Podcast appearances and mentions of gabe howard

Have you ever found yourself halfway through a concert, dinner party, or even a family gathering and thought, “OK, I'm ready to go now,” even though you're having a good time? You're not alone, and it doesn't mean you're antisocial or ungrateful. In this episode, host Gabe Howard sits down with Jodi Wellman, a positive psychology expert and TEDx speaker, to unpack the surprising psychology behind wanting to leave events early.Together, they explore why both introverts and extroverts can feel this way, introducing concepts like “experience efficiency” and “memory optimization.” Learn how our brains process peak moments, why leaving on a high note can actually enhance our memories, and why you don't have to “get your money's worth” by staying until the very end. Key takeaways: Find out why some people feel “full” on fun faster and don't need to stay until the end to enjoy an event. Reframe early exits as a smart way to manage energy, time, and joy—without guilt. Learn practical language for confidently setting boundaries when you're ready to go, without shame. Discover how even the most outgoing people can feel “peopled out.” If you've ever snuck out of a party, left a holiday dinner before dessert, or wondered why you plan your exit before you even arrive — this episode is for you. “And yes, there is a purpose to the dinner and the tasting menu that goes all the way to the end. And yes, of course, we rationally know that. And yet, those of us who are experience minimalists are still OK to say, I got my fill. I got the appetizer and I had part of the entree. And admittedly, not many of us are kicking back our chairs and leaving halfway through dinner. But metaphorically, this works. When we know we've had our fill and we feel truly good that, wow, I got the songs I needed and wanted or look, I did most of the hike and I don't have to get to the top. I'm cool to go back. I feel good about myself. That's the thing. Are you having a good time and do you want to end on a high? That is, to me, sound judgment about living a life worth living.” ~Jodi Wellman, MAPP Our guest, Jodi Wellman, is the founder of Four Thousand Mondays, a speaker, author, and assistant instructor in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania. Her book, "You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets," made Adam Grant's Summer Reading List and was a “Top 3 Psychology Book of 2024” by the Next Big Idea Club (curated by Malcolm Gladwell, Susan Cain, Adam Grant, and Dan Pink). Jodi has been featured in The New York Times, Oprah Daily, Fast Company, CNBC, Forbes, Psychology Today, The Los Angeles Times, and more. Jodi's TEDx talk is called How Death Can Bring You Back to Life; with over 1.3 million views, it is the 14th most-watched TEDx talk released in 2022, out of 15,900! Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The experiences of living with schizophrenia can be traumatic: hospitalizations, treatments, psychotic episodes. Even though the prevalence of comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people with psychosis varies from 11% to 52%, treatment for traumatic experiences is rarely prescribed to people with schizophrenia.  In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss managing the trauma of living with schizophrenia and why it's important. Our hosts welcome guest expert Dr. Hector Rodriguez, who is trained in psychiatry, trauma-informed care, and neuroimaging. He blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and lifestyle interventions to help people strengthen their minds and reclaim their power. Our guest, Dr. Hector Rodriguez, is trained in psychiatry, trauma-informed care, and neuroimaging. He blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and lifestyle interventions to help people strengthen their minds and reclaim their power. As the founder of The White Butterfly Psychiatry & Wellness, Dr. Hector works with individuals from all walks of life — with a special passion for those society has overlooked, marginalized, or written off. Whether in the clinic, on stage, or behind a microphone, Dr. Hector's mission is to challenge the status quo of mental health and give people the tools to own their minds — instead of being owned by them. Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV's Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC's America's Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI's #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the Healthline podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself. Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid's mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS ) Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Thank you for listening and please share widely! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For individuals living with schizophrenia, the world can be populated by voices, visions, or other sensory experiences that are intensely real yet imperceptible to others. These hallucinations, which are a defining feature of schizophrenia, are not mere figments of imagination but rather vivid, often distressing, and deeply influential aspects of their daily reality. Today's exploration aims to shed light on the phenomenon of hallucinations in schizophrenia, going beyond a diagnostic perspective to consider the actual experience, and the profound impact on an individual's sense of self and connection to the world around them. Guest host, Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and guest Christopher Grant have a real, raw discussion about what experiencing schizophrenia hallucinations is like.Please Note: Our regular host, Gabe Howard, will be back next week! “Just because something is in the uncanny valley, it doesn't always mean it's terrifying or deserves demonization. I'm not blind to that fact that it's off-putting to people through the perspective of a neurotypical person. I'm glad to say today most of my hallucinations are pretty, I don't even want to say friendly. They're just content, like a neutral energy. But, for a long time, I was constantly in a state of like terror, like fight or flight terror when I'd experience it.” ~Christopher Grant aka XO RAD Magical Our guest, Christopher Grant, is a Mi'gmaw filmmaker from Pabineau First Nation, New Brunswick. Inspired by the intense absurdity of life and death, Chris animates to express the humour and terror of existence. He has worked with the NFB's Hothouse project, and his work has been exhibited at galleries, museums and film festivals internationally. He is also known for his role on TikTok as XORADMAGICAL, where he creates art and answers questions all relating to his experiences with schizophrenia in daily life. Our guest host, Rachel Star Withers, (www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV's Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC's America's Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI's #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the Healthline podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself. (Our regular host, Gabe Howard, will be back next week!) Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid's mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS ) Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. The Inside Schizophrenia podcast is available on your favorite podcast player. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if managing bipolar disorder wasn't just about medication? Too often, conversations around bipolar treatment stop at the pharmacy counter. But what about therapy that helps you process trauma? What about learning your triggers before a full-blown episode hits? What about diet, exercise, creativity, and community support? These are not extras — they're essential.In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) dive deep into science-backed strategies for managing bipolar disorder beyond medication. From therapy to sleep hygiene to mindfulness medications, they explore the powerful “other pieces of the puzzle” that can help stabilize moods and improve daily life. Key Takeaways how being “med compliant” isn't the be-all and end-all of bipolar management why therapy, triggers, and sleep tracking can be critical in maintaining stability how diet, exercise, and creativity can support long-term mental health practical steps to build (and lean on) a strong, balanced support system If you've ever asked, “What else can help manage bipolar disorder besides being ‘med compliant'?”— this episode has the answers. “People aren't discussing them enough. When it comes to managing bipolar disorder, it's not one big thing that you do well. It's many little things. And this episode, especially the research for it, has really shown me that doing a lot of little things well often garners really big results.” ~Gabe Howard, Host Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning podcast host, author, and sought-after suicide prevention and mental health speaker, but he wouldn't be any of those things today if he hadn't been committed to a psychiatric hospital in 2003.Gabe also hosts Healthline's Inside Mental Health podcast has appeared in numerous publications, including Bipolar magazine, WebMD, Newsweek, and the Stanford Online Medical Journal. He has appeared on all four major TV networks, ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX. Among his many awards, he is the recipient of Mental Health America's Norman Guitry Award, received two Webby Honoree acknowledgements, and received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero.” Gabe wrote the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when therapy and medication don't work? Treatment-resistant depression can feel like a dead end — but it's not. In this episode, clinical psychologist and ADAA member expert Dr. Jill Emanuele unpacks the nuanced differences between sadness, grief, and major depressive disorder — and why misusing these terms can delay real help.But the conversation doesn't stop there. What happens when traditional treatments for depression don't work? You've probably heard the term treatment-resistant depression, and it may sound terrifying. Dr. Emanuele and host Gabe Howard dig deep into what this label actually means — and spoiler alert: It's more about strategy than severity. You'll also discover lesser known but evidence-backed options that go beyond talk therapy and antidepressants, including: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) ketamine and esketamine treatments radically open dialectical behavior therapy (RO-DBT) electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) without the Hollywood horror spin psychedelic-assisted therapy using psilocybin  Key takeaways: the difference between sadness, grief, and clinical depression what treatment resistant actually means a breakdown of advanced, research-backed treatment options why individualization is key to recovery This episode is your roadmap for understanding treatment-resistant depression on a deeper level — and for finding hope when treatment doesn't seem to be working. Whether you're managing this yourself or supporting someone who is, you'll walk away knowing there are more options — and find that labels aren't life sentences. Special thanks to Johnson & Johnson for providing funding for today's episode. Our guest, Jill M. Emanuele, PhD, is Founder and Executive Director of Urban Yin Psychology, PLLC, based in New York City.  She is also Secretary and board member for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA).  Dr. Emanuele completed her undergraduate studies with degrees in Psychology and Music from the University of Richmond, and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from George Mason University. Dr. Emanuele has presented at academic medical centers, professional conferences, public and private schools, and community organizations on the topics of mindfulness, adolescent depression and suicide, adolescent self-injury, DBT, and adolescent borderline personality disorder, and co-authored book chapters on some of these important topics.  She also provides education through multiple forms of media including television, radio, internet, and podcasts.  Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're sold the fairy tale from birth: find “the one,” make them your everything, and you'll live happily ever after. But what happens if that one person can't meet all your needs - or ever could? In this convention challenging conversation, sex experts Dr. Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman take aim at America's deeply rooted ideas about monogamy, intimacy, and what makes for a fulfilling - and lasting - relationship. Host Gabe Howard points out America's strange mix of selling sex while shaming it, and together they unpack why so many couples struggle in silence instead of having honest, non-blaming conversations about their desires. Along the way, they reveal how redefining intimacy, owning your choices, and using your “sexual energy” as a navigation system can lead to more connection, better sex, and improved mental health. Key Take-aways: Why “the one” isn't true for everyone and could set you up for failure. How monogamy, open relationships, and other structures can all work - if you choose them deliberately. Practical tips for starting sensitive sex conversations without triggering alarm bells. If you've ever wondered whether your relationship rules are helping or hurting your love life, this episode just might change everything. “So monogamy is originated in feudalist society when there was like, someone who had money and, you know, possession. We moved into needing to know who our offsprings are. And that's exactly what monogamy started, because we wanted to know where are we inheriting our money to and the church came in and religion and it started to become like a, a standard to live by. But it's not necessarily our nature and it's not necessarily what everyone should be doing.” ~Dr. Danielle Harel Our guests, Danielle Harel, Ph.D., and Celeste Hirschman, M.A., are pioneers in intimacy, sexuality, and relationship coaching. Co-founders of the Somatica® Institute, they've transformed how love and connection are taught through their experiential, science-based Somatica Method. Together, they've trained over 1,000 coaches and helped countless individuals and couples embrace vulnerability, rediscover desire, and create deeply fulfilling relationships. Authors of three influential books—Making Love Real, Coming Together, and Confidence—Danielle and Celeste blend authenticity, humor, and bold honesty to inspire transformation. Their relatable insights into intimacy and connection make them captivating guests, offering audiences practical tools to enhance relationships and live passionately. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Thank you for tuning in! Show ideas? Hit us up at show@psychcentral.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel trapped in a therapy or psychiatry relationship that feels stagnant, unsettling, or just plain wrong? This episode pulls no punches as hosts Gabe Howard — who lives with bipolar disorder — and Dr. Nicole Washington — a board certified psychiatrist — tackle the uncomfortable question most people think about but rarely voice: “How, and when, is it time to part ways with your mental health professional?" This direct and practical conversation cuts through the guilt, the logistics, and the myths about “ghosting” therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors. Dr. Nicole explains when walking away is OK, when to be careful (especially with meds), and why honest communication can actually be beneficial to you as the patient. Gabe brings the patient perspective — what it feels like to doubt care, to fear being “difficult,” and some tips to tell if the problem is the professional, your stage in recovery, or just a bad fit. Takeaways You don't have to explain, but honest conversation is usually the healthier choice. Plan transitions first: “Ghosting” can create dangerous gaps in your care. Ask for records and time your switch to minimize treatment disruption. If you've ever wondered whether you owe the professional an explanation, how to keep medication continuity, or what to ask on day one to avoid a mismatch later — this episode is for you. Expect blunt truth and step-by-step strategies to move on responsibly so your recovery doesn't skip a beat. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning podcast host, author, and sought-after suicide prevention and mental health speaker, but he wouldn't be any of those things today if he hadn't been committed to a psychiatric hospital in 2003.Gabe also hosts Healthline's Inside Mental Health podcast has appeared in numerous publications, including Bipolar magazine, WebMD, Newsweek, and the Stanford Online Medical Journal. He has appeared on all four major TV networks, ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX. Among his many awards, he is the recipient of Mental Health America's Norman Guitry Award, received two Webby Honoree acknowledgements, and received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero.” Gabe wrote the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Got topic ideas or questions? Hit us up at show@psychcentral.com! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like your fear of judgment is holding you back from college life? In this no-nonsense episode, host Gabe Howard teams up with ADAA member expert Ken Goodman, LCSW, to cut through the noise and tackle social anxiety head-on. Discover how everyday moments — like dropping a napkin or saying hello — can spiral into overwhelming anxiety and how you can flip the script. Ken offers real-world strategies that empower you to face your fears, transform awkward encounters into opportunities, and build lasting connections. Whether you're dodging parties or stuck with your head down in class, learn how to challenge your mindset and step boldly into social situations. Tune in and get ready to break free from isolation, unlock your true potential, and make the most out of your college experience. This episode has been sponsored by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). “People with social anxiety perceive that other people are judging them constantly, but they're not. They're thinking about their day. They're thinking about their own problems. They're not thinking about you. If they do have a thought about you, it's pretty transient. It's pretty quick. It's not like they're dwelling on it like the person with social anxiety is.” ~Ken Goodman, LCSW Our guest, Ken Goodman, LCSW, specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD.  He is on the board of directors for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and is Founding Director of QuietMindSolutions.com. He has authored and produced several self-help courses and books including The Anxiety Solution Series: Your Guide to Overcoming Panic, Worry, Compulsions and Fear, a 12-hour audio course and Break Free from Anxiety, a coloring self-help book. His latest book, The Emetophobia Manual, is the first self-help book for those who suffer with the fear of vomit. Most recently he recorded and produced a ten-session video course for people with emetophobia. He lectures at universities and organizations across the country. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from UCLA and operates his online private practice in Los Angeles. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Schizophrenia may develop in people of all ages, and the early signs of the disorder vary greatly from person to person. While the symptoms are the same, the presentation of them can change due to age of onset, gender, and severity. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore how the early signs of schizophrenia can present differently and specific behaviors to watch for. Joining them is Dr. Gus Alva, a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Geriatrics. As an author and coauthor, Dr. Alva's work has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, including the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and the Journal of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been featured on numerous media outlets and has served as an expert guest in various television programs, such as CNN News. About Our Guest & Hosts Our guest, Dr. Gus Alva, is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is also Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Geriatrics. He completed his residency training at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center in the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, where he served as chief resident during his final year of residency. He also served as an associate professor and deputy director in the department of psychiatry at U.C. Irvine Medical Center, and he is currently serving as an assistant professor at U.C. Riverside Medical School, Department of Neuroscience. As author or co-author, his work has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, including the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, The Journal of the American Psychiatric Association, and Clinics in Geriatric Medicine. He has published numerous articles and presented at national and international meetings and conferences. He was the recipient of the First Annual Senior Care Humanitarian Award as Outstanding Physician in Dementia Care and the Physician's Recognition Award by the American Medical Association. He has been featured in numerous media outlets and has served as an expert guest in various television programs, such as CNN News, Inside OC, Salud Es Vida, Despierta America, The Morning Blend, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind. Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV's Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC's America's Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI's #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the Healthline podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself. Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid's mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____.  (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS ) Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.  Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you really know about schizophrenia? Guest host Rachel Star Withers — who lives with schizophrenia — takes us beyond the headlines and horror movies in this powerful, honest, and enlightening episode of Inside Mental Health. Joined by neuropsychologist and schizophrenia researcher Dr. Derin Cobia, Rachel explores what schizophrenia is, what it isn't, and how it silently shapes the lives of millions. They break down the real symptoms — including hallucinations, delusions, cognitive disruptions, and depression — and discuss why “positive” and “negative” symptoms are misleading terms. Rachel shares personal stories of psychosis, navigating daily life, and the lifesaving importance of support, while Dr. Cobia unpacks the science: from genetics to stigma to what the media consistently gets wrong. Whether you've never met someone with schizophrenia (spoiler: you have) or you're supporting a loved one, this episode replaces fear with empathy and misunderstanding with clarity. You'll come away informed, moved, and maybe even surprised. Key takeaways: the truth about schizophrenia's symptoms and causes why stigma is deadly — and how to dismantle it what support systems really make a difference how schizophrenia affects cognition, not just perception Hit play to get past the stereotypes and meet the human reality. Cold Open Transcript:Rachel Star Withers (guest host): I'm sure there's some listeners right now who are thinking, well, I don't have schizophrenia. No one close to me does. Why should I care? Dr. Derin Cobia: You know, schizophrenia, it indirectly affects everyone and it affects us economically, socially, and culturally. Even though somebody may not be dealing with somebody with schizophrenia, now, who's to say they won't in the future? And even if they don't, I would say just general education and awareness about it reduces this stigma. Our guest, Dr. Derin Cobia, is a neuropsychologist and neuroscientist with particular interest in utilizing neuroimaging techniques to study how changes in brain structure influence cognition and behavior. He is also a professor at Brigham Young University. Dr. Cobia's laboratory is focused on the implementation of computational anatomy tools to study neuropsychiatric diseases, particularly schizophrenia. His interests are in the clinical and biological heterogeneity that exists in schizophrenia by taking a cognitive neuroscience perspective. His work has involved linking cognitive and neurobiological characteristics to important clinical dimensions of the illness. Our guest host, Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and let others like her know they're not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written “Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids” and a tool for schizophrenics, “To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal.” Learn more at RachelStarLive.com. To listen to the Inside Schizophrenia podcast, please visit the official show page at psychcentral.com/IS or use your favorite podcast player. Please Note: Our regular host, Gabe Howard, will be back next week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel people are manipulating or using you because of your bipolar disorder diagnosis? If that question hits a nerve, this podcast episode is for you. When a listener emailed us because they felt they were being exploited due to their diagnosis, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a licensed psychiatrist) dove headfirst into a frank conversation about loneliness, control, and the messy reality of potentially unequal relationships. Gabe shares personal stories of how a friend used his desire for connection to get what they wanted — free tickets, emotional labor, and more — while giving little in return. Dr. Nicole helps unpack how mental illness can cloud your ability to spot toxic dynamics until it's too late. Together, they explore what it really means to set boundaries, recognize red flags, and take your power back without beating yourself up for what you allowed in the past. You'll learn how to rebuild your life with real friends, regain your self-worth, and protect your peace — one boundary at a time. If you've ever looked around and wondered, "Why do I feel like I'm the only one giving?" and wondered if you are being taken advantage of due to a bipolar diagnosis — listen now. “The real reality is I've lost friends for all kinds of reasons. Because I've switched jobs, because I've moved, because I'm no longer in high school, because I've outgrown them. The number one reason, honestly, is because I don't have children. And many of my friends went on to have kids. When you live with bipolar disorder, you tend to think that the only reason that you lose people is because of bipolar disorder. And I don't think that serves us. I think maybe a better way to look at it is, you know, when you were sick, these were your friends. But as you reached recovery, as you got better, you made different friends because your situation changed. And I think that's much healthier than saying, well, bipolar disorder cost me all my friends.” ~Gabe Howard, Host Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England. To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it trauma? Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Or both? Can trauma trigger OCD? Can OCD feel like trauma? In this episode, Dr. Nathaniel Van Kirk, a ADAA member and leading clinical psychologist and trauma expert, joins Gabe Howard to unpack the complex relationship between trauma and OCD. While both terms are widely used, few understand how deeply they can intertwine — or how often they're misunderstood. Dr. Van Kirk explains why a traumatic event might trigger OCD in some people, how OCD symptoms can mimic trauma responses, and why compulsions often become misguided tools for managing fear. He also dives into the surprising statistic that up to 90% of people experience a traumatic event, and explores how our brains are hardwired to both break down and heal. Takeaways include: the difference between trauma, PTSD, and OCD why OCD isn't usually considered a trauma disorder — but sometimes should be how clinicians decide which disorder to treat first why healing often means separating fear from fact If you've ever had intrusive thoughts or wanted to better understand the mental health impact of trauma, this episode is essential listening.   This episode has been sponsored by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). “For about 19% of individuals with OCD, they tend to have a comorbid PTSD diagnosis. I think that's much higher than what we initially thought as a field. Initially we thought it was rare, and part of the challenge is that for many years these two things were treated as silos. You were either a PTSD and trauma therapist or an OCD therapist. And very rarely did we cross over. It turns out that was not the great approach, because in reality, there's actually a lot more overlap than we thought. And finding out that it's actually a very common experience that people just didn't talk about.” ~Nathaniel Van Kirk, PhD Our guest, Nathaniel Van Kirk, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in severe anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma/PTSD. At McLean Hospital, Dr. Van Kirk is the director of psychological services at the OCD Institute. He is a member of the hospital's Patient and Family Advisory Committee and Interdisciplinary Recovery Oriented Practice Committee, and also serves as the site facilitator for McLean's Schwartz Rounds Committee. Dr. Van Kirk's clinical research focuses on the role of motivation across treatment and the impact of trauma on treatment outcomes, and on promoting innovative methods to assess and conceptualize recovery. Additionally, he is involved in efforts to reduce mental health stigma (such as participating in McLean Hospital's Deconstructing Stigma campaign), emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between therapists, researchers, and those with mental health challenges, including individuals who work in the mental health field. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think everyone working in Hollywood is rich, famous, and living the dream? Think again. In this episode, host Gabe Howard pulls back the velvet curtain with therapist and Hollywood insider Shanelle Connell to expose the reality behind the entertainment industry's glossy facade. Forget the multimillion-dollar paychecks and private jets — most working actors, crew members, and directors grapple with constant rejection, financial insecurity, 12- to 15-hour workdays, and the unrelenting pressure to smile through it all. Even finding a therapist can be a minefield when your life is dismissed as glamorous nonsense. Takeaways: The emotional whiplash of booking a gig… and the crash that follows How societal judgment can keep performers from getting help The hidden cost of “doing what you love” when your work devours your identity Why so many stay in the industry — even if it weighs on them Whether you watch tons of movies or just wonder how fame warps mental health, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about Hollywood — and the humans who keep it running. Our guest, Shanelle Connell, completed her BA in Psychology at the University of British Columbia – Okanagan. While there, she briefly served as a UBC Mental Health Network board member and performed research under Dr. Jocelyn Wentland and Dr. Suzanne Holtzman. Additionally, she participated in the Indigenous Research Mentorship Program, which awards First Nations, Inuit, and Métis undergraduate students (like herself) the possibility to work alongside faculty mentors to gain research experience of their ideal interest. Shanelle also ensured to enroll in many special interest classes at her university, like the Psychology of Creativity, Humour, and Interpersonal Relationship Psychology – contributing to her expansive understanding of how our unique psychology colours every aspect of our lives.  As a former Miss Universe Canada delegate and Miss World Okanagan, Shanelle has used her platform to actively advocate on behalf of individuals who have experienced and survived domestic, mental, and sexual violence/abuse – and continues to work with individuals healing from the effects of narcissistic trauma.  In 2019, Shanelle re-entered the film industry and began her professional work as an actor. She leveraged her 20+ years engagement in performance arts and commercial market to guide her journey as she made her way to on-screen entertainment. However, Shanelle did not start there and has worked in various positions like stand-in and graphics department, producing, and even has had a behind-the-scenes look at the chaos that follows agency life and the casting process. Hence, she truly understands our everyday ups and downs in this creative field. Today, Shanelle is an active member of UBCP-ACTRA and the CMPA, living between Vancouver and Kelowna, British Columbia. She frequently collaborates with our unions, non-profit organizations, and industry leaders to ensure she stays proficient in what film needs for mental health support. Even more, she values the feedback of her peers (those on and off set) on what can make her practice and our industry better. Therefore, Shanelle proudly amalgamates this insider information with her credentials to finally offer our colleagues what they deserve. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can be living in a storm and swear it's a sunny day. That's what it's like when insight slips away. In this episode, Dr. Nicole (board certified psychiatrist) and Kit Wallis (lives with schizoaffective disorder) explore why people with serious mental illness, like bipolar disorder, often can't see their own symptoms — even when the evidence is undeniable. Dr. Nicole unpacks the science behind lack of insight and explains how it isn't all-or-nothing. Insight flickers, evolves, and sometimes disappears just when you need it most. From Kit's early experiences hearing voices (and assuming they were just a creative mind) to the manic episodes that shattered her reality, you'll hear firsthand how denial and confusion can coexist. Discover why antipsychotic medications didn't convince Kit the voices weren't real, why manic highs feel too good to question, and why telling someone “you're sick” rarely makes them believe it. If you've questioned why it's so hard to see bipolar symptoms in yourself or a loved one, this conversation will open your eyes to the hidden forces behind denial — and acceptance. Cold Open Transcript: Kit Wallis: It took me years to figure out I was hallucinating. And the voices hated it whenever I did that. They were like, don't do that, don't research us, don't do that. Looking back on it, it doesn't make sense, but in the moment, it made perfect sense to me. It's kind of wild to me that I can go through all this effort to really figure out what is going on and I still have moments where it just completely slips my mind. It still slips my mind when it is happening most of the time. We have a guest host for this episode (Don't worry, Gabe Howard will be back!): Our guest host, Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health. Kit was diagnosed with the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder in late 2020 and has struggled with symptoms since she was in middle school. Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition where someone experiences symptoms of schizophrenia--such as delusions and hallucinations--but also symptoms of a mood disorder--either major depression or, in Kit's case, bipolar. Realizing there was a lack of schizoaffective advocates, she decided to start her SchizoKitzo project to raise awareness for this complex condition. The mission of SchizoKitzo is to raise awareness of schizoaffective disorder and all of its aspects, from the mood side to the psychotic side. Kit works to bridge the gap between life and science so she can help break the stigma around mental health. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the sudden mood changes, crushing fatigue, or unexpected anxiety you're experiencing aren't just stress or part of getting older, but signs of depression linked to perimenopause? In this episode, ADAA member expert and psychiatrist Dr. Crystal Clark joins host Gabe Howard to shine a light on one of the most overlooked mental health issues affecting women: the biological storm of perimenopause and its deep connection to depression and anxiety. They break down why up to 40% of women experience depression during this hormonal transition — and why so many are told to just “tough it out.”You'll learn the early warning signs to watch for, the science behind hormonal shifts and mental health, and why dismissing symptoms as “normal aging” could be harmful. Plus, they explore how therapy, medication, lifestyle shifts, and even hormone therapy can play a role in recovery. Whether you're in perimenopause, supporting someone who is, or just want to understand this life stage, this episode delivers clarity, compassion, and concrete takeaways. This episode has been sponsored by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). Our guest, Dr. Crystal Clark, is an internationally recognized psychiatrist in women's mental health. She holds a Canada Research Chair in Reproductive Mental Health. She is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto, and the Associate Head of Research at Women's College Hospital. Dr. Clark specializes in mood and anxiety disorders specifically across the reproductive life span (from menstruation to peri and post menopause). Dr. Clark's research has focused on psychopharmacology for the treatment of perinatal mood disorders.  Her research aims to prevent the recurrence of illness during pregnancy and postpartum through safe dose optimization and personalized dosing strategies. Her research also aims to develop identification and prevention strategies for all persons with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders including those who are disproportionately impacted by these disorders. Dr. Clark's research has been funded by the Canadian Institute of Health Research and the National Institutes of Health.  Among Dr. Clark's many leadership roles, she is a past president of the Marcé of North America, an organization dedicated to advancing perinatal mental health care, and she serves on the board of directors of Marcé International. She has been a contributor to large initiatives in Canada and the US to improve perinatal mental health in North America. As a thought leader, Dr. Clark is a thought leader and has been a contributor by several media outlets including CBS, NPR, NY Times, and Chicago Tonight regarding issues related to perinatal mental health. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the biggest obstacle holding you back isn't your past but your mindset? Psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD, challenges everything you think you know about trauma, resilience, and personal growth. In this episode, you'll discover why labeling every setback as “trauma” can keep you stuck, how social media turns psychology terms into empty buzzwords, and why blaming the world won't set you free. Host Gabe Howard dives deep into the difference between being a victim and living with a victim mindset — and why refusing to let go of a painful past can quietly sabotage your future. Learn about post-traumatic growth, the empowering idea that you can transform adversity into strength. Explore how to replace learned helplessness with learned hopefulness, and why embracing an empowerment mindset might be the key to unlocking your full potential. Key takeaways: how to recognize a victim mindset — and break free from it why trauma doesn't have to define you the difference between acknowledging pain and living in it practical ways to build resilience and reclaim your life If you're ready to stop waiting for someone else to fix your life, this conversation will show you how to rise above and live your best life. Cold Open Transcript: “I'm not a fan of blanket labeling things as a disorder or an illness, which are actually just extreme versions of personality traits. You can be a victim to your past. You can be a victim to your emotions. You can be a victim to your self-esteem. You could be a victim to your need to please. I am trying to help and empower people, wherever they've come from, to consider their hope for the future and consider what they still have left within themselves what resources they have left and what strengths they can draw on. I It's a choice. It's a choice. It's not always the obviously easiest route. It's not always the path of least resistance, but it's one that's ultimately more satisfying and meaningful.” ~Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD Our guest, Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD, is a cognitive psychologist who is among the top 1% most cited scientists in the world for his groundbreaking research on intelligence, creativity, and human potential. He is the host of The Psychology Podcast, which has received more than 30 million downloads and is frequently ranked the #1 psychology podcast in the world. He is a professor of psychology at Columbia University and director of the Center for Human Potential. Dr. Kaufman's writing has appeared in The Atlantic, Scientific American, Psychology Today, and Harvard Business Review, and he is the author of ten previous books, including Transcend, Wired to Create, and Ungifted. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Psychosis is a state of impaired reality which may include hallucinations and delusions. Experiencing psychosis can impair your functioning and have a negative effect on various aspects of your daily life, such as work, school, and the ability to maintain relationships. Being in a state of psychosis can be extremely frightening and confusing. Many times, it can be difficult for loved ones, caregivers, and even medical professionals to understand what it's like to experience psychosis. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss what psychosis is like and how you can help someone who is experiencing psychosis in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Clinical psychologist Dr. Aaron Brinen joins as the guest. Dr. Brinen is the co-developer of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world. He also has a new book out, “Living Well with Psychosis.” Our guest, Dr. Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice, where he employs evidence-based treatments to help people recover from serious mental health conditions. He is also Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Brinen is a co-developer of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world. Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com. Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've received a new diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Now it's time to sharpen your survival toolkit. In part two of this essential series, Gabe Howard (Lived Experience) and Dr. Nicole Washington (Board Certified Psychiatrist) dive straight into the signals you can't afford to miss: the subtle shifts in sleep, mood, and behavior that whisper “episode incoming.” Learn why tracking your patterns today becomes your superpower tomorrow, and how a simple “chain analysis” can turn hindsight into foresight. With candid humor, real‑world examples (yes, Taco Bell may factor in), and expert guidance, this episode transforms “How did I miss that?” into “I can see it coming—and I'm ready.” Press play and empower yourself with the roadmap that turns panic into proactive action. (Link to the first episode: New Diagnosis? All the Basics Unlocked (Part 1 of 2)) Cold Open Transcript: Dr. Nicole You have to be honest with us about everything, including, as Gabe so eloquently put it, getting your freak on. Gabe: Getting your freak on. Getting your freak on. Dr. Nicole: You gotta tell us. Gabe: It's the number one reason that people stop taking their meds. Dr. Nicole: Yes, yes, yes. Gabe: And they always report to me I just stopped taking my medicine because I couldn't get an erection. Because my libido was down. You know, the sex didn't feel as good. I couldn't achieve orgasm. So I just Dr. Nicole: Yeah. Gabe: Stopped taking my medicine. And I don't want to tell my Dr. Nicole that. Dr. Nicole: Yeah. Because she's an old lady. Because she's Gabe: Yeah. Dr. Nicole: An old lady. She's the same age as my mom. I can't talk to her about sex. Gabe: Yeah, yeah. I hear that all the time. All the time. Number one reason. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England. To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if giving birth left you with nightmares, hypervigilance, and a constant sense of dread — and no one believed you? Worse, what if you didn't think it mattered because, after all, the baby is healthy? In this eye-opening episode, host Gabe Howard talks with ADAA member expert Dr. Lauren Sippel about a condition many have never heard of: postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Sippel explains what postpartum PTSD really looks like, why it's often misdiagnosed, and how to tell the difference between typical new parent stress and clinical trauma. Often overshadowed by postpartum depression and dismissed by loved ones and providers, postpartum PTSD is a silent struggle affecting far more people than we realize. If you or someone you love has felt lost or dismissed after childbirth, this conversation could be life-changing. Special thanks to Evernorth Health Services for providing funding for today's episode. Additional Links: PC-PTSD-5—infographic (self-screening tool): https://adaa.org/sites/default/files/2021-01/How%20to%20Know%20If%20You%20Should%20Talk%20with%20Your%20Healthcare%20Provider%20About%20PTSD.pdf Postpartum Support International website: https://www.postpartum.net/ “There are so many things that can happen in that delivery. I've heard about the peaceful ones. I personally had two unmedicated ones that were not intentionally unmedicated. There was a lot of screaming. And my babies were healthy. And some things went as smoothly as expected and some things did not go as planned. And one of them was pretty scary. And thankfully I did not experience PTSD symptoms from that. Could I tell you why, Gabe? Absolutely not. And if I did, I probably couldn't tell you that either.” ~Lauren M. Sippel, PhD Our guest, Lauren Sippel, PhD, is the Deputy Director of the Northeast Program Evaluation Center in the Department of Veterans Affairs and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She co-leads the ADAA PTSD Special Interest Group. Her research focuses on improving the quality and effectiveness of psychotherapies, particularly those for PTSD, using strategies such as medication augmentation and family involvement. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know about physical fitness, but what if we treated mental fitness with the same urgency and structure? In this episode, psychiatrist and author Dr. Drew Ramsey joins Gabe Howard to reveal how everyday choices like eating more vegetables or going on a daily walk can profoundly reshape our brains and protect our mental health. No fancy meds or complicated therapy — just smart, doable actions that turn your mind into a powerhouse. Discover why mental fitness is the missing piece in our mental health crisis and how stacking simple changes can protect your brain for life. Listen in and learn: simple tenets of mental fitness that anyone can start today how your diet and daily routines shape your brain health why connection and engagement are brain superfoods how to unburden trauma and build purpose for lasting strength If you're looking for real, science-backed ways to feel better and stay better — without gimmicks — this episode will change how you think about your mental health forever.  Cold Open Transcript: Gabe Howard: People psych themselves out and say, oh, well, I put butter on my broccoli. I've ruined it. Everybody seems to think that if they're not a raw vegan, then there's no point in eating healthy. And I think that's a mistake. Drew Ramsey, MD: That's a huge mistake. It's also not what the data says, if you look at research. What I've tried to bring to the mental health world is the notion that we need to think about food when we're thinking about things like depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, trauma recovery, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, all of these have big nutritional implications. Our guest, Drew Ramsey, MD, is a board certified psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and author. ​His work focuses on evidence-based integrative psychiatry, Nutritional Psychiatry and male mental health. He founded the Brain Food Clinic, a digital mental health practice, and Spruce Mental Health in Jackson, Wyoming. Using the latest research along with decades of clinical experience, he hopes to help people improve their mental health and build resilient mental fitness. He and his team have created three e-courses: Healing the Modern Brain, Eat To Beat Depression, and Nutritional Psychiatry for Clinicians; along with free downloads, the free nutritional psychiatry cooking class the Mental Fitness Kitchen, a weekly mental health update newsletter Friday Feels, and a mental health and mental fitness focused podcast. ​His latest book, “Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets To Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind,” will be published by Harper Collins in March 2025. His previous books helped establish Nutritional Psychiatry and explore the connection between food and mental health: the international best-seller “Eat To Beat Depression and Anxiety” (HarperWave 2021) now translated into 9 languages; the award-winning cookbook “Eat Complete: The 21 Nutrients that Fuel Brain Power, Boost Weight Loss and Transform Your Health” (HarperWave 2016); the bestseller “50 Shades of Kale” (HarperWave 2013) and “The Happiness Diet: A Nutritional Prescription for a Sharp Brain, Balanced Mood and Lean, Energized Body” (Rodale 2011).  ​Learn more at DrewRamseyMD.com. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine hearing, “You have bipolar disorder,” and feeling the ground drop out from under you. That moment of shock and confusion is the very reason we made this episode. Join Gabe Howard (lived experience) and Dr. Nicole Washington (board certified psychiatrist) as they transform that initial overwhelm into a powerful first step. In this episode, you'll discover the essential truths no one tells you when you get a new diagnosis: why bipolar is a lifelong journey (yes, it's more like diabetes than a short-term infection), how to sort gold standard science from Reddit rumors, and why medications — while not magic — can be game‑changers when wielded wisely. Whether you're fresh off your diagnosis or need a foundational refresher, press play and arm yourself with the knowledge, skills, and community wisdom that can turn this new chapter into your strongest one yet.  “When it comes to bipolar disorder, I caution you against answer shopping. It only hurts you when you believe incorrect information.” ~Gabe Howard, Host Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England.To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your child a picky eater, or is it something more serious — and how can you tell? Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) goes far beyond food preferences. It's driven by deep-seated fears of choking, vomiting, or other anxieties that can lead to dangerous nutritional deficiencies. In this episode, Gabe Howard sits down with ADAA member expert Dr. Jacqueline Sperling, a clinical psychologist and Harvard Medical School professor, to break down the signs of ARFID, outline how it differs from typical picky eating, and mention when parents should seek professional help. Learn how to spot the red flags, understand the role of anxiety in food avoidance, and discover ways to support kids managing this lesser known eating disorder. If mealtimes are a battle in your home, this episode is a must-listen! Special thanks to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America for sponsoring this episode.  “They could have different obsessions of what might happen should they eat any of those foods. Some could have a fear that there's contamination. Some can have a fear that it's cooked all the way. Some can have a concern that something separate from the food, but a negative consequence may happen if they eat those foods. It can also happen that someone is worried about having IBS symptoms in public, so they don't want to eat certain foods. And so they limit the foods that they eat, or even when they're at home because they're worried about when they go out in public afterward.” ~Jacqueline Sperling, PhD Our guest, Jacqueline Sperling, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist, assistant professor in psychology at Harvard Medical School, and the co-founder and co-program director of the McLean Anxiety Mastery Program at McLean Hospital. She is the author of the young adult nonfiction book “Find Your Fierce: How to Put Social Anxiety in Its Place” and a contributor for Harvard Health Publishing. Dr. Sperling specializes in implementing cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention and working with youth with anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She also focuses on caregiver guidance, such as by using behavioral parent training, to help families address children's internalizing and externalizing behaviors. In addition, Dr. Sperling is passionate about disseminating evidence-based information to the community, and she frequently speaks about the impact of social media use on mental health. Moreover, Dr. Sperling is committed to increasing access to care and participates in advocacy at state and federal government levels. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cults don't always start with Kool-Aid or crime scenes — sometimes, they begin with yoga classes, utopian promises, or someone saying you're special. In this episode, Gabe Howard sits down with journalist and author Wendy Biddlecombe Agsar, whose book “Cults: A True Crime Collection” explores how seemingly “normal” people fall into manipulative groups. From love bombing and spiritual seduction to sleep deprivation and isolation, Wendy unpacks the subtle tactics cults use to recruit and retain followers — and why it's not about being gullible or broken. She shares her own brushes with cult-like communities and explains how even caring interventions can backfire by reinforcing a cult leader's narrative. If you've ever wondered, “How could anyone fall for that?” — this episode is your answer. Thought-provoking, emotional, and packed with insight, it just might change the way you see cults — and yourself. "(You may be thinking) I would never hurt another person. I would never believe in aliens. But the way cults work, you're not really joining a destructive organization. You're joining a group based on some ideology that is probably a little bit different from the news headlines. . ." ~Wendy Biddlecombe Agsar Our guest, Wendy Biddlecombe Agsar, is a freelance editor and reporter living in Leipzig, Germany. She is a contributing editor at “Tricycle: The Buddhist Review” and the author of “Cults: A True Crime Collection.” Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The story of schizophrenia has too often been told through a lens of fear and misunderstanding. But that's changing. Thanks to relentless advocates, awareness campaigns, and policy reform, stigma is being challenged and access to care is improving. But how do we join this fight? What does real advocacy look like — and where do we even begin? In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard share their own advocacy journeys and break down the many ways you can make a difference. Joining them is Dr. Tracy Hicks, a doctor of nursing practice and dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. With years of hands-on experience pushing for mental health reform, Dr. Hicks offers insight into what effective advocacy really takes — from the clinic to the capitol. Guest Information: Dr. Tracy Hicks, MBA, APRN, FNP- BC, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FIAAN, FAANP Doctor of Nursing Practice, Dual Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Founder and CEO, Director of Clinical Services Founder and CEO of C-Trilogy, Dr. Hicks has been an advocate in the mental health community for many years as well as actively involved in attempts to make changes in legislation to break down barriers to care. C-Trilogy Comprehensive clinical care was established by Dr. Tracy Hicks as a for-profit entity in 2015, and in 2020 the Non-profit sector C-Trilogy Outreach was founded to answer the needs of the community during and after the pandemic. Dr. Hicks is an experienced speaker with several appearances and presentations across the country, primarily in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB), Social Determinants of Health (SDoH), Emotional Intelligence (EI), Leadership, and substance use disorder treatment. She also serves as an advisor, consultant, and speaker in the pharmaceutical industry. Moreover, she is certified in addictions nursing and was inducted into the Fellows of the International Academy of Addiction Nurses in 2019 and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners in 2021. She is a clinic owner and non-profit founder. She serves as Vice President of Texas Nurse Practitioners.  She believes that “restricted NP practice anywhere is restricted access to care everywhere.” https://www.ctrilogyoutreach.org Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com. Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this female-centric episode, board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington welcomes mental health advocate Kit Wallis, who lives with schizoaffective disorder, for a fearless “girl power” takeover. Kit shares raw stories of being dismissed, sexualized, and romanticized simply for being a woman with a serious mental health diagnosis — and how one doctor's simple question, “What is it like for you?” completely changed her care. Together, they pull back the curtain on the “crazy girl” trope, explore why stability truly is the new sexy, and celebrate the radical act of being heard. You'll learn how gender bias sneaks into clinical decisions — from medication adjustments to life-altering procedures — and discover practical tools for reclaiming agency: setting boundaries, understanding transference in therapy, and advocating for respectful, person-centered care. Tune in and join Dr. Nicole and Kit for an uplifting, eye-opening discussion, because when women speak, real change happens.  We have a guest host for this episode (Don't worry, Gabe Howard will be back!) Our guest host, Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health. Kit was diagnosed with the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder in late 2020 and has struggled with symptoms since she was in middle school. Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition where someone experiences symptoms of schizophrenia--such as delusions and hallucinations--but also symptoms of a mood disorder--either major depression or, in Kit's case, bipolar. Realizing there was a lack of schizoaffective advocates, she decided to start her SchizoKitzo project to raise awareness for this complex condition. The mission of SchizoKitzo is to raise awareness of schizoaffective disorder and all of its aspects, from the mood side to the psychotic side. Kit works to bridge the gap between life and science so she can help break the stigma around mental health. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into a no-holds-barred conversation that shatters common myths about self-harm. Join host Gabe Howard and renowned psychologist and ADAA member expert Dr. Gillian C. Galen as they explore the intricate world of self-harm and emotional regulation. Delving into the neuroscience behind adolescent brain development and its impact on behavior, Dr. Galen explains why self-injurious behaviors are more prevalent during youth and how they evolve — or sometimes subside — in adulthood. They discuss the common reasons behind self-injury and why it's far more complex than the stereotypes we see in movies and media. They explore the surprising ways self-harm can signal deep emotional distress, reveal underlying trauma, and even affect relationships. Whether you've been directly affected or want to better understand the struggles of those you care about, this conversation is a must-listen. Special thanks to McLean Hospital for providing funding for today's episode. “If you see that somebody is self-injuring, it really means, like the level of distress that they are in and the difficulty, like the deficits in coping skills, like they're missing a set of coping skills is pretty profound, right. And you know, the consequences are pretty high. They don't have another skill. We're basically saying, stop self-injuring. What are they going to do with those emotions? What are they going to do with them? Clearly, if they had another way to manage them, they would. I've never met somebody that started self-injuring that has said I had other coping skills, but I chose this instead. Usually when they start self-injuring, it's because they don't know what else to do.” ~Gillian C. Galen, PsyD Our guest, Gillian C. Galen, PsyD, is a senior child and adolescent psychologist specializing in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). She is the director of training for the 3East continuum, an array of programs for teens that use DBT to target self-endangering behaviors and symptoms of borderline personality disorder. She has extensive experience diagnosing and treating adolescents and young adults who struggle with emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-endangering behaviors, such as self-injury and suicidal behaviors. Dr. Galen has a particular interest in the use of mindfulness in the treatment of borderline personality disorder and psychiatric illnesses. She is the co-author of the books “Mindfulness for Borderline Personality Disorder: Relieve Your Suffering Using the Core Skill of Dialectical Behavior Therapy”, “Coping With BPD: DBT and CBT Skills to Soothe the Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder”, and “DBT for Dummies.” Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking to turn your big dreams into reality? You're not alone — and it might not be your willpower that's holding you back, but the way you set your goals. In this episode, host Gabe Howard welcomes Dr. Ross G. White, clinical psychologist, author of “The Tree That Bends,” and founder of Strive to Thrive, to demystify the SMART framework and help you build goals that stick. Together, Gabe and Dr. White unpack each letter of SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-limited) to show you how to transform vague aspirations (“I want to get fit”) into crystal clear, trackable targets (“I will complete three 30-minute strength workouts each week for the next month”). You'll hear concrete examples, common pitfalls, and Dr. White's insider tips for aligning your goals with what truly matters in your life. Plus, stick around for a candid discussion on why the “stay hard,” grit-and-grind mentality might be selling you short — and how a flexible mind can be your secret weapon for thriving, not just surviving. Tune in and start setting goals you'll actually achieve! “The mere ordinary seems to be resistant to going viral. It's only the incredible and the extraordinary that goes viral. So we are skewed in terms of some of the reference points that we have around what we should be capable of, what we should be doing, what we should be achieving. And that leads us to be highly motivated to try to make an impact, to establish ourselves. But it also then can tip over into threat if we feel that we're falling short, or that people are judging us for not being enough, for not doing enough, for not contributing enough.” ~Dr. Ross White Our guest, Dr. Ross White, is a Professor of Clinical Psychology at Queen's University Belfast and the founder of Strive2Thrive, a clinical psychology consultancy firm that provides interventions and training to help individuals and organizations thrive. He is an expert in supporting the mental well-being of adults working in high-performance settings. Ross is the author of several books, including “The Tree That Bends: How a flexible mind can help you thrive.” Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if a secret weapon in managing bipolar disorder isn't a new medication or a breakthrough therapy — but a brisk 20-minute walk? In this refreshingly honest and hilariously relatable episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington take on the least talked about pillar of bipolar stability: lifestyle management, and more specifically, exercise. During a recent bout of depression, Gabe's doctor “tricked” him into walking daily by describing it like a miracle pill. Spoiler alert: It kind of was. At first, Gabe thought the idea sounded like a total scam — and he didn't even own sneakers. (His first walks were in Doc Martens.) But over the past year, daily walks have become part of his recovery. In this episode, Gabe opens up about what finally got him moving, why he stuck with it, and how something so simple ended up making a real difference. Dr. Nicole, a self-proclaimed workout hater, shares why she still encourages her patients — and herself — to move, even when it's the last thing they want to do. From the science behind short daily walks to the mental health benefits for people managing bipolar disorder, Gabe opens up about what finally got him moving, how it changed his mindset, and why the smallest step forward can sometimes shift everything. "When somebody first mentioned going for a walk for bipolar disorder I thought what is this new age garbage? Like, I live with a serious and persistent mental illness. Going for a walk is not going to do anything. But I gotta tell you, I was wrong. Look, I'm not saying that it cures bipolar disorder. But I can say that it helps manage my moods." ~Gabe Howard, Host Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England. To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we peel back the layers of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) — a condition far beyond simple vanity. Host Gabe Howard and clinician Scott M. Granet tear apart the facade of BDD — a mental battle where the mirror becomes your worst enemy.  This episode exposes a disorder that distorts reality, making you question every reflection. Forget cosmetic fixes — plastic surgery rarely provides salvation. Scott bares his soul, recounting his harrowing struggle from a college crisis over a few stray hairs to a lifelong fight against the obsessive compulsion to fix what isn't really broken. With raw honesty and expert insights, this conversation dives into the complexities of living with BDD, highlighting the vital role of support systems and cognitive behavioral therapy. Whether you or someone you know battles inner demons or simply seeks a deeper understanding of mental health, this episode promises a captivating exploration of perception versus reality. Special thanks to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America for sponsoring this episode. “If you're somebody with BDD who has a problem with your physical appearance, your first thought is not going to be, I should go see a psychotherapist. Your first thought is probably going to be, I want to get this fixed. And even if they suspect they have a psychiatric problem, a major issue with BDD is that it's often considered a shame based disorder. There can be so much shame associated with this, to the point where people don't want to go for therapy and, you know, they're too embarrassed to tell somebody about this problem.” ~Scott M. Granet, LCSW Today's guest, Scott Granet, LCSW, specializes in the treatment of OCD and BDD. He has presented at numerous conferences worldwide and has taught continuing education classes at universities and other institutions throughout the U.S., including the Rutgers University School of Social Work, the UC Berkeley Extension, the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy and Practice and the NYU Silver School of Social Work. Mr. Granet is the author of “The Complete OCD Workbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Free Yourself from Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsive Behaviors” and “Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Mine and Yours: A Personal and Clinical Perspective.” Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why would a person make their own child sick — or lie about it — for attention? In this gripping and eye-opening episode, retired detective Mike Weber joins Gabe Howard to expose the disturbing reality behind Munchausen syndrome by proxy, now medically known as factitious disorder imposed on another. With 40 years of law enforcement experience and over 50 cases investigated, Weber pulls back the curtain on a form of child abuse that's more prevalent — and more chilling — than most people realize. Forget what you think you know from TV dramas. This is not just a mental illness — it often involves calculated crime. Learn how people with this condition can manipulate doctors, deceive family members, and train children to play along in a twisted performance. Discover why nearly all are mothers, how children are affected, and why the justice system struggles to prosecute these complex cases. If you're interested in true crime, psychology, or the darker corners of human behavior, this episode will stay with you long after it ends. “She was given five years probation. That child was left in her care even after criminal charges were filed, even after she was convicted. These offenders have a compulsion very similar to what child sex abuse offenders have. That would be akin to placing a child back in the home with a child sex abuse offender that had offended on that child previously and expecting them to offend no more. That is what family court does quite often in these cases. Because we don't want to believe that a mother could hurt their own child. That is just how we are as a society. We want to believe that all mothers are good and all mothers are not good.”  ~Detective Mike Weber, Author of "The Mother Next Door" Our guest, Detective Mike Weber, has 40 years law enforcement experience, including 15 years as a crimes against children investigator. Detective Weber has investigated over 50 reports of Medical Child Abuse that have led to 13 convictions, 3 cases pending trial. Detective Weber co-authored the APSAC best practice guidelines on Medical Child Abuse titled Munchausen by Proxy: Clinical and Case Management (APSAC Advisor journal March 2018). Weber also authored a separate article in the same issue of the Advisor titled Investigation of Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another and Medical Child Abuse. Detective Weber authored Investigating Medical Child Abuse for the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin journal (August 2018). Detective Weber was awarded the 2016 NCMEC Texas Hero for Children Award for the investigation of Geronimo Aguilar and Medical Child Abuse Cases. Weber is currently assigned to investigate crimes against children for the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office and handles all reports of medical child abuse in Tarrant County. Detective Weber contributes to the true crime/educational podcast “Nobody Should Believe Me,” which examines medical child abuse through previous cases. Detective Weber co-authored the true crime novel “The Mother Next Door” with Andrea Dunlop. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Up to 70% of people with schizophrenia don't take their medication as prescribed. This nonadherence is tied to higher risks of psychosis, relapse, ongoing symptoms, and even suicide attempts. So why do so many people with schizophrenia struggle to stay on their meds — despite such serious consequences? And what can actually be done about it? In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers — who lives with schizophrenia — and co-host Gabe Howard explore the complicated reality behind medication adherence. Rachel shares her own experiences with skipping or stopping meds, shedding light on the emotional and psychological challenges that aren't often discussed. They're joined by Dr. Alberto Augsten, a toxicologist and psychopharmacologist who consults with pharmaceutical companies and helps shape best-practice guidelines for psychiatric medications. Dr. Augsten brings expert insight into how treatment can be improved and what steps can be taken to support long-term recovery. Listen now to learn more! Our guest, Dr. Alberto Augsten, is a board certified toxicologist and psychopharmacologist. He is a consultant and expert witness specializing in psychopharmacology and clinical toxicology. Offering professional, impactful, and strategic consulting services, Dr. Augsten caters to legal, healthcare, and clinical practice development. His expertise encompasses many areas, ensuring clients receive top-notch guidance and insights. Dr. Augsten specializes in providing tailored consulting services to assist in the development and optimization of clinical practice standards. His expertise covers many areas crucial for clinic development, allowing for standard of care reviews concerning those matters. Dr. Augsten's influence extends beyond his clinical practice. He offers consultation and education services to pharmaceutical companies, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical knowledge and practices. Through his contributions, he is helping to improve patient outcomes and ensure the highest quality of care. Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com. Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine being fully awake, yet your body refuses to respond — a terrifying state where time seems to warp as you stand paralyzed. In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the elusive world of catatonia as it intersects with bipolar disorder. Drawing from special guest host Kit Wallis's (SchizoKitzo's) firsthand experiences, including moments of being physically “frozen” while fully aware, this episode unpacks the surprising complexities behind catatonia. Listeners will gain a clear and compassionate understanding of the three distinct presentations as host Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, breaks down the symptoms and dispels common misconceptions, while Kit shares intimate details of how these episodes have disrupted her life and ultimately guided her toward better management of her mental health. Whether you are directly affected by bipolar disorder or seeking a deeper insight into its hidden facets, this discussion promises to be an enlightening journey into one of the most misunderstood aspects of the condition. We have a guest host for this episode (Don't worry, Gabe Howard will be back!): Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health. Kit was diagnosed with the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder in late 2020 and has struggled with symptoms since she was in middle school. Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition where someone experiences symptoms of schizophrenia--such as delusions and hallucinations--but also symptoms of a mood disorder--either major depression or, in Kit's case, bipolar. Realizing there was a lack of schizoaffective advocates, she decided to start her SchizoKitzo project to raise awareness for this complex condition. The mission of SchizoKitzo is to raise awareness of schizoaffective disorder and all of its aspects, from the mood side to the psychotic side. Kit works to bridge the gap between life and science so she can help break the stigma around mental health. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes, you are so consumed by caring for a loved one with a serious mental illness, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, that taking a moment for yourself feels like a betrayal. In this episode, host Gabe Howard and Dr. C. Alec Pollard reveal the hidden crisis of caregiver burnout in the world of serious mental illness. They dismantle the myth that self-care is selfish, showing how neglecting your own needs can worsen stress and strain the very relationships you cherish. Dr. Pollard dives into the toxic beliefs that trap caregivers—those who support individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other severe conditions—into a cycle of resentment and exhaustion. With breakthrough strategies and compassionate advice, this episode offers a wake-up call for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the relentless demands of caregiving. Learn how nurturing yourself not only protects your well-being but also empowers you to care more effectively for your loved one. Funding for this episode was provided by Evernorth Health Services. “If you can do no good, at least do no harm. A lot of the, the things that families don't understand and caregivers is that they're actually doing things that not only they know it doesn't work okay. When they're doing these things, these naggings and lectures and all that, they know it's not working. But what they may not appreciate is it's actually making things worse over time.” ~C. Alec Pollard, PhD Our guest, C. Alec Pollard, Ph.D., is Founding Director of the Center for OCD and Anxiety-Related Disorders at Saint Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute and Professor Emeritus of Family and Community Medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He is a licensed psychologist who works with a range of obsessive-compulsive and anxiety-related disorders, with a special interest in obstacles that might inhibit the pursuit of recovery or interfere with effective participation in treatment. He is on the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation and chairs the organization's Training Subcommittee, including a national training initiative called the Behavior Therapy Training Institute.  Dr. Pollard is former chair of the Clinical Advisory Board of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and has authored over 100 publications, including 3 books – “The Agoraphobia Workbook, Dying of Embarrassment: Help for Social Anxiety & Phobia,” and “When a Loved One Won't Seek Mental Health Treatment: How to Promote Recovery and Reclaim Your Family's Well-Being.” Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt the crushing weight of doubt when every day is a battle with your own mind? In this episode, Gabe (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole (a board certified psychiatrist) cut through the BS and get real about staying on track with bipolar treatment. They dive into moments when giving up seems like the easier option and Gabe recalls a painful wake-up call from a friend who wasn't holding back their anger — a moment that ignited a drive to prove everyone wrong. Dr. Nicole breaks down why even the smallest victories, like getting out of bed or planning a future getaway, can mean everything. With no sugarcoating, they explore the raw truth behind why fighting isn't just for the dark days — it's a constant, everyday challenge. This episode is for anyone who's ever wondered how to find the strength to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming. “I did not want to lay down and die. My core philosophical values and belief systems is that this is all there is. Whatever I do with it, that's my life. That will be how I'm remembered. That is what people will see. Whatever joy or suffering or pain or happiness or success or laughter or connections, this is all there is. And if I just sit at home and do nothing, then I will just be remembered as the guy who sat at home and did nothing. And I don't want to be remembered that way.” ~Gabe Howard, Host Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England. To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really mean to grieve — and when does grief become a danger to your life? In this weighty episode, host Gabe Howard sits down with Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor, a leading expert in psychology whose work on grief and loss has touched millions. Dr. O'Connor shares groundbreaking insights on the subtle yet critical differences between the stereotypical grief process and prolonged grief, revealing why your heart can literally stop functioning due to loss. From staggering statistics showing a man's heart attack risk skyrockets on the day his spouse dies, to the intimate science of how our bonds regulate our well-being, this conversation is as thought-provoking as it is moving. Discover practical strategies to navigate those raw, overwhelming moments of loss, and learn how to build a personal toolkit for healing. Whether you're coping with grief yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode promises a deep, human exploration into turning heartbreak into hope. This episode has been sponsored by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). “It's not just that you're having grief, which is normal. It's that we're unable to find a way to adapt given that we have grief. So people with prolonged grief feel like life holds no meaning anymore, or they feel so angry and bitter about what's happened that they have trouble connecting with their living loved ones.” ~ Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD Our guest, Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the University of Arizona, where she directs the Grief, Loss and Social Stress (GLASS) Lab, investigating the effects of grief on the brain and the body. Her book “The Grieving Brain” was included on Oprah's list of Best Books to Comfort a Grieving Friend. O'Connor holds a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Arizona and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in psychoneuroimmunology at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. Having grown up in Montana, she now lives in Tucson, Arizona. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is schizoaffective disorder so often overlooked — even by mental health professionals — and how does it relate to bipolar disorder? In this episode, Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with guest host Kit Wallis (aka SchizoKitzo) to discuss Kit's life managing schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type. Kit shares her decade-long journey through multiple diagnoses, from cyclothymia to bipolar I, before finally receiving the correct diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. Kit explains why this diagnosis finally made sense and how she educated herself on her disorder. If you've ever wondered about the blurry lines between bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder — or just want to hear a powerful story of self-advocacy — this episode is for you. Cold Open Transcript:  Dr. Nicole: Some people will tell me that their voices are not all bad, and they don't necessarily want to get rid of them. Kit: Oh, man. That's a can of worms. That is a can of worms. When I was telling my psychiatrist that I was experiencing religious delusions, and I went on antipsychotics to get rid of the god who hated me, but not necessarily for the voices who helped me so much. I ended up losing the others and I think about the voices that I don't hear anymore all the time because I miss them that much. We have a guest host (Don't worry, Gabe Howard will be back!) for this episode: Our host, Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health. Kit was diagnosed with the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder in late 2020 and has struggled with symptoms since she was in middle school. Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition where someone experiences symptoms of schizophrenia--such as delusions and hallucinations--but also symptoms of a mood disorder--either major depression or, in Kit's case, bipolar. Realizing there was a lack of schizoaffective advocates, she decided to start her SchizoKitzo project to raise awareness for this complex condition. The mission of SchizoKitzo is to raise awareness of schizoaffective disorder and all of its aspects, from the mood side to the psychotic side. Kit works to bridge the gap between life and science so she can help break the stigma around mental health. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When children grieve, the adults around them are often grieving, too—but how do we help them process loss when we're struggling ourselves? In this powerful conversation, author Lindsay Bonilla shares the deeply personal story behind her children's book “The Hole,” written to help young readers understand and express grief. With host Gabe Howard, together they explore the challenges of discussing death with kids, why grief shouldn't be “filled in” and forgotten, and how storytelling can create space for healing. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone who has experienced loss, this episode offers heartfelt insights into navigating grief—both for children and yourself. Listen now for a moving discussion on love, loss, and the importance of remembering. “A lot of children have experienced a lot of loss. So, letting kids lead and tell you what they need. Giving them tools, like children's books that address grief. Or if they see something. I mean, gee, there's a lot of, lot of movies. I mean, my son's obsessed with Star Wars. There's a lot of loss in that. And sometimes just taking the time to have the conversation at the level that they're comfortable with and letting them kind of lead the conversation. Rather than just acting like, well, they're fine. You know? [Laughter]” ~Lindsay Bonilla Our guest, Lindsay Bonilla (LindsayBonilla.com), is a professional storyteller and author whose previous picture books include The Storyteller, the Parents' Choice Award winner Polar Bear Island, I Love You with All of My Hearts, and The Note Who Faced the Music. She lives with her husband, two wild and creative kids, and her dog, Blitzen, in North Canton, Ohio. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many adults with schizophrenia rely on family members for daily support, often depending on parents in their 50s or 60s. As these parents grow older, they face mounting physical and emotional challenges — along with the pressing question of who will care for their child in the future. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard dive into the unique struggles of aging parents caring for an adult child with schizophrenia. Joining the conversation is Maye Jepson, a mother and caregiver to an adult son with schizophrenia. As a passionate advocate and a master's-level counselor, Maye offers invaluable insights on navigating the caregiving journey and preparing for the future. Maye Jepson lives in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and, along with her husband Phil, is the caregiver/TRUST PARTNER and parent of Jason Jepson who has a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. Remembering the uncertain days when her family first learned of her son's mental illness, Maye formed a Facebook support group — Parenting Thru Mental Illness — hoping to give and share resources for those who are newly entering the world of mental illness. In the past, Maye has volunteered with several international boards, including Stonecroft Ministries, Imago Dei Arts, and Global Partners in Hope. In addition to a Bachelor of Science degree, Maye has a master's degree in counseling from Marshall University. Like her son, Maye volunteers with the Share Network where she shares her perspective on mental health as a parent, wanting desperately to help a young adult child maneuver the challenges of schizophrenia. She works as a Care Guide for Johnson and Johnson's Connected by Hope program. Maye serves on the Advisory Board of Students with Psychosis because she believes in the importance of shedding light on mental health issues from the youngest to the oldest consumer. Maye and her son Jason were Finalists for the Social Health Network's Best Team award, and they were the recipients of the Students with Psychosis Family Advocacy Award. Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com. Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder what happens when two complex mental health conditions collide? In this episode, host Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington, peel back the layers of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder, challenging the clichés and misconceptions that have long overshadowed these conditions. Using humor, candor, and expert insight, they share personal anecdotes and surprising research that illuminate the hidden battles behind intrusive thoughts, relentless rituals, and shifting moods. This conversation dives deep into how misinterpreting symptoms can lead to confusion and missed diagnoses — making it a must listen for anyone seeking clarity on the comorbidity of these two conditions.   Whether you're navigating these challenges yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode invites you to rethink what you know about OCD and bipolar disorder. “It's very difficult to have an episode about OCD and bipolar disorder because they're two unique illnesses that present in very unique ways. And I'm not sure what it looks like when they blend together. You may or may not have it. The things that you're describing as OCD may very well just be personality traits or just part of bipolar disorder. So I want to ask you very specifically, is there anything unique about OCD and bipolar disorder put together that our audience needs to know that our listeners should be aware of or concerned about?”~Gabe Howard, Host Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to revolutionize the way you parent your newly minted adult children? In this episode, host Gabe Howard teams up with award-winning speaker Dr. Michael Ayalon to unravel the art of transforming traditional parenting into a dynamic, adult-to-adult dialogue. With insights honed over decades in leadership, higher education, and fraternity life, Michael offers practical strategies for balancing love, respect, and guidance while letting go of outdated rules. If you're seeking fresh insights to foster your child's independence, this episode provides a powerful blueprint for reimagining your relationship. Learn practical strategies for fostering mutual respect, active listening, and meaningful dialogue while allowing your newly adult child the freedom to learn from their own mistakes. Whether you're grappling with the bittersweet empty nest or seeking to redefine your role in your children's rapidly changing world, this episode offers heartwarming advice and real-world wisdom. Press play and discover the liberating power of evolved, mutually respectful parenthood. “You have to embrace autonomy. You have to recognize their need for independence and decision making, even if they make mistakes. Sometimes that is the best way for them to learn is to actually go through it. Failure is a crucial part of growth. So you want to encourage resilience. You want to encourage problem solving by allowing your child to face those challenges without immediately intervening. And also, you have to trust that the lessons that you've instilled in them over, you know, let's say 18 years will help to guide their actions in a good way.” ~Michael R. Ayalon, PhD Guest & Host Information: As an award-winning speaker, author, social media figure, hazing prevention expert, host of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, and CEO of Greek University, Michael Ayalon is a recognized thought leader in the realms of fraternity and sorority life, business leadership, and higher education. He has headlined keynote presentations on over 200 college campuses in 40 states to help solve problems such as hazing, alcohol and drug abuse, and apathy in college student organizations. Mike is able to take lessons learned from helping to build companies from startup to over $25 Million in annual sales, as well as best practices as the Former Executive Director of Sigma Pi Fraternity with 120 chapters and over 115,000 members, to create dynamic, positive, and results-driven keynotes and workshops that transform people's lives. Mike and his team published five books for Fraternity and Sorority leaders, including the From Letters to Leaders book series and "Using AI to Grow Your Fraternity or Sorority". He is a graduate of the School of Management at the University at Buffalo, and has a Master's Degree from Cumberland University in Public Service Management. Mike is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Assessment, Learning, and Student Success (Higher Education Concentration) at Middle Tennessee State University and will defend on January 22, 2025. The title of his dissertation is "Early Warning Signs of Hazing in College Fraternities and Sororities". Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people with bipolar disorder experience trauma — either from external events or even from the disorder itself. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the deep waters of managing trauma with bipolar disorder. They cover the differences between trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), debunking common misconceptions. They explore how experiences like suicidal episodes, hospitalization, job loss, and manic behavior can leave lasting emotional scars and why it's important to manage them. Most importantly, they discuss how to validate your experiences, communicate with loved ones and medical professionals, and take steps toward healing. If you've ever felt dismissed or struggled to explain how bipolar-related trauma affects you, this episode is a must listen. "People with bipolar disorder have trauma because of it. So much of this is driven from the fact that people aren't taken seriously. I want to say, as a person living with bipolar disorder, it is real. Bipolar disorder caused you trauma. You are traumatized because of your experiences with bipolar disorder." ~Gabe Howard, Host To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mental health influencers are everywhere — but can they be trusted? Kody Green, known online as Schizophrenic Hippie, joins Gabe Howard to tackle the controversy head-on. Kody shares how he balances advocacy with accuracy, why fact-checking matters, and how respectful conversations can combat misinformation. They also explore the impact of social media restrictions on topics like schizophrenia and suicide, and why open dialogue is essential for breaking stigma. Tune in for an honest conversation about the responsibilities of mental health influencers and how to navigate online advice safely. “A lot of this [is] going on on the internet right now, and not just the anti-psychiatry movement, but people know they can get a lot of views if they say that my schizophrenia is not hallucinations, it's actually a spiritual awakening. They can get a lot of views if they tell me that what I'm experiencing is actually a gift of some sort. Anything that is slightly controversial, not necessarily based on facts, they can take and run with.” ~Kody Green, Author of Minds Over Meetings To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Kody Green (He/Him) is a 30-year-old diagnosed with Schizophrenia. He is a motivational speaker and content creator with a following of over 1 million on TikTok. Kody's journey has included challenges with drug addiction, incarceration, and serious mental health struggles. ​To deepen his impact as an advocate and speaker, Kody trained as a peer support specialist, recovery coach, and suicide prevention specialist. ​Today, he shares his personal experiences and insights on overcoming adversity, navigating mental health challenges, and rebuilding life after incarceration. Kody's dedication to mental health advocacy, schizophrenia awareness, drug recovery, and second-chance opportunities is fueled by his own lived experiences. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental illness, and misinformation and stigma surrounding the condition are still prevalent in our societies. The stereotypes and the myths of schizophrenia create challenges for people with diagnosed schizophrenia, but also for healthcare workers, family members, and caretakers. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard break down the top myths surrounding schizophrenia. Remember, just because society believes that it's true doesn't mean it is.  Guest Psychiatrist Dr. Richard W. Miller joins to discuss the myths he is confronted with daily working in the mental health field. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our Guest, Dr. Richard (Rick) W. Miller, is a psychiatrist in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including South County Hospital and Landmark Medical Center. He received his medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and has been in practice for 14 years. Our Host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com. Our Host, Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bipolar doesn't just impact mood — it can take a toll on your sex drive, too. In this frank conversation, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, break down how both depression and mania affect libido, the frustration of losing sexual desire, and the pressures of maintaining intimacy in relationships. They cover why some people care deeply about their loss of sexual desire while others barely notice and seem not to mind. How do medication side effects and the emotional weight of bipolar disorder complicate sex and intimacy? And what about the expectations partners place on each other? This episode tackles it all — including the unspoken struggles of men and women navigating sex while managing mental health and the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Whether you're personally affected or supporting a loved one, this episode offers crucial insights into an often overlooked topic. "When it gets right down to it, hyposexuality is simple. Your libido is lowered and you don't know why. You need to follow this up. I know people are listening to this because bipolar disorder is what they feel is causing their issue." ~Gabe Howard, Host To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often conjures extreme images — either as a medieval torture method or a miraculous cure. But what's the reality? Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive deep into the facts, debunking myths and exploring the nuances of ECT as a treatment for bipolar disorder. In this episode, they discuss the effectiveness of ECT, why it's not a first-line treatment, and the barriers patients face, from logistical challenges to fears about memory loss. With candid insights and personal reflections, they tackle tough questions: Is ECT worth it? What are the real risks? How does it compare to medication? Whether you're curious, skeptical, or considering ECT for yourself or a loved one, this episode offers a grounded perspective on a complex, life-changing therapy. Don't miss this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion.   Cold Open Transcript: Gabe: Controversy aside, I don't understand how zapping somebody's brain makes them better. It just doesn't make any sense. Are electrical currents magic? Do they have some sort of medicinal capabilities? Dr. Nicole: No, [Laughter]. Well, no. Gabe, electro-currents are not magical. But the seizure that they induce is what can be valuable to the person with the disorder. Gabe: So the electrical shock stimulates the seizure. And the… Dr. Nicole: Yes. Gabe: Seizure is where the treatment comes in Dr. Nicole: The seizure is the treatment. The shock is just how we get there. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, our host interviews Dr. David Burns about his methods for overcoming negative thoughts and promoting joy using CBT techniques. Dr. Burns discusses various techniques and introduces his new digital tool, the Feeling Great app, which tracks personal feelings to facilitate quick and effective therapy, using advanced methods to help users change their thought patterns and emotions. Additionally, Dr. Burns emphasizes the importance of measurements in therapy for accountability and optimization, while promoting the availability of scientifically backed, drug-free treatment options for depression and anxiety, revealing his commitment to revolutionizing mental health care through his app and other resources. Listen now! “If you look at the DSM, the diagnostic and Statistical manual, hundreds of so-called mental disorders that are described. So whatever emotion you have, it can be turned into a mental disorder. So if you're shy and most of us get anxious in public speaking or around other people, well, you don't. You're not shy. You have a mental disorder called social anxiety disorder. And that really, excuse the language, pisses me off when they do that, because you've taken a very common problem and turned it into a mental disease, and then people think they need some pill for that. And to me, that's meaningless and it's, it's wrong.” ~Dr. David Burns, Adjunct Clinical Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Stanford University School of Medicine To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Dr. David Burns, graduated magna cum laude from Amherst College, received his M.D. from Stanford University School of Medicine, and completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He has served as Acting Chief of Psychiatry at the Presbyterian / University of Pennsylvania Medical Center (1988) and Visiting Scholar at the Harvard Medical School (1998), and is certified by the National Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Burns is currently Adjunct Clinical Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Stanford University School of Medicine, where he is involved in research and teaching. He has received numerous awards, including the A. E. Bennett Award for his research on brain chemistry, the Distinguished Contribution to Psychology through the Media Award, and the Outstanding Contributions Award from the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists. He has been named Teacher of the Year three times from the class of graduating residents at Stanford University School of Medicine, and feels especially proud of this award. In addition to his academic research, Dr. Burns has written a number of popular books on mood and relationship problems. His best-selling book, Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy, has sold over 4 million copies in the United States, and many more worldwide. Feeling Good is the book most frequently “prescribed” for depressed patients by psychiatrists and psychologists in the United States and Canada. Surveys indicate that American mental health professionals rate Feeling Good as the #1 book on depression, out of a list of 1,000 self-help books. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does "bipolar rage" exist, or is it a misunderstood concept? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle bipolar rage and discuss why it's not a clinical symptom of bipolar disorder. They explore the differences between anger, agitation, and rage, offering insights for those with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Learn why violent outbursts can't always be attributed to bipolar disorder, and why personal accountability matters. This episode also empowers loved ones to prioritize their safety and set boundaries if they feel threatened, whether the behavior stems from bipolar disorder or something else. With practical advice, myth-busting facts, and a touch of tough love, this conversation offers clarity and actionable steps for managing tough emotions. Hit play to uncover the truth and start making meaningful changes today! “The best time to have a fire drill is when there is no fire. Don't try to have a fire drill after the house is on fire. So many people try to work out how to prevent rage issues or arguments in the middle of arguments. Now is the time to do it. Not during, but before it happens.” ~Gabe Howard, Host To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADHD and bipolar disorder often share symptoms, but are they truly co-occurring conditions or just two sides of the same coin? Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington as they tackle one of the most perplexing topics in mental health. They dive into how these diagnoses overlap, how doctors differentiate between them, and why ADHD might sometimes be over diagnosed. Discover the challenges of treating ADHD in someone with bipolar disorder and why the right diagnosis matters for effective treatment. With engaging analogies and personal insights, this episode explores the fine line between labeling symptoms and focusing on wellness. If you or a loved one are navigating ADHD, bipolar disorder, or both, this is a must-listen conversation. Cold Open Transcript: Gabe: Hey, you're saying that I have bipolar disorder, but couldn't this just be ADHD or ADHD symptoms? You're saying that I have mania, but isn't that just hyperactivity? You're saying that I'm having racing thoughts, but isn't that just lack of ability to focus? Dr. Nicole: Yeah, yeah. Gabe: And they're like, well, wait a minute. I just have ADHD. What's this bipolar stuff that's coming up? Dr. Nicole: It is possible that those symptoms that look like ADHD could be untreated mood symptoms. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

​​Ever wonder why some of the smartest people, like doctors, can still get it wrong? In this eye-opening episode, Gabe Howard talks with Dr. Marty Makary, author of “Blind Spots: When Medicine Gets It Wrong,” to uncover how groupthink and cognitive biases influence not just medicine but also parenting and our everyday decisions. In this episode, Dr. Makary reveals why questioning authority is essential for better health outcomes. Parents, this episode is a must-listen! Learn why you don't need to follow the crowd when it comes to screen time, added sugar, and more. Packed with fascinating insights, this conversation challenges what you think you know about health, medicine, and parenting—and might just change how you see the world. “Maybe adults have done this to children? We have induced this problem. We have to look at our poisoned food supply. These engineered addictive food chemicals that are added, the role of pesticides, how we're changing the microbiome, throwing antibiotics loosely at people. Maybe we need to talk about school lunch programs, not just putting every kid on Ozempic? Maybe we need to talk about screen time addiction and its dopamine surge, not just putting every kid on medications?” ~Marty Makary, MD To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Dr. Marty Makary, is a New York Times bestselling author and health care expert at Johns Hopkins University. He writes for The Wall Street Journal and served in leadership at the World Health Organization. Marty is the recipient of the 2020 Business Book of the Year Award for his book, “The Price We Pay,” which has been described by Steve Forbes as “A must-read for every American.” A public health researcher, Dr. Makary leads efforts to improve the health of communities and focuses on the “redesign of healthcare” to make healthcare more reliable, holistic, and coordinated, especially for vulnerable populations. He leads national efforts to increase medical transparency and lower health care costs for everyday businesses and consumers. Clinically, Dr. Makary is the chief of Islet Transplant Surgery at Johns Hopkins and is the recipient of the Nobility in Science Award from the National Pancreas Foundation. He has been a visiting professor at over 25 medical schools, has published over 250 peer-reviewed scientific articles, and has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine. A graduate of Bucknell, Thomas Jefferson, and Harvard Universities, he completed his surgical residency at Georgetown University and his specialty training at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you often feel exhausted, resentful, or underappreciated in your relationships? In this episode, Gabe Howard and licensed psychotherapist Terri Cole explore the complexities of codependency, including its less-talked-about form: “high functioning codependency.” Terri shares practical tools like the “resentment inventory” to identify unhealthy relational patterns and explains how overgiving can be an unconscious attempt to control chaos. You'll also learn how societal pressures, especially on women, play a role in this dynamic and how setting boundaries can lead to healthier, more fulfilling connections. Whether you're managing relationships with friends, family, or colleagues, this episode will help you understand the line between healthy care and codependent behaviors. If you're tired of saying yes when you want to say no or struggling to let others help you, this is a must-listen conversation. “I coined the phrase high functioning codependency because my clients were these highly capable women, in particular, who did not identify with sort of the old school, Melody Beattie, “Codependent No More,” it's enabling an addict. That's all it is, basically. They're like dependent? I'm not dependent on squat. Everyone's dependent on me. I'm making all the money. I'm making all the decisions. I'm kind of the boss around here, so I can't be codependent, which is not true.” ~Terri Cole To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page. Our guest, Terri Cole, is a licensed psychotherapist and global relationship and empowerment expert and the author of “Boundary Boss” and “Too Much.” For over two decades, Terri has worked with a diverse group of clients that includes everyone from stay-at-home moms to celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs. She has a gift for making complex psychological concepts accessible and actionable so that clients and students achieve sustainable change. She inspires over a million people weekly through her blog, social media platform, signature courses, and her popular podcast, The Terri Cole Show. For more, see terricole.com. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices