Waking Up Bipolar with Chris Cole | Bipolar disorder, spiritual awakening, and everything in between.

Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris's experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.Alright everybody. If you enjoyed this conversation and want to contribute your OWN thoughts, experiences, and resources, check out our Waking Up Bipolar Facebook group. You can also head to wakingupbipolar.com to join the email list. This has been another episode of the Waking Up Bipolar podcast. For more episodes, visit wakingupbipolar.com. You can also subscribe on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, or Spotify and if you feel so inclined, please rate the podcast or leave a review so other folks may have an easier time finding this. If you want to learn more about me and how I came to care about the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening, you can check out my book, The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, or visit colecoaching.com for life coaching, blog posts, videos, emails, social media, and of course, more episodes. Be well until next time. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a small talk on intersectional anti-oppression related to the phenomena of “loose associations,” creativity, and spirituality.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris's experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple PodcastsGoogle PlayStitcherTuneInSpotifywakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a small talk on checks and balances, technology, and the somatic wisdom of shared power and responsibility.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris's experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares some personal liturgy which lends itself to the articulation of religion and spirituality. By using art to access Source, Chris invites us all to consider how we are making art with this precious life we inhabit.To read the Sadhana of God, visit this link: https://colecoaching.com/blog/sadhana-of-godJOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris's experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a spirited conversation with a man named Jason Witte. Though he comes from an undisclosed location, I applaud his devotion to his recovery. Sometimes in life, we face complicated dilemmas. Do we whole-heartedly and blindly believe everything about everything, or do we make choices in the ever-growing movement toward a more-perfect union. I found this conversation to be like cool water and boiling water at the same time. You be the judge.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a small talk on gratitude. He speaks from the heart to pray and inspire the sacred ritual of giving thanks.Giving thanks. Expressing Gratitude. These are the most ancient, pure forms of spirituality. When I was a kid, whenever we would play a pickup game, my best friend Brandon would call me the “black hole,” because I would forget to pass the rock in favor of brick after brick. So let me offer my most sincere appreciation for my Teachers, who are many, and yet there are all-stars. Let’s do it chronologically…First and foremost, I want to thank my parents, who taught me that Love was something unconditional and immeasurable. Infinite in fact. They taught me the math equation: Love equals Infinity. They taught me spiritual laws, which transcended particularities of denomination. One time I asked my father, do you love God or your Family more? He said something like, “Family is a Gift from God.”Second, I want to thank my friends. I grew up in public schools, where lunch tables were all the rage. Who you sat with, and why you sat with them, was a whole universe of complexity. My Black peers let me sit at their table, when I felt like such an outcast. They taught me about how to do the tootsie roll and what the best R&B stations were. I was introduced to Boys II Men, and I began learning what it meant to grow up. When I transitioned to private school, I experienced a lot of bullying. It made me sad, but it made me strong. I have complicated feelings about this time. I learned theology and philosophy. I learned languages. I’ll always appreciate learning. And I vow to always be learning.Third, I want to thank my confirmation process. I became Catholic and took on the Patron Saint Christopher, which happens to also be my namesake. Bearer of Christ. There’s the story of Christopher, who carried the young Jesus across the river. He was a giant. He felt that he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. He became the saint of travel and safe passage. When I feel lost, I still call on Christopher. I will always call on him.Fourth, I want to thank mental health recovery communities. I was a profound addict. Sometimes, I still am quite addicted to my own juice. Addiction is a mighty thing that conquers many people. I had to learn what it meant to let go of resentment as a practice in addition to a prayer. I had to learn forgiveness as a discipline more than an aspiration. I was humbled to continuously return to the earth. I remain humbled by the earth.Fifth, I need to thank Dharma Teachers. Dharma essentially means “Truth.” What I learned in Dharma circles is that God and Dharma are not in conflict. I learned that very little is truly in conflict. I learned to deepen my appreciation for non-violence. I learned to deepen my appreciation for individual and collective liberation. Many of my misunderstandings of Christ were resolved in the scientific inquiry of mind. I could see how Judaism and Christianity were not in conflict. I could see how every faith tradition had Love woven throughout. Specifically, though there are many teachers with whom I’ve crossed paths, I want to thank the following Buddhist teachers by name: Kyodoshi, Lama Rod Owens, Acharya Dale Asrael, Reggie Ray and Caroline Pfohl, Frank Berliner, and Bill Scheffel. I have loved every lineage I have come into contact with, but these teacher specifically have saved my life and led me out of confusion.Sixth, and this is where time bends a little. I need to thank my children, who are my greatest teachers. My first son was born on Leap Day 2012. I was caught up in the Mayan Calendar, and I honestly thought that while the world wasn’t ending, my world was. Becoming a father utterly and completely changed my life. I began to envision a world where they could thrive, not in competition, but in unity. I began to recall my own childhood and how things could be different for them. I imagined one big lunch room, where everyone had a seat at the table. I imagined clean water. I imagined gentle breezes. I imagined a joyous earth. I imagined campfires. I imagined intergalactic alliances. I continue to imagine.Seventh, I need to thank the profession of chiropractic. I nearly became a chiropractor. I was chopping up cadavers and labeling nerves. I was learning biochemistry and how to operate a microscope. Life University taught me about Innate Intelligence — that the power that made the body heals the body. That interference—be it emotional, physical, or chemical—is the root of all pathology. I could see how my own physical trauma, emotional pain, and chemical injections led me down a path of illness. I continue to live with this illness today.Eighth, I have to take the time to appreciate my previous marriage and the struggle through divorce. Due to my upbringing, I had a really hard time accepting divorce. I took my vows so seriously, that I would have died over them. That’s how seriously I take vows. To the death. But it wasn’t working, and so we had to find a way to take new vows. I had to create my own vows to save my life. That’s how vows work sometimes. New vows for new life.Ninth, I have to thank Democracy. I was born into an ever-growing approach toward a more-perfect union. But my appreciation for this movement has been wavy over time. I would think, maybe there’s a better way. Then I would think, there’s definitely not a better way. Then I would come to acceptance of things that I could and could not change: That Democracy is a principle, and She is only as effective as her Practice.Tenth and lastly for now, I have to thank my consort Grace, my Melody of Golden Light. She pushes me to be a stronger man. She pushes me to be a more complete human. She makes me bend when I want to straighten. She makes me yield when I want to go. She presses start when I’m holding pause. She is the wind beneath my wings. She holds anti-oppression like a soft blanket, and she forces my hardened mind to flow like a mighty river stream. When I am with her, I know God. When we are together, nothing is impossible.Well my Loves, that’s the end of my little tribute. Honorable mentions go out to my undying Love for all Artists throughout Space and Time. Art is the language of the soul. The muses speak to me, and I obey. I pray for artists to be free. I pray for them to be wild. I pray for them to be steady. I pray for them to teach our children and to know unqualified liberation.All of my teachers are my family. That’s how Love works.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a small talk on patriotism and the pride of America. He utilizes an anti-oppression take to illuminate the heart of true patriotism.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

