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Kristen, chill.

Kristen, chill.

By Kristen Carney

A comedy podcast for over-thinkers and the neurotic, pining over everyday struggles and the minutiae of everyday life with an *occasional* emphasis on depression and mental health. The show was originally known as "Mentally Ch(ill)", hosted by Stevie Ryan and Kristen Carney until we lost Stevie to suicide in 2017. RIP Stevie. We love you forever.

How to get help: In the US, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The International Association for Suicide Prevention and Befrienders Worldwide also can provide contact information for crisis centers around the world.
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Currently playing episode

#100 Neuroses and Bodily Functions

Kristen, chill. Dec 03, 2019

00:00
01:08:15
#106 Therapy and Mushrooms with Comedian Alli Breen

#106 Therapy and Mushrooms with Comedian Alli Breen

Back for another episode! I'm joined by comedian Alli Breen for back-from-hiatus episode #2. We talk about therapy and if it's worth it, being chronically late, mushrooms, overthinking things we've said, ignoring people in elevators and so much more.

Mar 06, 202401:05:59
#105 I'm Back Babay! with Guest Dan Naturman

#105 I'm Back Babay! with Guest Dan Naturman

Well, well, well, look who it is. It's your ol' pal Kristen. It's only been MORE THAN 3 1/2 years since the last time I posted an episode. The last time I taped we were a month into COVID, still had our minds, my mom was still alive and my heart hadn't been eaten alive by a relationship. I hope the last 3 1/2 years haven't turned you into a completely different person too, but if it has, I hope it was for the better.


This first episode back I'm joined by one of my favorite comedians and people, Dan Naturman, who you've seen on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, David Letterman, Comedy Central Presents, AGT, Last Comic Standing etc etc etc. We talk about performance anxiety, "normal" comedians, plane crashes, public bathroom etiquette and so many more hot topics.


I'll be posting a new episode once a month as I ease my way back into the show. If you'd like to watch the full, unedited video version of the podcast, you can do that at Patreon.com/KristenCarney


Follow Dan on Instagram @DanNaturman

Find me on Instagram @KrisCarn


See you on Patreon!

Jan 19, 202401:15:20
#104 GET OUT OF YOUR OWN WAY

#104 GET OUT OF YOUR OWN WAY

Mike Carano (Corona) is back! And, he's here to talk about progress, set-backs, and actually doing the things you KNOW will help you (and Kristen couldn't relate more). They also talk about getting outside, being isolated, going off medication, validation, smelly microphones and so many more things that the neurotic person can relate to. Follow Mike on Instagram @MikeCarano and Kristen @Kriscarn. Thank you for listening and sharing the show with a friend. 

Apr 03, 202002:09:11
#103 Big Surprise, an Ep about COVID-19!

#103 Big Surprise, an Ep about COVID-19!

Welcome to the show now known as 'Kristen, chill.' Hopefully this is the last name change and the first of many episodes under the somewhat-ish new moniker. Kristen is joined by Resident Consultant Jen and "Ky the Movie Guy" to talk about the Coronavirus and our "new normal" (that's for you, Jen). They talk about what they've been doing to get through these strange times, how Jen coped with a mandatory 14 day quarantine after coming in contact with not 1 but 2, count 'em 2 confirmed Coronavirus patients. They also talk about Kyle, as a grocery store manager, being on the front lines. Kristen also tells us about going off of antidepressants, her dog passing, why she isn't watching TV and how disappointed she is Kyle. For extra show content, go to Patreon.com/KristenandChill (the web address hasn't changed along with the new name quite yet). Also, follow Kristen on Instagram @kriscarn and Twitter @KristenCarney and Jen and Kyle on Twitter @ifner24 and @filthykyle. Stay safe out there! 

Mar 25, 202001:12:05
#102 Getting out of Your Comfort Zone

#102 Getting out of Your Comfort Zone

Kristen is pushed out of her comfort zone this month and talks all about it and why it'll be good for her. Her and Resident Consultant Jen also talk about awkward silences, ski etiquette and the speculation around Kristen's Great Great Grandfather's death/suicide. They also talk about why Jen has a hard time doing nothing, even on a vacation, Kristen's simple family and they do a little "Would You Rather" for old time's sake. Follow Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn and on Twitter @KristenCarney. Jen barely tweets but follow her anyway on Twitter @ifner24. 

Feb 21, 202001:17:10
#101 BACK TO THERAPY

#101 BACK TO THERAPY

In this first episode of the new decade, Kristen is joined by Resident Consultant Jen. They rehash the holidays, their recent dining out experience and why they still tip 20% or more. Kristen also gets into her first time back to therapy in 2 years and how much she likes her new therapist. They also talk about the depressing parts of the holidays, pee streams, and HOW EMPATHETIC RESIDENT CONSULTANT JEN IS. Thanks for listening! Find Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn. 

