This episode centers on the idea of escapism — what it means, when it’s healthy, and how art, fantasy, books, games, and storytelling can actually help people process reality rather than avoid it.

Hosts Alondra Uhi and Esther Candari are joined by Ben Schilaty, a therapist and professor at Utah Valley University, for a thoughtful conversation about fantasy literature, emotional health, gender expectations, creativity, religion, and identity.

The discussion explores how society often trivializes “escapist” interests — especially those associated with women, artists, fantasy readers, or LGBTQ+ communities — while overlooking how stories can become tools for healing, courage, empathy, and self-discovery.

Ben reframes escapism through a mental health lens, explaining that entertainment and imaginative worlds become unhealthy only when they interfere with real life and relationships. Otherwise, stories, games, art, and fantasy can provide emotional restoration, perspective, and even the courage to confront difficult truths.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share deeply personal stories about how literature, religion, fantasy worlds, and art shaped their identities and helped them navigate cultural expectations, gender roles, creativity, faith, and belonging.

The episode ultimately argues that stories are not frivolous — they help people imagine better futures, discover themselves, and build empathy.

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