Marc Azoulay is a psychotherapist in private practice in Boulder, CO and the past President of the Four Corners Group Psychotherapy Society. He helps clients that have a harmful relationship to their inherent aggression or who are stuck in the pain of their repetition compulsions. Many of his clients struggle with addiction, anxiety, and self-sabotage. Marc helps people uncover and destroy the unconscious barriers that cripple them by using a blend of Modern Psychoanalytic and Contemplative Psychotherapy. His therapeutic style can best be described as irreverent with surprising moments of profound depth. Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.In the podcast notes, please find the link to Marc Azoulay’s links, where you can find more information about collaboration and digestion. Alright everybody. If you enjoyed this conversation and want to contribute your OWN thoughts, experiences, and resources, check out our Waking Up Bipolar Facebook group. You can also head to wakingupbipolar.com to join the email list. This has been another episode of the Waking Up Bipolar podcast. For more episodes, visit wakingupbipolar.com. You can also subscribe on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or TuneIn, and if you feel so inclined, please rate the podcast or leave a review so other folks may have an easier time finding this. If you want to learn more about me and how I came to care about the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening, you can check out my book, The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, or visit colecoaching.com for life coaching, blog posts, videos, emails, social media, and of course, more episodes. Be well until next time. Marc Azoulay’s Links:Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MarcAzoulaySpeaksVisit my webiste: marc-azoulay.comFollow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcmazoulayConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcmazoulay/Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcmazoulayFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marc.azoulay/The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a small talk on laws and superheroes. He utilizes the comic book motif to illuminate the Path.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a small talk on gender and spirituality. He utilizes the blueprint of Jesus Christ to illuminate the Path.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. Or for Colorado, visit mindthecenter.org.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

Dave Cowen has written humor for The New Yorker and McSweeney’s. He’s self-published six books, including two that were featured in The New York Times. He also writes a daily Substack called Shuffle Synchronicities about music and memoir. He’s a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. He grew up in snowy, cloudy Rochester, New York but now calls sunny, warm Los Angeles, California home. He identifies as neurodiverse.Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.In the podcast notes, please find the link to Dave Cowen’s links, https://linktr.ee/davecowen where you can find more information about collaboration and digestion. Alright everybody. If you enjoyed this conversation and want to contribute your OWN thoughts, experiences, and resources, check out our Waking Up Bipolar Facebook group. You can also head to wakingupbipolar.com to join the email list. This has been another episode of the Waking Up Bipolar podcast. For more episodes, visit wakingupbipolar.com. You can also subscribe on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or TuneIn, and if you feel so inclined, please rate the podcast or leave a review so other folks may have an easier time finding this. If you want to learn more about me and how I came to care about the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening, you can check out my book, The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, or visit colecoaching.com for life coaching, blog posts, videos, emails, social media, and of course, more episodes. Be well until next time. Links: https://linktr.ee/davecowenThe Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

Dr. Bober attended medical school at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his Adult/Child/Adolescent Psychiatry training at the Yale University School of Medicine and a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine. Dr. Bober served as a mental health policy fellow in the U.S. Senate through the American Psychiatric Association and the Yale University School of Medicine. While working in Congress, he championed the cause of veterans and active duty service members with mental illness. He currently holds a faculty appointment as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the Yale University School of Medicine while overseeing his private practice. He is currently the Chief of the Department of Psychiatry for Memorial Regional Healthcare System.Dr. Bober is Board Certified in General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Forensic Psychiatry, by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Additionally, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Addiction Medicine, Dr. Bober is a certified Addiction Medicine physician. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and American Society of Addiction Medicine. Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.In the podcast notes, please find the link to the Dr. Daniel Bober’s website, drbober.com, where you can find more information to work with him. Alright everybody. If you enjoyed this conversation and want to contribute your OWN thoughts, experiences, and resources, check out our Waking Up Bipolar Facebook group. You can also head to wakingupbipolar.com to join the email list. This has been another episode of the Waking Up Bipolar podcast. For more episodes, visit wakingupbipolar.com. You can also subscribe on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or TuneIn, and if you feel so inclined, please rate the podcast or leave a review so other folks may have an easier time finding this. If you want to learn more about me and how I came to care about the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening, you can check out my book, The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, or visit colecoaching.com for life coaching, blog posts, videos, emails, social media, and of course, more episodes. Be well until next time. Links: http://drbober.comThe Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

For years, I've been asked about group offerings as a way to mitigate costs for coaching, and to benefit from multiple perspectives at once. Because I offer a peer-expert model of coaching, each of us are in the wisdom seat of our own journey. When we work in groups, there can be exponential growth as we support each other and learn from one another. After years of speaking and workshop offerings, I'm really excited to start this online group coaching format. We're going to have a lot to cover, and I know each participant will offer a unique views that will root and connect all of us. Thus the metaphor of aspen trees.The Aspen Grove is a new offering of group coaching, designed to give folks a way to get involved who do not have means or access to individual coaching, or want to supplement individual coaching with group work. This work has come out of much consideration, first contemplated via what a few of us called the Mad Spiritual Collective. Each group is donations-based with a suggested donation of 20 USD. If you or a loved one is interested, please fill out the form offered to get involved...https://colecoaching.com/aspengrove

Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.In the podcast notes, please find the link to the Sean Blackwells’s website, bipolarawakenings.com, where you can find links to schedule, get involved, and support Sean’s retreat work. Alright everybody. If you enjoyed this conversation and want to contribute your OWN thoughts, experiences, and resources, check out our Waking Up Bipolar Facebook group. You can also head to wakingupbipolar.com to join the email list. This has been another episode of the Waking Up Bipolar podcast. For more episodes, visit wakingupbipolar.com. You can also subscribe on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or TuneIn, and if you feel so inclined, please rate the podcast or leave a review so other folks may have an easier time finding this. If you want to learn more about me and how I came to care about the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening, you can check out my book, The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, or visit colecoaching.com for life coaching, blog posts, videos, emails, social media, and of course, more episodes. Be well until next time. Links: http://bipolarawakenings.com The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a recovery talk for the Center for Spiritual Living Boulder Valley, a spiritual center of worship based on the teachings of Dr. Ernest Holmes.The purpose of the Center of Spiritual Living Boulder Valley is to celebrate divinity, embrace humanity, and create community. Their mission is to provide tools and support to awaken the community to its spiritual magnificence. And the vision is to inspire and uplift every one of us to transform the world.The New Thought tradition dates to the 1880s and has its roots in the Transcendentalist Movement of the 1830s. New Thought has a long and respected history, and includes luminaries such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Walt Whitman, Phineas Quimby, and Emma Curtis Hopkins. Some of the better-known authors today whose writings parallel such thought are Wayne Dyer, Deepak Chopra and Eckhart Tolle, as well as many others.These teachings incorporate the ancient wisdom of all the spiritual traditions through the ages. People of all spiritual paths – Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Islam, New Age and others – are all welcome in their communities.As you’ll hear in this talk, mental health crisis, and depression specifically, provide fertile ground for self-examination and the sort of spiritual inquiry that may deepen our faith and connection with the divine. I am so grateful to the community for inviting me to speak, and I hope you get something out of a dialogue about the transformative potential of times of deep despair.Visit the Center for Spiritual Living Boulder Valley’s website: https://cslbouldervalley.org/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a recovery talk for for the Interfaith Network on Mental Illness, a non-profit in Boulder, Colorado that helps our many spiritual and religious communities have greater access and resources for mental health.INMI, the Interfaith Network on Mental Illness, maintains the mission to increase awareness and understanding of mental illness among clergy, staff, lay leaders and members of faith communities and help them more effectively develop and nurture supportive environments for persons dealing with mental illnesses and their families and friends.INMI envisions a future in which people freely seek the mental health services they need without fear of embarrassment or stigma. Faith communities are leading a cultural shift that permeates our society with compassion for people with mental illnesses and their families.As you’ll hear in this talk, psychosis offers an opportunity for all of us to open our hearts more fully, to feel more deeply, and to know a love big enough for recovery and care. My hope is that more communities throughout the United States of America consider the opportunity for reconciliation of spiritual, humanistic, and trauma-informed mental health reform.Visit INMI’s website: http://inmi.us/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole shares a recovery talk for Natural Highs, a non-profit in Boulder, Colorado that helps young people connect to sober living and each other.Natural Highs is an interactive strengths-based substance abuse prevention/intervention peer mentor program that is co-created by teens to empower teens and their communities around healthy lifestyle choices and creating a positive peer culture.Our MISSION is to empower teens and adults to become INSPIRED LEADERS around HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES and to work for POSITIVE CHANGE in their communities.​Natural Highs provides healthy alternatives to drugs and alcohol through offering workshops, drop-in classes, groups, presentations, sober events, and entrepreneurial and leadership opportunities for teens. The goal of the program is for teens to learn about the effects of substance use, discover healthy alternatives, support each other with healthy choices, and take on leadership roles to positively impact teens and adults in their communities.The larger vision for this program is to create a positive peer culture around healthy lifestyle choices for teens and adults. We serve over 2000 teens per year in the Boulder, CO area. The intended outcome for these participants is to increase the number of teens who make healthier choices around drugs and alcohol. Our goal is to empower teens to step up as leaders in creating a positive peer culture in their communities.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Natural Highs offers a chance for deeper connection as a way to avoid the pitfalls of the sort of isolation and anxiety that marks drug use and pervasive ambivalence. I feel strongly that our young people are the future of our country, and I couldn’t be more proud to serve the local youth toward holistic health and wholeness.Visit Natural High's website: http://naturalhighs.orgJOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Dan Griffin—addictions expert, public speaker, and host of the Man Rules podcast.Dan has dedicated his life and work to exploring and redefining what it means to be a man in the 21st century. He is committed to helping men be better men, by understanding the impact of the Man Rules on their lives. Dan also helps men find the success in their personal lives they are striving for in their professional ones. Griffin’s book, A Man’s Way through Relationships, is the first book written specifically to help men create healthy relationships while navigating the challenges of the “Man Rules™” — ideas men internalize at very young ages about how to be real boys and men.Griffin’s professional background includes over two decades in the mental health and addictions field. In addition, he is the author of A Man’s Way through the Twelve Steps, the first trauma-informed book to take a holistic look at men’s sobriety. He co-authored Helping Men Recover, the first comprehensive gender-responsive and trauma-informed curriculum for addiction and mental health professionals. Dan served as a senior fellow at The Meadows, world-renowned experts treating addictive disorders and trauma, from 2015 to 2017. Dan earned a Master’s degree in Sociology from the University of Kansas. For his graduate work, Dan completed the first qualitative study centered on the social construction of masculinity in the culture of Alcoholics Anonymous.Dan grew up in the DC area and lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Nancy, and his daughter, Grace. He has been in long-term recovery from addiction since he graduated college in May of 1994.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Dan Griffin embodies authentic masculinity in his daring articulations of mens’ trauma. Due to my own location in nonbinary gender advocacy, I find men like Dan refreshing and warm as we all try to come to terms with our own gender and healing.Visit Dan Griffin's website: http://dangriffin.comJOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Sara Gael—transpersonal psychotherapist and Director of Harm Reduction for MAPS, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies.Sara began working with MAPS in 2012, coordinating psychedelic harm reduction services at festivals and events worldwide with the Zendo Project. Sara is a Sub-Investigator for the MAPS Phase 2 clinical trial of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD in Boulder, CO. She received her Master’s degree in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology at Naropa University and maintains a private practice as a psychotherapist specializing in trauma and non-ordinary states of consciousness. Sara believes that developing a comprehensive understanding of psychedelic medicines through research and education is essential for the health and well-being of individuals, communities, and the planet.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Sara Gael holds a holistic, transpersonal view of non-ordinary states that lends itself to transformation of body, mind, and soul. Over time, I’ve taken a special interest in psychedelic research because of the parallels to my own experiences of psychosis and spiritual emergence. Please enjoy this rich dialogue around intersections of non-ordinary states and healing.Visit Sara Gael's website: http://www.re-membering.com/Learn more about Zendo Project: https://www.zendoproject.org/Learn more about MAPS: https://maps.org/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Amber Wood—licensed clinician specializing in functional and evolutionary medicine.Amber Wood is passionate about medicine that is natural, evidence-based, and effective. Her primary goal is to help restore vitality. Amber brings a wealth of knowledge as a clinician to both her personal life and her clients. When she became a mother, Amber decided it was much like being an extreme, endurance athlete. She learned the critical role of managing stress, eating well and resting enough, discovering that overdoing it combined with the wrong diet can equal serious health consequences.Prior to studying medicine, Amber trained as dancer and traveled extensively. This led to problems with her joints, hormones, and energy at a young age. Like many people, she suffered from gut issues that didn't make sense and often affected her in strange ways. She discovered how much she needed a healthy immune system in order to handle stress.Today, Amber works with people who are fed up with being in pain, having low energy, and not sleeping well. If you want to trust your body, feel at home in your skin, and live a full, vital life, then Amber Wood is your person. She instructs folks along the lines of true medicine, noting that the best medicine catches and prevents disease before it is full blown.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Amber Wood utilizes a rich meditation practice to inform a humane and empowering orientation to holistic health and healing. We met on a recent meditation retreat, and I just loved what she had to say about holistic healing practices and especially the role of hormones in mental health. I hope you enjoy!Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3c4l8AO1MuwWatch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wakingupbipolar/videos/718224531849307/Visit Amber Wood's website: https://amberwoodhealth.ca/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Tada Hozumi—body-centered therapist, coach, and group facilitator. Tada (them/they) is a genderqueer person of color of Japanese descent. They are certified as an expressive arts therapist and have also received teachings in dance movement therapy, qigong, somatic sex education, and authentic facilitation. Their work is also deeply informed by their devoted training in "popping," an umbrella term for mechanical street dances that emerged from the West coast of Turtle Island during the early 1970s.Their work is based on a model they refer to as the ‘the cultural nervous system’. The basic understanding of the cultural nervous system model is that cultures have bodies, along with nervous systems that emerge from the relationships between all of the individual nervous systems within them. Oppressions, from white supremacy to heterosexism, are an expression of trauma in this ‘cultural nervous system’. As a politicized somatic therapist, they understand their work as holding space for the cultural soma to heal from trauma.