrin Michael Ellenberg Mimi Leder We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone answer your questions and explore your suggestions. They talk about whether they have any friends who are spies and explore some brilliant female led comedies you've either missed or forgotten.     We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Michael, Office (USA. Season 1)  Chandler, Friends (selected episodes)  Sydney, The Bear (season 2)  Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2).  Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1)   Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2)    CREDITS  We used a clip from Girls, Series 6.   Starring (in the clip we used):   Lena Dunham as Hannah Horvath  Adam Driver as Adam Sackler.     Created by: Lena Dunham. Written by Lena Dunham and Judd Apatow.   Directed by: Jesse Peretz  Produced by: Home Box Office.     Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put Tyrion Lannister from Game of Thrones on the couch. Tyrion doesn’t conform to society’s norms. How does he use that to his advantage? He’s booksmart, cunning and the most open-minded man in Westeros. This ‘half-man’ is, in fact, three times as impressive as any of his peers. We look into difference, diversity and skulduggery in this latest episode. Don’t miss it!  We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1) Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2) Polly, Peaky Blinders (seasons 1&2) Reginald "Bubbles" Cousins, The Wire (Season 1) Moira Rose, Schitt's Creek (Season 1) Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes)  CREDITS We used clips from Season 1 of Game of Thrones. It’s available to watch on NOWTV. Starring: Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister Sean Bean as Eddard Stark Mark Addy as Robert Baratheon Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Jaime Lannister Michelle Fairley as Catelyn Stark Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen Iain Glen as Jorah Mormont Aidan Gillen as Petyr Baelish Harry Lloyd as Viserys Targaryen Kit Harington as Jon Snow Created by: George R.R. Martin (based on novels by) David Benioff (adapted for screen by) D.B. Weiss (adapted for screen by) Directed by: Mark Mylod Alan Taylor David Benioff D.B. Weiss et al. Produced by: Christopher Newman Mark Huffam Greg Spence Lisa McAtackney Duncan Muggoch For HBO  We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put sous-chef Sydney Adamu from The Bear into therapy. She helps whip the team at the restaurant into shape, she’s nurturing but anxious and riddled with self-doubt, not to mention a person of colour with the highest of ambitions in a profession dominated by white men. Mouthwatering, no?    We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2).  Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1)   Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2)  Polly, Peaky Blinders (seasons 1&2)  Reginald "Bubbles" Cousins, The Wire (Season 1)  Moira Rose, Schitt's Creek (Season 1)  Raymond Holt, Brooklyn 99 (selected episodes)     CREDITS  We used clips from season 2 of The Bear, available on Disney+.     Starring  Jeremy Allen White as Carmen Berzatto  Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard Jerimovich  Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu  Lionel Boyce as Marcus  Liza Colón-Zayas as Tina  Edwin Lee Gibson as Ebraheim  Corey Hendrix as Gary Woods  Richard Esteras as Manny  Jose M. Cervantes as Angel  Abby Elliott as Natalie Berzatto    Created by: Christopher Storer  Written by: Karen Joseph Adcock, Joanna Calo, Rene Gube, Sofya Levitsky-Weitz, Alex O'Keefe, Catherine Schetina, Christopher Storer  Directed by: Alan Myerson, Peter Bonerz, James Burrows, Kevin S. Bright   Produced by: FX/Hulu/Disney+    We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.    To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone put Chandler from Friends on the famous Central Perk couch to talk about his phobia of commitment, his attachment patterns and how he feels about mum AND dad putting on a black dress and trying to seduce one of your best friends. Expect doses of sarcasm, celebrity cameos and Janice’s laughter peppered throughout. We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Sydney, The Bear (season 2) Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2). Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1) Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2) Polly, Peaky Blinders (seasons 1&2) Reginald "Bubbles" Cousins, The Wire (Season 1) CREDITS We used clips from all seasons of Friends, available on Netflix. Starring Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing David Schwimmer as Ross Geller Courtney Cox as Monica Geller Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe Buffay Matt LeBlanc as Joey Tribbiani Created by: David Crane and Marta Kauffman Written by: Ted Cohen and Andrew Reich, David Crane, Marta Kauffman, Scott Silveri, Shana Goldberg-Meehan et al. Directed by: Alan Myerson, Peter Bonerz, James Burrows, Kevin S. Bright Produced by: Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions and Warner Bros. Television Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone stroll into The Office (USA). They consider the differences between Michael Scott and David Brent, explore ego and ask why some people think they’re funny (when they’re just not). We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Chandler, Friends (selected episodes)  Sydney, The Bear (season 2)  Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2).  Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1)   Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2)  Polly, Peaky Blinders (seasons 1&2)  CREDITS  We used clips from The Office USA, series 1 on Netflix.   Starring  Steve Carell as Michael Scott,   Rainn Wilson as Dwight Schrute  John Krasinski as Jim Halpert  Jenna Fischer as Pam Beesly  Created by: Greg Daniels, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant.   Written by: reg Daniels, Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant, Mindy Kaling, B.J Novak,   Directed by: Ken Kwapis, Ken Whittingham, Greg Daniels.  Produced by: Deedle Dee Productions, Reveille Productions and NBC Universal. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Nemone answer your questions and explore your suggestions. They talk about whether they have any friends who are spies and explore some brilliant female led comedies you've either missed or forgotten.  We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here  Michael, Office (USA. Season 1) Chandler, Friends (selected episodes) Sydney, The Bear (season 2) Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2). Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1)  Tasha, Orange is the New Black (season 2) CREDITS We used a clip from Girls, Series 6.  Starring (in the clip we used):  Lena Dunham as Hannah Horvath Adam Driver as Adam Sackler.  Created by: Lena Dunham. Written by Lena Dunham and Judd Apatow.  Directed by: Jesse Peretz Produced by: Home Box Office.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He’s grumpy, belligerent, stubborn, filterless and has to win every single argument. We ask how Larry David has any friends left and why he is so concerned with manners, yet is rude to virtually everyone he meets. Plus, Ben and Nemone look at why some people find Curb Your Enthusiasm excruciating whilst others just can’t get enough of the hit show.   We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com    NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here   Michael, Office (USA. Season 1)  Chandler, Friends (selected episodes)  Sydney, The Bear (season 2)  Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2).  Alex and Bradley, The Morning Show (Season 1)   CREDITS  We used clips from Season 7 of Curb Your Enthusiasm. Episodes 1,4,5,7,10.    Starring (in the clips we used):   Larry David as Larry David,   Jeff Garlin as Jeff Greene  Cheryl Hines as Cheryl David  Susie Essman as Susie Greene  Jason Alexander as Jason Alexander  Bob Einstein as Marty Funkhouser  Catherine O'Hara as Bam Bam  Anita Barone, as Denise  Peter Mackenzie as Man in Shorts  Paul Webster as Larry's Friend Jim    Created and written by: Larry David. Directed by Larry Charles, Alec Berg, David Mandel, Bryan Gordon, Jeff Schaffer and Andy Ackerman,    Produced by: Linda Balaban, associate producer  Alec Berg, executive producer  Larry Charles, executive producer  Larry David, executive producer (showrunner) / executive producer  Jeff Garlin, executive producer  Tim Gibbons, executive producer  David Mandel, executive producer  Megan Murphy, co-producer  Erin O'Malley, executive producer  Gavin Polone, executive producer  Jeff Schaffer, executive producer (showrunner)  Laura Streicher, producer    Produced by HBO and Production Partners.   Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts.  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gang dynamics, whether you can escape a criminal heritage and the physiological cause and effect of PTSD. Plus, race rigging, opium smoking and casual violence - all in a day's work for The Peaky Blinders. Here’s the article Ben mentioned by his sister Zadie Smith: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1399593/My-father-the-accidental-hero.html We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Gang dynamics, whether you can escape a criminal heritage and the physiological cause and effect of PTSD. Plus, race rigging, opium smoking and casual violence - all in a day's work for The Peaky Blinders. Here’s the article Ben mentioned by his sister Zadie Smith: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1399593/My-father-the-accidental-hero.html NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm (Season 7) Michael, Office (USA. Season 1) Chandler, Friends (selected episodes) Sydney, The Bear (season 2) Tyrion, Game of Thrones (seasons 1&2). CREDITS We used clips from Season 1 of Peaky Blinders. Starring: Cillian Murphy (Tommy Shelby), Paul Anderson (Arthur Shelby), Sophie Rundle (Ada Shelby) Helen McCrory (Polly Gray) and Samuel Edward Cook (Danny Whizz-bang). Created by: D Steven Knight Written by D Steven Knight, Toby Finlay and Stephen Russell. Directed by: Otto Bathurst and Tom Harper. Produced by: Caryn Mandabach Productions, Tiger Aspect Productions and British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Cersei says: ‘power is power’ and she’s got it in spades. We investigate how she becomes a master manipulator, and we take an honest objective look at her over-familiar relations with her brother Jaime.  We want to hear about any theories we might have missed, what you’ve thought of the show so far and your character suggestions. Please drop the team an email (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here  Tommy Shelby, Peaky Blinders (Season 1) Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm (Season 7) Michael, Office (USA. Season 1) Chandler, Friends (selected episodes) Sydney, The Bear (season 2) CREDITS We used clips from Season 1 and 2 of Game of Thrones.  Starring: Sean Bean as Ned Stark, Mark Addy as Robert Baratheon, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Jaime Lannister, Michelle Fairley as Catelyn Stark, Jack Gleeson as Joffrey Baratheon, Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister and Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister Based on: "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin Created by: David Benioff and DB Weiss Written by: David Benioff, George R.R. Martin, Dave Hill, Bryan Cogman, Ethan J. Antonucci, Gursimran Sandhu, Vanessa Taylor and Jane Espenson.  (S1&2) Directed by: David Nutter, Alan Taylor, Daniel Minahan, Alik Sakharov, Brian Kirk, Timothy Van Patten, Nei Marshall, David Petrarca and Tom McCarthy. Produced by: Home Box Office (HBO), Television 360, Grok! Studio, (Grok! Television), Generator Entertainment and Bighead Littlehead. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Where does Frasier’s snobbery originate from?  Why does he revert to his ‘child state’ when around his father?  And... the hidden story behind Frasier being a Freudian analyst and Niles (his brother) being a Jungian analyst. Plus, Ben and Nemone’s minds are blown when they realise a crazy coincidence with Frasier and Tony Soprano. We want to hear from you!!! Please drop the team an email with your questions and theories (which may be part of the show): shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com NEXT CLIENTS ON THE COUCH. Find out how to view here Cersei, Game of Thrones (Season 1) Tommy Shelby, Peaky Blinders (Season 1) Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm (Season 7) Sydney, The Bear (Season 2) Michael, Office (USA. Season 1) CREDITS We used clips from Season 1 of Frasier Starring: Kelsey Grammar as Dr Fraiser Crane, David Hyde Pierce as Niles Crane, John Mahoney as Martin Crane, Peri Gilpin as Roz Doyle and Jane Leeves as Daphne Moon. Created and written by: David Angell, Peter Casey, David Lee and Brad Hall. Directed by: James Burrows, David Lee, Andy Ackerman and Rick Beren. Produced by: Grub Street Productions, Paramount Network Television, Paramount Television (in association with) Grammnet Productions and National Broadcasting Company (NBC) Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered why Frasier Crane is such a snob? How Tyrion Lannister’s bawdy humour saves him in Game of Thrones? What makes Schitts Creek’s Moira Rose a narcissist? ‘Shrink the Box’ is where actor comedian Ben Bailey Smith and psychotherapist Nemone Metaxas put their favourite fictional characters such Tommy from Peaky Blinders and Sydney from The Bear on the couch - to analyse why their behaviour causes them so much drama. Nemone and Ben explore why these characters make certain decisions, what would happen if they made different ones and what we can learn from their mistakes. The perfect combination of psychology, self-help and the best TV since the birth of the box-set. We would love to hear your theories: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Shrink the Box Season 2 premieres on 7th May. A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us at @sonypodcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

BBC’s ‘Ghosts’ - we explore them further. We also ask if Homer Simpson is abusive and we answer your questions in this special bonus edition. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben’s close encounter with an obsessive fan. Plus we ask why writers create good-looking psychopaths and we explore your character suggestions in this special bonus edition. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Season 2 hits our screens, we reflect on the recipe that had everyone crying into their dinner, how Carmy and Ritchie approach grief differently and how advice from a Vietnamese Buddist Monk can be applied to a professional kitchen.  The Bear is available to watch on Disney Plus. As ever, adult issues, language and spoilers will be sprinkled liberally throughout the show.  If you want to catch the BBC show that Ben is in (as mentioned): https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0fvlpf9/the-sixth-commandment   If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/  For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk  EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!  Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production.  We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You’d think someone with two therapist parents would be golden. Why Otis is scared of sex. Plus what’s worse, having a parent who is strict or a smotherer? We look at what it’s like for the rest of the boys such as Eric, Adam and Jackson in the second of this two-parter on the hugely popular Netflix show. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What it’s like being called a ‘cock-biter’ - how Maeve is misunderstood and underestimated. Plus revenge porn, toxic friendships and fears or fascination around sex. In this two parter: we look at the girls first and what they face growing up in this hugely popular Netflix show. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emotional contagion in gang culture is not the only issue driving this week's client. Does compartmentalising ruthless work and being a caregiver have ill effects? We delve into how grief can drive reckless decision-making to become Top Boy.  