this is bipolar

Mothering with a Mood Disorder -UPS & DOWNS of Parenting with Molly Novak & Joanna Imoo

In this episode mental illness advocate, Shaley Hoogendoorn sits down with Joanna Imoo and Molly Novak to talk about mothering with a mood disorder.

The episode gives great insight to two different experiences as parents. Joanna is a Mom of five kids that she homeschools and Molly is a single parent that shares custody and works as an attorney. The way they both care for their children, themselves and manage their bipolar disorder is encouraging and inspiring.

Molly and Joanna talk about how they received their diagnoses and the events leading up to that time. Both believed it important to tell there children and they speak to how they did so and how heir children reacted. 

Joanna and Molly candidly tell about their experiences being activated and/or triggered by parenting situations, how they handled it and what they might have done differently. They also share  how their symptoms, episodes and reactions effect their roles as mothers. They broke down how this looks in both mania and depression. Both women share valuable strategies and practices that help them manage their bipolar disorder and be the best parents they can.

Shaley, Joanna and Molly hope that this episode will encourage others if they hope to have children in the future. Please know that those living with bipolar disorder know that with treatment, management and a support system you can have children and be wonderful parents.

We  have an extra exclusive episode with Molly and Joanna had about the best ways family and friends can support parents living with bipolar disorder! If you want to hear the bonus conversation please sign up to be an Instagram subscriber.

This is bipolar... 

IG: @this.is.bipolar

To my listeners, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

Meet Molly:

Molly is a mom to a 7-year-old girl who she has joint custody over, making her a single mom half the time. She is a lawyer, practicing public defense. Molly can often be found snuggling her cats, practicing her dance moves, or whipping up a new meal in the kitchen. Her & her daughter love exploring new places, hiking, and doing art together. 

Meet Joanna:

Joanna was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. Her parents immigrated from China in the 1950’s and were a part of the Chinese immigrant group that grew and sell local vegetables in the Lower Mainland. To this day, she still loves working in her garden and being close with the earth. She now lives with her husband, 5 kids (ages 8-16) and mini schnauzer in Surrey, BC. She spends her time homeschooling her kids, volunteering with the local homeschooling community and serving the church. When she needs to unwind, she enjoys reading, writing and long walks. In November 2022, she was diagnosed with cyclothymia.

Episode 9 LANGUAGE: watching our words

* Throwback

It was just brought to our attention that only 3 minutes of this episode ended up loading on Spotify & Apple so I am reposting because even though it's an oldie, it's a goodie. Enjoy.

 

In this episode from 2021, mental health advocates

Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft discuss the importance of language. Words absolutely matter- they have the power to hurt or heal. Too often, mental health terms, even actual diagnoses, are loosely thrown around in everyday conversation. How many of us have heard the phrase, “The weather is sooo bipolar!” or heard ‘OCD’ used as an adjective to describe a tidy person? Listen in as Julie and Shaley take a gentle and nonjudgemental look at specific terminology often misused (even, admittedly, by them!) They’ll also explain how and why it can be so harmful. It is Shaley and Julie’s greatest hope that this episode will help bring awareness to the words we use and the power they have!

 

*TRIGGER WARNING: mentions language surrounding suicide

 

To my listeners, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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. Love, Shaley 

 

Instagram - @this.is.bipolar

#thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog. #thisisbipolarpodcast

CONVERSATIONS WITH- Birdy, Writer & Content Creator @birdies.bipolar.brain

In this episode on 'Conversations With", mental illness advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Birdie of @birdies.bipolar.brain have a real and authentic conversations about their experiences living with bipolar disorder. Birdy shares about what life looked like before and the events that led to her mood disorder diagnosis. Despite her diagnosis, it took Birdy until many years to fully embrace and start managing her bipolar disorder. She also discusses how the illness causes her to struggle with past jobs and work.

I am so grateful for Birdie's advocacy and her willingness to talk about openly and honestly about symptoms like hypomanic anger, deep depression and suicidal ideation. You can follow along and connect with her on Instagram @birdies.bipolar.brain. Birdie’s story will not only comfort others, it will give others the hope and courage to seek help.

This is bipolar... 

IG: @this.is.bipolar

To my listeners, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

Meet Birdie:

Birdie is a mental health advocate, writer, and content creator. She has made it her mission to bring awareness to mental health disorders with a comedic twist. You can find her on instagram @birdies.bipolar.brain where she showcases what it’s like living with Bipolar 2 disorder, anxiety, and ADHD. Her goal is to help end the stigmas surrounding mental health disorders. 