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Tada Hozumi opens by offering a short meditation to connect with land and body before we get into a rich conversation on the intersection of whiteness, embodiment, and the cultivation of mental health.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/avFfa1UJfy4Watch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wakingupbipolar/videos/507495576381383/Read Tada's article on "The connection between Heart-centredness, burnout and colonization": https://selfishactivist.com/the-connection-between-heart-centredness-empathy-burnout-and-colonization/Visit Tada Hozumi's website: https://selfishactivist.com/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Kelly Brogan, MD—holistic women’s health psychiatrist, author of the NY Times Bestselling book, A Mind of Your Own, and co-editor of the landmark textbook, Integrative Therapies for Depression.Dr. Kelly Brogan completed her psychiatric training and fellowship at NYU Medical Center after graduating from Cornell University Medical College, and has a B.S. from M.I.T. in Systems Neuroscience. She is board certified in psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, and integrative holistic medicine, and is specialized in a root-cause resolution approach to psychiatric syndromes and symptoms.She is on the board of GreenMedInfo, Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation, Functional Medicine University, Pathways to Family Wellness, Mindd Foundation, SXSW Wellness, Chickasaw Nation Wellness, and the peer-reviewed, indexed journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. She is Medical Director for Fearless Parent and a founding member of Health Freedom Action, as well as a certified KRI Kundalini Yoga teacher and a mother of two.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Dr. Kelly Brogan walks her talk, and provides us with a glimpse into her own process that has allowed her to show up courageously as an activist and leader in alternative mental health. We start by talking about Dr. Kelly’s recent move to Miami from New York, where she was getting some nice tropical rain, and get into the intimate terrain of spiritual transformation. I’m blessed to be able to capture some of the wisdom behind Dr. Kelly Brogan’s life and great work in the world. I hope you enjoy the interview as much as I did. Thanks for joining us.Dr. Kelly Brogan's website: https://kellybroganmd.com/Read the first chapter of A Mind of Our Own: https://kellybroganmd.com/amindofyourown/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Dr. Michael Guy Thompson—clinical psychologist, educator, and student of the late R.D. Laing. Dr. Thompson moved to London in 1973 to work with R.D. Laing, where he also trained as a psychoanalyst. In 1980 he returned to San Francisco where he founded Free Association, a psychoanalytic salon devoted to integrating phenomenology and psychoanalysis.He subsequently joined the Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California in San Francisco where he is currently a Personal and Supervising Analyst and Faculty member. Dr. Thompson has been active in the psychoanalytic community since returning to California in 1980 and has presented his ideas at numerous professional conferences over the past three decades. He is a past President of the International Federation for Psychoanalytic Education (IFPE), and subsequently the Northern California Society for Psychoanalytic Psychology (NCSPP).Dr. Thompson also serves on the editorial boards of many professional journals, including Psychoanalytic Psychology, the Journal of Phenomenological Psychology, the Journal of European Psychoanalysis, and The Journal of the Society for Existential Analysis. He is the author of more than 100 journal articles, book chapters, and book reviews on phenomenology, psychoanalysis and schizophrenia, as well as five books. He is a popular speaker and has lectured extensively throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, Spain, and Australia over the past thirty years. Dr. Thompson is a member of varied psychoanalytic organizations, including the International Psychoanalytic Association, the College of Psychoanalysts (UK), and the Philadelphia Association, London. He practices psychoanalysis in San Francisco and lives in Marin County, California.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Dr. Thompson honors the vision of R.D. Laing in his activism and psychotherapy practice, as well as the Gnosis Retreat Center in San Francisco, California. If you have not read The Politics of Experience by Ronald David Laing, press pause and go buy this seminal book on the intersection of madness and society. The work of R.D. Laing is best summarized for me by the quote, “We are effectively destroying ourselves by violence masquerading as love.”Dr. Thompson carries on the simultaneously radical and pragmatic approach of Dr. Laing in humble, accessible servitude. It’s my great honor to present to you now, Dr. Michael Guy Thompson. Thanks for joining us.Dr. Michael Guy Thompson's website: http://www.michaelguythompson.com/The Gnosis Retreat Center website: http://www.gnosisretreatcenter.org/R.D. Laing Symposium website: http://www.rdlaingsymposium.com/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

The name Ian means "Gift from God." Bill-Ian was a Drala Master of the Crazy Wisdom Lineage, as well as a Sufi Mystic, Celtic Buddhist, Bipolar Human Being, and Best Friend. Please visit westernmountain.org, verticaltimeyoga.com, and transcendingmadness.com to receive blessings from the great work of Lord (Bill) Ian Vincent Scheffel. RIP 7/8/2018.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole reads from a recent article, "Reappropriating Bipolar Beyond Pathology," published on Mad in America's webzine, madinamerica.com. You can read the article here:https://www.madinamerica.com/2018/06/reappropriating-bipolar-beyond-pathology/The primary reason I chose to publish this piece on Mad in America, versus other sites, is that Mad in America has a sharp, critical, and intellectual readership, informed by both science and experience. I am honored and grateful to the mission of Mad in America and their dedication to the goal of “remaking psychiatry.”JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Kiana Fitzgerald—music journalist, editor, editorial producer, and DJ. She's currently a staff writer for Complex, an award-winning, multimedia website that focuses on hip-hop music, culture, style, sports and sneakers. She attended Texas State University, where she received a bachelor's in journalism and a master's in new media. Before landing at Complex, she worked for NPR, and a small creative studio that focused on empowering musicians through storytelling. She was diagnosed as bipolar I in 2016 after a manic episode, and has since been searching for answers about the spiritual elements that have revealed themselves through the disorder. You can find her most recent writing at www.complex.com/author/kiana.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Kiana is a rising star in journalism, speaking from her own experiences with a powerful message of love and visibility. She helps break down what is going on with Kanye West, drawing from her own experience which was beautifully articulated in her latest article. Many of you know that I draw my vision of bipolar and neurodiversity from a long history of marginalized peoples, and as a strong Black woman, Kiana naturally draws from such embodied wisdom.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ryrIjzpNfVQWatch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wakingupbipolar/videos/2034474766801368/Follow Kiana Fitzgerald on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kianafitzRead Kiana's article on Kanye West and her own experiences: https://www.complex.com/music/2018/06/kanyes-right-being-bipolar-sucks-but-it-can-be-awesomeRead Kiana's piece on Mariah Carey too: https://www.complex.com/life/2018/04/mariah-careys-bipolar-disorder-revelation-is-gamechanger-for-people-like-meJOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks to the recent news of Kanye West coming out as bipolar, especially amid so much political and cultural controversy. What are the implications for the rest of humanity? How do we relate to the complexity of Kanye West and ourselves? There is an opportunity emerging for us to explore a greater depth of understanding, both in our own psyches and the collective.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Sean Blackwell—YouTube sensation, author, retreat facilitator, and spiritual messenger. Since 2007, Sean Blackwell has been researching and teaching about the spiritual dimension and healing potential of bipolar disorder, through his YouTube channel, bipolarORwakingUP. His videos graphically illustrate subjects such as spiritual emergency, transpersonal psychology, and the evolution of consciousness, always demonstrating how these themes relate to transcending the bipolar condition.His book, “Am I Bipolar or Waking Up?” describes his own “bipolar awakening”, subsequent hospitalization and complete recovery, which happened in 1996. His latest project, The Bipolar Awakenings Healing Retreat, is designed to help people who are currently medicated work through the subconscious, bio-energetic material which he views as the root of their disorder. In September of 2016, Sean received his certification as a Holotropic Breathwork facilitator with Grof Transpersonal Training, the official training program of Dr. Stanislav Grof. This education has been fundamental to the development of the healing retreat process he facilitates.