Jan 14, 202001:23:09
#100 Neuroses and Bodily Functions

#100 Neuroses and Bodily Functions

In this momentous 100th episode (which should make this day the newest national holiday), Kyle and Kristen talk in-depth about bathroom habits because they’re mature. They also talk in-depth about neuroses and whether or not neuroses make people funny. Kristen also tells two stories about being a bad driver (but she’s actually a really good driver (Kristen wrote this obviously)). Find her (me) on Instagram @kriscarn and Kyle on twitter @filthykyle.
Dec 03, 201901:08:15
#99 Desperate for Human Touch and Kyle’s First “Regular” Appearance

#99 Desperate for Human Touch and Kyle’s First “Regular” Appearance

Kyle is back for his FIRST OFFICIAL regular-weekly appearance. They talk about changing the name of the show, whether or not they’re actually narcissists, how Kristen is still lonely for human touch and meeting men at Starbucks. They discuss morning journaling and whether or not the senator involved in #fartgate really let one go or not. Get extras of the show at Patreon.com/kristenandchill

Nov 20, 201901:14:42
#98 The Normalizing of Narcissism
Nov 08, 201901:23:40
#97 Cancer n' more!

#97 Cancer n' more!

Kristen really lets lose in this episode about why she hasn’t had a show out in a month so bear with her. Kyle sure does!

Oct 10, 201901:34:13
#96 Seeking Approval and Spending $$$
Sep 05, 201901:11:58
#95 Michael Rispoli, Rejections and Wearing Masks

#95 Michael Rispoli, Rejections and Wearing Masks

This week Kristen hangs with actor Michael Rispoli who has an impressive film and television resume. But, more importantly, he’s got the perfect New York accent. He talks about the nuances of being a working class actor and how he had to thicken his skin to survive in show business. They also talk about collecting as many rejections as possible, how we all have a mask we wear that makes us feel safe and keeping friends and family close. Salad dressings and condiments are also discussed. You can find Kristen on twitter @KristenCarney or on Instagram @KrisCarn. 

Aug 15, 201901:10:15
#94 Saying YES and The Summer of Forced Fun

#94 Saying YES and The Summer of Forced Fun

In this episode, Ralph Sutton host of The SDR Show joins Kristen to talk about seeing a therapist at the age of 5 or 6, not being married and about to turn 50 and whether or not Kristen really needs medication. They also talk about saying yes to everything and Kristen's "Summer of Forced Fun" or Ralph's version called "Summer of Do."  There's also chat about dinner etiquette and Ralph's bromance with his new friends. 

Check out The SDR Show on Gas Digital and follow Ralph @iamralphsutton

Jul 31, 201901:07:25
#93 Is it Depression or Adulthood? What’s the Difference?

#93 Is it Depression or Adulthood? What’s the Difference?

Inspired by last week’s episode, Kristen goes on and on about making better choices to help her depression while Kyle patiently listens. They also talk about having fun when you’re a kid versus when you’re an adult, being too self aware, dating, having someone in your life to make the monotonous moments feel not-so-monotonous and tubing. They also talk about being honest and complain about the fast food drive through. Follow Kyle on Twitter @FilthyKyle and Kristen on Twitter @KristenCarney or on Instagram @KrisCarn.

Jul 19, 201901:20:21
#92 Deep Depression with True Crime Garage's 'The Captain'

#92 Deep Depression with True Crime Garage's 'The Captain'

This week Kristen hangs with one of the co-hosts of the popular podcast 'True Crime Garage.' And, much like crime, it starts out innocent and then gets really, really dark. The Captain talks about his battle with severe depression and frequent thoughts of suicide but NOT BEFORE Kristen complains about her bad haircut and divulges about her "crazy" weekend with Resident Consultant Jen. You know, all those subjects that *really* matter.
You can find The Captain on Instagram @captainfathands and Kristen @KrisCarn
Jul 11, 201958:44
#91 Michael Kosta and Practical Therapy

#91 Michael Kosta and Practical Therapy

Comedian and The Daily Show correspondent Michael Kosta is hanging out with Kristen this week talking about not feeling cool enough, talking to your therapist for practical advice, not just for emotional support and why they both should stop being curmudgeons. They also get into the minutiae of door locks, saying your name to people you might know and how having solutions to a problem miiiiight be a good idea. 

