Podcasts about mental health america

Suicide among older adults is a difficult topic—but it's one we cannot afford to ignore. Many older adults face challenges such as grief, chronic illness, isolation, and depression, yet the warning signs are often misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin speaks with Fiona Hoehn, Mental Health Training Coordinator for Mental Health America of Middle Tennessee, about how families, caregivers, and friends can recognize the signs of suicidal ideation and provide meaningful support. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why older adults are at increased risk for suicide Common warning signs and behavioral changes to watch for The difference between grief, depression, and suicidal thoughts How to start a conversation with someone you are concerned about When a situation requires immediate intervention Resources available for older adults and their families Whether you're caring for an aging parent, working with older adults professionally, or simply want to be better prepared to help someone in need, this episode offers practical guidance and hope. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, don't wait to seek help. Resources are available, and support can make all the difference. To learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, visit www.tn-elderlaw.com.

Living with bipolar disorder often means navigating a minefield of impulsive thoughts and actions. For example, have you ever made a snap decision that you immediately regretted? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the chaotic reality of bipolar impulsivity. They discuss the critical difference between having an impulsive personality and experiencing impulsivity as a disruptive symptom of bipolar disorder. By learning to identify your personal baseline, you can start setting strategic guardrails before a passing thought becomes a permanent problem. Listeners will learn: how delaying gratification by just 24 hours can prevent regret how to conduct a chain analysis and why it works how reflecting on past destructive behaviors can provide valuable data to protect your future Managing a mental health condition is undeniably exhausting, but recognizing your patterns is the first step toward reclaiming your peace of mind. Listen now to learn practical, real-world strategies to stop impulsive behaviors in their tracks and protect your long-term stability. Cold Open Transcript: Gabe Howard: Any barrier, even a few-second one, can really help curb impulsive behavior. Maybe before you buy something, you wander around the block real quick. Maybe before you go home with that person, you go to the bathroom and splash water on your face. Maybe before you yell, you count to three. Impulsive behavior comes in all shapes and sizes and everybody's different and everybody has different tolerance levels, etc., so it's, it's really hard to find coping skills for something that is analogous to a bomb, right? It's everything's fine. Poof! Right. And now it's like, what's the coping skill for that? 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.

Lesley Logan and Brad Crowell recap the conversation with Julian Barnes, co-founder and CEO of the BFS Network and a leading voice on boutique fitness market data. They unpack what his numbers-first view of the Pilates business reveals about pricing, client commitment, and the confidence it takes to run a profitable studio. With twenty plus years guiding studio founders, Julian brings hard data to the soft topics most owners avoid. If you have any questions about this episode or want to get some of the resources we mentioned, head over to LesleyLogan.co/podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/. If you have any comments or questions about the Be It pod shoot us a message at beit@lesleylogan.co mailto:beit@lesleylogan.co. And as always, if you're enjoying the show please share it with someone who you think would enjoy it as well. It is your continued support that will help us continue to help others. Thank you so much! Never miss another show by subscribing at LesleyLogan.co/subscribe https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/#follow-subscribe-free.In this episode you will learn about:What it really means to sell the transformation not the process.How to help clients see the cost as an investment.Where courage and conviction change who becomes your client.Signs the Pilates bubble is bursting and what survives it.Stepping into your authority so clients commit and get results.Episode References/Links:OPC Membership - opc.me/beiteLevate Waitlist - xxll.co/waiitlisteLevate Replays - lesleylogan.co/elevateOPC Summer Tour (Powered by Balanced Body) - https://opc.me.tourOPC Flashcards - https://opc.me/flashcardsOPC Pilates Posters - https://opc.me/postersEp. 697 ft. Adrian Starks - https://beitpod.com/ep697Ep. 698 Adrian Stark Recap - https://beitpod.com/ep698Ep. 53 ft. Launa Jae - https://beitpod.com/ep53If I Die by Christopher S Lombardi - https://a.co/d/0eorMLTNFree Will - https://www.freewill.comBIPOC Resources - https://mhanational.org/bipoc-mental-healthSubmit your wins or questions - https://beitpod.com/questions If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. https://lovethepodcast.com/BITYSIDEALS! DEALS! DEALS! DEALS! https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentCheck out all our Preferred Vendors & Special Deals from Clair Sparrow, Sensate, Lyfefuel BeeKeeper's Naturals, Sauna Space, HigherDose, AG1 and ToeSox https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentBe in the know with all the workshops at OPC https://workshops.onlinepilatesclasses.com/lp-workshop-waitlistBe It Till You See It Podcast Survey https://pod.lesleylogan.co/be-it-podcasts-surveyBe a part of Lesley's Pilates Mentorship https://lesleylogan.co/elevate/FREE Ditching Busy Webinar https://ditchingbusy.com/Resources:Watch the Be It Till You See It podcast on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gLesley Logan website https://lesleylogan.co/Be It Till You See It Podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjogqXLnfyhS5VlU4rdzlnQProfitable Pilates https://profitablepilates.com/about/Follow Us on Social Media:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lesley.logan/The Be It Till You See It Podcast YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gFacebook https://www.facebook.com/llogan.pilatesLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-logan/The OPC YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@OnlinePilatesClasses Episode Transcript:Lesley Logan 0:00  You have to understand that if people are making decisions based on cost, they will always do that. You have to bring it back to the investment of the transformation they want to have, and how badly do they want to have that. Lesley Logan 0:13  Welcome to the Be It Till You See It podcast where we talk about taking messy action, knowing that perfect is boring. I'm Lesley Logan, Pilates instructor and fitness business coach. I've trained thousands of people around the world and the number one thing I see stopping people from achieving anything is self-doubt. My friends, action brings clarity and it's the antidote to fear. Each week, my guest will bring bold, executable, intrinsic and targeted steps that you can use to put yourself first and Be It Till You See It. It's a practice, not a perfect. Let's get started. Lesley Logan 0:55  Welcome back to the Be It Till You See It interview recap on my coast in life. Brad and I are going to dig into the enlightening convo I had with Julian Barnes in our last episode. If you haven't yet listened to that interview, this will make a lot of no sense, because it was a different type of interview. It wasn't really an interview of what Julian does, it wasn't really a Be It Till You See It, it was very much a "let's talk about the Pilates industry." Brad Crowell 1:17  Yeah, it was an industry debrief. Lesley Logan 1:18  An industry debrief, and so. Brad Crowell 1:20  It was kind of cool, actually.Lesley Logan 1:22  Yeah, and I also, coming off of the recap of Adrian Starks, it made me even more aware of our purpose when it comes to Pilates business coaching. Because I don't know if Julian asked me this when we were on camera or off, but he was like, "You like helping these small studios?" And I was like, "Because that's what accessibility is." There's got to be different types of Pilates studios, because people need different things, and everyone shouldn't be in a 14-person class.Brad Crowell 1:48  Yeah.Lesley Logan 1:49  So, anyways, it's a really... if you are a Pilates instructor, or you have one, then they need to listen to both these episodes. After you listen to the amazing announcement of today, the holiday and the charity, and the other things, if you want to go off to an FYF or something else, I won't be offended. If you like the sound of this voice and you want to keep supporting it, and Brad, just the voice.Brad Crowell 2:12  Just the voice.Lesley Logan 2:13  You should be an OPC member. OPC is not for people who are obsessed with Pilates, I mean, it is, but it's really for people who just want easy access to real Pilates, and then a safe place to be imperfect, and to be themselves, and to be supported, and to be like, "It's okay if you missed a week, you're welcome back. We're all here for you." And if so, "Oh, you recover from injury. Oh, I had that one. Here are these things." It's where you get community support, and you're not alone. So, go to opc.me/40Brad Crowell 2:39  Yeah, actually, we got a new link for you. It's opc.me/beitLesley Logan 2:43  opc.me/beitBrad Crowell 2:45  B-E-I-TLesley Logan 2:47  B-E-I-T. I'm still waiting for my "just be it" things, given that everyone can distill people's shit around here. Why can't I just have "just be it"?Brad Crowell 2:59  I love that.Lesley Logan 3:01  It's okay, but we have "be it," and you can be it too, and you can be an OPC member while you're being it. I promise, I promise it helps. Today is July 9, 2026, and it's International Emergency Kit Day.Brad Crowell 3:13  That's right. It's Emergency Kit Day, y'all. This is a Boy Scout talking to you right now.Lesley Logan 3:18  Today is a day to raise awareness about being prepared when disaster strikes. An emergency kit, sometimes called a go-bag or disaster bag, is a portable kit that has essentials you and your family need to survive in case of emergency. They are easy to grab when you need to evacuate for whatever reason, usually a natural disaster. This day is a reminder to check your kit or build one today. It will make all the difference when an emergency happens. We have first aid kits, but that's what I thought this was, and it's clearly a go-bag, which we do not have, Brad.Brad Crowell 3:44  Yeah, we don't have. I don't have the movie duffel bag that's like, "Go, go, go," and you grab it on the way out the door, or the baby bag when someone is pregnant and has to run to the hospital, they got a bag ready. We probably could put one of those together. I think that would be wise. Don't let someone sell you a $300 go-bag. Put it together yourself.Lesley Logan 4:07  Just put it together. Just please put it together yourself. Photocopies of things are really great. If you learn anything from the fires of LA, it means you need to have copies of very important documents: birth certificates, passports, but also insurance policies, wills, whatever that is.Brad Crowell 4:24  I should digitize those and just put them.Lesley Logan 4:25  Can we have a digitized go-bag, Brad? Because I gotta be honest, we're gonna have to then remember where it is. Because I thought there's an emergency kit thing, and it was so funny, because you were asked if you had one recently by someone, and you're like, "Oh yeah," and I'm like, "Thank God they asked you, because if they had asked me, I'd be like, 'We don't have one.'"Brad Crowell 4:47  But not only that, if you have an emergency kit, go through it, because when was the last time you had it, or opened it, or used it? I went through ours, I don't know, six or 12 months ago, and I pulled everything out, and all the Band-Aids, the stickiness of the Band-Aids was just gone.Lesley Logan 5:03  Not sticky.Brad Crowell 5:04  Yeah, so I was like, "Oh wow, yeah, all this expired in 2005." So I got rid of all that and replaced everything. And then sure enough, somebody asked us, "Hey, do you have an emergency kit?" And I was like, "Yes," and I can stand by that everything is ready for you here. Yeah.Lesley Logan 5:23  And it's really funny because we actually have a really massive emergency kit in the bathroom by our studio in the house, and I was looking for Band-Aids in the bathroom that I get ready in every day. And then I was cleaning things up and getting ready for people to show up, and there's this massive Brad kit, and I was like, "Oh, we have a massive emergency kit," and I opened it up. No Band-Aids. Zero Band-Aids. That has not been updated. I'm like, clearly this is not a real studio, because. So go check your emergency kits, go create a digitized go-bag, because. Brad Crowell 5:56  We want a digitized go-bag, and then maybe a real one that's like, if you got to run out the door and you need a change of clothes or some shoes or something. This is notLesley Logan 6:02  This is not what the holiday is, what the holiday is, but there's that If I Die book. Have you seen this? I got asked for it on my Instagram. It's called If I Die or When I Die, and it's all these important things, and we should really fill that out.Brad Crowell 6:16  Everything You Need to Know Journal. If I Die.Lesley Logan 6:20  Brad's gonna find a digital one.Brad Crowell 6:21  I found it already. Yeah, well, this is a book, actually, by Christopher Lombardi. Collect all the information your loved ones will need to know at a difficult time. And he said, "When my father passed away, I wish I had such a book."Lesley Logan 6:35  Yeah, well, that's interesting. It's a little too much adulting for me in one day, but I like the idea of it.Brad Crowell 6:40  Yeah, there's also When I Die planners with pockets.Lesley Logan 6:44  Pocket.Brad Crowell 6:44  Yeah, that has little pockets in it.Lesley Logan 6:46  Oh, for things like my card, I have a card in Brad's office attached to the refrigerator from when my dad dies, a number to call for them to cremate him.Brad Crowell 6:54  Yeah.Lesley Logan 6:54  I know where the card is.Brad Crowell 6:56  I mean, there's even Reddit arguments about this: I made an "If I die" packet for my husband. My family is now calling me morbid for this effort. I think it's smart.Lesley Logan 7:05  It's incredibly smart, and it's not morbid. And you are gonna be... here's the thing, we talked about grief two weeks ago, had nothing to do with people, but we're just gonna bring it back up, when someone is dealing with the loss of a loved one, the last thing you need to figure out is the fucking password to your shit.Brad Crowell 7:22  Yeah.Lesley Logan 7:23  Don't do that to people. I'm watching The Pit, and that is a trap. You don't want to be dealing with that, plus what is their insurance? All that stuff. No, no, don't do that to people. And as I say this, Brad and I are hypocrites, because we have yet to sit down and do our fucking thing that his parents asked us to do three times, which is the DNR and the will thing, and all that stuff. So.Brad Crowell 7:48  There's a, we talked about this before, there's an organization called Free Will. Make your free will online.Lesley Logan 7:54  Okay, well. Brad Crowell 7:57  freewill.comLesley Logan 7:57  Well, this day just turned into a very helpful day, and my ADHD is really overwhelmed. Upcoming travel and events, you guys, eLevate 2027 is full, sold out, can't take another body, but you can join us today.Brad Crowell 8:13  You can join us today.Lesley Logan 8:17  At 1pm Pacific time.Brad Crowell 8:19  Is that 1pm? Lesley Logan 8:20  Yeah. Brad Crowell 8:20  I'm glad you know that.Lesley Logan 8:21  It's at 1 p.m. to learn about 2028 Elevate, and if you're like, "Well, Lesley, thanks, I'm going back to this on a different date," there's probably a replay up.Brad Crowell 8:31  Yeah, there'll be a replay. We'll put the replay up on the Elevate page, I'm sure.Lesley Logan 8:35  Go to xxll.co/waitlist, and if you missed it. Brad Crowell 8:40  Then go to lesleylogan.co/elevate and that's where the replay will be.Lesley Logan 8:45  Yeah, summer tour is really close, a few weeks away.Brad Crowell 8:49  OPC Summer TourLesley Logan 8:50  Yeah. Brad Crowell 8:50  Come join us in real life, I'm very excited.Lesley Logan 8:52  How many cities are we going to?Brad Crowell 8:53  13 or 14Lesley Logan 8:54  It's the reason we're recording prior to the announcement, so we don't know, but what I can say is it's probably mostly sold out, so you want to go to OPC. I can confidently say that.Brad Crowell 9:04  Yeah, I mean, we're getting close to.Lesley Logan 9:07  Well, because these are not conventions, these are literal pop-ups. These are small studios, we're talking small classes and workshops, and we do that so instead of having 50 people in a workshop, there's 25 and you can actually get to talk to me, and we get to take pictures, and we get to nerd out on Pilates. And the workshops are only 90 minutes. You don't have to take a whole day off, you can just take a part of a day off, and you get to be with other people. And Balanced Body is sponsoring our tour again, and so we'll have the Contrology equipment with us, plus some really fun prizes. So, opc.me/tour.Brad Crowell 9:41  opc.me/tour come join us.Lesley Logan 9:43  If you're new here.Brad Crowell 9:45  If you're new here.Lesley Logan 9:46  I make flashcards with Pilates exercises, and they have QR codes that take you to videos, and they have the setup and action on the back, and they have really cool tips that I gave you that are my words based on these things. If you like the way that I talk about Pilates, they're right there. And they've been edited by a contemporary trained teacher with contemporary women, and they've been edited by someone who's never done any of the stuff before. Shout out to the spine corrector, because after that, she wanted to buy one. So that's how good that deck is. So, go to opc.me/flashcards.Brad Crowell 10:12  Yeah, opc.me/flashcardsLesley Logan 10:15  And if you have the flashcards, do you know that we have posters, and you can get our posters at opc.me/posters? And you want to know something fun about the posters: we make no money on them. However, the shipping, because they're printed on demand, the shipping is cheaper because it's usually shipping to near you versus the flashcards, which come from us. By the way, my Aussies and my Canadians, we have distributors on the flashcards, so just reach out to us if shipping shocked the hell out of you. We have distributors in Australia and Canada.Brad Crowell 10:44  Yeah, awesome. Well, we used to do a question answer session here, but we're going to skip that. We've moved all the live Q&As over to YouTube for Sunday morning at 9 a.m. Pacific, and we shifted our focus here because we really like celebrating good works that other people are doing, and sharing about it with you all. Lesley Logan 11:06  Being more aware about things, just the different things that exist out there, and the different ways we can support things that might be of interest. And so July is actually an awareness month of a lot of awarenesses. So when I looked up July month.Brad Crowell 11:22  It's a month of awarenesses.Lesley Logan 11:23  Yeah, one of the things that July is an awareness month about is the ADA laws, and it's like a Disability Pride Awareness Month. It's also an awareness month of mental health awareness for minority communities.Brad Crowell 11:36  ADA for non-Americans, it's the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA. So, yeah, and that was a big fight that started in California many years back.Lesley Logan 11:45  Yes, I learned a lot about it. It's very impressive. Yeah, and so anyways, I wanted to highlight the mental health awareness for minority communities on today's episode, because last time we did a recap, we actually did talk about mental health, and I just thought it would be a perfect time to bring that up. This charity is Mental Health America, and they actually have a lot of information and support for BIPOC mental health specifically. And if you go to mhanational.org, they actually have a whole section, because they do have a lot of support for the BIPOC community. Culture, ethnicity, and race all play a large role in the way that each person experiences the world and the types of mental health support that they may need. MHA's online BIPOC Mental Health Resource Center offers a wealth of information and tools to bring light to the unique experiences of Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities and empower and uplift BIPOC individuals on their mental health journeys. And I just thought that this is a really cool resource in case you need it, or there's someone that you know who needs it. Because the reality is, is that if you have had a different experience in this world, having a therapist or someone who can understand that is important, and it's key. And I just think that, how cool that there are people who are making sure that resource is easy to find. They'll have blog posts, but they actually have a whole resource page where you can find someone and find some help near you, especially with the shit going on in the world right now. Specifically in the US, I know we have a lot of international listeners, but they just fucked with the Voting Rights Act one more time.Brad Crowell 13:15  Yeah.Lesley Logan 13:16  And we are back to Jim Crow era shit, and it sucks, because the answer to all this is that we all have to vote in November in a way that tells them to fuck off, but also, people of color have been trying to do that for a really long time. You and I were listening to what's his name, that amazing senator from Georgia, who's a reverend, and he's like, "I lived my whole life under that act, and now my children have to fight..."Brad Crowell 13:44  Raphael WarnockLesley Logan 13:45  Raphael Warnock. "My children have to fight for their rights," and I just...Brad Crowell 13:50  Yeah, I mean, it's.Lesley Logan 13:51  Top of life.Brad Crowell 13:52  It's fascinating to hear him talk about that, where he's like, you know, I don't know how old he is, but he's an adult, he's a senator, he's been a pastor for a long time. He has two kids who are younger than 10 years old, and he said, "For me, because of the changes that happened in the '60s, I actually grew up in a more equitable time that allowed me to become a senator as a person of color," and he said, "Unfortunately, my kids are not going to have that."Lesley Logan 14:23  And what they're doing in Tennessee, where they just literally got rid of the one Black Congress person, just terrible stuff. And that's all just... even if you're like, "Well, that's politics," well, politics affects life, and on top of that, if your job and all these different things just becomes really heavy, we need to make mental health support seem like the same thing as you're gonna go get new toothpaste, or you get your things done, like you go to the dentist for cleaning twice a year, we go three. Mental health support needs to be as routine and normal as all of that, and also if you're BIPOC community, I think it's important that you have people who understand what you're going through, because it is different.Brad Crowell 15:05  Yeah.Lesley Logan 15:05  And you're not alone. So, hopefully, mhanational.org resource helps you. If not, and there are other ones out there that you want us to highlight, please send it in. We would love to do that. We'd love to use the platform to do that to help people who need that.Brad Crowell 15:19  Yeah, so leave us a voicemail, 310-905-5534, or you can also share your wins for our Friday pod at beitpod.com/questions. Brad Crowell 15:31  Let's talk about Julian Barnes. Julian is the co-founder and CEO of the BFS Network, the company behind the most comprehensive market research in the boutique fitness industry. He spent 20-plus years helping fitness and wellness businesses build the structure and strategy they need to grow, and he works directly with CEOs and founders of multi-location studios across the country. He brings a data-driven, numbers-first perspective to the work of building a profitable studio.Lesley Logan 15:59  Yeah.Brad Crowell 16:00  And it's really interesting too, because I mean, his background is law, and then he... I don't remember exactly how he got into fitness, but. Lesley Logan 16:07  He told the whole story. It's very weird how he got into it, but. Brad Crowell 16:10  He told us his story, but it wasn't, it was when we were.. we were talking about.Lesley Logan 16:15  Oh, sorry guys, it was definitely at dinner, but it was like, "Oh, he was helping this out, then he did this thing, there was his trainer." It's really kind of cool. Too bad that that's not on the pod, because it doesn't matter, because that was not what he wanted to talk about. But it really went along with Adrian Starks's finding your purpose kind of a thing. So, at any rate, just know that Julian is the evidence of doing that. If you listened two weeks ago, you know, it's interesting, because a lot of people think that studios are only studios if they have multiple teachers and group classes and things like that, and I think.Brad Crowell 16:47  Maybe the word "legitimate studio," right? Because they are still obviously a studio, a real studio, or whatever.Lesley Logan 16:55  But you and I see a studio as anything where a teacher is teaching in, and that studio could be a one-person show.Brad Crowell 17:03  Yeah.Lesley Logan 17:04  And that person can teach small groups and groups and things like that. And so it was interesting to hear the different ways that, in air quotes, legitimate studios are doing things, the numbers they have. But on the non-data side, one of the things I love that he said was there's no transformation without the transaction, and this is really important, because for any business owner who is listening to this, people don't buy your process. I'll just be really honest with you, please don't tell them your process, no one cares. But they cannot get the transformation they want to have, the goal they want to achieve, without paying you the investment of what that is, that's just part of the deal. If they want to have better posture.Brad Crowell 17:45  There's no transformation without the transaction, yes, but let's, before we go further on that, can we take a step back? What do you mean specifically? What's an example of "don't sell the process"? Because how are people actually making a mistake with that? Lesley Logan 18:02  What does thatlook like? They're saying, "We have classes on three days a week at 10 a.m. and your package of six sessions allows you to come two times a week." That's selling the process, right? "You come three days a week at 10 a.m." or "Mat classes are at 6 o'clock" or "At our studio, we have mat, semi-private, and private sessions on the Cadillac Tower." All of that's process. It's overwhelming information. It's words that they don't want to hear.Brad Crowell 18:30  It doesn't even mean anything to them.Lesley Logan 18:31  Even if they know what most of that stuff is. That's not what they actually care