The Upside of Bipolar: Conversations on the Road to Wellness

Send us a message!We talk with Lisa Sitze (#1 international bestselling author) about growing up with a mother later diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and how gaslighting teaches a child to distrust their own mind. We break down what actually helps you heal: naming the pattern, setting real boundaries, and choosing responsibility without slipping into shame or victimhood. • Lisa’s story of a late NPD diagnosis and how it reframes a lifetime of confusion • Why narcissism is a buzzword and how NPD differs from everyday narcissistic tendencies • How manipulation can fool authority figures and deepen self-doubt • Golden child and scapegoat dynamics and how they affect feedback, trust, and identity • Why healing requires holding both the negative and the positive • Boundaries as actions we control and why an information diet can be necessary • The risk of labels becoming excuses and how agency prevents codependency • “Demons” as limiting beliefs built to protect us and how to let them go safely • RAD tool: Recognize, Acknowledge, Decide Links:Instagram: lisa_sitzeFacebook: Alyssia RhysLinkedIn: Lisa SitzeEmail [email protected] facingyourdemonsbook.comBio:Lisa is a writer, mother of five grown children and granny to seven grandchildren. Her favorite hobbies are playing Enshrouded, exercising, sewing, and gardening. She homeschooled her five children for sixteen years and ran a successful homeschool group for three of those years. She has been life coaching since 2021, being certified through Dr. Sears Wellness Institute. Lisa’s individualized program, to help people do deep dives into themselves, teaches clients how it is possible to use their agency to create their life their way while still respectfully balancing the needs of others.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!A bipolar diagnosis can feel like an explanation, but we argue it often labels symptoms without identifying a root cause. We challenge the chemical imbalance narrative, question medication-first assumptions, and point toward curiosity-driven healing based on underlying sources of distress. • bipolar as a symptom cluster rather than an etiology • how the DSM is built and why that matters • concerns about conflicts of interest and medication marketing • trial-and-error prescribing plus polypharmacy risks • why the chemical imbalance theory is disputed • how treatment can reinforce the belief that bipolar is incurable • validating that symptoms are real and disruptive • why abrupt medication stopping is dangerous and why guided tapering matters • potential root drivers: micronutrient insufficiency, ultra-processed food, iatrogenic medication effects • other contributors: substances including high-THC marijuana, trauma, learned coping patterns • recovery as resolving causes, not just suppressing symptoms FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!We talk with trauma therapist Janey Nelson about why symptoms are not proof you’re broken and how healing can happen when we stop judging emotions and start getting curious about their roots. We dig into Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Critical Memory Integration as practical tools to reduce triggers, resolve trauma responses, and rebuild safety in the body and in relationships. • Janey’s path into therapy through foster parenting, cancer, and building Healthier U Counseling Center • What ART is and how bilateral stimulation can reduce sensations and emotions tied to trauma • Why ART can feel faster and less destabilizing than EMDR for some people • How CMI traces today’s triggers back to core childhood wounds and unmet needs • A firefighter example of anger dissolving after connecting with a younger self • Why diagnosis and symptom labels can kill curiosity and slow recovery • How CMI can work in groups and retreats to reduce isolation and increase hope • Why talk therapy alone can keep you stuck in the “logic brain” • The clinic philosophy of safety, peace, and trauma proficient care across modalities • How strong intake questions about trauma, sleep, diet, and story reveal the real problem • Boundaries explained as internal vs external and why boundaries are not rules • How we decide when individual work supports couples work and vice versa • Tips for finding best practice trauma treatment and researching modalities safely LINKS:INSTAGRAM: healthieryouccFACEBOOK: Healthier YouWEBSITE: www.healthieryouc.comBIO: Janey is the owner and Clinical Director of Healthier You Counseling Center and has been a therapist for about 20 years. In 2024, she trained in Critical Memory Integration (CMI) and is on the CMI Training Leadership team. Janey was one of the first Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) practitioners in Utah, being trained in 2017 and master trained in 2019.One of her passions is helping others discover their best selves. She does this by creating healthy relationships with clients in individual, marriage, family, and group therapy. Janey helps facilitate empowerment retreats for women and couples. Due to marriage and family being so important to her, she runs Gottman and Layers of Love relationship groups. Additionally, Janey facilitates other groups as the need arises. One of the things she is working on for the CMI Team is to develop CMI for groups.Her greatest beliefs is that it is important to love everyone, no matter the circumstances. She shows love by practicing kindness, which she believes is honest, assertive, respectful, and loving. It is this belief that helps Janey connect with her clients and develop the bonds of trust that allow them to grow.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I explore why real recovery from bipolar symptoms takes two kinds of work: treating the underlying causes and changing the coping patterns built to survive them. I share practical ways to rebuild emotional health so you can feel deeply, respond wisely, and create relationships with clearer boundaries.• pathologising human suffering and how labels can end curiosity • treating symptoms versus identifying root causes of bipolar symptoms • common drivers like micronutrient insufficiency, medication effects, THC-related psychosis, and trauma • why you can’t change habits without addressing causes and can’t heal causes without changing habits • dissociation habits like TV and doomscrolling and how they persist after stability • mindfulness meditation, breathwork, yoga, and therapy as habit-rewiring tools • changing negative self-talk with mirror talk and using AI to draft a daily script • relationship “dance” patterns, repair after reactivity, and the work of building new norms • boundaries as personal responsibility rather than control of others • choosing sustained effort over quick fixes and building a supportive environmentIf you have any questions about anything I've talked about, I hope you'll send me an email. I would love to hear from you. If you haven't read my book, I encourage you to get a copy of it, The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder. FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!We talk with therapist Eddie Shin, LMFT about dissociation, trauma, and why a “cope forever” approach can leave people exhausted and stuck. We explore neurofeedback and Accelerated Resolution Therapy as practical tools that build safety in the brain so deeper healing can happen. • Eddie’s path into marriage and family therapy through residential treatment work • Why coping skills help short term but can feel crushing long term • How trust and connection unlock progress with highly traumatized teens • Neurofeedback explained as physical therapy for the brain • How neurofeedback supports emotional regulation and stability • What ART is and how it compares with EMDR • Why a directive trauma modality can be safer with dissociation • Dissociation on a spectrum from zoning out to severe disorders • What dissociative identity disorder actually is and why media portrayals miss • Integration defined as internal cooperation rather than erasing parts • What helps clients feel hope from the first session • How people find specialized help and what readiness looks like LINKSWebsite: www.healingground-counseling.com/Instagram: @healingground_counselingFacebook: Healing Ground CounselingBIOEddie Shin is a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Healing Ground Counseling located in Orem, UT. Eddie is passionate about helping people find healing through researched modalities tailored for each individual. His mission is to help people find healing from childhood trauma, trauma of any form, and dissociative disorders, such as dissociative identity disorder (DID). Eddie has worked in private practice for about 4 years and previously worked in a residential treatment center for about 6 years. Eddie graduated with his BA in psychology from Humboldt State University in Arcata, CA and his MS in marriage and family therapy from Capella University, an online university located in Minneapolis, MN. Eddie grew up in Orange County, CA and loves the beach, the redwoods, and the outdoors. Eddie has two wonderful kids and a beautiful wife. FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!We trace Angie Peacock’s (MSW, CPC) journey from combat trauma and antibiotic injury to a maze of labels and polypharmacy, and how trusting her inner voice led her out of withdrawal and into advocacy. We unpack iatrogenic harm, challenge the illness lens, and offer grounded steps toward safe tapering and real recovery.• combat stress, gut injury, and hypervigilance as clear causes of distress• first benzo, rapid med stacking, and adverse effects misread as illness• labels multiplying after 10‑minute consults and the “treatment-resistant” trap• medical retirement, loss of identity, and the cost of gaslighting• a VA doctor questions polypharmacy and begins careful de-prescribing• months to years of withdrawal, terror-level anxiety, and protracted recovery• finding community, evidence, and language for iatrogenic harm• coaching pillars: safety, simplicity, pattern spotting, and holding hope• severity tiers and adapting supports to sensitization• boundaries, grief, and choosing a restorative break without shame• practical courage: let the inner voice lead next stepsLINKSWebsite: www.angiepeacock.comYouTube: Angie PeacockTikTok: @angiepeacockmswInstagram: @angiepeacockmswFacebook: @angiepeacockmswBIOAngela Peacock, MSW, CPC is a U.S. Army combat veteran, psychiatric drug withdrawal consultant, and healing coach. After surviving years of overmedication and polypharmacy following trauma from her military service, she now educates individuals, families, and organizations on harm reduction and safe deprescribing of psychiatric medications.Her story is featured in the award-winning documentary Medicating Normal (2020), which explores the risks of long-term psychiatric drug use and the challenges of recovery. Angela’s past advocacy roles include Legislative Policy Fellow for the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Student Veterans of America, Military Veteran Liaison for the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, team member for The Withdrawal Project and Social Impact and Outreach for Medicating Normal- the film.In 2022, she founded HeartCore Collective, supporting individuals healing from psychiatric drug injury and reclaiming their autonomy outside of the system.