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Unfiltered & authentic - a real-life glimpse of bipolar disorder. Join mental health advocate, Shaley Hoogendoorn as she passionately share her bipolar journey and holds space for the stories others. It is her greatest hope that these raw and real stories will give insight, shatter stigma, and offer hope. This is bipolar...
Episodes
Thursday Oct 16, 2025
Thursday Oct 16, 2025
(BEST OF 2022)
Tune in for part 2 of episode 19... as mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft as they tackle the tricky topic of supporting a loved one who is dealing with a mental health struggle.
They share lived experiences about ghosting, clinginess, setting healthy boundaries, and the shame and guilt that can follow mood episodes.
The episode offers practical tips for friends and loved ones—keep reaching out with no-pressure check-ins, use code words or simple responses, accept a clear "no," and prioritize self-care—along with suggestions for how people with bipolar can communicate needs and build supportive connections.
It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that this episode offers insight and encouragement to those with mental health struggles, as well as everyone living & loving alongside.
this is bipolar...
Connect with Shaley & 'this is bipolar' team here:
(00:05:19) The Role of Ultimatums
(00:07:39) Loneliness in Supporting Someone
(00:09:45) Stigma and Seeking Help
(00:15:36) Examples of Setting Boundaries
(00:21:58) Compassion in Difficult Moments
(00:25:56) Reassurance and Connection
Besties!!!!!!!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this throwback episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Reach out for support if you or someone you know is struggling—help is available and recovery is possible
Much love, Shaley xo
Connect with us:
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
TT @this.is.bipolar
Thank you for listening to "This is Bipolar." Stay tuned for more episodes and conversations that break the stigma and build understanding.
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
In this powerful episode of "this is bipolar," host Shaley Hoogendoorn sits down with David Funes to discuss his journey living with Bipolar I Disorder. David shares candidly about his strict religious upbringing, early trauma, and the onset of his symptoms in college. The conversation covers the highs and lows of living with bipolar disorder, including manic and depressive episodes, addiction, crime, and ultimately, recovery and advocacy.
David’s story is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the importance of seeking help. Both Shaley and David emphasize that healing is a journey, not a destination, and that sharing lived experiences can help others feel less alone.
(00:08:45) – Mania, Consequences, and Shame
(00:12:37) – Escalation: Addiction, Crime, and the FBI Raid
(00:21:44) – Hitting Rock Bottom: Homelessness and Loss
(00:26:46) – Recovery: Finding the Right Psychiatrist & Medication
(00:29:17) – The Long Road: Legal Battles and Sentencing
(00:34:07) – Healing, Habits, and Advocacy
David Funes is a mental health advocate, speaker, writer, and bipolar coach. His story has been featured on People and Business Insider as well as on podcasts including Soft White Underbelly, Inside True Crime, and Rise Above with Kevin Lanning. His new memoir, Manic in Miami, released in June and reached #1 bestseller in Amazon’s bipolar category. With over 100,000 engaged followers across Instagram and TikTok, David shares his journey with honesty, heart, and humor to inspire and support others who are struggling.
Connect with David:
TikTok: @bipolarguylovinglife
Buy David's book here:
Besties,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Reach out for support if you or someone you know is struggling—help is available and recovery is possible
Much love, Shaley xo
Connect with us:
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
TT @this.is.bipolar
Thank you for listening to "This is Bipolar." Stay tuned for more episodes and conversations that break the stigma and build understanding.
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
In this episode of This Is Bipolar, host Shaley Hoogendoorn sits down with Cuban-American spoken-word poet and mental health advocate Dailyn Santana to share her powerful lived experience with bipolar I disorder.
Dailyn opens up about the earliest signs she noticed in middle school, the challenges of navigating undiagnosed symptoms, and a significant manic episode that led to hospitalization during college. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her family life, her cultural identity, and her ongoing journey through stigma and misunderstanding.
Through her story, Dailyn highlights the healing power of poetry, community, and compassion. Together, Shaley and Dailyn explore the importance of peer support, advocacy, and authentic storytelling in recovery, while also unpacking the complex intersection of creativity, culture, and mental health.