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Sean Blackwell has a radical vision for healing what we think of as bipolar disorder and spiritual emergency. And yet, holding such a radical vision does not preclude him from accepting and navigating the many views and experiences of various bodies moving within these complex domains. I’ve always appreciated Sean’s view of himself as a spiritual messenger, and he has certainly served to embolden me over the years.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YXN511AoQFEWatch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wakingupbipolar/videos/2023878284527683/Sean Blackwell's Website: https://www.bipolarawakenings.com/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Victoria Maxwell—mental health speaker, performer, and wellness warrior. She lives with bipolar disorder, anxiety and psychosis, and for more than 17 years has been presenting keynotes and workshops on mental illness and recovery, creativity, wellness and self-care.Victoria Maxwell’s keynote performances and workshops help individuals and organizations comfortably talk about mental health and better understand the ‘insider’s’ experience of mental illness and recovery. More importantly, she reduces stigma of this, one of the very last taboos, and offers hope and tools to build wellness to flourish in life.She’s a member of CREST.BD, a global research team on bipolar disorder, and blogs for Psychology Today. Her most recent keynote show, ‘That’s Just Crazy Talk’ was named one of the top evidence-based, anti-stigma interventions by the Mental Health Commission of Canada. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health honored her as a top Canadian leader in mental health. She’s appeared on CNN, in the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Victoria Maxwell has a depth of wisdom and humility, which she utilizes on her own path of recovery, all the while helping others do the same. She calls to my mind what it truly means to be a wounded healer, and I am honored to present her now.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TzNU5y-ZZpUWatch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wakingupbipolar/videos/2015799888668856/Victoria Maxwell's Website: www.victoriamaxwell.comPsychology Today Blog https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/crazy-life “Crazy for Life: Escapades of a Bipolar Princess”JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Kelli Foulkrod—licensed psychotherapist, yoga teacher, and healing arts practitioner located in Austin, Texas. For the past 16 years, Kelli has been working in the mental health field and practicing yoga and meditation. Kelli approaches mental health from a holistic lens, and incorporates the body, soul, and spirit into modalities for addressing human suffering. She is an advocate for informed consent in mental health treatments in America, and is on a mission to help create a paradigm shift in mainstream mental health treatments. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and groups with a variety of populations including depression, anxiety, bipolar, psychosis, substance abuse, homelessness, and perinatal mental health. The goal of Kelli's work is to empower the individual to become their own healer and reconnect with The Earth, in order to stop relying on an expert outside of themselves for the answers. As you’ll hear, Kelli Foulkrod is a brilliant, passionate advocate for the human spirit, weaving psychological and clinical theory into ancient healing arts with an ease indicative of mastery in both western and eastern healing. What most strikes me is how Kelli looks to transform the mental health system rather than abandon it altogether, in order to reach as many people as possible.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eyF2B_9_0boWatch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wakingupbipolar/videos/2005127053069473/Keep up with Kelli Foulkrod by visiting https://organicmentalhealthcenter.comKelli's 7-week video series, Yoga for Your Mental Health: https://organicmentalhealthcenter.com/yoga-for-your-mental-health-videos/Organic Mental Health Center on Facebook: www.facebook.com/organicmentalhealthcenterOrganic Mental Health Center on Instagram: www.instagram.com/omhealthcenter/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Aubrey Good—Program Coordinator for the International Bipolar Foundation. Aubrey was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 18, and she hopes to use her experiences and knowledge to help bring awareness and education about bipolar disorder. Aubrey is particularly passionate about mental health reform in the criminal justice system and underserved communities. Her background in the United States military also motivates her to break down the stigma of mental illness and advocate for better care within the armed forces and veteran communities.As you’ll hear, Aubrey Good has a big heart for bipolar advocacy, as well as a great deal of compassion for the whole of humanity. She is #BIPOLARSTRONG, and I am stronger knowing she is doing good in this world of ours in need of so much goodness. Check out the International Bipolar Foundation at http://ibpf.org/ Submit your own #BIPOLARSTRONG videos and images here: http://www.ibpf.org/webform/world-bipolar-dayFollow the International Bipolar Foundation on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalBipolarFoundationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/intlbipolar/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IntlBipolarJOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Dr. Emma Bragdon—author, psychologist, and integrative mental health expert. Dr. Bragdon is the Founder and Executive Director of Integrative Mental Health for You. She has written extensively on topics of spirituality and mental health, including seven books. Dr. Bragdon provides lectures and trainings internationally, and is one of the preeminent leaders in the area of spiritual emergency and spiritual crisis.As you’ll hear now, Dr. Emma Bragdon delivers an accessible message of healing and transformation, while holding—with great care—the complexity and nuance needed to meet the myriad experiences of spiritual and psychological growth. I read Dr. Bragdon’s book, The Call of Spiritual Emergency, at a critical time in my own journey.I am thrilled to present to you, Dr. Emma Bragdon. Thanks for joining us.Integrative Mental Health for You*: https://imhu.org/products/spiritual-emergency*use coupon code "wakingup" to receive 10% discount on Dr. Emma Bragdon's spiritual emergency webinar series.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Jeff Warren—writer and meditation teacher. Jeff is the author of The Head Trip, a travel guide to sleeping, dreaming and waking, and co-author of the current New York Times bestselling Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics: A 10% Happier How-to Book. He is also Founder and Chief Exploring Officer of The Consciousness Explorers Club, a nonprofit meditation adventure group in Toronto.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Jeff Warren has an uncanny ability to both dive deep into mystical waters and also articulate the many practical benefits of taking up a meditation practice. I most appreciate his willingness to speak candidly about his experiences with ADHD, and as fate would have it, a recent bipolar diagnosis.It is my great honor to introduce to you, Jeff Warren. Thanks for joining us. Jeff Warren's website: http://jeffwarren.org/Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics: http://jeffwarren.org/media/books/meditation-fidgety-skeptics/The Head Trip: http://jeffwarren.org/media/books/the-head-trip/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

SparkTalks, dynamic presentations that share the wisdom of Naropa University’s alumni, will open your heart, broaden your perspective, and enliven your spirit. At age 18, Chris experienced what he thought was a spiritual awakening, only to be diagnosed with acute manic psychosis. After struggling for years amid an affinity for spiritual material and an aversion to psychopathology, he now finds refuge in Love, which holds space for it all.Watch the full talk on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/xemu9UaC40wBig thanks to Naropa University and Kelly Watt, for putting on the inaugural SparkTalks event. Learn more about Naropa here: http://www.naropa.edu/Thank you ALOC Media and John March for the incredible production. Learn more about ALOC Media's Colorado-based, cost-effective, professional media services here: https://alocmedia.com/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Katie Mottram— author, speaker and producer, but most importantly, a peer experiencer. Having worked in the mental health system for 15 years, she experienced a spiritual awakening in 2012 which completely changed her view of “mental illness.”She is the author of Mend the Gap: A Transformative Journey from Deep Despair to Spiritual Awakening, and her personal story is featured in the 2016 publication by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Spirituality and Narrative in Psychiatric Practice: Stories of Mind and Soul.Katie was one of the Founding Directors of the International Spiritual Emergence Network, providing a collaborative platform for the global networks that exist to support people going through the spiritual emergence process. (www.spiritualemergencenetwork.org) Katie's latest projects are the anti-stigma campaign in support of those experiencing spiritual phenomena, #EmergingProud: www.emergingproud.com and the Emerging Kind; a project training Peers to hold 'Safe Space' support groups for those going through a difficult spiritual emergence process. As you’ll hear in our conversation, Katie Mottram is someone who has seen the current biomedical paradigm of mental health from all angles and is filled with passion to empower others, as we all move toward a more compassionate approach to crisis and transformation. It is with great pride and honor that I present to you the incomparable Katie Mottram. Thanks so much for joining us!Find Katie's book here: https://emergingproud.com/mend-the-gap-book/ or https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mend-Gap-transformative-spiritual-awakening/dp/1781331111/Access Katie's #EmergingProud film here: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/emergingproud or get the DVD via: www.emergingproud.com Support Katie's crowdfunding campaign here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/the-emerging-kindJOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Mike Veny—America’s leading mental health speaker and a high-energy drum circle facilitator. Hear Mike talk about how he fights stigma in himself and throughout the country.Mike delivers educational, engaging, and entertaining presentations to meetings and conferences throughout the world. As a 2017 PM360 ELITE Award Winner, he is recognized as one of the 100 most influential people in the healthcare industry. Mike has also starred in several OC87 Recovery Diaries documentary films, two of which were featured at the 2017 Reel Minds Film series.Mike’s perspectives have been featured on ABC, NBC, and CBS news. He’s a regular guest on The Fresh Outlook TV news show, a writer for Corporate Wellness Magazine and HealthCentral.com. Mike’s compelling TEDx talk, Mental Illness is An Asset, has been used in college classrooms and continues to receive sensational reviews.As you’ll hear in our conversation, Mike Veny has been challenged with mental illness for much of his life. By speaking about his childhood suicide attempt, the benefits of therapy, meditation, and creative outlets for his mental health, and a willingness to engage the difficult conversations, Mike shines as beacon of hope for others, reminding us all to keep up the good fight.Connect with Mike Veny at transformingstigma.com.JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Phil Borges—esteemed human rights photographer and documentarian, and recent Director & Executive Producer of the film CRAZYWISE, which explores what can be learned from people around the world who have turned their psychological crisis into a positive transformative experience. For over twenty-five years, Phil Borges has been documenting indigenous and tribal cultures, striving to create an understanding of the challenges they face. His work is exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, and his award winning books, which have been published in four languages, include Tibetan Portrait, Enduring Spirit, Women Empowered and Tibet: Culture on the Edge. He has hosted television documentaries on indigenous cultures for Discovery and National Geographic channels. Phil also lectures and teaches internationally.Phil’s recent project, CRAZYWISE, explores the relevance of Shamanic traditional practices and beliefs to those of us living in the modern world. CRAZYWISE centers around a young man struggling with his sanity, world renowned mental health professionals, and a gutsy survivor-led movement...all challenging a mental health system in crisis.As you’ll hear (or watch) in our conversation, Phil Borges has been thrusted into a profound curiosity for non-ordinary states of consciousness that touches on the experiences of many folks with bipolar. I am so inspired and grateful for this film, CRAZYWISE, which illuminates the spiritual nature and transformative potential of altered states so often associated with ideas of mental illness.CRAZYWISE Film: https://crazywisefilm.com/ Phil Borges's TED talk: https://youtu.be/CFtsHf1lVI4Phil Borges website: http://philborges.com/JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolarChris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com.The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms:Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.comGoogle Play | google.wakingupbipolar.comStitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.comTuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.comwakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Dr. Elyn Saks—acclaimed scholar, mental health advocate, cancer survivor, psychiatric thriver, and best-selling author of The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness. Elyn Saks is Orrin B. Evans Professor of Law, Psychology, Psychiatry and the Behavioral Sciences at the USC Gould School of Law; Director of the Saks Institute for Mental Health Law, Policy, and Ethics; Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry at the UC San Diego, School of Medicine; and Faculty at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. She served as USC Gould's associate dean for research from 2005-2010 and also teaches at the Keck School of Medicine. Saks received her JD from Yale Law School, and a PhD in Psychoanalytic Science from the New Center for Psychoanalysis. She was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Pepperdine University. Saks writes extensively in the area of law and mental health, having published five books and more than fifty articles and book chapters. Her research has included the ethical dimensions of psychiatric research and forced treatment of people with mental illness. Her memoir, The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness, describes her struggles with schizophrenia and her managing to craft a good life for herself in the face of a dire prognosis. The Saks Institute for Mental Health Law, Policy, and Ethics at USC is a think tank that studies issues at the intersection of law, mental health, and ethics. The Institute spotlights one important mental health issue per academic year and is a collaborative effort that has included faculty and graduate students from several USC departments: law, psychiatry, psychology, social work, philosophy, neuroscience, gerontology, and engineering. As you’ll hear in our conversation, Dr. Elyn Saks brings a wealth of insight and expertise, both through the highest levels of academia and the depth of her own experience with schizophrenia. I am tremendously honored and humbled to present to you now, the incomparable Elyn Saks. The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness: https://www.amazon.com/Center-Cannot-Hold-Journey-Through/dp/1401309445 Dr. Elyn Saks’s TED talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/elyn_saks_seeing_mental_illness Saks Institute for Mental Health Law, Policy, and Ethics: http://weblaw.usc.edu/centers/saks/ Dr. Elyn Saks's POLITICO piece, "The Consent Dilemma:" https://www.politico.com/agenda/story/2017/08/09/drug-treatment-mental-illness-000491 JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Valerie Gangas—guide for highly sensitive people, speaker, and author of the Amazon bestseller Enlightenment Is Sexy: Every Woman’s Guide to a Magical Life. Valerie Gangas has often been called “a force of Nature.” After her first Transcendental Meditation experience in the winter of 2011, Valerie's spiritual awakening inspired a non-stop outpouring of creativity, insight, and empowerment—especially targeted for women—thus, Enlightenment Is Sexy was born. Standing firmly in her belief that “life is best lived from the inside out,” Valerie shares her illuminating discoveries so others may find the inspiration and guidance to reclaim their lives and make their dreams of happiness, peace, and abundance come true. “Consciousness, freedom, purpose, and love are what it’s all about,” and this provocative 21st-century mantra is the focus of Valerie’s multi-dimensional approach to helping others find the best of it all in their daily lives. As you’ll hear in our conversation, Valerie brings a practical mysticism to everyday life that honors and values the brilliance of sensitivity. May we all come closer to the power of surrender for having heard her words. Thanks so much for joining us! Keep up with Valerie Gangas by visiting valeriegangas.com, and check out her book, Enlightenment Is Sexy: Every Woman’s Guide to a Magical Life on Amazon. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, Chris Cole speaks with Marya Hornbacher—award-winning essayist, journalist, and The New York Times bestselling author of five books covering memoir, fiction, and self-help. Marya Hornbacher's work has been published in eighteen languages, and her writing across genres appears regularly in literary and journalistic publications around the world, most recently in AGNI, Gulf Coast, The Normal School, Fourth Genre, DIAGRAM, Broad Street, and The Bellingham Review. Her sixth book, a work of long-form journalism, will be published in 2018, and her seventh, a collection of essays, is underway. She was recently honored with the Annie Dillard Award in Creative Nonfiction. Find out more about her work at www.maryahornbacher.com. As you’ll hear in the interview, Marya is a brilliant mind and radical advocate that challenges the status quo both in our heads and in society at large. I have been inspired by her work for years, and I'm certain that you will be moved here in our discussion.  Keep up with Marya Hornbacher by visiting maryahornbacher.com, and friend her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Karolina Walsh—psychotherapist, coach, educator, and healer, practicing in beautiful Boulder, Colorado. Karolina’s approach to therapy is to support and facilitate the growth and healing already present in the individual, couple, or family, working on three levels: the body, mind, and spirit. Karolina has received training in Virginia Satir's family systems model which promotes change on a relational level. Karolina also has training in Douglas Brady's Psychology of Symptoms model which sees the mind and body as united and utilizes this relationship to bring about healing from disease, body symptoms, and illness. I first encountered Karolina’s brilliance by attending their presentation on trans inclusivity at my favorite academic institution in the world, and my own alma mater: Naropa University. As you’ll hear in our discussion, issues of trans and queerness have played a pivotal role in my life, in ways I am still deciphering today. I have felt for a long time that my experience of masculinity, toxic masculinity, gender binaries, issues of sexuality and intimacy have all stifled the full emotional expression of my life. Gender parameters don’t only place limits and constraints on how and who I get to love; they also limit the full range of all expression, from creativity, to intimacy, to sexuality, to embodiment. Even the crucial recognition of my needs and the willingness to ask for help has been gendered in my experiences of mental health and paths toward wholeness. Karolina has a knack for cutting right to the heart of the issue of sexuality and gender. Can we be real? Can we be vulnerable? Can we own our responsibility and defensiveness as we grow in our capacity to love each other and ourselves? These are critical questions that may lead us toward an ungendered experience of our own authenticity and the invitation to feel our world with unconditioned hearts and minds. Keep up with Karolina Walsh by visiting karolinawalsh.com. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Natasha Tracy—award-winning writer, speaker, and social media consultant from the Pacific Northwest. She is also the author of Lost Marbles: Insights into My Life with Depression & Bipolar.  Natasha works to bring quality, insightful, and trusted information on bipolar disorder and related illnesses to the public while engaging with the mental health community. Natasha is considered a subject matter expert in bipolar disorder and her thoughts on it have been sought by the media and academics alike. Natasha’s blog, Bipolar Burble, has been named a top 10 health blog by Healthista, Health.com, Healthline and others. Natasha has also been named one of the top four online influencers in mental health by Sharecare.com. Natasha has made appearances at the National Council’s Behavioral Health Conference, on HuffPost Live, on HealthiNation and others. In addition to her long-running blog on HealthyPlace, Breaking Bipolar, her writing has been featured on the Daily Mail of the United Kingdom, Huffington Post, HealthLine, PsychCentral and elsewhere. Natasha has an incredible ability to cut through confusion, offering a level of personal discernment that invites readers to think critically about their own lives. I have a great deal of admiration for Natasha’s perseverance and courage, and I’m sure others will feel empowered having listened to her words now. Keep up with Natasha Tracy by visiting natashatracy.com, and check out Natasha’s new book, Lost Marbles: Insights into My Life with Depression & Bipolar, on Amazon.com. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Nick Walker Sensei—Autistic author, educator, speaker, transdisciplinary scholar, and aikido teacher. Nick Walker is co-founder and editor at the independent worker-owned publishing house Autonomous Press and is a faculty member in the Interdisciplinary Studies program at California Institute of Integral Studies and the undergraduate Psychology program at Sofia University. Books in which Nick’s writings can be found include Towards an Archeology of the Soul (2003), Loud Hands: Autistic People, Speaking (2012), The Real Experts: Readings for Parents of Autistic Children (2015), The Spoon Knife Anthology (2016), and Spoon Knife 2: Test Chamber (2017). Nick has also been featured in the documentary films Crux (1999), Orphans of Delirium (2004), Dreambody/Earthbody (2012), and Spectrum: A Story of the Mind (2015).  As you’ll hear in the interview, I am head-over-heals in Love with Nick’s ideas on the neurodiversity paradigm. Prepare to have your mind neuroqueered just for having listened to his words now. Keep up with Nick Walker by visiting neurocosmopolitanism.com, and check out more of Nick’s writing in various anthologies at autpress.com. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with David Leite—culinary expert, award-winning food journalist, and author of the recently-published, critically-acclaimed book, NOTES ON A BANANA: A Memoir of Food, Love, and Manic Depression. NOTES ON A BANANA is at once a tender look at growing up, a candid take on the power of self-acceptance, and an unflinching tale of the hell of mental illness. David’s story is brutally honest and necessary, creating a sense of universality and enduring hope that today’s readers need more than ever. David Leite has tackled everything from chocolate chip cookies to Welsh cakes, from the foods of Portugal to the tribulations of being a super taster—for print, radio, and television. In 1999, he founded the website Leite’s Culinaria, and in 2006 he had the distinction of being the first winner ever of a James Beard Award for a website, a feat he repeated in 2007. The following year, he won his third James Beard Award for his article on fried clams for the New York Times. His first book, THE NEW PORTUGUESE TABLE: Exciting Flavors from Europe’s Western Coast, explored the food of his heritage and won the 2010 IACP First Book/Julia Child Award. David is also a regular correspondent and guest host on NPR’s “The Splendid Table.” He splits his time between Connecticut and New York, but will travel anywhere for a good meal. As you’ll hear in the interview, I am immensely grateful for David’s work, both because of his advocacy, and particularly because of how successful of a life and career he enjoys today. I hope for more visibility for such invisibility, and David is a wonderful example of this courage. Keep up with David Leite by visiting his blog at leitesculinaria.com. NOTES ON A BANANA: A Memoir of Food, Love, and Manic Depression is available through Harper Collins and everywhere books are sold: https://www.harpercollins.com/9780062414373/notes-on-a-banana Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidjosephleite/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidleite Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidleite/ Some of you know that I blog sporadically for the International Bipolar Foundation, and David is speaking at their 10 year anniversary event in San Diego, September 28th. This is a tremendous non-profit organization that gives voice and visibility to many. Please consider donating and/or attending. Here's the link: http://ibpf.org/event/10th-anniversary-san-diego-fundraiser  JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Garrett Duncan, Navajo healing facilitator, shaman, medicine person, Reiki master, and story teller. Garrett Duncan was born and raised on the Navajo reservation. His clans are the Bitter Water clan born for the Red Running into the Water clan. His maternal grandfather's clan is the Mexican clan and his paternal grandfather's clan is the Many Hogans clan. He is from a small community of Sanostee, New Mexico and is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. Garrett underwent his spiritual awakening in 2008. It happened on the 27th day of his 27th year. In this transitionary period, Garrett was dealing with a job layoff, the birth of his nephew, and visions of the future. Due to his Navajo heritage, Garrett has always encompassed his spiritual upbringing into his everyday life. This provided a solid foundation to which Garrett could rely on for assistance and guidance. After his awakening, Garrett was given guidance from an elder of the tribe to assist the peoples of Earth. Upon receiving his Eagle feathers, Garrett was initiated into the world of shamanism. His mentor had informed Garrett of his role to act as a bridge between cultures in addition to providing healing and counsel to those who sought his energies. The elder confirmed Garrett’s gift of sight and is known as a “seer” among the Navajo. His gift also included hands on healing through energy that radiated from his hands.  