If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/  For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk   EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!  Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production.  We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The difference between personality types: Feeler or Dealer. Plus why Mitch is so desperate to be one of the crowd and Cam wants to stand outside of it. We explore two of our favourite characters in more detail.  If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan.  Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/  For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk  EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!  Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production.  We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does infidelity say about a marriage? How can honesty in the face of money laundering keep a family together, and what sort of mother is Wendy? We learn how a wholesome American mum holds her nerve (and maybe even thrives) against a cartel. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With special guest Kiell Smith-Bynoe who plays Mike in hit BBC comedy ‘Ghosts’. Ben and Sasha ask: is sharing your partner with a group of ghosts a metaphor for partnerships and what’s it like to act next to dead people? Plus, they take a look at why it's not just our upbringing that shapes us, but also the time we come from. Recorded Live at The Podcast Show in London.   If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/   For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk   EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!   Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What’s an anxious ruminator? What happens when self-blame is a way of life and how stationery can be lethal? We learn that there’s a little bit of George in all of us and how to keep it at bay. Our top ten George episodes (available on Netflix) Season 2, episode 4: The Phone Message Season 4, episode 10: The Contest Season 4, episode 15: The Shoes Season 5, episode 14: The Marine Biologist Season 5, episode 21: The Opposite Season 7, episode 19: The Calzone Season 7, episode 22: The Invitation Season 7, episode 7: The Secret Code Season 8, episode 9: The Abstinence Season 8, episode 13: The Comeback If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How anger can be a force for good, are we misusing the word ‘trigger’ and what happens when a birthday party turns into a domestic. We deep dive into the police sergeant’s life to see how she copes (or not). If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Sasha break down how the Schitt’s Creek siblings are fuelled differently, the different flavours of wine, and why quality time with the ones who love us most, trumps all. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Sasha ask why do some people behave like big babies (and why is it more obvious in wealthy people); why can trying to hold on to someone mean you actually push them away, and how can we learn to spot terrible mistakes heading in our direction? If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben & Sash explore what makes a successful confidence trickster, and how Jimmy McGill is full of contradictions: criminal and yet kind. Plus, how it’s difficult not to slide back into old habits without the right support. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. We'd love to hear your comments and guest suggestions on the show. Email: shrinkthebox@sonymusic.com Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben Bailey Smith and Sasha Bates delve into the Shrink the Box emails to answer questions, discuss new character suggestions and pick each other’s brains. This week: they muse on whether the Roy Family (Succession) could really do a group therapy session and Ben asks Sasha whether she ever dislikes her clients (and other tricky therapist conundrums). If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Sasha delve into the Shrink the Box emails to answer questions, discuss new character suggestions and pick each other’s brains. This week: they wonder whether analysing a fictional character means you are analysing the writer too. Plus what it would be like to have a werewolf on the couch. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Siobhan Roy has it all: a high flying career, a man who adores her, and a private jet at her disposal. And still it’s not enough. This week we explore the most dysfunctional of family dynamics, how power is mistaken for love, and why the need for parental approval... never quite goes away. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Succession to avoid spoilers. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We look at the Geller siblings: Ross and Monica. We explore why Monica said “If I could choose my parents, I’d choose yours” to her brother and whether her obsessive neatness is a problem. Plus, we ask why Ross’ intellectualism is a defence mechanism and how friends really can be your support network. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Friends to avoid spoilers. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thrills, state secrets, and international assassins. Eve Polastri has always been wanted to be a MI6 spy. When she stumbles across Villanelle, she gets just that. We explore what happens when a romantically charged obsession goes too far and what happens when people start to want different things out of a relationship. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Killing Eve to avoid spoilers. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Meet the Rayburn’s. They are upstanding pillars of the community, hugely admired, and entirely dysfunctional. We delve into why Danny is actually the scapegoat, what the sympathetic ghost signifies, and just how sticky familial roles can be. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Bloodlines to avoid spoilers. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Black, British and kind of famous, Michaela Coel’s Arabella colours outside of the lines; misses deadlines, and, can’t *quite* remember what happened to her last night? One woman’s search for the truth raises questions around agency, relationships and whether or not there’s ever such a thing as shades of grey - when it comes to consent. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of I May Destroy You to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transporting viewers to the idyllic, suburban world of Westview, New Jersey, but all is not how it seems. Despite her otherworldly powers, Wanda experiences grief and loss, just like the rest of us. Plus a deep dive into the strength of nostalgia, what the mysterious beekeepers mean, and how sometimes, destruction is the only thing that helps us heal. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Wandavision to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Advertising sells - and Don Draper knows how to sell it better than anyone: a product, the American dream, and even himself. We look at why the ad-men of the ‘60s were so terrified of therapy, how sex is power, and why faking who you are - is actually the hardest sell of all.  Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Mad Men to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Falling in love with a priest - whilst being deathly afraid of intimacy? What’s that about? Join us as we delve into the world of Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag and find out why she is so intent on being quite so ‘naughty’. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 and 2 of Fleabag to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Omar is only Barack Obama's favourite fictional character of all time. And perhaps ours too? We find out why we're on the side of the gun-toting, duster-coat wearing stick-up badass who robs drug dealers for a living. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of The Wire to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/ For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/shrink Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The often enigmatic chess genius that is Beth Harmon - is the Queen of this week’s episode. Ben and Sasha explore why Beth feels so compelled to clean up after parties - and how her controlled prowess at the chessboard, becomes utter chaos away from it. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of The Queen’s Gambit to avoid spoilers. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/. For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sliding on their gloves, and stepping into their Hazmat suits, Ben and Sasha distil one of TV’s most infamous characters: The mighty Heisenburg. On this week’s Shrink the Box we uncover why Walter White is often in his underpants, how he taps into his ‘shadow side’ and we explore if the ‘Revenge of the Nerd’ is really a thing. Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of Breaking Bad to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/. For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Unravelling the complex (and surprisingly endearing) layers of the OG mobster: Mr Tony Soprano, all roads lead to New Jersey on the first episode of Shrink the Box! We find out why talking to a therapist is a ‘whackable’ offence, how falling in love with your shrink is not THAT uncommon and why his mother, Livia Soprano could be the real villain of the show.  Don’t forget to check out Season 1 of The Sopranos to avoid spoilers. Do you have a character suggestion for us? Get in touch! Please email shrinkthebox@somethinelse.com If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode: For the UK, call SAMARITANS on 116 123 samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan. Internationally: https://www.befrienders.org/. For UK help via talking therapies contact your GP or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy bacp.co.uk Shrink The Box is a Somethin’ Else Production with Sony Music Entertainment. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered why Tony Soprano’s therapist stuck with him? Why Fleabag is obsessed with sex or why Walter White is always in his underpants? ‘Shrink the Box’ is where actor comedian Ben Bailey Smith and psychotherapist Sasha Bates put their favourite fictional characters such as Shiv from Succession, Omar from the Wire and Ross from Friends on the couch to analyse why their behaviour causes them so much drama. Sasha and Ben explore why these characters make certain decisions, what would happen if they made different ones and what we can learn from their mistakes. The perfect combination of psychology, self-help and the best TV since the birth of the box-set. A Somethin’ Else & Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us at @sonypodcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices