this is bipolar

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)

 

IG @this.is.bipolar

TT: @this.is.bipolar

YouTube: this is bipolar

 

#bipolar #thisisbipolar #bipolar #mentalhealthawareness #mental-illness

REUNION CONVERSATION with Julie Kraft

I am beyond excited to share a REUNION conversation with mental health advocate, artist, author and the bipolar bestie I started the podcast with! It was so powerful to be back together and talking about all the things bipolar!!!!

Julie gives us a deep dive into the ups and downs this past year. She bravely shares with us her grief around losing her dad. It was such compelling convrsation. I loved learning new things about Julie and hearing how she is managing her bipolar disorder through it all.

As always, Julie showed up as her real, vulnerable and wonderful self. We even get some not-yet-shared-on-the-internet updates about her current TILDA WHIRL BOOK!!!!!! This conversation was balm to my weary soul. Julie is one of my absolute favourite bipolar besties and I cannot wait for you to hang out with us for our reunion convo. 

This is bipolar...

If you enjoyed this episode or if this podcast means something to you please hit follow or subscribe button. If you really loved it, would you consider sharing it on your social media or with someone who might love it. Thank you for being here and supporting the work of 'this is bipolar'. I am forever grateful that I get to do this bipolar advocacy work.

IG: @this.is.bipolar TT: @this.is.bipolar FB: @thisisbipolar

 

This is JULIE:

Julie Kraft is a Canadian author, artist, and mental health advocate devoted to spreading awareness and shattering stigma. Since her bipolar II diagnosis in 2010, Julie has come to a place of fully embracing her bipolar mind- she credits it with allowing her to live a vibrant and full life. Julie is thrilled to have published her memoir, The Other Side of Me, and a children's book, Tilda Whirl- both in an effort to start the conversation on mental health at all ages. She has contributed to publications for Psych Central, Psycom, and BP Hope magazine. Julie was the previous co-host of the ‘This is Bipolar’ vlog and podcast.

Instagram - @this.is.bipolar (podcast/vlog)
Facebook - thisisbipolar
Instagram - Julie.kraft.author
Website - www.juliekraft.com  (a one stop shop for everything - all social links, past work, resources, including the best links for both of my books)

 

#thisisbipolar #mentalhealthpodcast#podcast #thisisbipolarpodcast #mentalillnessawareness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalillness#mentalhealthadvocate #bipolar2 #bipolar #bipolardisorder #bipolarII #bipolarstigma #bipolarmind #bipolarmom#mentalhealthpodcast #podcast #stigma #depression

CONVERSATIONS WITH- Sarah Jickling

In this episode of 'Conversations With", mental illness advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Sarah Jickling talk about all things bipolar. Sarah is open and honest about how she wrestled with and rejected her bipolar diagnosis for many years. She shares about what life looked like before and the the rollercoaster ride that led to her mood disorder diagnosis.

Sarah also has great insight into how the "wellness" industry can cause harm and delay diagnosis. Shaley and Sarah talk about how vulnerable they both were to the harm in believing that alternative medicine could cure their bipolar. This conversation gives an inside glimpse into the hard parts of living with mental illness AND also hope that there are treatable ways to manage and engage in creative and meaning fun work.  

We are so grateful for Sarah's voice, as an advocate and also as a singer/songwriter. Go follow her, download all her music and podcast episodes. Her music is beautiful and makes us feel seen and understood. Our greatest hope is that this conversation gives courage to us all to seek help whenever we need are not ok.

This is bipolar... 

 

IG @this.is.bipolar TIkTok @this.is.bipolar

If you enjoyed this episode or if this podcast means something to you please hit follow or subscribe button. If you really loved it, would you consider making a small donation to further support the work of 'this is bipolar'. I am forever grateful that I get to do this bipolar advocacy work.

 

Meet Sarah: 

Sarah Jickling is a Canadian songstress and mental health advocate known for her candid look into uncomfortable subjects, served with an indie pop smile. In 2017, Sarah released her first solo album, “When I Get Better,” which documents her journey through bipolar recovery. Jickling’s idiosyncratic songs have been featured on radio stations across the country and in independent films, and she has opened up about her experiences with mental illness on radio, local television, podcasts, blogs and at live speaking events. Music editor of the Georgia Straight Mike Usinger writes, "Over the past couple of years the Lotsusland-raised singer-songwriter has proven herself one of the most interesting fixtures on the city’s music scene. Musically, Jickling traffics in a brand of pop that’s beautifully inspirational."

