Podcasts about my brave

Jennifer Marshall experienced four psychiatric hospitalizations within five years—two before any diagnosis was reached, and two more because she was trying to protect her son during her own postpartum psychosis and later after going off medication to protect her unborn daughter. All of those hospitalizations were because she was unmedicated at the time. Then, seven years later, after seven and a half years of stability, she suffered a manic episode after the death of her friend and partner who had helped her launch her non-profit, Anne Marie Ames. Living in recovery with bi-polar disorder is a daily struggle, but Jennifer is determined to live successfully despite mental illness. With good health practices, good medical care, and the support of friends and loved ones Jennifer continues her campaign to de-stigmatize mental illness and to celebrate the brave people who put their names and faces to it. Jennifer founded “This is My Brave”, an organization to celebrate the stories of those who struggle with or have relationships with those who struggle with all forms of mental illness.

This Is My Brave with Jennifer Marshall, Episode #149 Jennifer Marshall is the founder of “This Is My Brave,” the leading platform for individuals to share their stories of overcoming mental illness through creative expression. Jennifer formed the organization after experiencing a positive outpouring of support following the publication of her story on a well-known news website.  She wanted to provide that same opportunity to others living with mental illness. She envisioned a theater show concept, and together with her Co-Founder Anne Marie Ames, launched the project on Kickstarter. The project was successfully funded within 31 days, raising over $10,000 to create the inaugural show.  “This is My Brave” continued to expand and became a national non-profit organization that has created over 90+ shows in cities across the country (and in Australia).  Jennifer routinely speaks on the importance of sharing stories of triumphing despite mental illness to end stigma. She speaks regularly at mental health and storytelling conferences. Listen in for some great takeaways about how Jennifer is bringing mental health to the forefront and helping others share their stories to help themselves, their communities, and the world. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... Learn more about Jennifer Marshall and This is My Brave [3:43] What the “This is My Brave” platform looks like [5:47]  What prompted Jennifer to step out of the shadows [8:32]  How Jennifer's transparency impacted her children [11:06]  Why it's important to normalize talking about mental health [14:11] Jennifer shares a story that impacted her from their 2015 show [15:15]  Why you shouldn't be afraid to share your story [17:56]  How can we lower the number of attempted suicides among teenagers? [19:45] How we can leverage social media to make a larger impact [21:45] How to talk about mental health with your children [24:54] The next big things for Jennifer Marshall and This Is My Brave [26:45]  What Jennifer did today that put her in the right mindset for success [28:37] Resources & People Mentioned Danielle Fiorello The “Our Turn to Talk” documentary Principle Pictures Our Turn to Talk Our Turn to Talk podcast Jennifer's blog Connect with Jennifer Marshall The website On Instagram On Twitter On Facebook On YouTube Connect With Mitlin Financial podcast*at*mitlinfinancial(dot)com - email us with your suggestions for topics or guests If you would like to learn more schedule a call: https://mitlin.us/FitCall https://mitlinfinancial.com  Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram Subscribe on Youtube Follow on Linkedin Follow on Facebook Guests on the Mitlin Money Mindset Show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC, and opinions expressed herein may not be representative of CWM, LLC. CWM, LLC is not responsible for the guest's content linked on this site. Subscribe to Mitlin Money Mindset® on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

