Soft Parts Podcast
Soft Parts is a podcast about identity, mental health, and all the chaotic, beautiful, and weird in-between phases of life. Therapist Deana Bianco sits down with artists, innovators, and mental health pros to talk anxiety, addiction, self-worth, creativity, and the surprising moments that shape us.
Sometimes, she even dives into memoirs with guests to try to make sense of the human experience. Equal parts thoughtful, funny, and strange. Sometimes you’ll laugh, sometimes you’ll cry, and sometimes both.
Listen to the latest episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.
Hole Bassist Kristin Pfaff: Her Legacy & the Story We Missed (Pt. 1) w. Guy Mankowski
In this episode of Soft Parts Podcast, host Deana Bianco talks with author Guy Mankowski about the life and legacy of Kristen Pfaff, Hole’s bassist and an often-overlooked figure in the ’90s grunge scene.
They explore Kristen’s creative evolution, activism, and personal struggles, including addiction, and discuss her lasting impact on alternative rock. The conversation also touches on Kurt Cobain, Nirvana, and the broader grunge era.
Trigger warning: discussion of addiction and suicide.
April Richardson (Part 2): Comedy, Music, Rediscovery & Healing
Deana Bianco introduces Soft Parts, her newly rebranded podcast about identity, mental health, and the vulnerable moments that shape us. She explains the name’s inspiration and the shift from her therapy-focused show. This episode continues her conversation with comedian April Richardson about surviving abuse, rebuilding her life, and how comedy and music support healing.
April Richardson Talks Comedy, Music & Identity (Part 1)
Deana Bianco interviews comedian April Richardson about her leap from MTV News to Chelsea Lately and the creative spark Bob Odenkirk gave her to pursue stand-up. April talks about how music and pop culture shaped her voice and career. They also dig into the legacy of Saved by the Bell, identity, and staying devoted to your passions in adulthood.
Anxious Times: Managing News Overload and Building Tolerance with Jennie Ketcham Crooks
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco talks with anxiety specialist Jennie Ketchum Crooks about how anxiety shows up in everyday life and how to manage it in a world filled with constant news and stress. They discuss the impact of political and social news on mental health, ways to build distress tolerance, and practical strategies to reduce anxiety.
Music, Sobriety, and Community: A Conversation with Punk Rock Recovery
Deana is joined by Amanda and Brandon from Punk Rock Recovery, who explore the connections between addiction recovery, music, and community support, sharing inspiring stories of sobriety and creativity. Chuck Davis also reflects on long-term recovery and the role of engagement, connection, and joy in sustaining it.
Healing from Evangelical Religious Trauma w. Jeremy Schumacher (Pt. 1)
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco speaks with Wisconsin-based therapist Jeremy Schumacher, who specializes in religious trauma therapy. Jeremy shares his experiences growing up in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod and how his neurodivergence and queer identity shaped his journey. He also discusses how music, literature, and creativity helped him question rigid beliefs and begin healing from spiritual abuse.
Let’s Talk About Sex Therapy w. Jolene Harrelson (Pt. 2)
In this episode of So What Brings You To Therapy?, host Deana explores how constant information consumption impacts mental health and shares why she chose to step back from the news to protect her well-being. Returning guest and sex therapist Jolene Harrelson discusses common issues couples face in sex therapy and the importance of open communication. Together, they offer insights on managing media overload, nurturing mental health, and strengthening relationships.
Addiction, Fentanyl & the Future of Recovery w. Chuck Davis (Pt. 2)
In this episode Deana Bianco explores the healing power of music and its impact on mental health. Guest Chuk Davis shares his journey of addiction and recovery, the devastating effects of the fentanyl crisis, and insights on the future of substance use treatment and recovery communities. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about music, mental health, and addiction recovery.