Twitter: @MichaelKosta/@kristencarney

Instagram: @MichaelKosta/KrisCarn

Jun 26, 201901:10:43
#90 Mark Normand and Hypervigilance

#90 Mark Normand and Hypervigilance

This week Kristen is joined by comedian Mark Normand to talk about going to therapy with a hangover, overthinking everything and what it was like growing up in a bed and breakfast in New Orleans. They also talk about being too aware, true crime television and when talking to someone for help in a store is just too much. Follow Mark on twitter @MarkNorm and Kristen @Kristencarney.

Jun 07, 201901:07:37
#89 Are You Too Cynical?

#89 Are You Too Cynical?

This week Kristen is joined by herself and talks about her fear of going out in public with her glasses, her new wave of depression and how she was dumped because she was too cynical. She also talks about people who pray in airports, treadmills and her "hierarchy of being a good person" theory. If you'd like to support the show, please go to Patreon.com/KristenandChill. You can also follow Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn and the show @Kristenandchill

May 23, 201954:23
#88 Tearjerkers and Sitting and Staring

#88 Tearjerkers and Sitting and Staring

 Regular guest Kyle is back on this week’s episode to talk about movies. But, not *just* movies, but also crying at the movies, getting irrationally angry at the movies and of course, The Avengers. They also talk about comfort food, fear of bugs and why Kristen just sat and stared for the 2 1/2 weeks she had the flu. Follow Kyle on Twitter @filthykyle and Kristen @KristenCarney.

May 09, 201901:11:45
#87 Can Only Cry at One Thing

#87 Can Only Cry at One Thing

Comedian Patrick Schroeder of The Good, The Bad and The Ugly podcast joins Kristen to talk about all things annoying, including high fives, hugs and riding the train. They also talk about how he only can cry at sports related things, how he’s always wanted to be a mom and why on earth someone would want to talk to him. Follow Patrick on Instagram @Schrotime and Kristen @KrisCarn 

May 02, 201901:03:17
BONUS EP! Throw Back to Mentally Ch(ill)

BONUS EP! Throw Back to Mentally Ch(ill)

This week, long time listener Beyza joins Kristen to share her experience growing up in an abusive home and what her experience has been like since her bi-polar diagnosis. She also talks about what it's like having a team of mental health professionals in the Netherlands and how they focus on having a daily routine. She also discusses what medications have and have not worked for her and she shares beautifully written words about the pain and love she has toward her mother. You can find Beyza and share your story with her on Instagram @Beyzc.  

May 01, 201953:09
#86 Nighttime Therapy and Getting Nowhere

#86 Nighttime Therapy and Getting Nowhere

Kristen is joined by comedian Seth Herzog to talk about his habits in therapy, flipping the switch on the therapist and why he goes to therapy late at night. They also talk about the color grey, Broadway, what it’s like having lots of friends and how criminals should dress a little nicer to commit their crimes. 

Find Seth on Instagram @SethZog or on Twitter @thezog. You can also find Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn or on Twitter @KristenCarney. 

Apr 11, 201901:00:44
#85 The Mundane, Paper-cuts and What's the Point

#85 The Mundane, Paper-cuts and What's the Point

Resident Consultant Jen and Regular guest Kyle are on this week's show discussing everything from social anxiety to what they wanted to be when they grew up. Jen also discusses why cutting her finger freaks her out so much and how her and Kristen changed roles for once when she freaked out and Kristen didn't. They also talk about standing at concerts, people who don't use their turn signals and why making the bed is so, so important. Please follow Jen and Kyle on Twitter @ifner24 and @filthykyle. You can find Kristen on Twitter @kristencarney or on Instagram @kriscarn.

Apr 03, 201901:13:55
#84 Sex, Therapy and Fart Jokes Are(n't) Funny

#84 Sex, Therapy and Fart Jokes Are(n't) Funny

Mike Carano is BACK and joining Kristen for his 4th episode. They talk about pressing topics like not wanting to be awkward in meaningful moments, like sex and how much is sucks to screw up at therapy. They also get into losing something you love, what it's like to feel pleasure again after being depressed for so long and when to use the grocery divider thingy at the check out.

Please subscribe, rate and share the show with a friend!

Instagram: @mikecarno, @kristencarney, @kristenandchillpodcast
Mar 27, 201901:24:53
#83 Living in a Perfect World and Adult Bullying
Mar 19, 201901:26:15
#82 Speaking Up, Nail Biting and Airport Etiquette
Mar 05, 201901:15:02
#81 New Year, New Pod: Kristen and Ch(ill)

#81 New Year, New Pod: Kristen and Ch(ill)

In the first ever episode of "Kristen and Ch(ill)", Kristen is joined by regular guest Kyle and Resident Consultant Jen. The new format is a light-hearted, fun version of Mentally Ch(ill). I guess you can say its "Mentally Ch(ill) Lite". In this episode the trio talk about Things They Would Tell Their Therapist, The Sopranos, grocery carts and how to make friends as an introverted person/adult. And, stick around at the end for "Tough Love with Uncle Tony" for a dose of, that's right, tough love. Follow Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn and on Twitter @KristenCarney Thank you for listening!

