Creator & Host

Kristine McPartlin

Kristine McPartlin is a native New Yorker with a love for history, fashion, and fandoms. As the proud dog mom of Yoda and Koda, and a long time boxer, she balances creativity and energy in everything she does. A lifelong fan of Doctor Who (and, of course, Star Wars), Kristine thrives in spaces where storytelling and community come alive.

With a Master’s in Fashion History and a background in musical theatre, Kristine combines her research skills and artistic sensibilities to create meaningful content. Inspired by her own therapeutic journey, she is a passionate mental health advocate, dedicated to sharing what she’s learned in the hope of inspiring and helping others heal.

Mind the Force was born out of Kristine’s love for Star Wars and her commitment to fostering conversations that unite fandom, mental wellness, and personal growth. For her, podcasting is a way to bring light to others, one story at a time.

Co-Host

James Abbate

James is a longtime Star Wars fan. He was first introduced to the series with the VHS tapes of the original trilogy, He showed up to his fourth grade Halloween party as Darth Maul, replete with the double-sided lightsaber.

A perennial prequel defender, he loves to see all eras of the Galaxy finally receiving their fair share of recognition in the expanded universe. As a book editor by profession, he looks for the same level of storytelling and world-building in the submissions he reads. And though he speaks basic, he is anything but.