Addiction Recovery, Sobriety & Mental Health w. Chuk Davis (Pt. 1)
Host Deana Bianco sits down with Chuk Davis of The Don’t Die Podcast to discuss addiction recovery, sobriety, and mental health. They explore rehab experiences, substance abuse treatment, and the importance of supportive environments for lasting recovery, along with a fun chat about introducing kids to horror movies.
Tattoos, Therapy & Life After the Adult Film Industry w. Jennie Ketcham
In Part 1 of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco talks with Jennie Ketcham Crooks about mental health, trauma, and recovery. They explore the realities of the adult film industry, how trauma impacts relationships, and tattoos as tools for storytelling and healing. Both share personal journeys with sobriety, self-expression, and emotional growth. Honest, insightful, and sprinkled with humor, this episode offers real talk about resilience, trauma recovery, and life after the adult industry.
Drag and Determination: Overcoming Adversity and Embracing w. Shontelle Sparkles
Deana hits a Backstreet Boys concert in Vegas and dives into the chaos and joy of the experience. Legendary drag queen Shontelle Sparkles joins to talk drag life, family, mental health, and thriving in a challenging world. Fierce, fun, and unfiltered.
Navigating Reality TV and Mental Health: How Therapists Are Portrayed On Screen w. Erica Bertschy
Deana shares life updates and her latest interests in running and music documentaries. Returning guest Erica Bertschy joins to explore reality TV and mental health, discussing therapy portrayals, stigma, trauma, and the real-life impact behind shows like Housewives and Couples Therapy.
Leadership, Emotional Regulation, and Positive Intent w. Andrew Morton
n this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco chats with partner Andrew Morton about mental health, leadership, and personal growth. They explore emotional regulation, active listening, and finding balance, with reflections on viral stories, concerts, and the pursuit of joy—including Deana’s Backstreet Boys obsession.
Finding Humor in Mental Health: Comedy, Coping, and Connection w. Helen Hong
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco chats with comedian and actress Helen Hong about using humor to navigate depression, the challenges of vulnerability on stage, and finding personal growth through performance. Insights, laughs, and conversations on mental health and resilience.
Discovering Authenticity: Identity, Self-Acceptance, and Growth w. Jazz Proctor
Therapist Jazzmyn Proctor joins So, What Brings You to Therapy? to discuss authenticity, self-disclosure, and using social media for real connection. Explore identity, creativity, and mental health, with practical insights for personal growth and thriving in a digital world.
Let’s Talk About Sex Therapy (Part 1): Breaking Stigma and Building Intimacy w. Jolene Harrelson
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco talks with sex therapist Jolene Harrelson about navigating sexual and relational challenges. They discuss sex therapy myths, professional approaches, and how culture shapes our relationships—offering insights into intimacy, sexual wellness, and personal growth.
Religious Trauma, Body Acceptance, and Self-Compassion w. Kent Thomas
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco talks with Kent Thomas, MSW, about overcoming religious shame, body image struggles, and reclaiming self-compassion. They explore healing, personal growth, and joy while navigating spirituality, identity, and body acceptance.
Understanding Grief: Challenges, Coping, and Healing w. Erica Bertschy
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco talks with Erica Bertschy, founder of EWB Counseling, about navigating grief and the challenges of grief counseling. They explore the non-linear, personal nature of grief, societal misconceptions, and the importance of emotional support in a culture that often overlooks it.
Exploring Creativity and Self-Expression w. Margaret Lee
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy, Margaret Lee discusses how her mental health journey influences her creative process and artistic expression. She explores the connection between personal insight, empathy, and authentic art, offering listeners a look at how understanding humanity and culture enriches creativity. This conversation highlights the intersection of mental health and creative work, providing insights into how personal growth can lead to more meaningful and impactful art.
Losing and Rebuilding Identity: A Conversation w. Genevieve Henderson
In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana Bianco chats with therapist Genevieve Henderson about navigating identity shifts, trauma, and personal growth. They explore rebuilding a sense of self, resilience, and embracing the messy, transformative journey of becoming fully seen.