Mike McDonnell joins me from Essex, UK, to share his inspiring journey navigating entrepreneurship and bipolar. Mike talks about his first experience with psychosis in 2019, the challenges he faced, and the changes he implemented to prioritize his mental health.

He opens up about the impacts of focusing on sleep, reducing alcohol and cannabis use, and building a supportive routine. He also discusses his entrepreneurial path, transitioning from corporate life to successful ventures in web design, personal training, and digital marketing.

This episode dives into the strategies Mike employed to lead a fulfilling life, and illustrates the powerful shift in perspective that transformed his experience with bipolar disorder into a source of strength and creativity.

Connect with Mike here! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:16 Mike's Background and Initial Connection 02:03 Mike's First Experience with Bipolar Disorder 05:49 Hospitalization and Recovery Journey 09:04 Lifestyle Changes and Sobriety 22:07 Entrepreneurship and Career Evolution 30:18 Living Well with Bipolar 33:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this week's episode of 'Live Well, Bipolar,' the host welcomes back Birdie, a mental health advocate, published author, and speaker with NAMI.

Birdie, who lives with bipolar II disorder, shares her why behind publishing her book, I Am Her She Is Me. The conversation covers the inception of her book during a period of journaling to process grief, hesitations to publish following the passing of her dad and her unique five-phase system for understanding bipolar disorder.

Birdie discusses the significance of support systems in managing bipolar and pays tribute to her supportive father and husband. The episode emphasizes the importance of lived experiences and community support in navigating mental health challenges. Birdie’s book is highlighted as a resource for those living with bipolar or supporting someone who does.

Connect with Birdie, her book and work here!

Birdie's first time on the pod! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:03 Meet Birdie: Mental Health Advocate 01:40 Birdie's Journey to Writing Her Book 05:23 The Five Phases of Bipolar Disorder 10:45 The Importance of Support Systems 12:07 Birdie's Personal Story and Loss 22:39 Success and Living with Bipolar 27:33 Where to Find Birdie's Book and Final Thoughts

In this solo episode, the host delves into their personal experience with depression and bipolar disorder. They discuss the variability of depression among individuals with bipolar disorder and share insights from their own life, including the onset of symptoms at age 14, a misdiagnosis of depression, and the challenges of managing mental health as an adult.

The host emphasizes the importance of support networks, self-awareness, and coping strategies such as journaling and therapy. They also detail the impact of physical illness on mental health and the significance of setting boundaries, particularly with social media.

The episode aims to provide hope, understanding, and a sense of community to those living with bipolar disorder.

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• Join my newsletter to share your thoughts on this episode in the comments 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 00:47 Personal Journey with Bipolar Disorder 01:33 Early Experiences with Depression 03:14 Understanding Bipolar Disorder 04:36 Recent Struggles and Coping Mechanisms 09:38 The Importance of Self-Care 18:00 Therapy and Emotional Well-being 20:43 Engaging with the Community 25:51 Conclusion and Call to Action