Garrett is currently acting in service to his people and peoples of Earth using his wisdoms and knowledge to bring healing to those in need. If you’ve ever wondered how much of your experience was spiritual and how much of it was psychological, you’re going to love this episode. Just remember, spirituality and psychology are not in competition, but may be integrated on a path toward greater wholeness and wellbeing. Keep up with Garrett Duncan’s offerings at navajoilluminations.com and on Facebook.com/navajoilluminations JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross, internationally known author, speaker, expert and pioneer in the use of Integrative Medicine for the treatment of eating disorders, addictions, mood and anxiety disorders, and obesity. Dr. Ross is a graduate of Andrew Weil’s Fellowship Program in Integrative Medicine, is the former head of the eating disorder program at internationally-renowned Sierra Tucson, and is a highly-revered consultant for treatment centers around the US. She is the author of three books including one of the first books on Binge Eating Disorder: The Binge Eating and Compulsive Overeating Workbook and her recent book, The Emotional Eating Workbook. Her newest book, The Food Addiction Recovery Workbook was just released September 1, 2017. Dr. Ross currently has a private practice in Denver and San Diego. Dr. Ross comes from a Health at Every Size, Intuitive Eating, Integrative Medicine approach that seeks to liberate, not oppress. I am tremendously grateful for her presence in my life, and the influence her expertise has had on my own location with binge eating disorder, addiction, and bipolar recovery. Check out Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross’s new book, The Food Addiction Recovery Workbook: How to Manage Cravings, Reduce Stress, and Stop Hating Your Body, on Amazon. Connect with Dr. Ross and her work at carolynrossmd.com JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with David Lukoff, PhD about the overlap of mystical experiences and psychotic disorders. Dr. Lukoff draws from decades of research and training in the overlap of psychological disturbances and spiritual realization. David Lukoff, PhD has been active with the mental health consumer movement for 20 years and worked with the California Mental Health Spirituality Initiative since its inception in fall 2006. He helped design, administer, and analyze the data from the surveys and interviews. He has been an active proponent of spiritual competency in the field of psychology with 80 articles and chapters on spiritual issues and mental health, including spirituality and recovery from mental problems. He is a Professor Emeritus in Psychology at Sofia Institute and a licensed psychologist in California. He is co-author of the DSM-IV category "Religious or Spiritual Problem" and has been an active workshop presenter providing training in spiritual competencies in areas such as spiritual assessment, loss and grief, death and illness, spiritual problems and struggles. Read the article mentioned in this episode, "The Diagnosis of Mystical Experiences with Psychotic Features," watch Dr. David Lukoff tell his own story of awakening, and learn more about his work at spiritualcompetency.com I have personally benefited tremendously from David's research and writing. Much of my confusion around my own spirituality was feeling as if I needed to choose either mental health or spiritual teachings. Dr. Lukoff's work helped me bridge two worlds that often felt light years apart. May we all find greater freedom having listened to his words. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Lama Rod Owens — a formally trained Buddhist teacher, Harvard Master of Divinity graduate, and co-author of Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love, and Liberation. Lama Rod works to be as open, honest and vulnerable as possible and help others do the same, including discussing his journey with depression. Sitting with Lama Rod is to be guided into conversations and contemplations around things that affect us all but we’re scared to talk about like sex, race, identity, gender, class, power, depression and all the other stuff we tend to turn away from. I have personally benefited from Lama Rod's wisdom and love in both reading Radical Dharma and also attending a recent Living Radical Dharma retreat with Lama Rod Owens and Reverend angel Kyodo williams at the magnificent Shambhala Mountain Center. Stay in touch with Lama Rod Owens at lamarod.com Find Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love, and Liberation on Amazon. Watch the full interview on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/WiNmEEOkeQ8 Watch the full interview on Facebook here: http://fb.me/Ac9vD0Ng JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Gabe Howard— host of The Psych Central podcast, award-winning writer, and sought-after speaker. In 2003, he was formally diagnosed with bipolar and anxiety disorders after being committed to a psychiatric hospital. In his writing, speaking, and in life, Gabe is direct, charismatic, and approachable. He loves interacting with people, and he discusses the serious topic of mental illness with the right blend of education and entertainment. He makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive and patient wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer puppy that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for Gabe Howard’s pragmatic approach to raising awareness and doing good for those of us identifying with bipolar. Thanks for joining us! Stay in touch with Gabe Howard (and get a bipolar emoji tee shirt) online at gabehoward.com You can check out The Psych Central Show podcast by visiting PsychCentral.com/show  You can also join his online Facebook community, The Positive Depression/Bipolar Happy Place. JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Debra Silverman—world-renowned astrologer to the stars (both in Hollywood and the Cosmos) and author of The Missing Element: Inspiring Compassion for the Human Condition.  Debra is part comedian, part psychologist, part astrologer and ALL REAL. She helps people turn on their own inner observer, to see the things they say and do in a totally objective way. Debra has been in private practice for over 38 years. She uses astrology and her own system called The 4 Elements (or 4E for short) as tools to help people step into their power. Debra’s mothering approach to understanding and empowering people from all walks of life has earned her international fame and admiration. In addition to her recently-published book, The Missing Element, she has written magazine columns, hosted a radio show, and has a YouTube channel with over 3 million views. She is dedicated to creating community and working for the children. Debra believes the future is arriving and none of us can do it alone. She is an expert in embracing the feminine, and her ultimate dream is to revolutionize therapy by teaching therapists how to provide custom treatment to their clients. Debra believes in the power of listening. When we are silent - both with ourselves and each other - the messages that are trying to come through us can be given a voice, and we can all start walking our authentic and powerful path.  She splits her time between Kauai and Boulder, Colorado, where she enjoys talking to the beautiful flowers, daily swims, and laughing with friends and family. Debra Silverman has been instrumental in my own spiritual unfolding. I met with Debra for an astrological reading shortly after my last hospitalization for an acute manic psychosis, and her wisdom regarding my personality and astrological location allowed for greater space and self-compassion during a time when I desperately needed clarity. She was even able to locate the years of my previous mental health crises. To say the least, Debra embodies and marvelously articulates an ancient wisdom that has been largely obscured in our modern culture. Stay in touch with Debra Silverman at www.debrasilvermanastrology.com and https://www.facebook.com/debrasilvermanastrology/ Pre-register for Debra's latest project, The Star Community—an astrology membership program for "secret service agents!" by going to http://www.secretserviceagents.org/ JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Matthew Gindin—freelance journalist, former Buddhist monk, educator, meditation teacher, and friend of the late Michael Stone. Michael Stone was a dharma teacher with an international sangha, a social and environmental activist, hatha yoga instructor, husband, father, author, and the embodiment of a life driven by heart-centered action. In addition to the miracle that is the life of Michael Stone, he occupied a bipolar body. I came across today’s guest, Matthew Gindin, when reading his article for the prominent Buddhist publication, Tricycle Magazine, titled, “Putting to Rest the Myth of the Heroic Self." Read the entire article here: https://tricycle.org/trikedaily/putting-rest-myth-heroic-self/ In addition to the moving words from Matthew, I was struck with a lightning-like evocation by the message from Michael’s life partner, Carina Stone, in an official statement from the family. She wrote, “As versed as Michael was with the silence around mental health issues in our culture, he feared the stigma of his diagnosis. He was on the cusp of revealing publicly how shaped he was by his disorder and how he was doing.” Read the full statement here: https://www.lionsroar.com/official-statement-on-passing-of-michael-stone-released/ If you feel moved to do so, a gofundme page has been created for Michael Stone’s family. Please consider a donation here: https://www.gofundme.com/carina-stone-family-fund As you’ll hear in our discussion, Matthew’s life has been touched in deeply poignant ways by this intersection of mental illness and spiritual unfolding. In this interview, I did not hear one word uttered from Matthew’s lips that did not pour from the oceanic depth of heart-centered dharma. Matthew Gindin, formerly a Buddhist monk, is a journalist, educator and freelance writer located in Vancouver, BC. He is the Pacific Correspondent for the Canadian Jewish News, writes regularly for the Forward and the Wisdom Daily and has been published in Tricycle: The Buddhist Review, Religion Dispatches, Situate Magazine, and elsewhere. He also writes on Medium from time to time. Follow Matthew Gindin on Twitter @MatthewZGindin JOIN THE DISCUSSION at FB.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com