about. They care that you understand the problem that they have and where they want to grow, and that you are excited and a trustworthy person for that, and I think where a lot of people. Brad Crowell 18:50  And that's what they will pay for.Lesley Logan 18:51  Yeah, as well. Yoga Works doesn't exist anymore, it's a perfect example. Their entire advertising model was "first two weeks free, your first two weeks are free." That's a process, right? They were not selling "get meditated in 14 days or less" or "de-stress from traffic," right? They weren't selling what you were gonna gain from doing the yoga for two weeks, whereas if they had actually talked more about how you would feel when you left the yoga class.Brad Crowell 19:29  Sure.Lesley Logan 19:30  I think more people would take them up on that for two weeks free, because it's like, "Wow, two weeks free, this class must be full." No, they weren't, and they're not in business. But I see this all the time in people posting about their Pilates stuff: "Hey, I've got, I'm opening up two spots on Mondays and Wednesdays." Unless someone already trusts you, that's unhelpful. Launa Jae, who's been on our show, has done this really well: "Hey, I'm opening in two weeks, I'm moving four spots for women over 40 who are tired of yo-yo dieting, and they want to actually make a change that lasts a lifetime."Brad Crowell 20:03  Right.Lesley Logan 20:03  You can hear the difference, right? "I'm accepting four new clients," or "In two weeks I will have four spots available for this type of person."Brad Crowell 20:11  Yeah.Lesley Logan 20:12  That is listing the transformation someone's gonna have. She doesn't say, "And when you sign up, you'll have to do eight weeks of macro counting." No, she's not saying that, because no one wants to do that. That's too much information. Yeah, and then we get this a lot, because people will say, "Pilates is too expensive." People have been saying Pilates is too expensive since it was fucking cheap. People have been saying Pilates is too expensive since I started teaching, and people weren't even charging $1 a minute, right, for a private session. But you have to understand that if people are making decisions based on cost, they will always do that. You have to bring it back to the investment of the transformation they want to have, and how badly do they want to have that? Brad Crowell 20:51  Yeah, that's the shift.Lesley Logan 20:52  Some people don't actually want to pay the investment that the transformation would cost, so those people will always be looking for a deal, constantly frustrated. They're the ones who are buying this silly tool this week, and the next thing over here, they're bouncing around. But there are people when, if you reframe it to the investment for what you want to achieve, as Julian said, the investment you want to achieve for your desired goal is going to be one of time and money, right? So you change the word to investment, and then in doing that, you're going to shift the mindset from cost to investment, right? Which is a really good shift you want to make in someone's brain, because they invest in things all day long. They invest time in scrolling on their Instagram, they invest time in being in traffic, they invest time on a lot of different things. So, how can we shift the investment of time and money to something that actually works for them? When I was teaching mat classes only, and I was trying to get people in them, I would say, "Stop spending time in traffic, spend that hour in Pilates and get home in 20 minutes after,"Brad Crowell 21:54  Right.Lesley Logan 21:54  So I had people literally come to my mat class two nights a week that I had it, and they loved it, because instead of sitting in traffic for 90 minutes, they did an hour of Pilates, and then it takes them 25 minutes to get home, same amount of time, but they actually got a transformation to go with it. So really shifting that mindset. And then when people do ask for discounts, you have to have some confidence in the product that you have. I keep telling our agency members, "You need to have courage and conviction in what you do," and that also means telling people how they have to be to be a client of yours. My trainer has so much courage and conviction, she is like, "You cannot be a client of mine if you can't commit to this many times." Yeah, and I really do think that if a lot more Pilates instructors said that, yes, they might have fewer clients in the beginning, but I actually think they would have more later, because the transformation of their clients that they're getting would get them more clients.Brad Crowell 22:44  Yeah, I think this is a perfect transition into what I was hoping to talk about, which is... there was a moment where he was talking about Steve Jobs and the iPhone, right? And he's like, he wasn't like, "Hey, do you think it'd be cool if maybe you guys might want..." none of that. It was like, "Hey, check out this amazing tool that we built that's gonna change your lifeLesley Logan 23:07  Yeah.Brad Crowell 23:07  radically," right? And he said, so he was talking about confidence, right? And there's a difference between polling your audience and getting feedback, and how do you present the thing that you sell or do, right?Lesley Logan 23:21  Absolutely certain that there were NDAs signed of people who were looking at the iPhone before we got it. Brad Crowell 23:27  Yeah, but Julian pointed out that you have to be confident enough that the universe will present you what you need when you need it, riht? Lesley Logan 23:35  Yeah.Brad Crowell 23:36  And that is a scary thing. That is the "leap and the net will appear" kind of approach, right? And obviously, that's definitely something that gets severely tested, and Julian acknowledged that, for sure, especially when you have financial needs, and the wrong clients are coming through your door, but saying... y'all were talking about clients, and the clients that will stay with you for the long haul or not, right? And it's always a scramble at first, like we'll take anybody who comes in the door, but what if our messaging, like we were just talking about, was attracting the correct person who we want to serve and is excited to get the transformation? Yeah, they're going to stay with you way, way longer. And I am... I don't know if you picked up on it if you listened to the interview, but I was so proud because we had a bunch of agency members fill out his big questionnaire, and he compared agency members' stats against the industry stats. And what he said was that agency members retain their clients longer. Yeah, and I was really, really excited to hear that.Lesley Logan 24:49  Yeah and it's because our Agency members, even their process to become a client of theirs sets them up so that they're not getting these crazy wackos that just want to bounce from place to place. They are actually set up to make sure that they are the right client, they're advertised in the right place. One of our members is actually changing her website to being specifically their Pilates studio for women over 40.Brad Crowell 25:15  Cool.Lesley Logan 25:15  Right? Because she's like, "I'm tired of getting calls from 20-year-olds who are comparing me to this other studio over here. That's not what we offer. And even if they can't afford my intro offer, they don't like the classes because they're not for Pilates princesses." And it's like, right. So, there are women who are fucking tired, like, "I want to go to Pilates, but all these Pilates princesses are pictured." And so this client of ours has women over 40 pictured. That's going to matter so much to them, right. And so I am so proud of our agency members. They have solid businesses, and you have a business you can depend on, you're not going off what the trends are. And I really think that right now the Pilates bubble is bursting in several ways. One, Hailey Bieber just announced that too many studios are out there, and they're crappy teachers. Hailey Bieber wrote this. And then The Guardian did an entire article about how people are getting hurt all the time doing Pilates. And here's the thing: if you were doing real Pilates, you could not get hurt if you were actually ready for the exercise that you're doing. Most of the time, people are getting injuries because they're in large group classes that are not on real reformers, and or their teacher was not trained thoroughly enough, and so the teacher's boss is all about how fun the class is and how entertained and how packed the classes are versus the results that they're getting. And I think Julian would back me up on this. Going back to the transformation you want to have and the investment you have to have: I have to get you that transformation, which means you have to show up, but I have to have the teachers that are quality. And so I actually think between the recession that we are all expecting to show up and the fact that people are not going to see the results they want by studios where the people aren't trained fully.Brad Crowell 27:04  Yeah.Lesley Logan 27:05  I do see the pendulum swinging now. How far is it? It's not going to swing that far if you are a solid studio that truly knows what you're doing and why you do it, and you're not begging people to take class for you by offering it for free, but instead you're like, "If you want to participate here, here's how often you have to come, here's the transformation we can provide you, and here's how we do that." You come every other week, I can't get you shit.Brad Crowell 27:26  Yeah, and being real with them. That's where that confidence comes into play, having the confidence to know that the universe will present you what you need when you need it. I remember trying to convince clients, I remember how much time I spent trying to convince clients that we were the right agency for them, or coaching group for them, or web development company for them, or whatever. And it always felt like I'm really good at that, but then we would land a client and they were just the fucking worst client. They never delivered the photos that they said that they had, or they never gave me copy, and so ultimately I'd start this project, we would take a deposit, start the project, and then get stuck, right? Or we would have clients come in, they'd pay us one time for coaching, and then they would never participate, and then they would disappear. And that just felt like such a waste of effort on both our time and theirs.Lesley Logan 28:25  Totally.Brad Crowell 28:26  That time payment didn't feel worth it. It certainly wasn't satisfying. We didn't help them, right? And so.Lesley Logan 28:31  It's also why we've even changed how agency operates now, because it definitely is only attractive to people who are willing to actually do the work.Brad Crowell 28:39  Yeah.Lesley Logan 28:39  You have to do the work. You can't just do calls with me or Brad every quarter and whine and whatever, and then go, "Well, I got this action, I can go make a checklist, and I can feel like I did something new." No, Agency now requires you to ask a lot of questions, put your problem in there, go watch a course, come to an office hour, ask which course to watch, ask what next steps to take, like, you actually have to do the action. And the reason I love that more, even though it's definitely not a sexier sell, is that what we do actually fucking works. I know that, and the people who've listened to us have been with us for years, and when they do the work, it works. Period, end of story. And we recently were at an event, and I saw one of our ex-Agency members who paid because they wanted the transformation, but didn't want to do the work. And then this person would also do the things I said not to do all the time, and then they would come back with a problem. And it's like, "Okay, with the contract you've already signed, there's not a lot I can do, because you made a contract without asking our opinions, and then you signed it." And that person is like, "Yeah, I've just been so overwhelmed, and I'm closing these two studios, I'm doing this, I'm just downsizing a lot." And I just wanted to go, "I fucking told you." Yeah, but here's the thing: I have courage and conviction in how we coach and who we are for, and I know what we can do with people who will do the work. And that means, though, you have to also have courage and conviction in what you offer as a studio. And if that means telling someone, "I actually don't work with clients who are in and out every single week, unless they're gonna do homework, and if you're gonna do homework, it means you have to do it three to four days a week." You have to tell people, "I just don't work with those people, because I don't want to take your money, that's dirty money." Any studio that takes your money and tells you that they can get you what you want, and you're only going to come in once a week or every couple of weeks, is lying to you. If you educate people on that, I'm telling you, you will get a great client. And here's why I can tell you this with my own courage and conviction, with another story: I used to sell a teacher training program for Equinox, and I would always ask people, "Where are you in your research process? Oh, I'm the first person you're talking to? Great, let me explain to you how training programs are not apples to apples. Let me explain to you what it is that you need to be looking for, what questions to be asking." By the way, these are all in my book. "What questions to be asking, what you need to be experiencing, what these things are. When you go and look to other places, I want you asking these questions, because if they don't have answers that work with your life, it does not matter the price, you will be stuck. So I can tell you right now, based on the local programs that I know that exist, we are more expensive on paper, but here's where we solve a lot of those problems. Why don't you go back, do your research, call me back, let's do another thing." I could follow up with them, and there'd be people who say, "You're too expensive, that's too much time, I can't make blah blah blah." And then they would come back and they'd sign up, because they would go do the research, and they would realize that on paper, while we're more expensive, we actually have more things. So you have to have that with people, because if someone's gonna price shop, they're gonna price shop, but I can tell you why. "Oh, well, we're more expensive than them because we're three people, not 12." Hello, educate them. They don't know.Brad Crowell 31:53  Yeah, they don't know. Lesley Logan 31:55  So you're getting resentful of them, but they don't know what they don't know. You have to say.Brad Crowell 31:58  Yeah can also say something like, "Our teachers have 600 hours of certifications under their belt," or something like that.Lesley Logan 32:04  Yeah, when people would do that when we were at the studios, like, "Oh, well, this is more expensive than the Pilates across the street." "Yeah, well, those teachers can only teach on one item, they can only teach on a Reformer, and that's all they're trained on. These are comprehensively trained teachers. These people did at least nine months to a year of training, they spent $8,000-plus, and they have access to all this equipment to get you the goals you want. But if you have to go off of that investment, I get it, go do it over there." Anyways, well, I could keep talking for hours, but we should get to the Be It Action Items, because clearly, I love Julian's data, and I love that we can help people. Knowing what the data is really helps us understand where they are in their business and what they have to focus on. Because you're not going to focus on new clients and retention at the same time. If you have great retention, you don't need new clients.Brad Crowell 32:51  Right.Lesley Logan 32:52  You know, you don't need as many anyways. Okay.Brad Crowell 32:54  Yeah. Well, stick around, we'll be right back. All right. So, finally, let's talk about those Be It Action Items: what bold, executable, intrinsic, or targeted action items can we take away from your conversation with Julian Barnes? He said on client commitment and transformation, Julian said that the first step in the transformation is transforming your daily routine. He emphasized that people need to adopt a new routine, one that says, "I'm coming on Tuesday morning, Thursday after work, and Saturday morning. I'm committed to this change," right? For studio owners, you are more likely to be successful if you present a prescription that gives your client the opportunity to adopt a new routine from day one.Lesley Logan 33:41  Yeah.Brad Crowell 33:41  Right? Like, think about it, if you've got a person coming in the door and you try to get them to make a change, let's say you've had a client for a really long time, and then you try to get them to make a change, do they make the change? Very rarely, right? People get annoyed at change, they get frustrated at change, they like what they like, they like what they have. But if you set that precedent right out of the gate, this is how people get change here.Lesley Logan 34:08  Yes, right, I love that. Well, also, I had a client who was always late, and they'd always apologize, and I had a client before them and after them, and I never gave them more time, and they weren't asking. I said, "Hey, don't apologize to me. This is on you. If you only want a 45-minute session, I have no problem with that. But if you want the full session, you have to ask yourself why you don't feel worthy enough to have a full session so that you can figure out how you have to leave work early. But that's the change you have to make. It has to be based on what you want, it can't be on me." And you know what? She was never late again.Brad Crowell 34:41  Yeah, it's a great example, because what Julian said, which I thought was kind of snuck in there again, he said, "Keep your power."Lesley Logan 34:52  Yeah.Brad Crowell 34:53  Right? We have power. The power is that we are the authority figure, right? And I mean, not in a tyrant kind of a way, but you can say to someone, "This is how it works here, this is how we see people have success here, and this is what we recommend for you."Lesley Logan 35:10  I think we'll just go into my action takeaway, which is like, if you're actively listening to what they have to say, you literally hear what they are, and you use those words, and you connect them to how your services are offered, then you have to step into the authority, because they came to your house.Brad Crowell 35:26  Yeah.Lesley Logan 35:26  If this person came to your house, and you are a "no shoes in the house" person, would you just go, "I guess I'll let them wear shoes"? No, this is a no-shoes house, right? It's a no-shoes house. So, if you are like... I always tell people, take my shoes off, we don't, but you're the person who does, how come you can't be that at the business where you actually are an authority? This is where, I think a lot of people have doubt about the benefits that they can have, because they themselves have forgotten their own practice.Brad Crowell 35:53  Sure.Lesley Logan 35:54  And they themselves have not made any clients actually have consistency, and so they're not actually having the benefits to back up their power. But you have 100 years of Joe Pilates's work working to go off of. So if you are a new teacher, you have 100 years, literally 100 years. This is the year, this year is 100 years that he came to the United States to go off of this, and then you go... I'll give you the advice that I was given, and we'll wrap this up. My first week as a teacher at a studio at Equinox, this teacher said to me, "The best advice they can give you is to get one client and make them your own, like, make them obsessed with you, and you'll have all the clients." And I made those clients obsessed with me, and they did start getting results, results that they weren't getting with their other Pilates instructor, because I got them from... right, because that other Pilates instructor let them come and go. So, please, I was like, "Nope, you have to make up that session you're about to miss next Sunday. I'll see you on Friday. Let's do it. Let's go. I'll make the time." And it's because, one, I need the money, but two, I listened to that advice, and that advice gave me conviction and authority to sit here today and tell you, if you make people be consistent, they get results.Brad Crowell 37:05  Yeah.Lesley Logan 37:06  So be the boss. They came to you.Brad Crowell 37:08  Yeah, they came to you. Don't give away your power.Lesley Logan 37:11  If you need help with that, if you need these pep talks, you should just go to agency.Brad Crowell 37:15  Yeah, this couldn't be an easier segue here. Lesley Logan 37:19  I mean, so profitablepilates.com/agency go there. We have for sure, at the time that we're recording this, one amazing way to work with us. It's quite possible the second way, which is a secret, is available. I'm not sure.Brad Crowell 37:31  It's possible.Lesley Logan 37:32  possible. And if you don't see it, then you book a call with Brad, and you ask him which one is best for you and what's going on there. But we can help you. We can help you.Brad Crowell 37:40  We can certainly support you with these things.Lesley Logan 37:42  Yep.Brad Crowell 37:42  And you can keep your clients longer, too.Lesley Logan 37:44  Yeah, you get all the benefits that our clients get.Brad Crowell 37:47  Yeah.Lesley Logan 37:47  And also, guess what? You get a predictable, boring business, which is so nice. Go be entertained by your streamers, not by your business. Okay, life's stressful enough. I don't need an up and down on my business to be what's going on, what I'm going my vibes off of. Okay, I'm Lesley Logan.Brad Crowell 38:04  And I'm Brad Crowell.Lesley Logan 38:05  Thank you so much. I hope this was fun. It was an interesting deep dive into the industry, and Julian, his company does some really great work that is on the data. So, BFS is the company. We'll put the links in the show notes. Share this with a Pilates instructor friend who needs to hear it.Brad Crowell 38:21  Yeah.Lesley Logan 38:22  And until next time, Be It Till You See It.Brad Crowell 38:24  Bye for now.Lesley Logan 38:26  That's all I got for this episode of the Be It Till You See It Podcast. One thing that would help both myself and future listeners is for you to rate the show and leave a review and follow or subscribe for free wherever you listen to your podcast. Also, make sure to introduce yourself over at the Be It Pod on Instagram. I would love to know more about you. Share this episode with whoever you think needs to hear it. Help us and others Be It Till You See It. Have an awesome day. Be It Till You See It is a production of The Bloom Podcast Network. If you want to leave us a message or a question that we might read on another episode, you can text us at +1-310-905-5534 or send a DM on Instagram @BeItPod.Brad Crowell 39:08  It's written, filmed, and recorded by your host, Lesley Logan, and me, Brad Crowell.Lesley Logan 39:13  It is transcribed, produced and edited by the epic team at Disenyo.co.Brad Crowell 39:17  Our theme music is by Ali at Apex Production Music and our branding by designer and artist, Gianfranco Cioffi.Lesley Logan 39:25  Special thanks to Melissa Solomon for creating our visuals.Brad Crowell 39:28  Also to Angelina Herico for adding all of our content to our website. And finally to Meridith Root for keeping us all on point and on time.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The one and only Uncle Nino joins Michelle Barone RED for a fun-filled episode packed with laughs, stories, and unforgettable moments! Best known for his larger-than-life personality from *Jersey Shore* and *The Family Vacation*, Uncle Nino opens up about his life, his experiences with the cast, and what it's really like being part of one of reality TV's most iconic families.Plus, Michelle and Ashleigh put his memory to the test with a hilarious game to see just how well he knows Jersey Shore. From memorable moments to cast trivia, you won't want to miss his reactions!Tune in for plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and an entertaining conversation you won't forget.----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