BONUS -Coping with Christmas: tips and tricks with Charise Jewell

In this bonus episode, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Charise Jewell talk about coping with the holidays while living with bipolar disorder. Shaley and Charise  share about their experiences as well as give tips and tricks that have helped them manage and even enjoy the holidays. They tell both embarrassing (hypomanic stocking stuffing) and heartfelt stories. Shaley and Charise give you a real life insight into our lives and traditions that worked and didn't work. Charise was one of the first guests on the podcast so go be sure to listen to that episode of 'conversations with' to here her fully story. Charise is honest, kind and resilient. Her openness with her diagnosis online and in her book Crazy; A Member of a Mom Gone Mad is paving the way for all of us to bravely share our journeys.

Here are some of the tips sprinkled throughout the conversation:

~ Make a list of things that you really want to do so you don't overbook wth things that you don't enjoy but think you are obligated to because "everyone else" is.

~ Know your capacity and plan your holiday activities with in it.

~ make a list of triggers and what worked and didn't so you are prepared if hard things happen. Have a plan ready for what you can do if the same things that activate you are likely to happen at mandatory family gatherings. Be sure to listen to how Shaley deals with talking about race, gender and politics. Find a phrase that helps you diffuse the situation.

~ Find a space to take refuge when needed- even you only choices are the bathroom and car. 

~ Drive your own car or find your own transportation to events in case everything becomes too much and you need to run to the store or leave.

~ Build in time for do the things that bring you joy even if they are small. 

~ Be honest- you don't have to pretend to be holly jolly if you are not. Sometimes honesty actually leads to deeper conversations and connection. Chances there (many) are others feel the same.

~ Be sure to have safe people to check in with and remind you how loved you are. If you don't have anyone in mind find others with mental illness online to connect with others that understand what you are going through. Feel free to message Charise & I on Instagram and we can be a listening ear or give a word of encouragement.

and many more... this is bipolar.

 

To my listeners, Thank you for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

If you want to have deeper conversations and hear more from my guests and others, go to @this.is.bipolar IG page and become a subscriber. There is so many extras that come along with a subscription. Thank you for supporting me and this podcast.  🤍 Shaley

 

Meet Charise:

A voracious reader and aspiring writer since childhood, Charise Jewell was born in Germiston, South Africa, and immigrated to Canada when she was seven years old. She holds an Honours B.Eng. in mechanical engineering from McGill University in Montreal, and worked as a robotics engineer for fifteen years before becoming a writer. She proudly lives with bipolar 1 mood disorder and educates for the fair and dignified treatment of the mentally ill. Charise lives in Toronto with her husband and three children. Find out more about Charise and her books at www.charisejewell.com

You can also follow her on Instagram @reesechaell

CONVERSATIONS WITH- Gabe Howard, Author & Host of Inside Bipolar

In this episode, Mental Illness advocate Shaley Hoogendoorn chats with Gabe Howard, host of Inside Bipolar and author of 'Mental Illness is an Asshole'. Gabe is such a vibrant Bipolar Advocate, he tells his story in such an honest and straightforward way. He is passionate about his message that with help we can do great things despite our bipolar disorder. He talks about how he sets himself up for success by being honest about what he can do well and is not afraid of asking for the help he needs. They talk about how we celebrate our ‘wins’ and accomplishments out loud to drown out the stereotypes and misconceptions that society has about living with bipolar disorder. Gabe went from writing a small blog to writing a popular book and becoming a sought after speaker all over the US and world. Gabe hopes that by showing up and continuing to advocate, others will know that they can reach their goals. He hopes they too can feel free to share their talents and hard work with the world. 

This is an authentic conversation between two people that know what it is like to live well with bipolar for many years. Gabe and Shaley think that showing up and living everyday with bipolar disorder is an accomplishment and asking for help is necessary and brave. We are all in this together.

this is bipolar...

To my listeners, Thank you for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

If you want to have deeper conversations and hear more from my guests and others, go to @this.is.bipolar IG page and become a subscriber. There is so many extras that come along with a subscription. Thank you for supporting me and this podcast.  🤍 Shaley

Meet Gabe :

Gabe Howard is the host of Healthline Media’s Inside Mental Health podcast, author of Mental Illness is an Asshole, and an award-winning speaker. He was diagnosed with bipolar in 2003 after being committed to a psychiatric hospital.

He received a resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England.

Learn more at gabehoward.com.

 

Links:
Please Note: All podcasts can be found on your favorite podcast player

Gabe Howard’s Website: https://www.gabehoward.com/

Inside Mental Health podcast: https://www.healthline.com/health/podcast/psychcentral

Inside Bipolar podcast: https://www.healthline.com/health/podcast/ibp

Mental Illness is an Asshole (signed – direct from author):

https://www.gabehoward.com/merchandise/mental-illness-asshole/

Mental Illness is an Asshole (unsigned available on Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Mental-Illness-Asshole-Other-Observations/dp/0974133744

PREGNANCY & PARENTING: Shaley’s Journey

Join mental illness advocate, Shaley Hoogendoorn as she takes you through her journey with pregnancy and parenthood. Shaley is open and honest about what it felt like to be pregnant with undiagnosed bipolar disorder and diagnosed at 32 with a toddler and preschooler. If you want to hear a deep dive into what life looked like for a mama living with bipolar disorder raising two daughters- this is the episode for you. Shaley talks about everything from postpartum hypomania & anxiety to how her therapist suggested that she might just be a 'snowplow' parent to her now teenage daughters. There are stories of pregnant work tantrums, elaborate birthday parties, moms groups and how Shaley makes monthly "mom apology tours". It hasn't been an easy road but Shaley has found ways to manage her bipolar disorder and be the best mom she can be to her daughters.