Feb 27, 201901:29:23
#80 SHOW ANNOUNCEMENT and Suicide Prevention with Dennis Gillan
Dec 31, 201801:14:49
#79 Therapist Kati Morton Answers Your (and my) Questions

#79 Therapist Kati Morton Answers Your (and my) Questions

Therapist and Youtube personality, Kati Morton answers listeners questions that range from everything to handling grief to toxic relationships. She also talks about how to find help for your mental health and her book titled, "Are u ok?" They also talk about changing your language to make life not feel like such a chore. For "Schizo-filmia" this week, Kristen talks about the awersome documentary and movie, "Grey Gardens"and why it's scarily close to her life at the moment. APOLOGIES for the crummy sound quality on this week's episode. Love you all!
Dec 22, 201801:11:32
#78 Chronic Nightmares and Always Losing

#78 Chronic Nightmares and Always Losing

Kristen is on her own in today’s episode talking about the narrative she’s adopted of “always losing” and why it’s wrong and how she can change it. She talks about momentum, how to create it and/or change it. She also talks about having chronic nightmares and how mental illness and depression can effect your dreams. She also talks about Pete Davidson, a really evil man and a couple things she would tell her therapist.

Dec 07, 201843:30
#77 Having Friends with Depression

#77 Having Friends with Depression

Resident consultant Jen, a school psychologist and one of Kristen’s oldest friends is on the show this week talking about what it’s like to have a friend who is struggling with depression. She talks about the techniques she has used to try to help Kristen out of it as much as she can as well as how to keep them in your life when they try to isolate themselves. They also talk about what they’re grateful for, Juliette Lewis and Jen shows off how deep she is in another round of Freudian Slips. Please share the show with a friend! Thank you for listening.
Nov 24, 201855:53
#76 The Voices in His Head

#76 The Voices in His Head

In this episode, Kristen talks to Wesley about the voices he’s been hearing in his head for over a year and half. After taking medication for schizophrenia, he found no relief. However, he believes there is a team of people communicating with him directly, three to be exact. He talks about how he’s dealing with it, how he got here and how he’s holding onto hope for the future. They also talk about American cheese and cars with spoilers. Thank you for listening. Please support the show if you can! Patreaon.com/MentallyChill

Nov 15, 201801:14:16
#75 Accepting Yo'self

#75 Accepting Yo'self

Regular guest Kyle is back with Kristen to talk about self-acceptance or lack thereof and how it effects your mental health. And, Kristen talks about how she found it after seeing a picture of herself as a kid that she didn't hate. They also talk about empathy, the Mel Brooks film "High Anxiety" and what made them feel good this week. Follow Kyle on twitter @filthykyle and Kristen @KristenCarney. Thanks for listening!
Nov 02, 201801:02:31
#74 Physical, Sexual and Emotional Abuse

#74 Physical, Sexual and Emotional Abuse

Kristen’s cousin Kristy is on this week’s episode talking about living through two abusive relationships as well as two assaults she endured as a teenager. She talks about how despite the trauma she suffered, she’s found a way to be grateful for the terrorizing experiences. They also talk about how trauma ages your DNA, Kristen’s dream about Harvey Weinstein and when you accidentally spit on someone. Thank you for listening! If you’d like to support the show, please go to Patreon.com/KristenandChill and follow Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn or on Twitter @KristenCarney

Oct 19, 201801:05:38
#73 Stress, Conversion Disorder and Stoicism

#73 Stress, Conversion Disorder and Stoicism

Kristen’s friend Dan is on this week’s episode talking about how the stress and emotions of being stuck in a legal battle led him to developing physical symptoms like loss of muscle control and vision changes and how he overcame them. He also talks about the 30 Day Stoic Challenge and what he’s getting out of it. They also discuss Jane Fonda’s mother’s suicide, ice soup and the worst alarm clock hypotheticals. Thank you for listening! If you’d like to support the show, please go to Patreon.com/KristenandChill and follow Kristen on Instagram @KrisCarn or on Twitter @KristenCarney