In this inspiring return to Michelle Barone RED, transformational health and mindset advocate Paulette Szalay shares the powerful story behind losing over 130 pounds—and why the physical transformation was only the beginning.This time, Michelle, Ashleigh and Paulette go beyond the before-and-after photos to uncover the emotional journey that led to lasting change. Paulette opens up about the mindset she had at her heaviest, the moment she knew she had to take control of her life, and the mental shifts that helped her stay consistent through strength training and a low-carb lifestyle. Now thriving as a model, actress, motivational speaker, and soon-to-be author, Paulette proves it's never too late to reinvent yourself. She discusses how confidence transformed every area of her life, the health benefits that came with her weight loss, and why she hopes her upcoming book inspires women to believe that their story isn't over.Plus, Ashleigh McPherson hosts a special advice segment where real listener questions are answered, as Michelle and Paulette share encouragement and practical motivation for women looking to reclaim their confidence, health, and purpose. Whether you're beginning your wellness journey, navigating menopause, or simply looking for a reminder that change is possible at any stage of life, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take the first step.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

Why is it so easy to believe that every setback, unfinished task, messy room, or missed opportunity means you're failing? And why do so many people living with bipolar disorder automatically assume that everyone else has life figured out? After receiving an email from a listener managing feelings of worthlessness, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle one of the most painful and least discussed realities of bipolar disorder: the damage it can do to your sense of self. Listeners will learn: why comparing yourself to others often leads to unnecessary stress practical ways to challenge negative self-talk and self-criticism why bipolar disorder can intensify feelings of self-doubt why accepting the difficulty of managing bipolar disorder doesn't mean you're giving up If you've ever looked at your life and wondered whether bipolar disorder has permanently damaged your ability to be happy, successful, or fulfilled, this episode offers something more valuable than easy answers: a thoughtful conversation about how to move forward without letting the diagnosis define your worth. Cold Open Transcript: Gabe: There's no scientific or medical way that you can prescribe somebody something and make them feel better about living with bipolar disorder. And please correct me if I'm wrong, Dr. Nicole. Dr. Nicole: Not, not 100%. I can't give you a magic pill that will make you all of a sudden feel like you have value and worth, that makes you wake up the next day and say oh, how valuable am I to the world? 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.