It's World Bipolar Day! Hypomania and mania are misrepresented and misunderstood so recorded this 'Conversations About Mania' episode to demystify misconceptions. Listen in as Mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn, Tatyana Frost and Rudy Caseres share raw and vulnerable stories about their with hypomanic and manic episodes- from  symptoms, hospitalizations, stigma and more. These stories shed light on what it is really like to live with Bipolar 1 & 2 Disorder. Shaley, Tatyana and Rudy also discuss helpful practices and strategies that help them manage these episodes. These are hard stories to tell, we are so grateful for their honesty and perseverance. We hope this conversation offers hope and encouragement to others walking a similar path.  This is bipolar... If you enjoyed this episode or if this podcast means something to you would you consider pressing the follow or subscribe button. If you really loved it feel free to buy me a coffee. I am forever grateful that I get to do this work.   Meet Rudy: Rudy Caseres is an award-winning mental health advocate, public speaker, and storytelling event host/producer. He has traveled the country delivering keynote presentations, worked with organizations such as the American Association of Suicidology, This is My Brave, Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and has hosted various storytelling events in the Los Angeles area. He has hosted live-streams for The Mighty and other organizations since 2016. In 2017, he was named one of The Mighty's Mental Health Heroes and NAMI California's Outstanding Peer of the Year. You can connect with him on social media where he is @RudyCaseres. Meet Tatyana: Tatyana Frost is a mental health worker, mental illness advocate, and writer. She recently published her first self-help journal for those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Inside My Mind, with the goal of helping people better understand themselves and their disorder. Tatyana is diagnosed with Bipolar 1 and Borderline Personality Disorder and is a champion for mental illness on Instagram @havingbipolar where she shares her mental illness experiences and what she's learned along the way.    #thisisbipolar  #thisisbipolarpodcast #bipolarawareness #mentalhealthpodcast #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalillness

In this episode of 'Conversations With', Shaley Hoogendoorn talks with fellow advocate, Rudy Caseres. Rudy shares openly about his experiences living with bipolar disorder- from symptoms, getting help, stigma and medication to the how becoming a mental health advocate has been a huge part of his healing journey. Rudy also gives advice and words of encouragement to those walking a similar path. His story is one of perseverance and inspiration. We are so grateful for Rudy's voice and his mental health advocacy work. We feel honoured that he shared his story with us, Rudy's story is not over yet.  This is bipolar... IG @this.is.bipolar Meet Rudy: Rudy Caseres is an award-winning mental health advocate, public speaker, and storytelling event host/producer. He has traveled the country delivering keynote presentations, worked with organizations such as the American Association of Suicidology, This is My Brave, Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and has hosted various storytelling events in the Los Angeles area. He has hosted live-streams for The Mighty and other organizations since 2016. In 2017, he was named one of The Mighty's Mental Health Heroes and NAMI California's Outstanding Peer of the Year. You can connect with him on social media where he is @RudyCaseres.   #thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarpodcast #bipolarpodcast #bipolar #mentalhealthpodcast #mentalhealth #mental-illness

Through performing arts, https://thisismybrave.org/ (This is My Brave) is breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse. Hosting performances across the country, the nonprofit equips ordinary people to join their cast, tell their stories, and feel empowered in their hardships. Their research has shown the direct impact of their work- a reduction of self-stigma and an increase in confidence and sense of belonging. Simply put, their storytelling platform saves lives. This week Lift U Up: Inspiring Health Stories is joined by Erin Gallagher, This is My Brave's Interim Executive Director. She shares what drew her to This is My Brave and why a devastating family loss led her to becoming a mental health advocate. 

In this episode, guest Kheira Bekkadja, a Muslim Algerian American college student making an impact in mental health, inspires listeners with her insights on grounding in self-care and positive affirmations. As an example, she shares the Muslim practice of praying five times, at set times during the day, as challenging as it can be to stay persistent.  There are movements that go with the prayer, including putting the forehead on the floor, which helps release negative energy and connect with God. “My faith is what rejuvenates me,” Kheira says. Surrounding oneself with good people is another way she recommends staying grounded.    Topics covered in this interview: Kheira juggles being a college student, majoring in civil engineering, and doing mental health advocacy work. The importance of finding ways to “fill your cup” as it's very easy to get burned out and saturated working in mental health.  The ways she builds bridges structurally (through civil engineering) and by de-stigmatizing mental health. Kheira's selection for, and later participation in, the MTV Youth Action Forum sponsored by the Biden-Harris administration. The goal of the Forum is to “share and tell everyone healing is within you.” She continues working on creating culturally relevant campaigns for MTV. She and Dr. Alfiee both share poignant moments of what it was like to be at the White House that day, when the Forum came together, and meeting the president and his wife, and being in the nation's capital. Kheira's desire to be a role model, especially after not seeing herself fully reflected back with other Muslim Algerian Americans in the audience- as beautifully diverse and culturally rich as it was. She shares many inspiring quotes of self-talk and how she empowers herself, and listens to others with empathy versus judgment.   About Kheira Bekkadja: Kheira Bekkadja is a second-year student at George Mason University, working to build bridges [literally] by studying civil & infrastructure engineering and [figuratively] de-stigmatizing mental health and youth empowerment.  Through her experiences as being a Muslim Algerian American Woman, Kheira worked alongside Our Minds Matter (OMM) which has enabled her with the courage to openly speak up about her challenges in hopes of inspiring others to be the healthiest versions of themselves. She has also had the chance to share her story at Harvard University's National Muslim Women's Summit 2020, The Global Health Leaders Conference at Johns Hopkins University, and advocate with VOICE-IAF, This is My Brave, and Promote Care Prevent Harm. This past May, Kheira had the incredible and life-changing opportunity to be selected as one of the mental health youth action forum participants where she and the #HiddenHealers team are working to cultivate creative mental health campaigns to help inspire culturally-relevant healing and action. Kheira finds great joy in making others smile and helping them to believe in their best selves!    Follow Kheira: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kheirabekkadja/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kheirabekkadja/   Follow Dr. Alfiee: Website:  https://dralfiee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dralfiee Twitter: https://twitter.com/dralfiee Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralfiee/ Website: https://dralfiee.com   Find out more about the AAKOMA Project here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvTKmYKi24I   Season 3 Produced By: https://socialchameleon.us   More Couched in Color: https://dralfiee.com/podcast Music Produced by: Mark “King” Batson (Superproducer of your favorite artists and Grammy award-winner for albums with Eminem and Beyoncé)

In this episode, guest Kheira Bekkadja, a Muslim Algerian American college student making an impact in mental health, inspires listeners with her insights on grounding in self-care and positive affirmations. As an example, she shares the Muslim practice of praying five times, at set times during the day, as challenging as it can be to stay persistent.  There are movements that go with the prayer, including putting the forehead on the floor, which helps release negative energy and connect with God. “My faith is what rejuvenates me,” Kheira says. Surrounding oneself with good people is another way she recommends staying grounded.    Topics covered in this interview: Kheira juggles being a college student, majoring in civil engineering, and doing mental health advocacy work. The importance of finding ways to “fill your cup” as it's very easy to get burned out and saturated working in mental health.  The ways she builds bridges structurally (through civil engineering) and by de-stigmatizing mental health. Kheira's selection for, and later participation in, the MTV Youth Action Forum sponsored by the Biden-Harris administration. The goal of the Forum is to “share and tell everyone healing is within you.” She continues working on creating culturally relevant campaigns for MTV. She and Dr. Alfiee both share poignant moments of what it was like to be at the White House that day, when the Forum came together, and meeting the president and his wife, and being in the nation's capital. Kheira's desire to be a role model, especially after not seeing herself fully reflected back with other Muslim Algerian Americans in the audience- as beautifully diverse and culturally rich as it was. She shares many inspiring quotes of self-talk and how she empowers herself, and listens to others with empathy versus judgment.   About Kheira Bekkadja: Kheira Bekkadja is a second-year student at George Mason University, working to build bridges [literally] by studying civil & infrastructure engineering and [figuratively] de-stigmatizing mental health and youth empowerment.  Through her experiences as being a Muslim Algerian American Woman, Kheira worked alongside Our Minds Matter (OMM) which has enabled her with the courage to openly speak up about her challenges in hopes of inspiring others to be the healthiest versions of themselves. She has also had the chance to share her story at Harvard University's National Muslim Women's Summit 2020, The Global Health Leaders Conference at Johns Hopkins University, and advocate with VOICE-IAF, This is My Brave, and Promote Care Prevent Harm. This past May, Kheira had the incredible and life-changing opportunity to be selected as one of the mental health youth action forum participants where she and the #HiddenHealers team are working to cultivate creative mental health campaigns to help inspire culturally-relevant healing and action. Kheira finds great joy in making others smile and helping them to believe in their best selves!    Follow Kheira: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kheirabekkadja/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kheirabekkadja/   Follow Dr. Alfiee: Website:  https://dralfiee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dralfiee Twitter: https://twitter.com/dralfiee Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralfiee/ Website: https://dralfiee.com   Find out more about the AAKOMA Project here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvTKmYKi24I   Season 3 Produced By: https://socialchameleon.us   More Couched in Color: https://dralfiee.com/podcast Music Produced by: Mark “King” Batson (Superproducer of your favorite artists and Grammy award-winner for albums with Eminem and Beyoncé)