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I explore the gap between bondage and freedom, and how agency survives even when diagnosis and treatment narrow your choices. Through poems, personal turning points, and practical tools, I map a path from helplessness to daily actions that restore control.• defining agency versus freedom with clear examples• reframing bipolar from victimhood to informed choice• choosing life, asking for help, building early warnings• creating a Mood Cycle Survival Guide with priorities and reboots• cautious, supported cross‑titration and micronutrients• understanding med releases and stress triggers• using trauma‑focused therapy modalities rather than talk alone• mindfulness, EFT, journaling, yoga, and supportive exercise• living mindfully, looping recovery, choosing your hard• curating inputs and joining a pro‑recovery communityIf you have any questions, please send me an email: [email protected] you haven't read my book yet grab your copy here: The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your DisorderIf you would like support as you go through the recovery process, join us in  the Upsiders' TribeFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I trace the path from blind trust in a chemical imbalance story to a research-based, integrated approach for resolving bipolar symptoms. I share the books, experts, tools, and daily practices that rebuilt stability through nutrition, trauma therapy, and mindfulness.• conditioning to trust credentials over outcomes• harms from long-term medication, hospitalization and ECT• turning points as a parent catalyzing responsibility• micronutrients as neurotransmitter building blocks• disease model versus drug model explained• Whitaker and Moncrieff are reshaping assumptions• therapy that targets trauma at the source• mindfulness to decode symptoms and reduce reactivity• building a Mood Cycle Survival Guide• reframing diagnosis as signals, not disease• practical steps to start self-led researchIf you have any comments or questions, please send me an email. If you haven't developed a Mood Cycle Survival Guide for yourself, make sure you go in the show notes, click on the on the link and get your free Mood Cycle Survival Guide that will start you on your first step to healing and recovery.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I challenge the idea that a bipolar label defines a life and show how reframing symptoms creates room for choice, tools, and repair. I share a practical survival guide, language shifts, and boundary skills that turn chaos into traction.• labels built on symptom clusters create helplessness• medication roulette, side effects, and why talk therapy often stalls• rage and dissociation explained as fight or flight• family strain, codependency, and children’s regulation needs• choose responsibility after crisis and hospitalizations• build a response team with clear roles and limits• design early warning systems to spot triggers• power priorities and daily reboot practices• use precise language: symptoms as information• become a detective of your story and sources• set healthy boundaries to protect trust and repair relationships• choose your hard and commit to sustained changeIf you're ready to heal and you want to know more about the Upsiders' Tribe make sure you send me an email, linked down below, and you can set up a 30-minute complimentary Zoom where we can talk about your specific situation, and we can determine if the Upsiders' Tribe is a good fit for you.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!We explore how yoga shifts healing from labels and behavior control to embodied awareness, and how grounding builds real emotional regulation for bipolar symptoms and trauma. Dr. Ghada Osman shares her three-prong model so listeners can ground first, then safely energize or calm.• mental health labels versus emotional health signals• witness consciousness and bottom-up healing• shame cycles, unmet needs and compassionate curiosity• practical grounding: eyes open, even breath, bilateral movement• how to choose energizing or calming after grounding• honoring the body without judgment or “levels”• seasons, contrast and building resilience• resources to learn more from Dr. OsmanWebsite: www.ghadaosman.comBook on Routledge: Mental and Emotional Healing Through Yoga: A Guiding Framework for Therapists and their ClientsBook on Amazon: Mental and Emotional Healing Through Yoga: A Guiding Framework for Therapists and their ClientsCheck out Ghada's online training on using yoga to work with mental health here: Yoga for Mental Health Certification CourseFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I share a practical plan to turn New Year hope into steady recovery by choosing one habit, building agency, and treating sources of symptoms rather than endlessly managing them. I outline seven habits for healing, from mood tracking and nutrition to therapy, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mindful living.• healing as a long-term process built on one change • shifting from victim mindset to personal agency • mood cycle survival guide and early warning signs • micronutrients as fuel for brain function • therapy as a facilitator for resolving sources • mindfulness to regain control of thoughts and body • yoga to reintegrate mind and body • exercise for stability, not intensity • living mindfully with weekly reviews and a clear why • invitation to pick one habit and start nowJoin the Mood Cycle Survival Guide. It’s free. Check in with us in the Upsiders' Basecamp chat for advice. If you’re ready to heal your symptoms, join my monthly membership, The Upsiders' Tribe, to transform chaos into hope. For more resources, visit www.theupsideofbipolar.com. Grab my book, The Upside of Bipolar: Seven Steps to Heal Your Disorder.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I share how faith and action led from despair and repeated hospital stays to a practical path for recovery. The story moves from early experiences of God’s love to a step-by-step survival guide, therapy, micronutrients, and an open invitation to choose agency today.• the role of faith as a source of hope and direction• the moment a clear thought interrupted suicidal despair• why healing came through steps, not an instant cure• building a mood cycle survival guide• response team, early warnings, power priorities, system reboot• boundaries that respect helpers and protect family• micronutrients from a nonprofit and why they mattered• therapy reboot with EMDR and proactive tools• addressing religious trauma and doubts about spiritual impressions• shifting from diagnosis identity to personal agency• practical invitations to act and record moments of peaceFor more resources, visit www.theupsideofbipolar.comFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I challenge the idea that a bipolar diagnosis explains your life and show how labels can block curiosity, fuel victimhood, and fuse to identity. I explore the layered tools that helped me heal: micronutrients, trauma work, mindfulness, and a Mood Cycle Survival Guide.• diagnosis as observation, not explanation• relief and fear at first diagnosis• victimhood mindset and its costs• when labels become identity• accountability after harm and repair work• layered healing: micronutrients, therapy, mindfulness• the fire alarm versus the fire• incentives in pharma and training• switch language from disorder to symptoms• becoming a detective of symptom sources• practical tools: sleep, tracking, cues, supplements• resources: prior episodes, book, Upsiders TribeJoin the Upsiders' Tribe. If you want to talk to me about it, here is the →link← that will allow you to set up a free consultation with me. Make sure that you reach out. For more resources, visit www.theupsideofbipolar.com. If you haven't read my book, click here to grab a copy.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this engaging third conversation with David Stephan, we unpack why symptom spikes during micronutrient use often signal overmedication, not relapse, and how to time reductions for smoother tapers. We share stories, protocols, and tools that make withdrawal safer while building real, durable stability.• intake essentials and complete disclosure of meds and supplements• medication potentiation explained and how to spot it• custom reductions for SSRIs, benzos, stimulants, antipsychotics• tracking patterns and using plateaus to time cuts• med releases from stress or intense exercise and safe responses• why to avoid liver cleanses and how whey protein isolate and aminos help• gut health, candida protocol, and absorption basics• four pillars: vitamins, minerals, amino acids, omega-3s• using RXList to understand med release symptoms• consistency tools: organizers, alarms, spacing doses• faster vs safer taper styles and realistic timelines• trust, patience, and compliance as success drivers• resources, independent research, and support coachingLink:Truehope Canada | Media & PublicationsBio:Over the past 22 years, David Stephan has worked extensively with Truehope, an organization on a mission to help individuals overcome mental illness through the use of groundbreaking micronutrient solutions. During this time, he has been involved in leading edge discoveries that have not only provided significant transformation in thousands of lives but have also been scientifically validated in dozens of independent studies from universities around the world. As such, David feels it a privilege and duty to share the knowledge that not only changed his life, but has also allowed for well over 100,000 others to transform their lives as well. For more resources, visit www.theupsideofbipolar.com. If you're ready to dive deeper, grab my book, The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder. If you're ready to heal your symptoms, join my monthly membership, The Upsiders' Tribe, to transform chaos into hope.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!What if the brain isn’t broken—but under-supplied? This episode continues the conversation with David Stephan, VP of Truehope, as we dive into the specifics of how vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and omegas provided in bioavailable, balanced forms, help the brain recover. In this conversation we talk about:The difference between the function of drugs and micronutrients on the brainHow micronutrients actually help resolve bipolar symptoms, including serious symptoms like psychosis.Why eating healthy is not enough to resolve bipolar symptoms and why micronutrient  supplementation is necessary.The role that genetics play in bipolar symptoms.How micronutrients can help resolve the MTHFR gene mutation.How the vast majority of mental illness diagnoses are actually micronutrient deficiencies.How micronutrients help facilitate healing trauma and other sources of mental illness symptoms.Come back next week as we dig into what to expect when shifting from medications to micronutrients and how to navigate symptoms with confidence.Link:Truehope Canada | Media & PublicationsBio:Over the past 22 years, David Stephan has worked extensively with Truehope, an organization on a mission to help individuals overcome mental illness through the use of groundbreaking micronutrient solutions. During this time, he has been involved in leading edge discoveries that have not only provided significant transformation in thousands of lives but have also been scientifically validated in dozens of independent studies from universities around the world. As such, David feels it a privilege and duty to share the knowledge that not only changed his life, but has also allowed for well over 100,000 others to transform their lives as well. FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Join me as I speak with Truehope Vice President David Stephan as we trace how a family’s tragedy led to a nutrient-based approach for mental health, why absorption and balance matter more than labels, and how research and real lives converged. The science behind serotonin and dopamine pathways shows why broad-spectrum micronutrients can restore function where drugs often fall short.• origin of Truehope and early family outcomes• why chelation, ratios, and particle size drive results• building a single consistent 36-ingredient formula• regulatory roadblocks and court validation• serotonin and dopamine cofactor pathways explained• dangers of single-nutrient fixes like zinc without copper• omegas and micronutrient synergy for brain health• stress, dosing adjustments, and disaster studies• preparing to transition from meds to micronutrientsCome back next week as we dig into the difference between medications and micronutrients and how micronutrients heal the brain.Link:Truehope Canada | Media & PublicationsBio:Over the past 22 years, David Stephan has worked extensively with Truehope, an organization on a mission to help individuals overcome mental illness through the use of groundbreaking micronutrient solutions. During this time, he has been involved in leading edge discoveries that have not only provided significant transformation in thousands of lives but have also been scientifically validated in dozens of independent studies from universities around the world. As such, David feels it a privilege and duty to share the knowledge that not only changed his life, but has also allowed for well over 100,000 others to transform their lives as well. FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!We challenge the reflex to medicate and the vacuum around de-prescribing by tracing Jen’s 25-year story with SSRIs, from teenage labels and muted emotions to neonatal withdrawal, metabolic fallout, and a hard-won hyperbolic taper. We share tools for safer tapering, building a support tribe, and reclaiming informed consent and agency.• prescribers trained to start meds, not de-prescribe• teen SSRIs without context of eating disorder or stress• labels and DSM coding shaping identity and care• pregnancy decisions without full informed consent• neonatal withdrawal and long-term family impact• seasonal dose hikes vs nutrition and light therapy• metabolic dysfunction and dismissal by clinicians• withdrawal misread as relapse or new disorder• addiction vs dependence language and why it matters• hyperbolic tapering and liquid formulations• micronutrients, amino acids, and restorative movement• mindfulness to rebuild sensitivity and agency• research literacy, conflicts of interest, and bias• how to choose your tribe and educate supporters• Jen’s consulting, therapy work, and advocacyLinks: Website: www.jennschmitz.comTikTok: @jenn.schmitzInstagram: @therapistjenPodcast IG: @thegaslittruthpodcastYouTube: @thegaslittruthpodcastBio:Meet Jenn Schmitz, a woman redefining the field of psychology with a unique blend of expertise and lived experience. Holding a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology and having spent over a decade as a traditional therapist, Jenn took a bold step beyond the conventional boundaries of Western medicine. Her personal struggle, marked by the dark process of tapering off psychiatric medication, revealed insights that reshaped her approach to mental health. Today, as a Nationally Certified Neuro-Health Coach specializing in Mental Health and Addiction Nutrition, she empowers others as a Holistic Deprescribing Consultant. By integrating physical wellness, nutrition, and mindfulness, Jenn guides clients safely through the intricate process of tapering off psychiatric medication. Driven by a mission to expose the hidden harm of psychiatric treatments and ignite curiosity, she hosts the internationally acclaimed The Gaslit Truth Podcast. For more resources, visit www.theupsideofbipolar.comIf you're ready to dive deeper, grab my book, The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your DisorderIf you're ready to heal your symptoms, join my monthly membership, The Upsiders' Tribe, to transform chaos into hope.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!We challenge the “gold standard” of therapy plus meds and show how nutrition, sleep, and curiosity reveal root causes that the psychiatric labels miss. Dr. Teralyn Sell shares her journey from traditional psychotherapy to functional brain health, and why feeding the brain changes everything.• how siloed systems block simple solutions like omega‑3s• the cost of medication‑first care on memory, mood and agency• subjectivity in diagnosis and the loss of curiosity• thyroid, UTIs, inflammation and blood sugar as symptom drivers• amino acids and micronutrients to support neurotransmitters• protein timing and cofactors for dopamine and serotonin• small steps that work: blue‑light limits, steady protein, better sleep• rebuilding identity and autonomy when tapering with support• the pillars: eat, sleep, move, meditate for lasting changeLinks: website: WWW.drteralyn.comTikTok: @dr_teralynInstagram: @Dr_TeralynFacebook: @dr_teralynBio:Today’s guest is Dr. Teralyn Sell, a PhD brain health expert, nutritionist & psych med deprescribing professional who is grounded in psychology and functional wellness. She has spent over two decades helping people untangle the root causes of mental health struggles. She’s known for her no-nonsense, science-meets-real-life approach to anxiety, depression, and stress, guiding people beyond symptom management into lasting change.Dr. Teralyn is the cohost for the nationally acclaimed podcast, the Gaslit Truth and has been featured in national media, including television and radio, for her refreshing take on mental health, which combines neuroscience, psychology, and nutrition. When she’s not working with clients or speaking to audiences, you’ll find her enjoying time with her husband of 30 years, her three adult children, and her granddaughter, often somewhere on the Florida Gulf.Her mission? To empower you to reclaim your brain, your body, and your life, without getting stuck on the medication merry-go-round.Thanks for joining me on the Upside of Bipolar. For more resources, visit www.theupsideofbipolar.com. If you're ready to dive deeper, grab my book, The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder. If you're ready to heal your symptoms, join my monthly membership, The Upsiders' Tribe, to transform chaos into hope.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Understanding the true source of bipolar symptoms requires becoming a detective in your own life rather than accepting diagnosis as the final answer. Approaching symptoms with curiosity instead of judgment allows us to identify what's really happening beneath the surface and find effective paths to healing.• Diagnoses are observations of symptom clusters, not explanations for why you have symptoms• Breaking symptoms into specific experiences rather than broad categories reveals important clues• Looking at circumstances surrounding symptom onset helps identify potential triggers and causes• Coping mechanisms like binge-watching or substance use are clues about underlying distress, not character flaws• Tracking patterns in symptoms can reveal connections that aren't obvious when living with them daily• Approaching trauma responses with curiosity helps identify what needs healing• Medication side effects or withdrawal can create symptoms that complicate the picture• Writing your detailed story in a dedicated notebook helps uncover the true sources of symptomsGrab a composition notebook and start writing your story, beginning with your earliest memories of symptoms. Become a detective in your own life so you can uncover the true sources of your symptoms, treat them with integrated research-based approaches, and heal.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Michelle shares her transformative realization that bipolar disorder isn't a disease but a cluster of symptoms, and how this understanding freed her from decades of believing she had an incurable condition.• The bipolar diagnosis ends curiosity about why symptoms occur because people believe they've been given a complete answer• Being told bipolar disorder is lifelong and incurable creates helplessness and a victim mindset• The chemical imbalance theory of mental illness has been thoroughly debunked by research• Psychiatric medications cause chemical imbalances rather than correcting them• Common sources of bipolar symptoms include micronutrient insufficiency, trauma, health factors, medication effects, and unhealthy coping mechanisms• Focusing on symptoms instead of disorders allows for identifying and treating specific causes• Recovery is possible by getting curious about symptom sources rather than accepting a diagnosis as destinyGo to theupsideofbipolar.com and get your free mood cycle survival guide - four steps to successfully navigate bipolar mood swings. If you're ready for more, check out the Map to Wellness.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Michelle shares why she took a hiatus from her podcast to fully experience planning her daughter's wedding and supporting her son through his senior year of high school.• Decided to pause her podcast, blog, and social media when life became overwhelming with a job change, moves, planning a wedding, and senior year activities.• Realized the purpose of healing from bipolar was to be present for these family milestones• Planning her daughter's wedding became a beautiful healing experience for their relationship• Practiced mindfulness throughout the wedding day to fully experience every moment• Used the Mood Cycle Survival Guide tools automatically to manage stress• Set an aggressive goal to unpack their new home in two weeks while listening to audiobooks instead of binge watching shows• Discovered that homeschooling her youngest daughter was the right choice for their familyIf you're struggling and feeling hopeless, check out Michelle's other podcast episodes, read her blog, or read her book "The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder." Until next time, Upsiders!FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In her new book "Chemically Imbalanced: The Making and Unmaking of the Serotonin Myth" Professor Joanna Moncrieff exposes how millions have been misled to believe they have brain chemical imbalances requiring drug treatments when no evidence supports this view.• Depression is a normal human emotional response to life difficulties, not a brain disease• The "drug-centered" model recognizes psychiatric medications as mind-altering substances that temporarily mask symptoms rather than targeting disease processes • Disease awareness campaigns funded by pharmaceutical companies deliberately changed public perception of distress as medical conditions• Scientific studies showing minimal differences between antidepressants and placebos are systematically misinterpreted to support the disease model• The psychiatric establishment responds to criticism by attacking messengers rather than addressing evidence• Alternative approaches should focus on understanding distress in context of people's lives rather than medicating normal emotions• Recent progress in recognizing withdrawal effects and persistent side effects shows growing awareness of medication risksWebsite: www.joannamoncrieff.comX: @joannamoncrieffBio:JOANNA MONCRIEFF is Professor of Critical and Social Psychiatry at University College London, and a consultant psychiatrist for the National Health Service in London. She is author of numerous scientific paper and several books on psychiatry and psychiatric drugs. She is a founder member and co-chairperson of the Critical Psychiatry Network, an influential network of psychiatrists and other doctors. Her latest book is “Chemically Imbalanced: The Making and Unmaking of the Serotonin Myth” (publisher Flint Books), featured in The Sunday Times.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Dr. Sheri Johnson shares groundbreaking research on how circadian rhythms and reward sensitivity affect bipolar symptoms, offering practical approaches to wellness through lifestyle interventions. Her work at UC Berkeley's CALM program explores how time-restricted eating and Mediterranean diet patterns can strengthen body rhythms and improve mood stability.• Bipolar symptoms affect circadian rhythms, with genetic factors influencing clock genes throughout the body• Time-restricted eating (consuming food within a consistent 10-hour window) helps reset disrupted body clocks• The Mediterranean diet provides essential nutrients for brain health without rigid restrictions• Blue light from screens suppresses melatonin production, making sleep difficulties worse• Small, incremental habit changes are more sustainable than overwhelming lifestyle overhauls• People with bipolar symptoms often have heightened reward sensitivity that can be both a gift (creativity, drive) and challenge• Including people with lived experience in research design improves treatment approaches• Mindfulness, journaling, and relaxation techniques can help manage nighttime awakeningVisit calm.Berkeley.edu/participate to learn about participating in current studies on time-restricted eating, Mediterranean diet, or the upcoming study on reward sensitivity and circadian rhythms.Instagram: @ucbcalmprogram Facebook: The CALM Program at UC Berkeley X:  @calmprogramBluesky:  @ucbcalmprogramTiktok: @ucbcalmprogramBio:Dr. Johnson is the Director of the Cal Mania (CALM) Program at the University of California Berkeley. She has received funding from NARSAD, NIMH, NSF, and NCI.  She has published six books and over 300 manuscripts. She is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Association for Behavioral Medicine Research, and the Association for Psychological Science, and the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences (2013-2014). Her work focuses on circadian rhythms, impulsivity and reward sensitivity in bipolar disorder. She has used a broad range of techniques, from neuroimaging to cognitive and behavioral testing and personality tests, to understand these mechanisms.  Drawing on basic science, she has conducted treatment development research to target these dimensions.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Episode Highlight: After years of navigating the complex intersection of marriage and mental health, Sue Best shares her deeply personal journey of supporting her husband, Travis, through his bipolar disorder recovery. In this heartfelt conversation, Sue opens up about the emotional challenges, pivotal moments of growth, and the resilience required to maintain stability in the face of adversity. This episode offers practical insights and hope for those navigating similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of community, communication, and self-care.Topics Covered in This Episode:Balancing Roles: Sue’s experience as both a caregiver and a partner while supporting her husband’s mental health journey.The Impact on Family: Reflections on ensuring her children’s well-being and fostering emotional resilience within her family.Boundaries and Self-Care: The importance of setting healthy boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being to maintain stability in challenging situations.The Power of Support: How therapy, faith, and community became vital pillars of resilience and healing for her family.Parenting with Empathy: Teaching children about boundaries, emotional intelligence, and responsibility to empower them for future growth.Lessons from Loved Ones: Life-changing advice from friends and humbling lessons learned through her children’s perspectives.Sue’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength in vulnerability and the hope that can be found in the support of a compassionate community. Whether you’re navigating similar challenges or seeking to better understand the dynamics of mental health within relationships, this episode offers inspiration, tools, and connection.Tune in to this impactful episode and discover how resilience, love, and support can transform even the most difficult circumstances.Connect with Sue:Instagram: @the.other.side.of.bipolarFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Don't miss this episode!  Travis Best, a member of the Upsiders' Tribe recovery program, and his wife Sue share their journey navigating the challenges of bipolar disorder within their marriage. They highlight the profound impact of community, communication, and therapeutic resources. With candid reflections on symptoms, medication struggles, and the importance of mutual support, they emphasize that while healing is challenging, it is possible to find hope and rebuild relationships.• Travis’s experience with bipolar diagnosis and childhood trauma• Experience transitioning from medications to micronutrients• Recognizing and managing delusions (one of Travis's symptoms)• Sue’s perspective on being a caregiver and the need for support• Importance of setting healthy boundaries and effective communication• Navigating the dual challenges of bipolar symptoms and cancer• Building community connections for emotional resilience• The power of hope in transforming lives and relationshipsFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!This episode explores the concept of core wounds—deeply embedded beliefs formed during childhood that shape our emotional lives. Through practical tools and rich discussions, we guide listeners in identifying their core wounds, understanding their impact, and taking actionable steps toward healing. • Introduction to core wounds and their significance • Understanding the formative experiences that create core wounds • Personal stories and examples illustrating core wounds in action • Tools for identifying and processing emotional responses • The journey of healing and self-acceptance • Encouragement to embrace curiosity and accountability in the healing process • Call to action to utilize the feelings and needs worksheet for self-discoveryFeelings List: www.jjflizanes.com/feelingslistWebsite: www.jjflizanes.comIG: @jjflizanesFacebook: JJ FlizanesYouTube: @jjflizanesBio: JJ Flizanes is an Empowerment Strategist and the host of several podcasts including People’s Choice Awards nominee Spirit, Purpose & Energy. JJ Flizanes works with conscious, spiritual truth seekers who want to remove emotional blocks to success. She helps people identify sabotaging patterns and transmute struggle into joy. Through a series of clarifying exercises, she is able to curate a personalized roadmap to emotional healing. JJ is passionate about empowering people with the knowledge and awareness of how they can live the life of their dreams.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!This episode dives deep into the transformative power of running as a means to improve mental health and overall well-being. Victor Vizcaíno shares his journey from disliking running to using it as a therapeutic tool, revealing how mindfulness and gratitude can create lasting change.• Transforming personal struggles into opportunities for growth • Understanding the connection between mental and physical health • The role of mindfulness and gratitude in running • Coaching philosophies that combine holistic approaches • The importance of community support in running • Starting small and the significance of gradual progress • Addressing addiction and unhealthy coping mechanisms through positive habits • Encouraging self-discovery and mental clarity through movement • Ideas on maintaining momentum when beginning a new fitness routinewebsite: www.eymcoaching.comIG: @eymcoachingusaFacebook: Victor VizcainoYouTube: Victor VizcainoTikTok: @eymcoachingusaBio:Today's guest is Victor Vizcaino, a marathon transformational coach specializing in holistic marathon training. Victor empowers individuals to experience true transformation through running, focusing not just on physical endurance but also on mental resilience and personal growth. With his unique approach, he helps people unlock their full potential and achieve life-changing results. Please join me in welcoming Victor Vizcaino to the show!FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!This episode explores the interconnectedness of holistic health and bipolar disorder, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying factors over simply alleviating symptoms. Reed Davis discusses his journey and methodologies that highlight the relationship between stress, diet, and gut health, advocating for a comprehensive approach to wellness that empowers individuals to take charge of their health.• Examining the limitations of relief care versus root cause research • Introducing Reed Davis and his holistic health approach • The importance of comprehensive health diagnostics • DRESS protocol: Diet, Rest, Exercise, Stress Reduction, Supplementation • The role of stress in health crises and chronic conditions • Understanding the relationship between gut health and mental wellness • Encouraging self-responsibility and proactive health management • Bridging the gap between traditional medicine and alternative practices website: www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.comIG: @fdntrainingFacebook: Functional Diagnostic NutritionYouTube: @FDNtrainingBio:Reed Davis, Double-Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner (HHP) and Certified Nutritional Therapist (CNT), is a globally recognized expert in functional lab testing and holistic lifestyle medicine. As the visionary founder of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® (FDN), Reed has pioneered the FDN Certification Course, which has empowered over 4,000 practitioners across 50 countries to take charge of their clients' health. With more than a decade of experience as Health Director at a Southern California wellness center, Reed has personally guided over 10,000 clients to optimal wellness, making him one of the most sought-after clinicians in his field.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Episode Shownotes:In this transformative episode, we sit down with Austin Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and founder/CEO of Clearfork Academy, to explore how core values can empower teens to overcome mental health challenges and find lasting healing. Austin shares his journey, the mission of Clearfork Academy, and the strategies they use to help teens create meaningful change in their lives.Episode Highlights:🌟 Austin’s Journey: The experiences that led him to focus on helping teens with mental health and emotional challenges and how he founded Clearfork Academy.🌟 Core Values: How and why the program developed its core values and the life-changing impact these principles have on teens.🌟 Therapeutic Tools and Resources: A look at the interventions, tools, and resources used in Clearfork Academy’s program and why they work.🌟 Family Systems: The importance of understanding the “family system” in identifying pain and dysfunction that lead to unhealthy behaviors.🌟 Stress Management Plans: The role of actionable plans in helping teens handle stressors and make healthier choices.🌟 Personal Responsibility: Skills and strategies Clearfork Academy teaches to encourage accountability and self-growth.🌟 Building Core Values: Steps for anyone to begin establishing and living by their core values.Website: www.clearforkacademy.comInstagram: @clearforkacademyFacebook: Clearfork AcademyLinkedIn: Austin Davis, LPC-SBio:Austin is a visionary leader in teenage behavioral health and addiction treatment, spending the past 15+ years committed to transforming the lives of teens & their families. He uses the power of faith in the recovery process to help his clients grow into healthy and happy members of their community. He is the founder and CEO of Clearfork Academy, the go-to treatment center in Texas for troubled teens. His dedication to teen mental health makes him a driving thought leader in the industry. He has spoken to parents, community health professionals, educators and teens nationwide—sharing insights on effective treatment methodologies, the importance of mental health awareness and the power of faith in the recovery process. Austin earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry from Lee University in Cleveland, TN, and furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Counseling from The Church of God Theological Seminary. This education laid the foundation for his professional journey in clinical counseling and church ministry.When he's not helping teens or serving his community, he is found spending time with his wife & three kids, playing guiFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Episode Highlights:In this powerful and enlightening conversation, Dr. Tonya Cunningham shares her personal and professional insights into navigating and processing grief. Her candid storytelling and expert advice provide a roadmap for understanding grief’s impact and embracing healing.What to expect in this episode:Dr. Cunningham’s personal story and transformative realizations about griefThe impact of spiritual bypassing on emotional healthWhat grief is, how it manifests, and its effects on mental healthDifferences between type A and type B traumaThe iceberg analogy of grief’s hidden layersStrategies for processing grief and setting healthy boundariesHow to find the right grief counselorThe connection between grief and physical healthPractical tools and exercises for healingThe importance of embracing, rather than avoiding, griefThis episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating grief or supporting others on their journey.Website: www.drtonyacunningham.comFacebook: Tonya Cunningham and Dr. Tonya CunninghamInstagram: @drtonyacunninghamTikTok: @drtonyacunninghamBio:Dr. Tonya Cunningham stands as the driving force behind Dr. Tonya Enterprises LLC and the visionary founder of Let’s Talk Healing Inc., both dedicated entities offering coaching, counseling, and transformative training in Grief, Mental Health, and Self-Care. Internationally recognized as a sought-after Speaker, Author, and Master Grief Coach, Dr. Tonya specializes in navigating the complexities of loss, life transitions, and inner healing. With an impressive 35-year professional journey, Dr. Tonya is a revered expert in the grief and death care industry, regularly invited to share her profound insights as a speaker. A true trendsetter and truthsayer, she is reshaping the narrative around how we approach grief, hurt, and loss. Her methodology combines education, experience, enthusiasm, humor, and even dance to offer a range of services, including consulting, seminars, and workshops. In addition to her professional endeavors, Dr. Tonya is a proud Dog Mom of her fur babies Mister Cunningham and Bentley Sebastian Cunningham, the mother to her adopted son, D’Anthony, and her beloved late daughter Chelsea, who graced the world for 2 hours and 12 minutes. She is also an accomplished author. Dr. Tonya has penned impactful works such as "I Got My Marbles Back: There IS Life After Loss", "Griefwork Is Essential Not Optional: A Memoir of Overcoming Grief, Depression & Rejection" and her children’s book, "Chelsea Cares: A Bereavement Bear's Heartfelt Journey Through Grief" along with a compFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!Episode Highlights:In this insightful episode, boundaries coach and recovery advocate Barb Nangle shares her expertise and personal experiences with 12-step programs, offering valuable guidance for anyone on a healing journey.What you’ll discover:Barb’s powerful story of transformation through 12-step programsA clear explanation of ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) and CoDA (Codependents Anonymous)How 12-step programs have evolved and why they remain impactfulThe concept of “info, not ammo” and its role in facilitating recoveryWhat it truly means to “work the steps” in a 12-step programThe importance of breaking through denial to foster growth and healingA comprehensive overview of the 12 steps and how they create lasting changeWhether you’re exploring recovery tools or seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode is full of meaningful insights and practical wisdom.Boundaries Starter Kit: www.boundariesstarterkit.com/Coaching Program: Boundaries by DesignInstagram: www.instagram.com/higherpowercoaching/Podcast: www.higherpowercc.com/podcast/Previous episode: Episode 52Bio:Barb Nangle is a boundaries coach, speaker and the Founder and CEO of Higher Power Coaching and Consulting, LLC and host of the podcast, "Fragmented to Whole: Life Lessons from 12 Step Recovery." In 2015 at the age of 52, after decades of therapy and tons of self-help work in a variety of areas, Barb found herself in 12-step recovery. She’s been in two such fellowships since then and has changed deeply and profoundly as a result. As a former addict and people-pleasing rescuer, she empowers people to thrive and take more control over their personal and professional lives by coaching them to build healthy boundaries. She works with organizations in the helping professions, as well as women entrepreneurs to avoid burnout and reduce turnover. Her specialty is working with professional women who say yes when they really want to say no, and neglect themselves because they're focused on others.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this eye-opening episode, Claudie Gordon-Pomares, M.S.Ed, and Kim Pomares share groundbreaking insights on:The inspiration behind Claudie’s development of Sensory Enrichment TherapyHow Sensory Enrichment Therapy activates the brain’s natural self-healing abilitiesThe remarkable impact of simple Sensory Enrichment Therapy exercisesThe process behind creating the Sensory Enrichment Therapy activitiesHow these straightforward activities cultivate an environment that promotes brain growthWebsite: www.mendability.comYouTube: @mendability Bios:Claudie Pomares is the creator of Sensory Enrichment Therapy, a unique approach based on the neuroscience of Environmental Enrichment that stimulates brain plasticity to improve cognitive and emotional health. Driven by childhood experiences with close friends and family who suffered debilitating brain-related symptoms, Claudie has dedicated her career to helping vulnerable individuals with neurological conditions feel happy and confident. Her work empowers families with simple, family-centered, sensory-based activities that foster resilience and long-term cognitive growth.Kim Pomares is the CEO of Mendability and a pioneering force in bringing Sensory Enrichment Therapy to families worldwide. Joining early on to support his mother, Claudie Pomares, in managing her private clinic, Kim has been instrumental in validating the therapy’s effectiveness through randomized controlled trials and in making the program accessible by training a computer system to deliver personalized sensory enrichment plans. Kim’s journey with Mendability is driven by the deep satisfaction of helping vulnerable children unlock their natural abilities, overcoming anxiety and other challenges to feel happier and more confident.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this thought-provoking episode, DNMS specialist Karen Gardner, LCSW, unveils:How she became a Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy (DNMS) practitioner,Why DNMS is such an effective treatment modality for childhood neglect and trauma,What attachment wounds are and how they are addressed through DNMS,How many diagnosed with bipolar and schizophrenia are actually suffering from untreated trauma,The importance of establishing “resourcing” prior to beginning trauma therapy of any kind,How it is possible to resolve trauma that has been “forgotten” through dissociation,Why working on surface level coping mechanisms without addressing the underlying issues is ineffective,The difference between Internal Family Systems (IFS) and DNMS,How powerful it is to develop resources within yourself, andWhere to start to learn more about DNMS and find out if it is right for you.Website: www.emdr-utah.comBio:Karen Gardner did her graduate training after her children were grown and has found her life experience to be as valuable as her academic training. Her undergraduate degree is in Psychology, and her graduate degree is in Social Work, both from Arizona State University. She has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Utah for 14 years, and has owned her own private practice for 10 years in Provo, UT.She enjoys helping individuals and families heal. Karen has been successful working with people who struggle with rage reactions, abrupt mood swings, an inability to regulate their emotions, excessive and uncontrollable worry, hyperactivity, and an inability to bond with others. She has been an EMDRIA Approved Consultant for the past 7 years and a trainer for DNMS for the past 5 years, teaching other therapists this great modality.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this engaging conversation boundaries coach Barb Nangle reveals:Her journey through recovery,What led her to become a boundaries coach,Why boundaries are so difficult for trauma survivors,Why codependency frequently develops out of trauma,Understanding the concept of 'info not ammo' and its significance in the recovery process, The concept of “reparenting”—what it is, how it functions, and its role in healing,What “boundaries of self-containment” are and their value in healing,The importance of seeking support as you start establishing healthy boundaries in your life,That learning to set boundaries takes practice, persistence and a willingness to make mistakes, andHow to begin the process of setting healthy boundaries in your life.Boundaries Starter Kit: www.boundariesstarterkit.com/Coaching Program: Boundaries by DesignInstagram: www.instagram.com/higherpowercoaching/Podcast: www.higherpowercc.com/podcast/Bio:Barb Nangle is a boundaries coach, speaker and the Founder and CEO of Higher Power Coaching and Consulting, LLC and host of the podcast, "Fragmented to Whole: Life Lessons from 12 Step Recovery." In 2015 at the age of 52, after decades of therapy and tons of self-help work in a variety of areas, Barb found herself in 12-step recovery. She’s been in two such fellowships since then and has changed deeply and profoundly as a result. As a former addict and people-pleasing rescuer, she empowers people to thrive and take more control over their personal and professional lives by coaching them to build healthy boundaries. She works with organizations in the helping professions, as well as women entrepreneurs to avoid burnout and reduce turnover. Her specialty is working with professional women who say yes when they really want to say no, and neglect themselves because they're focused on others.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this engaging episode author and comic Dave Mowry shares:His story of beginning to use humor to help him deal with his trauma and bipolar symptoms,How he began writing for bphope.com which led to his first book OMG That’s Me!,What helped him grieve his “lost fourteen years”,The daily activities that have helped him to “get out of his head”,Why humor is so powerful in helping to overcome trauma and the suffering of mental illness,How he discovered it’s possible to teach anyone to do standup comedy,The healing he witnessed in others who learned to use comedy to deal with their mental illness,How he found purpose in his struggle in helping others through peer support,The value in his books OMG That’s Me! and OMG That’s Me 3!, andHow important it is to not get stuck in your struggle, things do get better!LinkedIn: Dave MowryBooks: OMG That’s Me!               OMG That’s Me 3!Facebook: Dave MowryBio:Dave Mowry was a successful businessman until he had a breakdown due to his undiagnosed bipolar disorder and lost everything. He slid into deep depression and anxiety and began his 14 lost years and dark days.In 2010, Dave took a stand-up comedy class for folks with a mental illness and began healing with humor. Looking for humor in his worst experiences and PTSD changed everything. Dave was soon teaching classes to other folks with a mental illness and seeing the same transformation in them.Dave is the author of the award winning OMG That’s Me! mental health books, a comic, and runs a mental health nonprofit in Portland. Dave’s blog posts for bphope.com have been read by over a million people.Dave lives in Happy Valley, Oregon with his wife Heather and is currently working on a new OMG book about his recovery.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!I’m so excited to share that I conquered my final trigger for mood swings: moving! In this reflective episode I share:My previous experiences with moves triggering mood swings,How my Mood Cycle Survival Guide enabled me to anticipate and proactively manage mood swings caused by moving,A breakdown of how applying my Mood Cycle Survival Guide in my most recent move helped me avoid symptoms,How writing my book helped to solidify my healing and recovery, The importance of viewing symptoms with curiosity instead of judgment, and What your next steps should be on your path to healing your own triggers.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this captivating episode NYT Bestselling Author Bridget Cook-Burch and International Bestselling Author Hannah Lyons share:Their stories that led them to becoming authors, storytellers and mentors,What led Bridget to become a “book whisperer”,How Hannah evolved into an exceptional copy editor,How Bridget helps people uncover their “ikigai” and “elixir of life”,Hannah’s remarkable approach to creating characters that reflect pieces of herself,Bridget’s game-changing tip for kickstarting your writing journey,Hannah’s journey to becoming an international bestselling fantasy author,How Hannah sees the act of creating a book as similar to birthing a baby,The ways Bridget’s retreats help reignite the creative genius within authors, and They each share their most powerful tip for beginning your own writing journey.Connect with Bridget:Website: www.YourInspiredStory.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/bridgetcookburch/Facebook: www.facebook.com/bridgetcookburchLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mbridgetcookburch/Connect with Hannah:LinkTree: www.linktr.ee./hrlyonWebsite: www.castlelyonediting.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/ladylyon19Facebook: www.facebook.com/ladylyon19Books: The Rebel in Violet: Book One in the Freedom for Rhethos Series                The Strings of Fate: Book Two in the Freedom for Rhethos SeriesBios: Bridget Cook-Burch’s clients call her “The Book Whisperer”. She is a New York Times & Wall Street Journal bestselling author, publisher, mentor, humanitarian and speaker known for riveting stories of transformation. Her powerful work has been showcased on Oprah, Dateline, Netflix, Discovery+, A&E, CNN, GMA, NPR and in People among many others. As the CEO and Founder of Your Inspired Story, she hosts Inspired Writers Retreats, group coaching, executive coaching and more. Her greatest passion is helping you discover the importance of your story, and to become leaders in your own communities, and worldwide.Hannah R. Lyon is an international bestselling author who has worked in the writing industry for eight years. As the mother of Rhethos, she explores deep meanings within her fantasy series that span across the fiction world iFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this extraordinary episode author, speaker and combat-wounded veteran Brian Fleming shares:His extraordinary story of being wounded by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan,Why it’s so important to not allow the diagnosis to define you,How he discovered the power of sharing his story with others,Why discovering meaning in your suffering is critical to your healing journey,His three keys to resilience that enabled him to recover and then thrive after trauma,The importance of not being afraid of mistakes or failure,The books he’s written and why he wrote them, andHow he helps others learn to share their story.Book Brian to Speak: www.BlownUpGuy.comFREE “Share Your Story Roadmap”: www.UseYourStory.com Podcast: Dear God, WTF? Podcast with Brian Fleming (deargodwtfpodcast.com)Bio: After being severely injured by a suicide bomber who exploded 3-feet away from me in Kandahar, Afghanistan, Brian Fleming spent 14 months at a hospital enduring painful burn treatments, reconstructive surgery, and brain injury rehabilitation. After leaving the military, he became an author & speaker because he wanted to help other people with the lessons he'd learned that helped him overcome his war injury. Over the past 16 years, he's spoken to over half-a-million people in live audiences globally (including the US military and several of the Fortune 500), has written 4 books, and has been featured on almost every major news network in America on the topic of resilience and how to stand firm when everything around you is blowing up!FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this empowering episode therapist and author Marcia Williams shares:Her story of how she ended up married to a narcissist,The definition of narcissistic personality disorder and two of the most common types of narcissists,How narcissists often target vulnerable people,Why it is so challenging to recognize you are in a narcissistic, abusive relationship,Her therapeutic journey,How to identify if you’re experiencing narcissistic abuse,Why and how personal healing is the number one priority,Why narcissistic abuse is a specialty area of therapy, andHow your voice is your power and why understanding that is so critical to healing.Website: www.hiddenflamesllc.comBook: Groomed: Life Married to a Narcissist & How I Overcame Narcissistic AbuseInstagram: @hidden_flames_llcLinktree: www.linktr.ee/hiddenflamesBio: Marcia Williams is a seasoned licensed therapist with over 21 years of experience, specializing in helping individuals recover from the traumatic effects of narcissistic abuse. With a master's degree in counseling and a professional license obtained in 2003, Marcia has dedicated her career to empowering both women and men to reclaim their lives from the grip of toxic relationships.As the CEO of Hidden Flames LLC, Marcia offers a comprehensive range of therapeutic services, including individual, couples, and group therapy, as well as coaching services. Her expertise extends to leading workshops and retreats designed to foster deep healing and personal growth. Drawing on her personal experience of a 30-year marriage to a narcissist and subsequent divorce, Marcia brings unparalleled empathy and insight into her work.In addition to her private practice, Marcia is the founder of the Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Program (NARP), a transformative initiative that has guided countless individuals toward healing. She is also the author of the book *Groomed: Life Married to a Narcissist and How I Overcame Narcissistic Abuse*, where she shares her personal journey and strategies for recovery. Her upcoming podcast, "Self-ish," set to launch by the end of the year, will provide a platform for discussions on self-care, healing, and resilience after a narcissistic relationship.A former manager of a mental health utilization management team for a major healthcare organization for over 17 years, Marcia blends clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those who have experienced narcissistic abuse. Currently residing in Maryland, Marcia is a proud parent of three sons, ages 23, 25, and 30, and the eldest of five sFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this insightful episode relationship mentor Emma DeSouza shares:Her early diagnosis with depression in high school that led to her bipolar diagnosis,Her experience with IVF and bipolar,The power in acknowledging challenges and having healthy, open communication with your partner,How proactive therapy has helped her accept responsibility for herself and improved her relationship,What led her to become certified in mindfulness meditation and yoga,How mindfulness can look different for each person and how to learn what works for you,How to understand the value of yoga and find what works for you,What led to her work as a relationship coach,How her personal work learning to manage her bipolar symptoms has helped her be more effective in helping others in their relationships, andHer number one tip for getting started improving relationships.Website: www.emmadesouza.caInstagram: @itsemmadesouzaTikTok: @itsemma.desouzaYouTube: @itsemmadesouzaBio: Emma is an IVF mom with bipolar and fibromyalgia, a business owner, and a dedicated relationship mentor with over 14 years of personal experience in a thriving relationship and over 4 years as an operations specialist to help women make their businesses & lives run smoother. She has a BSc. in Psychology and Biology, a nursing education, and training in modalities like meditation and yoga.Emma blends practical advice with holistic insights to guide women in balancing their roles as mothers and partners. Her unique approach empowers women to transform their relationships, support their families, and build passion-based businesses with operational ease.She is here to start meaningful conversations you can integrate into your everyday lives and share with those close to you. By helping you shift your perspectives, she aims to open up a world of possibilities that may have once felt closed off.Emma uses her history of navigating her mental and physical health journey alongside her education to share with others how mindset shifts can transform their long-term dreams.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this empowering episode Emotional Freedom Technique practitioner Dawn Norton shares:Her incredible story of trauma in childhood which motivated her to seek healing as an adult,What Emotional Freedom Technique is and how it works and impacts your mind and body,The impact of stress on our bodies and how EFT can help,How “stuck” emotions and trauma can cause physical pain and illness,That emotions are not good or bad, they are just information and EFT helps you process them through your body,How connected our thoughts are to our emotions,How EFT can truly create emotional freedom by putting you back in the driver’s seat of your mind and emotions,That emotions are interconnected and as you process one you also process others,What a tapping “script” is and how it helps,How EFT helps you regulate your emotions, Why it’s called “emotional freedom” technique, andHow to get started learning EFT.Website: www.eftcoach.comInstagram: @the.eftcoachFacebook: The EFT CoachYouTube: The EFT CoachBio: Dawn Norton is a wife, mom of seven, and Nanna of ten. For over 20 years, she was a stay-at-home mom, and spent more than 15 years as a realtor. Her passion has always been learning and improving herself, a journey that began with reading self-help books as a teenager.Dawn’s life has been marked by significant challenges, including her parents' divorce when she was young, growing up without a mom, and coping with her mother’s suicide when Dawn was 19.Dawn has also faced considerable health challenges such as mold exposure, candida, and chronic fatigue, all of which she has successfully overcome. The last few years she has been navigating the challenges of menopause and is finally seeing the light. She never gives up!Dawn is driven by a profound desire to help individuals overcome adversity and find inner peace. Leveraging her expertise in mindset principles, functional medicine health coaching, and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), she offers personalized coaching to remove barriers in mind, body, and spirit. Through compassionate guidance and accountability, she empowers her clients to embrace peace, confidence, and forgiveness, unlocking their true potential for holistic wellness and personal growth.With 20 years of experience with EFT and seven years of experience in health and mindset coaching, Dawn brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to her clients' well-being. She loves people, learning, and investing, and is dedicated to helping others achieve their hiFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this illuminating episode Professor Joanna Moncrieff shares:What led her to question and begin researching how psychotropic drugs actually work,The difference between the disease-centered model versus the drug-centered model of treatment and why this distinction matters,How the disease-centered model is preventing curiosity about what is actually causing the symptoms of mental illness and leading to worsening long-term outcomes,The conditions that led to the current condition of the psychiatric industry,How the beliefs that are promoted about psychiatric disorders creates a psychological dependence on psychotropic drugs, in addition to the chemical dependence,Why psychotropic drugs can become a barrier to processing trauma because they suppress emotions and emotional responses,The false comparison between insulin and psychiatric medications,How her books are intended to help inform practitioners and patients alike about how psychotropic drugs actually work, how they affect the brain and how to safely withdraw if that is what is best, andHow the medical and disease models of treatment create barriers to healing.Website: www.joannamoncrieff.comX (Twitter): @joannamoncrieffBio: Professor Joanna Moncrieff studied medicine at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, qualifying in 1989. She trained in psychiatry in London and the southeast during the 1990s. During her undergraduate years she did research on parents’ fears about substance misuse, and during the course of her psychiatric training she worked on a trial investigating the use of the drug naltrexone in people with alcohol problems. She also investigated the prevalence of previous sexual abuse among people attending alcohol treatment services.Professor Moncrieff took up her current post in 2001. For 10 years she was a consultant for a psychiatric rehabilitation inpatient unit, helping people with severe and long-lasting mental health problems. For the last three years she has been based in various community mental health services in Northeast London. She teaches and does research at University College London.Professor Moncrieff is one of the founding members and the co-chairperson of the Critical Psychiatry Network. The Critical Psychiatry Network consists of a group of psychiatrists from around the world who are skeptical of the idea that mental disorders are simply brain diseases and of the dominance of the pharmaceutical industry.She is a practicing psychiatrist and a part-time academic and author. She has an interest in the history, philosophy and politics of psychiatry, and particularly in the use, misuse and misrepresentation of psychiatric drugs.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this empowering episode author Anastasis Tzanis shares:His incredible story that led him to healing through breathwork,How breath practice can help you heal and improve your mental, emotional, and physical health,What a healthy breath pattern and CO2 levels are,What “box breathing” is and how to practice it,How you can learn how to use breath to calm down (be a better swimmer if you fall out of the boat), but even more important to increase your threshold and tolerance for stress (become a better sailor so you don’t fall out of the boat in the first place),Where to begin with breathwork,Why consistent practice is important and how you can practice even when you are doing other things,The importance of awareness of how you are breathing, andTips for getting started with breathwork.Website: www.atzanis.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/anastasis.tzanis/Podcast: Breathwork With AnastasisBio: Anastasis Tzanis (London, Uk) is a yoga teacher, nutritional therapist, and globally sought-after breath-work expert. He has helped countless individuals improve their mental, postural, and metabolic function through private consultations, over 150 workshops, and lectures across 8 countries. FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this insightful episode Jeanette Yate “The Self-Caregiver” shares:Her powerful personal story as a life-long caregiver (beginning at age 8) who was suffering because she didn’t know how to care for herself, to empowered self-caregiver and coach,The therapy modalities that helped her to identify, understand and heal her trauma,How learning how to listen to the signals your body is giving you that you need care and healthy boundaries,Ways to identify, develop and implement healthy boundaries,The importance of taking personal responsibility for your boundaries,How critical it is to wisely manage your emotional resources,The difference between codependency and love and why that difference matters,Where to start if you are trying to develop healthy boundaries, andA simple way to begin approaching and incorporating self-care into your daily life, andThe power and benefits in practicing mindfulness and mindful breathing practices.Website: www.theselfcaregiver.comFree resource: The Self-Care AssessmentMini-course: "Say No and Mean It" (workshop on boundaries)Instagram: @theselfcaregiver Bio: Jeanette Yates is a lifelong caregiver, certified life coach, and Modern Mindfulness and Meditation teacher. As a founder of The Self-Caregiver, she has dedicated her life to helping caregivers prioritize self-care and avoid burnout. Jeanette hosts the popular podcast "From Guilt to Good: Self-care solutions for busy caregivers," where she shares her expertise and interviews other experts in caregiving and self-care.Jeanette's signature program, The Empowered Self-Caregiver Cohort, has helped countless caregivers develop sustainable self-care practices tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Her approach combines self-awareness, self-advocacy, self-compassion, and self-care to help caregivers rediscover their worth and reclaim their time.Jeanette is a seasoned expert in caregiving and self-care. Her passion for empowering caregivers shines through in every conversation, and she has a knack for making complex concepts accessible and actionable. Jeanette's areas of expertise include:* Identifying and overcoming common barriers to self-care for caregivers* Developing sustainable self-care practices that fit into a busy caregiver's schedule* Building resilience and coping with the stress and emotional demands of caregiving* Balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal needs and goalsFREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discussed trauma and addiction.In this extraordinary episode holistic addiction recovery expert John Giordano shares:His extraordinary story of trauma and addiction that finally led to his work in addiction recovery,How he discovered and developed holistic treatment options for addiction recovery,What motivated him to do the work to recover from his addictions,The modified EMDR modality he uses to help people process trauma,The importance of treating the whole person and paying attention to how your body reacts during a trauma response in order to process the trauma and heal,How doing your own research empowers you on your healing journey, andThe importance of never giving up.Websites: www.johnjgiordano.com                        www.kidfromthesouthbronx.com Facebook: John GiordanoLinkedIn:John GiordanoBio:John Giordano has gone through an incredible life transformation, from the stigma of childhood sexual abuse, homelessness and severe addiction to being a renowned addiction expert with 39 years of sobriety. He started his own holistic treatment center with only $300 which he eventually sold for $45,000,000. Currently, he is a published author of three books, an inspirational speaker, co-owner of JC's Recovery Center and the Chaplain for the North Miami Police Department. He specializes in holistic mental health and trauma recovery. John has appeared on many national and local television and radio shows as a respected addiction expert. He has also contributed to over 80 scientific peer-reviewed research papers. ResearchGate ranks him as one of the top researchers in the world. FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this compelling episode Urban Farm founder Greg Peterson shares:His story of how he developed a passion for “urban farming” and why he feels compelled to share his knowledge,Why our current food supply system is so lacking in nutrition,How to simplify your approach to begin gardening so you can have success quickly,How he gradually transitioned his small yard in Phoenix, Arizona from basic yard to an “old growth food forest” including 80 different fruit trees (backyard orchard culture),Where someone can start to begin gardening, including free and paid online gardening classes,The benefits of hydroponic gardening,The emotional benefits of gardening,The mental benefits of eating nutrient dense foods,The value and importance of using a planting calendar for your area, andHis top three tips for getting started.Websites: www.urbanfarm.org Beginner course: Growing Food, the BasicsInstagram: @urbanfarmuFacebook: The Urban FarmX (Twitter): @TheUrbanFarmBio:“What if there was a garden and fruit tree in every yard?” This is a question thatGreg ponders every day. For over 32 years he created on of one of Phoenix’s firstenvironmental showcase homes for urban farming. The 1/4-acre yard featured aprimarily edible landscape with over 80 fruit trees, rainwater and greywaterharvesting, solar applications, and extensive use of reclaimed and recycled buildingmaterials.  What we now call an Old Growth Food Forest.He is the founder of UrbanFarm.org and the host of The Urban Farm Podcast thathas over 800 episodes. The podcast is designed to help fulfill Greg’s passion ofspreading the word about growing your own food and sharing new and seasonedgardeners epic stories.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this meaningful episode Certified IFS Therapist Justin Martin shares:His story that led him to become an Internal Family Systems (IFS therapist),What IFS therapy is,How identifying your “parts” helps you understand your mind and find healing,Why you may fear of having compassion for your different parts and why compassion is important to the healing journey,How the movie “Inside Out” helps give incredible insight into IFS,That you are not trying to “beat” the parts of yourself but learn how to listen and understand what is motivating the parts,The importance of finding a trauma informed therapist,The value of curiosity in finding the causes of mental, emotional and physical symptoms,How to find a certified IFS therapist and a good fit for you,That IFS can benefit anyone struggling with mental health symptoms even if there is no history of trauma, even for couples,How IFS empowers you to heal and does not tie you to your therapist, andHis tips for how to decide if IFS is a good fit for you.Websites: www.partsofmetherapy.com                         www.teesmymind.com Instagram: @partsofmetherapyBio:Justin Martin is a Certified IFS Therapist in Orlando, Florida. He practices from a model of Internal Family Systems and works with individuals and couples.Justin loves to write and create. This part expresses itself through poetry, short stories, speech, and spoken word. He also loves music and movies and thinks it can be so powerful in accessing his parts. He’s grown to love these parts of himself by going to therapy and continuing to be curious and compassionate as he experiences life. As a therapist, he tries to embody these qualities as he walks with his clients towards helping them find inner peace.He genuinely loves being a therapist and practitioner and is honored when clients allow him to be a part of their healing journey. Seeing their relationships transform with themselves and others is truly a beautiful thing to witness.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://myupsideofdown.com/emergency-response-plan/FREE Facebook Group for Moms with Bipolar: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bipolarmomslivingwellblog: https://myupsideofdown.com/instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myupsideofdown/facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myupsideofdown/FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this engaging episode Beth Sandlin, founder of Trifecta Pilates, shares:Her story that led her to become a pilates instructor and make pilates more accessible,What pilates is and how it can help with caring for physical and mental health,The importance of listening to your body and providing what it needs for nurturing physical and mental health,How pilates can help with regulating your nervous system,How to choose the best way to meet your body/mind’s needs with your exercise,The benefit of throwing away the scale and focusing on your health instead of weight,How finding joy in your physical activity helps motivate your fitness journey,The philosophy behind “Trifecta Pilates” and the development of her YouTube and online classes, The different options in her pilates workouts and how to get started, andHer number one tip for success in finding what works for you.Website: trifectapilates.comInstagram: @trifectapilatesFacebook: Trifecta PilatesYouTube: Trifecta PilatesBio:Beth Sandlin is on a mission to ignite a passion for wellness in people at every stage of life. Specializing in at-home Pilates workouts, Beth's approach transcends age, focusing on cultivating a mindful connection with your body. Her unique method encourages participants to tune into their energy levels and nurture their nervous system, making each movement an act of self-care and empowerment.Through her popular YouTube Channel and comprehensive online programs, Beth guides you through transformative Pilates sessions. She believes in the power of Aligned Action - a philosophy ensuring that your journey to health is both fulfilling and sustainable.Beth understands that wellness is more than a workout. She's an avid outdoor enthusiast who finds joy and rejuvenation in nature's embrace, integrating these experiences into her holistic approach to well-being.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!In this insightful episode MDR Clinician, Trainer and Author Megan Salar shares:Her story that led her to become a therapist,The transformative experience she had with EMDR that helped her see it’s value as a trauma modality,How EMDR is a client centered treatment modality,The EMDR workbook that she developed to empower people to take ownership of their trauma healing,That most therapist are not educated in treating trauma,Misconceptions about how trauma is stored in our mind and body and how it is often triggered,The difference between “talk therapy” versus trauma therapy,How to identify if your EMDR therapist is approaching treatment in an effective way and how to decide if EMDR is a good treatment modality for you,Why she’s writing “EMDR for Dummies” and it’s value in helping people understand the modality, andThat your story matters and healing takes time.Instagram: @thementalsurvivalistWebsite: thementalsurvivalist.comBooks: The EMDR Workbook for Trauma and PTSD                  EMDR for Dummies (coming in June 2024)LinkedIn: Megan SalarBio:Megan Salar, MSW, ACADC, is an EMDR Clinician, Trainer and Author who earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work from Northwest Nazarene University in 2011. She has been extensively been trained on the use of EMDR and other trauma based interventions and specializes in the areas of trauma, abuse, attachment and substance abuse. Megan has trained thousands of clinicians across the U.S. as well as internationally to get the most out of EMDR, trauma and addiction based skills and practices.         Megan previously owned/operated an intensive outpatient treatment center that was voted best in practice in 2019. She currently owns and operates her own Coaching, Consulting, and Training Business and is passionate about genuinely changing the landscape of mental health and trauma treatment through an authentic hands on perspective that is uniquely her own.         Megan is the author of the EMDR Workbook for Trauma and PTSD: Skills to Manage Triggers, Move Beyond Traumatic Memories; and Take Back Your Life released by New Harbinger Publications in May of 2023 and EMDR for Dummies  with Wiley Publishing set to release in June 2024.  FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/

Send us a message!NOTE: There were some technical issues with the recording in this episode, we apologize for the sound quality.In this empowering episode mindset coach Jon Katz shares:His story journeying from wanting to end his life, to finding purpose, healing and value,What motivated him to choose life over death,The benefit of choosing positive actions to change your mindset,How keeping promises to himself helped him change his life,How critical it is to get off the fence and make a choice about the life you want to live,The importance of removing the negative coping mechanisms from your life,How changing his food choices improved his mental and physical health, andHis approach to personalizing his training to support the goals of his clients.Instagram: @nycfoodwaysBio:Jon Katz is an online mindset coach. He specializes in helping people around the world recover from anxiety, depression and trauma by implementing a simple program of intentional nutrition and physical fitness.FREE Mood Cycle Survival Guide: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/free/ The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder: @upsideofbipolar | Linktreewebsite: https://theupsideofbipolar.com/email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/theupsideofbipolar/TikTok: theupsideofbipolar (@theupsideofbipolar) | TikTokFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theupsideofbipolar/