This week on Michelle Barone RED, we're joined by the one and only Rita Prisco, better known as Cucina Palermo Rita—the beloved Italian-American home cook who's won millions of hearts by keeping old-school Sicilian traditions alive, one recipe at a time. From her family kitchen to a thriving online community, Rita shares how authenticity, family values, and her passion for cooking transformed homemade meals into a global brand.In this heartfelt conversation, Michelle and Rita dive into the rich traditions behind Sicilian family cooking, growing up in an Italian-American household and the stories behind her most cherished family recipes. Whether you grew up around an Italian dinner table or simply love great food and inspiring stories, this episode is filled with laughter, nostalgia, and timeless wisdom that reminds us food is so much more than what's on the plate—it's love, family, and legacy. Watch, listen, and don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations on Michelle Barone RED!-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

On this episode of Michelle Barone RED, Michelle and Ashleigh sit down with the team behind Proper Diamonds to discuss the evolution of the jewelry industry, the growing demand for lab-grown diamonds, and how couples are creating custom pieces that reflect their unique love stories.From engagement rings and wedding bands to the future of sustainable luxury, Proper Diamonds shares the inspiration behind their brand, the craftsmanship that goes into every design, and why personalization has become one of the biggest trends in fine jewelry today. This conversation offers an inside look at modern luxury, entrepreneurship, and helping clients create pieces they'll cherish for a lifetime.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

For many, a surge of energy, creativity, and expansive mood can feel like an absolute gift. For those living with bipolar disorder, a hypomanic episode feels less like a symptom and more like winning the mental health lottery. But beneath this romanticized exterior lies a sneaky and potentially destructive reality. In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington break down the complex nuances of hypomania. Dr. Nicole explains the hidden risks of leaving these episodes unchecked and Gabe opens up about the difficulty of distinguishing between genuine happiness and a brewing clinical episode, providing a raw look at the internal tug-of-war patients face. Listeners will Learn: Teasing out the differences between having a great day and experiencing an abnormally expansive mood Why a decreased need for sleep is a massive red flag rather than a newfound productivity hack Learn the functional differences between mania from hypomania Acknowledge that romanticizing a hypomanic high often ignores the depressive plunge that follows Whether you are navigating a bipolar 2 diagnosis, wanting to understand the role hypomania plays in a bipolar 1 diagnosis, or supporting a loved one this conversation delivers straight talk without the medical jargon. Tune in to learn how to spot the warning signs, establish safety guardrails, and safely navigate the deceptive highs of hypomania. Listen Now! Pull Quote: “I know more people with hypomania who have gotten themselves into trouble than I do who thrive because of it." ~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. Share the show with everyone you know! :-) Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Michelle Barone RED, Michelle sits down with actress, producer, entrepreneur, and podcast host Anna Damergis for an inspiring conversation about building a career in entertainment, overcoming obstacles, and creating opportunities through resilience and determination. Anna shares her journey from the entertainment industry to producing award-winning projects, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the importance of authentic relationships in both business and life. As co-host of The Maurice & Anna Show alongside Emmy-winning actor and mental health advocate Maurice Benard, Anna has become known for her candid conversations and commitment to meaningful storytelling. Tune in for an empowering discussion on success, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and the power of believing in yourself—even when the path ahead isn't clear. This is an episode filled with motivation, insight, and real talk that you won't want to miss. -----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

This week on Michelle Barone RED, Michelle Barone and Ashleigh McPherson sit down with dancer, performer, and longtime friend Danielle Yapps for a heartfelt conversation filled with memories, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories.Danielle and Michelle go way back, with Danielle dancing alongside Michelle during her singing career. Together, they reflect on their journey through the entertainment industry, the friendships formed along the way, and the lessons they've learned from pursuing their passions.From life on stage to navigating personal and professional growth, Danielle shares her experiences as a dancer, the challenges she's overcome, and what continues to motivate her today. The conversation is filled with laughter, nostalgia, and valuable insights about resilience, friendship, and staying true to yourself.Tune in for an inspiring episode that celebrates lifelong connections, chasing dreams, and the power of supporting one another through every chapter of life.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

In this month's episode, host Jenny Craig-Brown sits down with Patty Stovall, founder and CEO of Sounds of Sarah Inc.! Sounds of Sarah Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Northwest Indiana, founded in 2022 in memory of her daughter Sarah, who was lost to illicit drug poisoning. The organization focuses on youth education, community awareness, naloxone access, mobile crisis response, and grief support related to the overdose crisis.Biography: Patty Stovall is the Founder and CEO of Sounds of Sarah Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Northwest Indiana, founded in 2022 in memory of her daughter Sarah, who was lost to illicit drug poisoning. Sounds of Sarah focuses on youth education, community awareness, naloxone access, mobile crisis response, and grief support related to the overdose crisis. Patty brings more than 25 years of experience in addiction counseling, mental health services, and community leadership. Her background includes 16 years as an addiction counselor and leadership roles with Mental Health America, South Lake Mental Health, Northwest Indiana Community Action, and Addiction Counseling Services. She has extensive experience in program development, cross-sector collaboration, and building community-based responses to behavioral health and substance use challenges. She leads the expansion of Sounds of Sarah's Mobile Crisis Program serving Lake County, Indiana, providing community-based crisis response, care coordination, and connections to mental health and substance use services. The organization also provides naloxone training and distribution, youth education, community awareness initiatives, and grief support for families impacted by substance-related loss. Patty holds a bachelor's degree in psychology, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Public Administration. She is a member of the Lake County Overdose Fatality Review Team, conducts Next of Kin (NOK) outreach, serves as Board Chair of Prevention for SAFE (Supporting Addiction Free Environments for Lake County), and sits on the Executive Board of Directors for the Crossroads Chamber of Commerce. She regularly presents at conferences, schools, and community forums.GreatNews.Life & Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life GreatNewsLife looks to form positive, online communities centered around the idea that, given the option, viewers prefer to see all the good things going on in their community, as opposed to negative news. Here you'll find exclusively positive, hyper-local stories, features, and news touting everything exceptional about the communities that make up Northwest Indiana. We invite you to partake in the Region's only source for all-positive news, all the time. Watch it. Love it. Share it.

What if the anxiety you're facing isn't bipolar disorder alone — but the fear of what might happen next? With humor, honesty, and practical insight, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, shares devastatingly real stories — including the panic attack that caused him to quit a job from the parking lot. Along the way, Dr. Nicole explains the critical differences between anxiety, panic attacks, panic disorder, and bipolar disorder, while unpacking why these disorders so commonly occur alongside bipolar disorder. You'll learn why anxiety can quietly fuel isolation, how avoidance behaviors grow, what treatment actually looks like, and why therapy, coping skills, and medication each play different roles in recovery. Most importantly, this episode asks a powerful question: Can panic attacks and anxiety ever truly go away — or is the goal learning how to fight back? Listeners will learn: why using the correct terminology to describe panic and anxiety is essential for effective treatment why medication is often a temporary fix and not a long-term solution how to understand the “fear of fear” cycle — and begin breaking free from it Whether you're having trouble leaving the house or trying to understand why your brain feels stuck on a “what if” roundabout, this episode offers the clinical clarity and authentic perspective needed to help break the cycle. Hit play to better understand the science of panic, anxiety, and bipolar disorder — and learn how to start taking your life back. "Panic attacks are disruptive as hell, I mean, how many times can I ‘panic quit' my job from the parking lot before it becomes problematic?" ~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. Please SHARE the show with everyone you know as that's how we're gonna grow! Thank you for listening. :) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.What happens when the first openly gay man competes in a Grand Slam — and falls for his opponent across the net? Debut author Eddie Schmit joins the show to talk about The Open Era, his queer tennis romance that's equal parts heart-racing competition and sweet slow-burn love story.Eddie shares how a mental health journey led him to tennis, how tennis led him to a book deal with Penguin Random House, and why the US Open — right in his Queens backyard — became the perfect backdrop for a story about identity, anxiety, and falling in love at exactly the wrong time. We also dig into his reading list: the Andre Agassi memoir that gripped him from page one, a practical mental health survival guide, a quirky queer literary novel about a mountain lion in the LA hills, and a cozy paranormal romance that reads like a warm hug.