In this episode of 'Conversations With', Shaley Hoogendoorn talks with fellow advocate, Rudy Caseres. Rudy shares openly about his experiences living with bipolar disorder- from symptoms, getting help, stigma and medication to the how becoming a mental health advocate has been a huge part of his healing journey. Rudy also gives advice and words of encouragement to those walking a similar path. His story is one of perseverance and inspiration. We are so grateful for Rudy's voice and his mental health advocacy work. We feel honoured that he trusted us with his story. Rudy's story is not over yet.  This is bipolar... IG @this.is.bipolar   Meet Rudy: Rudy Caseres is an award-winning mental health advocate, public speaker, and storytelling event host/producer. He has traveled the country delivering keynote presentations, worked with organizations such as the American Association of Suicidology, This is My Brave, Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and has hosted various storytelling events in the Los Angeles area. He has hosted live-streams for The Mighty and other organizations since 2016. In 2017, he was named one of The Mighty's Mental Health Heroes and NAMI California's Outstanding Peer of the Year. You can connect with him on social media where he is @RudyCaseres.   #thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarpodcast #bipolarpodcast #bipolar #mentalhealthpodcast #mentalhealth #mental-illness

**TRIGGER WARNING. This episode contains conversations about suicide, eating disorders, and other mental health issues. If you are triggered or would like to talk to a confidential advocate, please dial the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you want to learn more about mental health and find possible resources, please visit this Ruderman Family Foundation link. Anastasia Vlasova was a rising tennis star and social media influencer when she started to develop an eating disorder. As an immigrant from Russia, Anastasia experienced a lot of stigma surrounding mental health from her family. After receiving some misguided advice from a school counselor, Anastasia realized how many adults don't know how to talk to kids about mental health. She started sharing her experiences with anxiety and her eating disorder, and after being chosen as the keynote speaker at Our Minds Matter's Annual Ball, Anastasia realized the power of storytelling. Since then, she has teamed up with This is My Brave, a nonprofit that uses performances to combat the stigma against mental health to help others share their stories. Today, Anastasia is an NYU student and host of the podcast Our Turn to Talk. She is also the subject of a documentary of the same name from Principal Pictures, being released this fall. Listen to the latest episode of All About Change, as Anastasia discusses the pitfalls of social media, how parents can better support their kids, and stories of young people who are changing the mental health conversation. You can learn more about Our Turn to Talk the podcast and documentary here. Please find a transcription of this episode here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