This candid conversation offers both hope and honesty — showing how art can be a lifeline, a way to reclaim identity, and a tool to shift the conversation around bipolar disorder.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
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Dailyn’s early signs and symptoms of bipolar I during adolescence
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The impact of manic episodes and hospitalization on her life and relationships
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How stigma and cultural expectations shaped her mental health journey
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The role of poetry and spoken word in expressing truth and finding community
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The power of peer support, advocacy, and compassion in recovery
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A hopeful look at how art can change the mental health conversation
- Be sure to listen at (00:49:23) hear the most beautiful and encouraging poem. It may or may not have brought Shaley to tears.Her words are raw, vulnerable, and powerful.
this is bipolar...
About Today’s Guest:
Dailyn Santana is a Cuban-American poet, actress, motivational speaker, and truth-teller mental health advocate from Elizabeth, New Jersey. Through spoken word and storytelling, she shares her lived experience with bipolar I disorder, blending vulnerability with strength and art with activism. Her work has resonated on both intimate stages and national platforms, raising awareness, breaking stigma, and inviting others to find healing and connection through honesty and creativity.
You can connect with Dailyn here:
linkedin: Dailyn Santana
Instagram: Dailyn Santana
TikTok: Dailyn Santana
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.
Much love, Shaley xo
More about your Host:
Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.
Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."
Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.
#thisisbipolar #bipolar #bipolardisorder #bipolarawareness
Saturday Aug 30, 2025
Saturday Aug 30, 2025
We are sharing some of our most listened to episodes once a month! In this BEST OF episode, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft discuss their vastly different experiences of seeking professional help and receiving their bipolar II diagnoses. They describe when, where, and how they first heard the life-changing news, "You have bipolar disorder." It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that in sharing they will offer insight and encouragement to anyone going through the process of being diagnosed.
This is bipolar.....
Connect with Shaley on the website or IG and share your diagnoses story!
Sign up for the newsletter at thisisbipolar.com
Instagram - @this.is.bipolar
Episode features JULIE KRAFT @julie.kraft.author
#thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog. #thisisbipolarpodcast
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
Join hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev as they delve into the complexities of traveling with Bipolar Disorder in this enlightening episode of 'this is bipolar'. Together, they explore how changing time zones and disrupted routines can impact mental health, offering practical tips to manage these challenges. They share personal stories and expert insights on maintaining balance and stability while traveling, ensuring that your adventure is both memorable and manageable.
Discover strategies for regulating your body's internal clock, managing overstimulation, and finding downtime for self-care even amidst the excitement of travel. Shaley and Andrea underscore the importance of self-awareness, planning, and kindness towards oneself, creating a roadmap for travellers with Bipolar Disorder to feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.
Tune in for an open, supportive conversation that empowers listeners to embrace travel with confidence and self-compassion.
Resources Mentioned:
Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at thisisbipolar.com to get a free "Bipolar Travel Toolkit" PDF to help you prepare ahead and manage bipolar disorder while traveling.
Chapter Markers:
(00:04:15) Challenges of Travel
(00:06:26) The Impact of Social Rhythms
(00:09:27) Substance Use on Vacation
(00:10:36) Personal Travel Stories
(00:15:25) Comfort Items and Coping
(00:20:17) Managing Physical Wellbeing
(00:24:49) Navigating Support at Airports
(00:40:40) Encouragement and Empowerment
Connect with us:
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
TT @this.is.bipolar
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.
Much love, Shaley xo
More about your Host:
Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.
Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."
Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.
Meet our Guest Co-Host:
Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Throwing back to a heartfelt episode of "this is bipolar" with co-hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft. In this episode, the duo dives deep into their personal experiences dealing with bipolar disorder and everyday anxiety. They open up about the struggles of coping with irrational fears and the constant overthinking that accompanies their bipolar journeys.
Shaley and Julie candidly share their battles with anxiety in daily situations, from social interactions to medical appointments, and how these challenges impact their relationships. They discuss the importance of acknowledging their anxieties rather than dismissing them, and provide insights into how they strive to manage their worries.
Through humour and vulnerability, Shaley and Julie aim to create a sense of community and understanding for those who face similar struggles. Join them as they navigate the layers of anxiety, offering support and showing that despite the obstacles, they are not alone on this journey.
this is bipolar...
(00:07:02) Navigating Relationships and Anxiety
(00:14:36) Anxiety and the Pressure of Perfection
(00:30:16)Everyday Anxiety: Real Life Scenarios
(00:44:12) The Awkward Moments We All Face
(00:48:34) Understanding and Supporting Each Other
Connect with us:
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.
Much love, Shaley xo
More about your Host:
Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.
Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."
Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Throwback to a BEST OF episode-Join mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft as they tackle the tricky topic of supporting a loved one who is dealing with a mental health struggle. ... It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that this episode offers insight and encouragement to those with mental health struggles, as well as everyone living & loving alongside.
This is bipolar...
Connect with us:
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
TT @this.is.bipolar
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.
Much love, Shaley xo
More about your Host:
Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.
Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."
Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Join hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev in an enlightening discussion focusing on the often misunderstood concept of mixed features. With personal anecdotes and professional insights, they unpack what it means to experience mixed episodes and how these can present in daily life. This episode sheds light on diagnostic challenges, common misconceptions, and the importance of accurate treatment.
Additionally, the episode touches on the risks associated with mixed features, including heightened impulsivity and agitation. Listen in as they explore how living through these experiences can feel like being on two roller coasters at once, and the vital need for advocacy and self-awareness in managing mood disorders. This episode is a testament to the power of shared knowledge and community healing.
this is bipolar...
(00:10:08) The Complexity of Diagnosis
(00:12:28) Dr Andrea's upcomig workbook book on Self Stigma
(00:16:43) Personal Experience with Mixed Features
(00:21:35) Navigating Mixed Features
(00:27:09) Agitation & Despair
(00:30:52) Urgency of Treatment
(0035:46) Encouragement & Resistance
(00:39:32) Closing Thoughts & Community Call to Action
Connect with us:
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
TT @this.is.bipolar
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.
Much love, Shaley xo
More about your Host:
Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.
Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."
Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.
Meet our Guest Co-Host:
Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.
Youtube: this is bipolar channel
TT @this.is.bipolar
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.
Much love, Shaley xo
More about your Host:
Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.
Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."
Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.
Meet our Guest Co-Host:
Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
In this episode, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft discuss hypomania. For them, hypomania has two sides- the bright but also the dark. In this follow-up to episode 11, they share what it feels like in their minds and bodies when the destructive side of hypomania rears its head. What are the problems & pitfalls? In what ways are their lives, and the lives of those around them, affected the most?
Listen in as Shaley and Julie also share about how they spot warning signs and now manage the messy parts of hypomania. It is their greatest hope that this episode gives a real-life glimpse into the rocky side of the rollercoaster that is hypomania.
This is bipolar...
(00:03:42) The challenges of unmanaged hypomania
(00:06:37) Before medication: Hypomania's effects
(00:15:01) The journey of self-awareness
(00:19:53) Understanding anger & rage
(00:23:02) Balancing creativity & family
(00:32:44) The importance of boundaries
(00:38:12) Navagating self expectation & growth
If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 
️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there.
We are all in this together.
Love, Shaley
*Note: Hypomania is a lesser form of mania and a symptom of Bipolar 2 Disorder. Neither Julie nor Shaley have had a full-blown manic episode and cannot speak to that experience. Mania and Hypomania have a shadow side and in no way do they want to glorify it. Please know that we take hypomania very seriously and are committed to their treatment plans, which for them includes medication.
#thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog #thisisbipolarpodcast
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Join Host Shaley Hoogendoorn as she interviews fellow bipolar warrior Brennan Wood about his experiences with bipolar 2 disorder. They delve into the transformative power of community and discuss the impact of peer support groups, both online and in-person.
In this episode, Brennan, a bipolar advocate with a rapidly growing TikTok community, also shares his firsthand experiences within the psych ward and the troubles he has faced living with bipolar disorder and navigating friendships. He recounts his journey from his initial diagnosis in his late teens through challenges with psychosis and the stigmas he faced, to finding empowerment through fitness and social media advocacy.
Discover how storytelling and sharing lived experiences can help dismantle mental health stigmas and foster a supportive community, ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey.
this is bipolar...
00:09:55 The Struggle of Friendship
00:016:35 The Psych Ward Experience
00:27:08 Navigating Stigma in Mental Health
00:36:36 Words of Encouragement
If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there.
We are all in this together.
Love, Shaley
About Brennan:
Brennan is a TikTok content creator from Ontario, Canada who shares personal experiences and insights about living with bipolar disorder. His content blends humor, vulnerability, and advocacy to raise awareness and foster community support around mental health. Brennan has amassed over 20k followers so far and is quickly building a supportive community for those who are struggling with mental health issues. He aims to help beat the stigma and to foster a safe space for those who are struggling. You can connect with Brennan on TikTok or Instagram @brennanlaughs.