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Welcome to Revive Ministries Podcast. Mental Health America founded Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949 and has led the effort every May to promote mental wellness nationwide.This year's theme — More Good Days, Together — encourages us all to reflect on what a “good” day looks like, both for ourselves and for ourcommunities“We are what we believe we are.” – C.S. LewisDisclaimer: If you are in crisis, please seek appropriate professional help immediately. The new 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available for those in the States.Today, we have a returning guest, Weronika Polańska, to help us remember our mental health and the people around us who are impacted by it.  “Remembering our Names” has been a theme for Revive Ministries for several years. "We are all broken, that's how the light gets in." — Ernest Hemingway, A Farewell to Arms

Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar acknowledges Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM).Mental Health America was established this observance in May 1949 to increase awareness of mental health issues, reduce stigma, celebrate recovery, and provide resources for individuals and communities.  I am thrilled to welcome Sean Martin as this year's MHAM special guest. Sean is the executive producer, guitarist, and vocalist behind the Quarantined. Singing in community choirs from the age of four in Fort Bragg, CA, and playing guitar by age twelve, Sean is a 2012 Musicians Institute alumnus with an A.A. in Guitar Performance and Music Industry Studies. An award-winning vocalist in high school, he placed in Regional and State Honor Choirs and earned a Lenaea Award as a writer and actor for the one-act play The Black Widow Project (Best Docudrama, 2003), directed by Meg Patterson. Sean Martin served in the U.S. Army Airborne Infantry (3/509th PIR, 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Division) from 2004–2007, deploying to Iraq from October 2006 to September 2007. He is now an outspoken advocate for veterans' mental health and the therapeutic use of cannabis for PTSD. Independently owned and operated, The Quarantined continues to release music defined by substance, intensity, and purpose. In partnership with Free2Luv.org, the project pushes toward a more inclusive and conscious future—setting a new standard for DIY music on an international scale.  In 2010, Sean and several former students at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, began to perform music together as the Quarantined.  Throughout 2010 to 2013, the band blended raw musical force with vivid imagery, creating songs that confront politics, trauma, addiction, and the cost of modern life.  In 2013, the Quarantined released their self-titled extended play, and throughout the mid-2010s, the band's music presence expanded with high-profile shows. In 2016, the band released another EP, Antiquate Hate, which earned international press coverage, radio play in 13 countries, and widespread rotation on US college radio.  Five years later, Sean Martin shifted the Quarantined into a solo venture. He traveled from Florida to Boston and back to Los Angeles, performing at numerous open mic nights in support of upcoming material and partnering with Plaid Dog Records with a successful crowdfunding campaign that led to the release of “One Last Chance” and “Instagram Hell.”  In 2025, Sean recorded, executive-produced, and released Aversion to Normalcy, which is a cathartic confrontation with trauma, resilience, and the illusion of “normal” in a fractured world. The release has generated international press, surpassed 1 million Spotify streams, and accumulated over 40 million views on TikTok—cementing Sean as a distinctive voice in modern rock.  On this edition of The Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sean Martin shared the Quarantined's origin story, the stories behind their most-streamed Spotify songs, and how he used his music to have mental health dialogues with his fans.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

“There is a way out of darkness, and I know how it works because I've been there…” Tiffany Fletcher shares her story of growing up in a home shaped by severe mental illness, fear, and silence—and the long path toward healing. As a young adult, a single conversation challenged the way she saw her past and her mother, opening the door to forgiveness, perspective, and ultimately, hope. Tiffany reflects on trauma, the complexity of family relationships, and what it means to break cycles for the next generation. This episode includes discussion of abuse, trauma, and mental illness. Please take care while listening. If you or someone you know needs support, we've included helpful resources below. https://www.nami.org/find-your-local-nami/ - National Alliance on Mental Illness https://mhanational.org/ - Mental Health America https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9792-dissociative-identity-disorder-multiple-personality-disorder - more information on dissociative identity disorder (DID) ABOUT GUEST Tiffany Fletcher is an author and aspiring clinical mental health counselor (https://a.co/d/0ixB4dKq). CHAPTERS (0:00) Content Warning (0:28) Introduction (0:55) Meet Tiffany Fletcher (1:38) Breaking Her Silence (2:42) Living With DID (4:43) Violence and Survival (6:27) Your Mother Was Your Savior (8:13) Bridge to Forgiveness (9:43) Leaving Home to Heal (13:34) Confronting Her Mother's Abuser (15:01) Called to Counseling (16:36) First Steps Toward Light (17:46) Conclusion

In this episode, I want to give an overview of what a mental health license is, why it is necessary and some of the types of providers that have a specific type of license. Part of the reason the podcast exist is to provide accurate, verifiable information.  So when I hear a statement like, "a license is only for insurance purposes," I have flashbacks of being that girl in class with her arms waving as the rest of the class groans. Resources Mentioned:  There is a simple version from Mental Health Foundation on the types of mental health professionals.    From NAMI, that is the National Alliance of Mental Illness is a PDF fact sheet on the types of mental health professionals, the titles and what they do.   Mental Health America also has a page on the various types of mental healthcare providers. Emergency Resources The Trevor Project: Provides crisis support specifically for LGBTQ+ youth through phone (1-866-488-7386), text (START to 678-678), and online chat. Available 24/7. They also provide peer support and community.    Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online. There are phone lines for those serving overseas. Visit the website to find the current status of the Veteran line and international calling options.    National Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support 24/7. This service operates independently of the 988 service. Users can use text, chat or WhatsApp as a means of contact.   Disclaimer:  Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute endorsements.  Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health disorder. This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Kai Stone joins Michelle Barone RED for a fun, laid-back conversation all about life after Temptation Island. From what it's really like being on reality TV to living in Hawaii and navigating dating in 2026, Kai keeps the conversation honest, funny, and completely unfiltered. They dive into modern relationships, social media, island life, and the unexpected realities that come with being recognized from TV.Lighthearted, relatable, and full of laughs, this episode feels like catching up with a friend while getting all the behind-the-scenes tea along the way.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

It is a common misconception that anxiety is just part of the package when you live with bipolar disorder. While anxiety can certainly be a symptom of a mood episode, for many people, it is its own distinct, comorbid diagnosis. In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar and anxiety) and Dr. Nicole Washington get real about the overlap between bipolar disorder and anxiety. Dr. Nicole explains the clinical difference between being a "worrier" and having a pathology, while Gabe shares personal stories of suffering from – and overcoming – anxiety. Listeners Will Learn: How to tell if your anxiety is a symptom of mania/depression or its own disorder. Why anxiety ruminations feel like an endless scroll of negative thoughts. Dr. Nicole's genius (and socially acceptable) tactic for escaping an anxiety-inducing situation. How to avoid the suffering Olympics when it comes to bipolar and anxiety Whether you're dealing with anxiety related to emails from your boss or you're afraid to leave the house, we're sharing practical, real-world strategies to help you pull back instead of pushing through. Listen Now! "My best anxiety coping skill, unfortunately, still involves me having that initial momentary terror. But it sure beats the old skill where I panicked, freaked out, and yelled at everybody." ~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. Please LIKE, SHARE, & SUBSCRIBE! Sharing the show with the people you know is how we grow! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you know that Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May in the United States and was established in 1949? It was founded by Mental Health America (then known as the National Association for Mental Health) in 1949 to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and celebrate recovery from mental illness. Source: Mental Health Awareness Month | SAMHSA  This month, my blogs offer resources for spreading awareness and making donations to support mental health, with links for detailed information. Why Is Mental Health Awareness Important? 10 Tips To PromoteThe Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month | Brown University HealthMay is Mental Health Month | HairBluesMAY – MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH 2026 | tech4boomersMay is Mental Health Month | livingsenior.meWestchester, NY Senior Connections | livingsenior.meMay is Mental Health Awareness Month | TRAVELMARE!All the best in Wellness! For the past several years, blogging has been both a passion and an avocation. I am engaged in exploring the therapeutic uses of essential oils, and I am also a Climate  Advocate. I invite you visit my Linktree page: @autocreate740 | LinktreeYou can also visit my website: Aromatherapy | Judithguerra.com

Marissa Jade joins Michelle Barone RED for a fiery, unfiltered conversation that goes far beyond reality TV. In this episode, Marissa opens up about the highs and lows of being in the spotlight, navigating friendships and drama in the reality TV world, and what life has really been like since her time on Mob Wives.From behind-the-scenes stories to personal growth, relationships, and staying true to herself through it all, nothing is off limits. Raw, hilarious, emotional, and completely unapologetic, Marissa brings the honesty and energy fans have always loved her for. If you thought you knew her from TV… this conversation will make you see a whole different side.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

Support #Millennial!⁠⁠⁠ Visit Patreon.com/millennial to get exclusive bonus episodes, live stream access, and more! Visit our merch store: ⁠⁠https://shop.millennialshow.com⁠⁠ Follow the show in your favorite podcast app and leave us a review! It's Mental Health Awareness Month, so we're doing a real check-in on the show this week. How are we actually doing? We dig into this year's Mental Health America theme, "More Good Days, Together," and get honest about where we're at. We also get into looksmaxxing — the online subculture pushing young men toward increasingly extreme methods to "maximize" their attractiveness — and ask the uncomfortable question: why does it take men being harmed for society to notice what women have lived with forever? Then we zoom out to the male loneliness epidemic. The red pill crowd says men have it worst, but the data tells a more complicated story. Per usual, we've got fun and timely recommendations! "The Drama" (available to rent) (Laura), checking your voter registration status (Pam), and Mario + Rabbids “Sparks of Hope” (Eric).  And in this week's installment of After Dark: Someone shit the bed. Literally (oops). And we reminisce about our cringiest roommate stories, and the experience of communal bathrooms in college dorms (how did we do this every day??).   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1949, Mental Health America established that each May would be recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. The theme for 2026 is “More Good Days, Together,” and it encourages everyone to think about what a “good day” looks like – for both ourselves and our communities. Here to share insight on that is Susan Charles, UC Irvine professor of psychology and nursing, who examines emotional processes across the adult lifespan. In this episode of The UC Irvine Podcast, she will discuss her award-winning findings on how people's perceptions of good days – and their priorities – change as they grow older. The director of the Emotion Research Lab will also highlight several factors her team has learned contribute to well-being over the years and answer a common question: How do individuals know if they're aging well? “The Day Is Close,” the music for this episode, was provided by The 126ers via the audio library in YouTube Studio.