It is Shaley's greatest hope that this episode with give hope and comfort to other parents living with mental illness. Please know that if you are getting treatment, under a doctors care and managing your bipolar well, you too can be a parent. Parents that are committed to talking care of their bipolar disorder are and can be WONDERFUL parents.  

this is bipolar....

 

To my listeners, Thank you for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

If you want to have deeper conversations and hear more from my guests and others, go to @this.is.bipolar IG page and become a subscriber. There is so many extras that come along with this exclusive subscription. Thank you for supporting me and this podcast.  🤍 Shaley

CONVERSATIONS WITH- Oliver Seligman, Author of ”Befriending Bipolar”

In this episode of 'Conversations With", Mental Illness advocate Shaley Hoogendoorn chats with Oliver Seligman, author of 'Befriending Bipolar: a patient's perspective'. Oliver is a truth teller and his book is a deep dive into his experiences with bipolar disorder, psychosis and eventually acceptance. I felt seen and understood because I could relate to many of his symptoms and stories.  Although not uncommon in bipolar disorder, Oliver's experience with severe manic episodes and psychosis are dramatic and frightening. He describes in detail what it feels like to break from reality and live in a world that is not real. They discuss how easy it is to convince yourself that you no longer need medication and the fallout from trying to wean off without medical supervision.

This is a real and raw conversation between two people that know what it is like to live with bipolar for many years. I think others will find themselves in Oliver's story and be inspired by how he after years of struggle he learned that he could not only exist and manage his bipolar disorder, he could befriend it in a way that helps him live a more peaceful and meaningful life. Oliver's story is a story of hope and perseverance.

this is bipolar...

To my listeners, Thank you for being here. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

If you want to have deeper conversations and hear more from my guests and others, go to @this.is.bipolar IG page and become a subscriber. There is so many extras that come along with a subscription. Thank you for supporting me and this podcast.  🤍 Shaley

Meet Oliver:

Aged seventeen Oliver Seligman experienced severe manic and depressive episodes. He ended up in The Royal Edinburgh Psychiatric Hospital, where he was diagnosed with manic depression. Having lived with bipolar type one for nearly thirty-five years, Oliver has written a book about his experiences called Befriending Bipolar: a patient's perspective. Befriending Bipolar is a story of hope. It tells about the highs and lows, wild experiences, friendships, interactions with psychiatrists and psychologists, his attempts and battles to come off medication, and most importantly how he has found peace with a serious mental illness. Oliver has also written a book called The Broker who Broke Free about his journey with bipolar, meditation and finding peace.
For the last twenty years, Oliver has taught Ascension meditation all over the world, and is currently studying for a Masters in The Psychology of Mental Health at Edinburgh University. He likes to laugh, not take himself or life too seriously, and to enjoy the simple pleasures. You can connect with Oliver @befriending_bipolar on instagram or on YouTube  @OliverSeligman

CONVERSATIONS WITH JAS Duvall, Host of ”The Bipolar Badass” Podcast

In this episode of 'Conversations With", Mental illness & bipolar advocates, Shaley Hoogendoorn and Jas Duval @the_bipolar_badass have a raw and real conversation about what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation and how it affects every day life. Jas is open and honest about a manic episode that resulted in a sudden cross country move with only $500 to her name. She also shares how she has a second diagnosis of ADHD along with her bipolar diagnosis and how that affects her work life. Bipolar is a tricky illness and symptoms vary from person to person, Shaley and Jas are both on a mission to educate those that love folks living with bipolar disorder and comfort and connect with those that experience it. Jas is not only inspiring, she really is badass and I'm so grateful for her and what she puts out into the world.

this is bipolar...

Besties!!! I would be forever grateful if you would favourite this account & follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen 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.

If you want to have deeper conversations and hear more from Jas and others, go to @this.is.bipolar IG page and subscribe. There is so many extras that come along with a subscription. Thank you for supporting me and this podcast.  🤍 Shaley

about Jas:

Jas Duvall, aka the Bipolar Badass, has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder for 2 years, but at 30, has been struggling with bipolar symptoms for much longer. She pushes the importance of early intervention so others don’t suffer the same way she did, without care. At her day job, Jas is an engineer and manager. In her spare time on the internet, she encourages other women with bipolar to take a step into their most badass lives. Focusing on alignment, Jas helps you vision and plan soul aligned career, relationship, and personal goals. You can find her @the_bipolar_badass on Instagram. Don’t hesitate to shoot a DM!

