Taking a Break: Exciting Changes and Upcoming Adventures In this heartfelt episode, Paris announces a rare break from the podcast due to an overseas trip, a keynote speaking engagement in Virginia and more explained here.

Starting on August 26th, she will be away until September 30th, when she will return with a solo episode. The podcast's format will shift, featuring more solo episodes alongside one guest interview per month split into two parts.

Paris shares her gratitude for the community and discusses upcoming episode topics like social anxiety, bipolar rage, and accepting the diagnosis.

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Please share your feedback on what you think of these changes by sending topic ideas to livewellbipolar@gmail.com or messaging directly here! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:12 Announcing a Break 01:51 Upcoming Travel Plans 04:14 Podcast Updates and Future Plans 05:38 Listener Questions and Future Episodes 10:47 Ways to Support the Podcast 17:08 Reflecting on the Journey 21:46 Conclusion and Farewell

Kate Simonet's Inspiring Journey as a Speaker and Author In this episode of 'Live Well, Bipolar,' the host reunites with Kate Simonet, a returning guest and a personal inspiration. Kate is an author, mental health advocate, and public speaker who shares her journey navigating life with bipolar to help others.

They discuss her experiences starting her public speaking career, the fears she overcame, and the impact of publishing her book, 'Out of the Darkness.'

Kate highlights the importance of a supportive environment, both personally and professionally, as she transitioned from corporate America to working at a mental health nonprofit.

The conversation delves into how sharing vulnerable stories can help others and the significance of not letting mental illness define one's identity. Kate also provides practical insights for aspiring speakers and underscores the value of allowing oneself to have imperfect days.

Stay connected with Kate here!

Grab Kate's book here! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction 00:43 Kate's Journey to Public Speaking 01:39 First Speaking Experience and Audience Reactions 08:06 Balancing Career and Mental Health Advocacy 14:55 Impact of Speaking Engagements and Audience Feedback 28:09 Living Well with Bipolar: Personal Insights 32:09 Conclusion and Staying Connected

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

A Bipolar Warrior's Journey: Major General Gregg F. Martin's Story In this episode, the host is joined by Major General Gregg F. Martin, a retired U.S. Army two-star general with an extensive military career and a passionate mental health advocate.

Gregg discusses his lifetime battle with bipolar disorder, sharing his journey from leading thousands of troops to the depths of depression. He talks about his diagnosis, his family's experiences, and his efforts to battle the stigma surrounding mental illness by sharing his story through speaking engagements, writing, and his book 'Bipolar General, My Forever War with Mental Illness.'

Resources like NAMI, Grit, BiAffect and the forthcoming documentary 'Brainstorm' are highlighted for further support and education on mental health.

Stay connected with Gregg here! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:44 Meeting at NAMI Con and Initial Impressions 02:48 Greg's Early Encounters with Mental Illness 07:28 Family Struggles with Bipolar Disorder 10:29 The Five P's for Mental Health 15:09 Greg's Bipolar Journey and Military Career 28:21 Diagnosis and Advocacy 37:39 Overcoming Stigma and Resources 42:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Overcoming Stigma: Kateri's Journey With Bipolar Disorder Paris talks with Kateri, the Vice President of NAMI Western Massachusetts, about her journey living with bipolar.

They discuss Kateri's initial diagnosis at 18, struggles with self-stigma, and the crucial role of family support. Kateri shares her personal experiences, including her battle with substance abuse, abusive relationships, and her transformative path toward advocacy and mental health awareness.

She highlights effective coping mechanisms such as meditation, prayer, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Kateri also emphasizes the importance of community involvement, such as her role in NAMI and her yoga business, which supports others facing similar challenges.

This episode provides a heartfelt look into the resilience and dedication required to live well with bipolar disorder.

Connect with Kateri here! 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Episode 00:19 Meeting Kateri at NAMI Con 02:03 Kateri's Early Experiences with Bipolar Disorder 03:53 Struggles with Self-Stigma and Denial 08:15 Journey to Advocacy and Sharing Her Story 23:34 Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems 28:18 Living Well with Bipolar Disorder 30:15 Closing Remarks and Staying Connected

John F. O'Donnell: Comedy, Bipolar Disorder, and Resilience In this episode of Live Well, Bipolar, Paris is joined by John F. O'Donnell, a national headlining comedian and mental health advocate, who shares his journey of living with bipolar disorder while thriving in his comedy career.

John discusses his early diagnosis, the challenges of managing his condition, and how integrating his experiences into his comedy has helped both himself and others.

The conversation dives into the importance of sleep, medication compliance, and having a support system, as John offers insights and advice for others dealing with similar struggles.

Stay connected with John here! 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:24 John F. O'Donnell's Background and Bipolar Journey 01:59 Comedy as a Creative Outlet for Bipolar Disorder 05:58 The Impact of Bipolar Disorder on John's Life and Career 11:34 Recovery and Finding the Right Treatment 20:01 The Importance of Sleep and Routine 22:38 Community and Purpose Through Comedy and Advocacy 30:49 Final Thoughts and How to Connect with John