Patrick Riecke joins Miriam and Matt to discuss burnout. Patrick shares from his personal experiences and public studies to shine a light on this under-discussed issue and what to do about it. Resources Burnout Test (website/assessment) Patrick Riecke (website/organization) R3 Restoration (organization) Psychology Today (website) Mental Health America (website/organization) Moving Church Volunteers from Burnout To Their Best Fit (podcast/video) Warning Signs of Burnout and How to Prevent It (article)

Is your team truly showing up or just going through the motions? Suzi Craig, VP of Workplace Mental Health at Mental Health America, joins host Gene Marks to uncover what small business leaders can improve when it comes to supporting their teams. From building a culture of trust and psychological safety to spotting struggling employees before they walk out the door, Suzi delivers actionable advice every business owner needs. Plus, hear why AI anxiety is the new workplace mental health crisis. Learn more about Mental Health America's resources and programs at mhanational.org Turn today's insights into action. Here's your step-by-step guide to building an employee wellness and mental health program: https://bit.ly/48Dpah4 Simplify your business operations: Visit paychex.com/MeetPaychex to learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts. Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics Topics include: 00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction 01:26 – Mental Health America overview 03:20 – Building a culture of trust 07:08 – Training managers to support employers 11:32 – Psychological safety: definition and origin 13:50 – Generational differences in workplace mental health 16:42 – Stop guessing: using employment input and data 19:15 – Hidden struggles of employees 21:10 – Having a plan around leave 23:34 – AI and technology anxiety 27:05 – Individual mental health strategies 31:18 – Wrap up and thank you #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips #SpotifyPodcasts DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Are you no longer experiencing pleasure or joy in day-to-day life? If you are living with bipolar disorder, you know the crushing weight of the “nothingness” — that specific, hollow moment where the things that used to define happiness suddenly feel like chores. This may not be a bad mood or a lack of discipline; it could be a clinical symptom known as anhedonia.In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) peel back the layers of this often-misunderstood symptom. Together, they share that losing your spark isn't a character flaw, but a biological hurdle that you can overcome.  Listener takeaways: Learn exactly what anhedonia is — and is not. Learn how anhedonia can appear in dysphoric or agitated mania. Learn to distinguish between clinical loss of joy and simply “outgrowing” things. Learn how to define — and understand — “normal.” If you've ever felt like a “bad” or “lazy” person because you couldn't find the joy in life, this episode is the reality check you need. Learn why “gray is OK” and how to start the climb back to contentment. Listen now! "A lot of people don't recognize that boredom and contentment and blah is not depression. It's not anhedonia. It's not joy or happiness, but it is stability." ~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. Please, Share the Show! (Tell a Friend!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Keith Hernandez—a New York City–based tattoo artist, creative entrepreneur, and founder of Dez Studio NYC—who is redefining what it means to build art with purpose. Known for his bold black-and-grey work and refined artistic eye, Keith opens up about his journey from early creative instincts to becoming a respected name in NYC's tattoo scene.We dive into the realities of owning a studio, the difference between working for yourself versus someone else, and how creating his own space transformed not just his art—but the community around him. From balancing artistic integrity with client expectations to mentoring the next generation of artists, Keith shares an honest look into the discipline, intuition, and responsibility that comes with putting permanent stories on people's skin. We also get into the evolution of tattoo culture in New York, common misconceptions about the industry, and the moments that have defined his career—both creatively and personally.If you're passionate about art, entrepreneurship, or building something meaningful from the ground up, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!  Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org. WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed. Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine. Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/ Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast  Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==  Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc  Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson  Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/

In this episode of RED, Amira Harvey gets real about stepping away from music during a time when songwriting became overwhelming—and how taking that break was necessary for her growth. She opens up about the pressure behind creating, the mental toll it took, and what it looked like to pause and reset. Now, she's finding her way back, sharing how reconnecting with music has actually helped her mental health and reignited her passion. Amira also gives a sneak peek into her new music and upcoming projects, letting listeners in on what's next for her creatively.Of course, it wouldn't be RED without some real girl chat—Michelle, Ashleigh, and Amira dive into honest conversations about life, emotions, and navigating it all while growing into your best self. Raw, relatable, and inspiring—this is an episode you don't want to miss. -----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

"Do I have to take these meds forever?" It's the most common question psychiatrists hear, but the answer is rarely a simple yes or no. In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (living with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (board-certified psychiatrist) dive into the risks, the realities, and the honest conversations most doctors avoid when it comes to stopping bipolar medication. They break down why "cold turkey" is a recipe for disaster and explain the equally dangerous "hot turkey" otherwise known as restarting a full medication cocktail after a long break. Gabe shares his own journey of switching doctors to find a specialist in titration, illustrating the difference between "Mercedes Benz care" and trying to navigate a "hoopty" ride on your own. Dr. Nicole explains the science of brain receptors, the logistical hurdles of compounding pharmacies, and why the medical community is often resistant to "deprescribing." Listeners Will Learn: ·  Instead of "stopping" try reframing the conversation as "decreasing reliance" ·  Why lowering your medication slowly gives you better results ·  Finding a psych doctor who understands "deprescribing" may take time ·  A successful, safe medication adjustment can take a year or more—it is a marathon, not a sprint  Whether you're struggling with side effects like brain fog and sexual dysfunction or you simply want to feel more in control, this episode offers a roadmap for having an honest, data-driven conversation with your treatment team. Learn why "decreasing reliance" on medication is often a more successful goal than quitting entirely, and how to treat bumps in the road as data points rather than failures. "Most people think stopping meds is like flipping a light switch—on Monday you're on them, and on Tuesday you're not. But in reality, it's a slow, medical taper. It's more accurate to describe this as 'decreasing our reliance' rather than just quitting, so we can actually see what the data tells us." ~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. Tell a Friend: Sharing the show with the people we know is how our podcast will grow! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into a raw and revealing conversation as Michelle Barone and Ashleigh McPherson sit down with Heidi D'Amelio—the woman behind one of the most talked-about families on social media. From navigating overnight fame to protecting her family in the public eye, Heidi opens up about what it really takes to be a mother, manager, and emotional anchor in a world driven by millions of opinions. In this episode, Heidi shares the reality of raising her family, her daughters, Charli D'Amelio and Dixie D'Amelio in the spotlight, the pressures of fame, cancel culture, and online criticism. How she balances family, mental health, and business and lessons on resilience, boundaries, and staying groundedThis isn't just about social media—it's about motherhood, identity, and staying strong when the world is watching.If you've ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of viral fame, this episode is a must-listen.----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors! Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

Are you living with bipolar and a single parent or managing a household alone? Have you been told things like sleep hygiene (as an example) is a pillar of stability, but your teenager's late-night schedule and the on-call pressure of solo parenting make that feel impossible? In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board-certified psychiatrist) respond to a raw, honest listener email that challenges the "nuclear family" advice often given to single parents. They dismantle the crushing weight of "Mom Guilt" and the stigma that suggests a mental health diagnosis disqualifies you from raising healthy kids. Is the ship destined to sink, or are you just holding yourself to a standard that doesn't exist? Listeners will Learn: Why striving for perfection is a trap that leads to burnout If you don't prioritize your health, the whole household suffers How being real with your children can build a stronger foundation for the future Listen in to hear why Dr. Nicole believes you—the parent—are the undisputed MVP of your household. This episode is an essential look at modeling self-care for your children, setting "Do Not Disturb" boundaries without the guilt, and realizing that your kids don't need a superhero, they just need a healthy you.   "Bipolar might be wriggling into your brain and attacking something you love -- your skills as a parent -- Don't let it." ~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. Thank you for listening. PLEASE LIKE, SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Communication is key, but the looks are changing. In our digital age of texting and emails, less spoken language means less emotion, tone and social cues.A study from the University of Missouri-Kansas City shows that each year we speak about 300 fewer words. As political polarization increases and arguments and debates dominate our dialogue, how do we re-learn the art of communication?Navigating sensitive topics and confronting others is difficult, but an essential skill in all facets of life, whether it's family, friends or the workplace. And, inevitably many people are using AI for advice.We'll learn about difficult conversations, how to approach them, and tools to strengthen our dialogue skills.Guests:Matt Abrahams, lecturer in organizational behavior, Stanford Graduate School of BusinessMaggie Hallett, associate director, Mental Health America of OhioAaron Yarmel, associate director, Ohio State University's Center for Ethics and Human Values/founding director, Philosophy Counseling and Consulting

Communication is key, but the looks are changing. In our digital age of texting and emails, less spoken language means less emotion, tone and social cues.A study from the University of Missouri-Kansas City shows that each year we speak about 300 fewer words. As political polarization increases and arguments and debates dominate our dialogue, how do we re-learn the art of communication?Navigating sensitive topics and confronting others is difficult, but an essential skill in all facets of life, whether it's family, friends or the workplace. And, inevitably many people are using AI for advice.We'll learn about difficult conversations, how to approach them, and tools to strengthen our dialogue skills.Guests:Matt Abrahams, lecturer in organizational behavior, Stanford Graduate School of BusinessMaggie Hallett, associate director, Mental Health America of OhioAaron Yarmel, associate director, Ohio State University's Center for Ethics and Human Values/founding director, Philosophy Counseling and Consulting

Amanda Ayala joins Michelle Barone RED for a powerful conversation about passion, perseverance, and finding your voice—both on and off the stage. From her breakout moment on The Voice to competing on Who Will Rock You, Amanda reflects on the experiences that shaped her confidence and creativity. She dives into the stories behind her music, including her unapologetic track “I Hate the Bruins,” and shares how she channels vulnerability into strength through songwriting. This episode is a deep look into the mindset of an artist who refuses to hold back.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors! Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/Ciel: Elevate your everyday with Ciel—where style meets intention. Discover thoughtfully curated pieces designed to inspire confidence and effortless living. Shop now at https://cielny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

In this episode of Michelle Barone RED, we sit down with rising creator and entrepreneur Johnna Victoria—a New York-based influencer and owner of her own brand, Life Hair Co.Known for her confident personality, relatable content, and unfiltered approach to life, Johnna opens up about what it really takes to build a personal brand in today's digital world. From balancing social media growth to stepping into entrepreneurship, she shares the highs, the challenges, and the mindset that's helped her stand out.We dive into topics like confidence, authenticity online, navigating relationships and self-worth, and how to stay grounded while growing a platform. Johnna also gives insight into her journey as a business owner and what inspired her to take the leap into creating something of her own. This episode is honest, empowering, and full of real talk you won't want to miss.Tune in for a conversation that's equal parts inspiring, relatable, and unapologetically real.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org. WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed. Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine. Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/ -----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

"What jobs are suitable for someone living with bipolar disorder?" It's a question that floods our inbox, and the answer might surprise you: almost every single one. From high-powered criminal defense attorneys to surgeons and CEOs, people are nailing it in the workforce every day while managing a bipolar diagnosis. In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (diagnosed with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board-certified psychiatrist) dismantle the "minimum wage myth" to provide a realistic roadmap for re-entering and thriving in the workforce. We explore why your diagnosis isn't a unique disqualifier, but rather a factor to manage -- much like a pilot respects the weather or a surfer respects the ocean. Listeners Will Learn: Why almost every line of work remains open even after a diagnosis. Practical financial and medical rules for your first year back on the job. How to transition from your couch to a worksite without hitting burnout. How to distinguish between a bipolar symptom and a normal job struggle. Failing often isn't a symptom of bipolar disorder; it's just part of the universal human experience. Whether you're currently unemployed, struggling with "failure to launch," or looking to switch jobs, this episode provides the baby-step protocol you need to launch your next chapter workwise. It's time to stop letting stigma decide your paycheck and start respecting your own potential. "If the only reason you believe you can't do a specific job is because you have bipolar disorder, I say try. I was surprised at how much success I had despite my diagnosis." ~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. Please like and subscribe -- and share the show with everyone you know so we can grow! Thank you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Michelle Barone RED, we're joined by the one and only Rob Pep — content creator and unapologetic personality known for turning real-life experiences into raw, relatable, and wildly entertaining content. From navigating business and branding to speaking his truth online, Rob Pep dives into what it really takes to stand out in a saturated digital world. He opens up about confidence, criticism, and the mindset needed to keep going when everyone's watching. And of course… it wouldn't be RED without a twist.We put Rob to the test with a hilarious “Guess the Donut” game — and let's just say… things got a little chaotic. Get ready for laughs, unfiltered moments, and powerful insight on building a brand by simply being yourself. -----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

Comedian and content creator Natalie Friedman joins Michelle Barone for a hilarious episode of RED where nothing is off limits. From navigating the world of comedy and social media fame to balancing family and real life behind the scenes, Natalie brings her quick wit and honest perspective to the conversation. The laughs don't stop there—Natalie even pranks Michelle's niece live on air, creating one of the most unforgettable moments of the episode. It's a fun, unfiltered conversation about comedy, fame, family, and the moments that keep life entertaining.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors! Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

Studies suggest people with bipolar disorder die 25 years younger than the general population. It's a statistic that hits like a "thump to the chest," but is it a death sentence or a wake-up call — and is it even true? In this episode, host Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) peel back the curtain on the physical toll of living with a serious mental illness. While we spend so much energy managing our minds, we often neglect the “vessel” carrying us through life. From the 50% increased risk of sleep apnea to the increased risk of weight gain and diabetes, the risks are real, but they aren't inevitable. We dive deep into why “bipolar adjacent” issues like diet, smoking, and sedentary lifestyles are the true drivers of the shortened lifespan statistic, and how building a rock-solid relationship with a primary care doctor can literally save your life. Listeners will learn: how sleep apnea mimics — and triggers — mood changes why not every physical symptom is “just bipolar” the truth about medication and your liver how your lifestyle choices and daily habits can rewrite your health statistics Stop treating your physical health as an afterthought. Whether it's vitamin deficiencies mimicking depression or sleep apnea driving mood changes, it's time to recognize that you have far more control over your outcome than the statistics suggest. 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

If everything you do is labeled a symptom of bipolar disorder, do you ever get to be yourself? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington tackle one of the most frustrating — and rarely discussed — realities of living with bipolar disorder: when regular human behavior gets pathologized by friends, family, and even well-meaning supporters.Want to watch TV the whole weekend? Suddenly it's “depression.”Excited about a new idea or passion? You're being “grandiose.”Stumble over your words or get animated in conversation? Sounds like “mania.”Gabe shares deeply personal stories about having his ideas dismissed, his ambitions questioned, and his successes doubted, not by strangers, but by the people who loved him most. Dr. Nicole explains why loved ones become hypervigilant, how fear and trauma shape their reactions, and where concern crosses the line into harm. Listen and Learn: learn how to tell the difference between bipolar symptoms and typical human behavior understand why loved ones become hyper-alert and how fear drives their reactions how to have hard conversations without losing your support system why community and peer support matter when loved ones can't let go of fear This episode isn't about denying bipolar symptoms; it's about reclaiming your identity beyond the diagnosis. Because people with bipolar disorder deserve full lives, real dreams, and the freedom to be annoying, excited, ambitious, and human — just like everyone else. Cold Open Transcript: Gabe Howard: I don't think we're allowed to have these thoughts. Let's say that I was a person that did not live with bipolar disorder. And I came up with the pie-in-the-sky idea. The conversation is negative, but it also sort of moves forward. People with bipolar disorder don't get that. We just get shut down immediately, told that this is a symptom of our illness and that we need to cease this line of communication. And so they withdraw all that help, they withdraw all that information, and they leave us to fend for ourselves. Which actually puts us in a worse position. 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

This week on Michelle Barone RED, Michelle sits down with music industry powerhouse Charlie Walk for a raw and inspiring conversation about reinvention, resilience, and the reality behind success. From discovering global superstars to navigating public highs and lows, Charlie opens up about the lessons he's learned at the top of the entertainment world — and what it truly takes to rebuild, refocus, and rise again. Together, they dive into ambition, accountability, leadership, and the mindset required to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. This episode goes beyond headlines. It's about growth, grit, and owning your next chapter. If you've ever faced setbacks, chased big dreams, or wondered what it takes to thrive at the highest level — this conversation is for you. Listen now on Michelle Barone RED. -----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

Paranoia is one of the most misunderstood symptoms in bipolar disorder — and using the wrong word can delay the right treatment. Using real-life examples, this episode explains how psychosis in bipolar disorder is typically tied to mood episodes, how paranoid delusions form, and why people experiencing them often don't report symptoms. In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) break down what paranoia actually is, when it's actually anxiety or hypervigilance, and when it crosses into psychosis and delusional thinking. They explain why “being paranoid” isn't a diagnosis and how paranoid delusions fit under the psychosis umbrella. We answer common questions like: Is paranoia a stand-alone diagnosis in the DSM-5? When does healthy suspicion, anxiety, or hypervigilance get mislabeled as paranoia? Why does psychosis in bipolar disorder usually occur during manic or depressive episodes? What types of medications are commonly used to treat paranoia-related symptoms? How can loved ones spot symptoms the person may not recognize? If you've ever wondered whether paranoia is a typical worry, a trauma response, or something more serious, this episode brings clarity to a topic that's often confusing — and rarely explained well. 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. Sharing the show with people you know is how we'll grow. Please like, share, and subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this electrifying episode of Michelle Barone RED, Michelle and Ashleigh sit down with Vincent DeGrezia, partner of RED and founder of the groundbreaking beverage brand WAVA Water—the first ever beverage and sound experience designed to elevate your creativity, productivity, and focus.WAVA blends lightly caffeinated sparkling water with the power of binaural beats and frequency-enhanced music, creating a multi-sensory boost unlike anything else on the market. Vincent breaks down the science, the mission, and the movement behind WAVA, plus how this unique innovation is reshaping wellness, performance, and daily rituals.The energy was sky-high in the studio—so much so that Michelle, Ashleigh, and Vincent shotgunned a WAVA LIVE on the episode, turning the conversation into a full-on vibe. Expect laughs, insights, behind-the-brand stories, and some unforgettable chaos.If you're ready to tap into higher creativity and sharper focus (with a little fun along the way), this is one episode you don't want to miss.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

Mario Bosco joins Michelle Barone RED for an unforgettable conversation filled with honesty, grit, and heart. A celebrated actor, author, and advocate, Mario has built a remarkable career in Hollywood while navigating a powerful personal journey. From his early days overcoming medical challenges to becoming a familiar face in film and television, Mario's story is one of resilience and relentless determination.On RED, Mario opens up about his life in the entertainment industry, the lessons he's learned along the way, and the message of hope he continues to spread. His charisma, humor, and authenticity make this episode one you won't want to miss.-----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors! Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org.WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed.Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine.Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

This episode was never supposed to exist. Mental health “rules” say patients and psychiatrists shouldn't share power, shouldn't speak publicly as equals, and definitely shouldn't build a show together. Yet here we are — over 100 episodes in, winning awards, and recording our first-ever in-person episode. In this special behind-the-scenes conversation, we pull back the curtain on “Inside Bipolar”: why so many doctors refused to participate, why patient-led advocacy makes professionals uncomfortable, and why influencer culture both helps and harms people living with bipolar disorder. We talk candidly about distrust of psychiatry, accusations of selling out, the rise of misinformation, and why scared people cling to loud voices over evidence. We also go somewhere rarely discussed in mental health media: self-doubt, self-deprecation, and the reality that success with bipolar disorder often looks painfully ordinary. Listener takeaways why patient-doctor partnerships are rare — and why they scare both sides why “hopeful” mental health messaging often misses the mark how self-doubt and advocacy can exist at the same time how this podcast changed the way both hosts view mental illness No toxic positivity. No “inspiration porn.” No pretending recovery is a mountaintop moment. Just two people — one with lived experience, one with medical expertise — talking honestly about what actually helps, what doesn't, and why this unlikely partnership changed how both of us see mental illness, advocacy, and each other. Cold Open Transcript: Dr. Nicole: Which one is the real Gabe? You put yourself down, actually, quite a bit. Do you really have a low opinion of yourself? Like, are you fundamentally like this guy who really thinks, like, I suck, and I just get up every day and put one foot in front of the other one and do the best I can? Or do you have a lot of confidence because you, almost at the same time, have to have a ton of confidence to get in front of the camera and do the speaking and do all the things. 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. PLEASE Share the show with everyone you know as it's how our community will grow. Happy Listening! :) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of RED, Michelle and Ashleigh sit down with Justin McClure for an honest and powerful conversation about life behind the camera. Known for his family vlogging journey, Justin opens up about what it really means to share your life online while protecting the people you love most. Justin dives deep into his sobriety journey, the challenges and responsibility of showing up as a husband and father, and how personal growth has reshaped his purpose both on and off social media.From navigating vulnerability in a public space to redefining success beyond views and virality, this episode explores the real work that happens when the cameras turn off. This conversation is raw, reflective, and filled with insight for anyone navigating family, faith, recovery, or life in the public eye. A must-listen for those who believe growth starts with honesty.----------------------------------------------------Support Our Sponsors!Mental Health America of Dutchess County: Dedicated to promoting mental health and providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families. Learn more and find resources at https://mhadutchess.org. WAVA Water: Discover how Wava Water goes beyond hydration to fuel your body and mind. Visit wavawater.com to find your focus and stay refreshed. Pixi Beauty: Discover the natural glow with Pixi Beauty products. Shop now at https://pixibeauty.com and let your skin shine. Derma Laser Center: Schedule your Consultation Now! https://www.dermalasercenterny.com/-----------------------------------------------------Subscribe to the podcast now: https://www.youtube.com/@michellebaroneredpodcast Check out RED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellebaronered?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Michelle Barone Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/michellebaroneonline/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellebarone?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Ashleigh McPhersonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ashhmcpherson/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashhmcpherson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashmcpherson Check out RED for more: https://michellebaroneonline.com/ 

Have you ever noticed how slowing down can feel strangely uncomfortable—even when you know you need it? Or how taking a break can stir guilt instead of relief? In this episode, I'm joined by Israa Nasir, a psychotherapist, mental health educator, and founder of WellGuide, to explore the deeper psychology behind our relentless drive to stay busy. Drawing from her new book Toxic Productivity, Israa helps us unpack the hidden beliefs that link our worth to our output—and how to step out of that pressure without losing our sense of ambition. Israa's work bridges emotional well-being, modern life, and resilience-building, and she has been featured in NBC, Vox, HuffPost, Teen Vogue, and more. She has also been invited to speak at organizations including Mental Health America, Google, Meta, and Yale. Together, we talk about where toxic productivity comes from, how it quietly shapes our self-esteem, and what it looks like to redefine success in a way that supports your mental health. You'll also walk away with practical ways to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and build a relationship with productivity that feels grounded—not draining.