 

#thisisbipolar #bipolarawareness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcast #podcast #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthadvocacy #mentalhealthawareness #mentalillness #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalillnesssupport #bipolar #bipolar1 #bipolar2 #anxiety #itsokaytonotbeokay #depressed #bipolarstrong #mystoryisntoveryet

CONVERSATIONS WITH- Michelle I. Gomez, Multipassionate Artpreneur

In this episode, mental illness activist, Shaley Hoogendoorn talks with Artpreneur Michelle I. Gomez. Michelle shares her wild journey being diagnosed and living with bipolar 2 disorder as well as what it’s like to be a multi-passionate Artist turned Artpreneur. Michelle talks about how finding out she had bipolar 2 disorder disrupted her life as a coach and how she had to get well, pivot and rebuild her herself and her career. Shaley and Michelle also describe in detail how they have experienced grandiosity as well as overwhelming anger in hypomania. They also give insight into what helps them get through without destroying their close relationships. We love hearing about Michelle's talent and purpose in helping neurodivergent women turn their passions into successful businesses. Her approach is different and unique in the business world because she puts a huge emphasis on always honouring mental health first. Everything about Michelle is fun, authentic and brilliant! Her advocacy for those of us living with bipolar disorder is inspiring and encouraging.

This is bipolar... 

 

My Friends, If you loved this episode and/or this podcast means something to you, would hit the follow button so you never miss an episode. We would also be forever grateful if you left a 5 star review. This helps get voices and stories of real lived experience out there to comfort more people that are struggling with mental illness to feel seen and understood. 

 

Meet Michelle:
Michelle I. Gomez is a multi-passionate Artist turned Artpreneur who lives with Bipolar Disorder 2! With a relentless focus on mental health, she empowers creative entrepreneurs to thrive in life, love, AND business.

After founding her own successful art business - Creative Unions Event Design, Michelle transitioned to coaching neurodivergent women artists. Her ‘Artist to Artpreneur’ program has empowered over 300 artists, guiding them to financial success through emotional intelligence coaching. Michelle is also the Founder of ‘The Mental Wealth Network,’ offering monthly mental health workshops and support to neurodivergent multi-passionate Artpreneurs, helping them prioritize well-being in their businesses. In 2024, Michelle will launch a divergent love coaching program for “bichotas”, artists, and all kinds of women-identifying divergent thinkers.

Join Michelle on a journey to true wealth - where healing happens in life, love, AND business - by following her and sending her a DM on Instagram @michelleigomez.

#thisisbipolar  #manic #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalillness #mentalhealthadvocate #bipolar #bipolardisorder #bipolarawareness #bipolarstrong

CONVERSATIONS WITH- Wairimu Ndung’u

In this episode of 'Conversations With', Mental Illness Activist, Shaley Hoogendoorn talks to Wairimu Ndung'u about her lived experience with bipolar disorder and ADHD. Wairimu openly shares what it what it was to experience the pressures of teenage and young adult life in school with undiagnosed bipolar disorder in Kenya, Africa. It was fascinating to learn about the cultural influence on stigmas and misconceptions about Bipolar Disorder in another part of the world. Wairimu is doing all different types of activism and education to smash the stigma around mental illness and mood disorders. Her story is one of perseverance and inspiration. I am so grateful for Wairimu's voice in her country and in the world. We feel honoured that she trusted us with his story.

Wairimu’s story is not over yet. 

This is bipolar...

 

Meet Wairimu:

Wairimu Ndung'u is a Kenyan bipolar activist empowering people living with mental illness through psychoeducation via social media. In 2021, she contributed to Meeting of Minds publication sharing how she navigated university while living with bipolar disorder. In 2022, she partnered with Myriam Sidibe, Founder of Brands on a Mission, to raise 2000 USD for people living with bipolar disorder receiving treatment at Kamili Organisation in Kenya. She's a member of Natrella's Wellness Network as a Mental Illness Support Buddy teaching patients how to advocate for themselves and maximize sessions with practitioners. She also runs "Team Sync", a workshop where she helps teams cultivate a founder mindset to unlock innovation and synergy by sharing her career journey as a person living with bipolar.

Links to the two articles mentioned in the episode: 

    •    Navigating University With Bipolar Disorder: My Story (https://wairimundungukenya.wixsite.com/website/post/living-with-bipolar-in-university-wairimu-ndungu)

    •    Suicide Is Not a Dirty Word  (https://wairimundungukenya.wixsite.com/website/post/suicide-is-not-a-dirty-word)

 

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