How many people knew what they wanted to do when they were 9? Sure, maybe you wanted to be a rockstar or a fire fighter, but a psychologist? Well we know one person at least! Dr. Lindsey Rodriguez is a social psychologist interested in the science underlying close relationships. As the director of Healthy Emotions and Relationship Theories (HEART) Laboratory she and her colleagues are looking for new ways to help people with difficult relationships.

We talked to Lindsey about her work studying how alcohol can be harmful and helpful in romantic relationships, and how to do that in a scientific manner.

For this episode we had a great time sampling the many beers and ciders on tap at Pour Taproom in St Petersburg. We’d also like to thank local Tampa artist P.SUS for allowing us to feature the track “Favorite Walk”. You can find more of Patrick’s music here on Bandcamp.