Sarah’s music has earned her top spots in competitions such as Citr's Shindig!, Seattle’s EMP Soundoff,102.7, the PEAK Performance Project, SFU’s Launch Fest, Anxiety BC’s Multimedia Contest, and Canada's Walk Of Fame Music Mentorship Program. She has been featured on CBC four times since the release of her solo album to discuss mental health and music, and her interview on Interesting Vancouver Presents was re-broadcast nationally on CBC One’s Podcast Playlist. She now tours to high school across British Columbia destigmatizing mental illness and singing her heart out with Reach Out Psychosis, a educational concert created by the BC Schizophrenia Society. Paul McLellan (The Indie Mixtape, Go! Vancouver) calls Jickling an “epic rock star and brilliant conversation starter for mental health.”

In 2019, Sarah is growing as a musician and tackling some of her most personal and difficult themes yet. Her upcoming album, The Family Curse, deals with intergenerational trauma and mental illness in families, and she is currently working with Harley Small (Peach Pit) and Carol Lynn Quinn (High Love) to push her boundaries both lyrically and sonically. When she is not singing in the recording studio or a high school gymnasium, Sarah can be found in hospital waiting rooms and pole dancing studios around Vancouver, BC.

HYPOMANIA: Shaley Showing Up in the Messy Middle

In this SOLO episode mental illness activist, Shaley Hoogendoorn shares what its like to have the hypomanic "switch" in Spring and leading into Summer. She talks through about the big shift from the winter depressive period to her hypomanic high she is currently coping with. This episode shares the really hard parts of living with bipolar disorder. Shaley's story is not entirely unique and she hopes that others that live with bipolar episode will feel seen, understood and less alone. Her greatest hope is that she could gives insight into the messy middle of living with a mood disorder and share her coping strategies and tools.

IG @this.is.bipolar TIkTok @this.is.bipolar

Your Hostess with the mostest:

Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, vlogger and mental health advocate who aims to dismantle the stigma around mental health and create a safe community for those that struggle. She lives with bipolar ll, and is passionate about educating and empowering others about mental health disorders. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BPHope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named: Sisters in Mental Illness. Shaley is a content creator currently co-hosts “This is Bipolar” vlog and podcast. Shaley is also an elementary school teacher and an event
planner.

If you enjoyed this episode or if this podcast means something to you please hit follow or subscribe button. If you really loved it, would you consider making a small donation to further support the work of 'this is bipolar'. I am forever grateful that I get to do this bipolar advocacy work.

 

CONVERSATIONS WITH Elizabeth Nyugen, MD

On the last days of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage month, we wanted to highlight Elizabeth Nguyen and her powerful book 'Aloha Vietnam'. Be sure to listen to the episode, buy her book and follow her @multidimensionalpsychiatry!

In this episode mental illness advocate, Shaley Hoogendoorn sits down with  Elizabeth Nguyen, MD.  Elizabeth is a psychiatrist, author and all around delightful human being. Although Elizabeth does not live with bipolar disorder, she has family that does so she understands the disorder in many ways. She has and continues to work closely with bipolar youth and adults regularly.

It was such a treat to talk about Elizabeth’s debut book ‘Aloha Vietnam’. It is a book with a main character that has bipolar disorder and is not a stereotype or a villain. Fair and kind representation of folks with bipolar disorder is rare in the non fiction books. We want everyone to read it because it helps bipolar warriors, like Shaley, see themselves in the character of Ahn. This book  is a perfect gift to educate those who don’t understand bipolar disorder.

Shaley asked a few questions that those from the @this.is.bipolar Instagram community for a psychiatrist that actually works with people that live with mood disorders and their families. Elizabeth’s thoughtful answers will both teach and comforted us all. We are so grateful that there are doctors and and authors like Elizabeth that devote their time to helping so many on their bipolar healing journey.

We are so excited to collaborate more with Elizabeth in the future. It is refreshing to speak to a medical professional that knows brain science and is dedicated to helping us to not only manage our bipolar disorder but flourish in our own unique ways. We are planning ways to ask and respond to all your questions. Follow @this.is.bipolar to watch for more conversations.

 

Meet Elizabeth:

Elizabeth Nguyen, MD was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her parents were refugees from Vietnam who arrived in Honolulu in 1975 at the end of the Vietnam War. She received her BA from Stanford University in Human Biology, her MD from Northwestern University, and her Psychiatry Residency and Child Psychiatry Fellowship training at UC Davis. She started her career in community mental health, with specific interests in cross-cultural psychiatry, the intersection of spirituality and mental health, and the healing power of water and the natural world. She is currently in private practice in Davis, CA. Aloha Vietnam is her first book and her first novel.

 

#thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog #thisisbipolarpodcast #bipolarawareness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcast  #aapiheritagemonth #aapiauthors