Oct 12, 201801:03:31
#72 Brain Technology and Rebuilding Your Life

#72 Brain Technology and Rebuilding Your Life

Host of The Jordan Harbinger Show, Jordan Harbinger is here to discuss rebuilding your life, brain technology and the book Super Better. He also shares with Kristen how he has a new found respect for people who suffer with anxiety and how the gym helps keep him in a good frame of mind. Also discussed; headstands and not dressing like a bum. Check out Jordan on Twitter @JordanHarbinger
Oct 05, 201845:17
#71 How to Talk to Your Parents about Depression
Sep 28, 201801:24:18
#70 Fear and Panic with Peter Mehlman
Sep 21, 201845:47
#69 A Manic Mom and Music with David Wild
Sep 07, 201850:53
#68 Getting Sober and Drug Rehabilitation
Aug 30, 201801:05:09
#67 Hiding Out, Drinking and Capturing Depression on Camera
Aug 23, 201801:00:17
#66 Sports as Therapy and Dating with Depression with Paul Shirley
Aug 17, 201801:08:41
#65 Darkness And Weight Gain

#65 Darkness And Weight Gain

In this episode, Kristen talks to comedy writer and performer, Lauren Reeves about what it was like growing up in Alaska with little sun light and harsh conditions. They also talk about their relationships with their therapists, why Lauren fell into a spiral of drinking and weight gain and how she dug herself out of that hole. They also talk about SO SAD (summer-onset seasonal affective disorder) and they compete in a “Sad Off.” Follow Lauren on Twitter @LaurenReeves and Kristen @KristenCarney
Aug 03, 201801:01:21
#64 Anxiety Attacks vs Panic Attacks

#64 Anxiety Attacks vs Panic Attacks

In this episode, Kristen talks to herself (and to you) about the severe anxiety attacks she’s been experiencing lately and where they came from. How to stop them? She has no idea. But, she also talks about DNA tests and how they can help narrow down what anti depressants might work best for you and how it can reveal if you’re predisposed to depression. She also talks about what happened to her on Stevie’s birthday this year and what her anti depressant of the week is. Follow her on Instagram @kriscarn and on Twitter @kristencarney
Jul 27, 201852:45
#63 Fred Stoller & What's Right for YOU

#63 Fred Stoller & What's Right for YOU

In this week's episode, comedian and actor, Fred Stoller joins Kristen to talk about growing up when there weren't terms like "social anxiety" and having no concept that what he was was actually depressed. He also talk about not being accepted by his mother, not fitting in and being OK doing things that make you feel good, even if they're not socially accepted as things you should enjoy. They also talk about whining, their anti-depressants of the week and they do a brand new segment. Follow Fred onTwitter @Fred_Stoller
Jul 20, 201801:06:53
#62 Awards Won't Make You Happy

#62 Awards Won't Make You Happy

Emmy Award winning writer and stand-up comedian Kevin Avery joins Kristen to talk about feeling like you're never where you want to be in life and overworking yourself to compensate. They also talk about isolation, trying to find excitement as an adult and how winning awards won't give you happiness. Also, Kristen shares a movie she's excited about, Kevin talks about his anti-depressant of the week and bacteria causing anxiety and depression.

Jul 13, 201852:55
#61 Dr. Drew and Mike Carano

#61 Dr. Drew and Mike Carano

This week Dr. Drew Pinsky and Mike Carano join Kristen to talk about a smorgasbord of topics including religion and mental health, suicide, feeling like an impostor and OF COURSE, Mike and Kristen can't help but to indulge themselves in why they find living just SO DIFFICULT. Also, Dr. Drew and Mike discuss where they are on the "50 Shades of Gray (as in sad)" scale.

Jul 06, 201801:24:55
#60 Dealing with Suicide

#60 Dealing with Suicide

July 1st marks one year since Stevie's passing so Kristen has on musician Jae Jin to talk about his experience losing his close friend to suicide last year, beating cancer and his own suicidal thoughts. They also discuss finding hope, suicide statistics and making eggs in the microwave. Find Jae on Instagram @JaeJinMusic
Jun 29, 201857:38
#59 Addiction at 10 Years Old
Jun 22, 201801:07:59
#58 When Your Mom is Borderline

#58 When Your Mom is Borderline

Comedian Jessica Michelle Singleton is on this week’s show discussing what it was like growing up with a mother with Borderline Personality Disorder and how it has effected her mental health. She also talks about being abandoned by her father, finding out she is a product of artificial insemination and how she stays busy to avoid dealing with her feelings. They also talk about Anthony Bourdain’s suicide as well as where Jessica is on the scale of “50 Shades of Gray”. You can find her on Twitter @JMSComedy and Kristen @KristenCarney.
Jun 15, 201801:21:06