https://www.zaksandler.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bipolar_broadway/ Zak Sandler has played piano on Broadway for Wicked, Mean Girls, Motown, and The Color Purple. His original musical about his mental health journey, Inside My Head, premiered at the NY Theatre Barn, was selected as a semi-finalist at the O'Neill Theater's National Music Theater Conference, and presented at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage. Zak revised the show as a writer-in-residence at the Kennedy Center's REACH page-to-stage festival in January 2022. He is touring the show - which includes a group discussion - to colleges, high schools, mental health and non-profit organizations, medical schools, companies, and anyone else who wants to host this inspiring, life changing event. Virtual performances are available, though in-person is preferred! In addition to Inside My Head, Zak is creating a docuseries about the connection between mental conditions and creativity, called Insanely Talented. He is co-writing three shows with the brilliant and lovely Adele Powers: Anthem, a musical that explores why we sing the national anthem (conceived by Rachel Payne); a musical about a unicorn called That Musical About a Unicorn; and a musical about Judaism, called Happy Challah Days: A Jewish Revue-ish. Zak is also arranging and co-orchestrating Unlimited, a musical revue of the work of Stephen Schwartz's (composer of Wicked, Pippin, Godspell, and Children of Eden, and soundtracks of the Hunchback of Notre Dame, Prince of Egypt, Pocahontas, and Enchanted). Zak has won several music awards including the Fenno Heath Award for writing the new Yale song, the Neva Greenwood award for writing a symphony in 8th grade, the Mount Vernon Piano Competition (playing “Rhapsody in Blue” with the Mount Vernon Orchestra in 8th grade), and was selected as a composer for the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project at Northwestern (a mixture of a thrilling week of writing, and a deep depression). https://www.insidemyheadmusical.com/ Zak graduated from Yale with a BA in music composition in 2008 - two years after his exhilarating and terrifying first psychotic episode. He is very glad that he returned to school for the following semester, following his psychiatrist's advice. Beyond musical theater, Zak is an avid mental health activist, speaking about his mental conditions on “This is Actually Happening” (podcast with 45K+ plays), and “Moments of Clarity” (radio show with 1M+ listeners). In 2018, he won the Young Leader Award from the New York State chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and is a featured speaker with This is My Brave, RespectAbility, and the JED Foundation. Zak's hobbies include barbershop singing (he is a member of the Alexandria Harmonizers, a choir of 60 people who age from their 20s to 80s!), playing golf, watching college basketball, spending time with his cats, eating fancy food (usually vegetarian), traveling (he has been to 48 US states and 26 countries), and, after years of resisting TV, watching shows like “Grace and Frankie” and “The Ultimatum” with his fiancee, Lenna. He feels incredibly grateful to have her and the rest of his family and friends in his life. Zak tries not to use phrases "mental illness" or "bipolar disorder", because he feels they imply there's something wrong with him (although he knows those terms fit well for some of us). He prefers the terms “mental conditions” and simply, “bipolar”. https://soundcloud.com/zaksandler/mental-episode-1-from-a-bit-too-much-about-me --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bravemaker/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/bravemaker/support

SHOUT OUT WITH SAGE Segment: SHOUT OUT WITH SAGE Special Guest: John Tsilimparis, MFT - Psychotherapist, Mental Health Consultant, Author. Frequent contributor for Huffington Post & has appeared on Larry King LIVE, CNN and many news outlets. John is host of the podcast: Mindfulness for the Soul & Co-Producer of Theatre Production, 'This is My Brave'. HIs latest Book 'Retrain Your Anxious Brain' was reissued by Harper Collins in March 2022. The self-help book was featured in A&E's TV documentary series OBSESSED Download Our App & Enjoy The Music & Podcasts or Subscribe To Streaminn Hub Radio , Di Hubb Media Group YouTube Channel ,Like, & Hit The Notification Bell

I recently had the honor of sitting down with the brilliantly gifted Broadway pianist, Zak Sandler. Sandler has played piano on Broadway for Wicked, Mean Girls, Motown, and The Color Purple. His original musical about his mental health journey, Inside My Head, premiered at the NY Theatre Barn, was selected as a semi-finalist at the O'Neill Theater's National Music Theater Conference, and presented at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage. Zak revised the show as a writer-in-residence at the Kennedy Center's REACH page-to-stage festival in January 2022. He is touring the show - which includes a group discussion - to colleges, high schools, mental health and non-profit organizations, medical schools, companies, and anyone else who wants to host this inspiring, life changing event.  Zak has won several music awards including the Fenno Heath Award for writing the new Yale song, the Neva Greenwood award for writing a symphony in 8th grade, the Mount Vernon Piano Competition (playing “Rhapsody in Blue” with the Mount Vernon Orchestra in 8th grade), and was selected as a composer for the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project at Northwestern (a mixture of a thrilling week of writing, and a deep depression). Zak graduated from Yale with a BA in music composition in 2008 - two years after his exhilarating and terrifying first psychotic episode - in part thanks to the excellent medical care, and psychotherapy, from a favorite practitioner in New Haven.  Beyond musical theater, Zak is an avid mental health activist, speaking about his mental condition on “This is Actually Happening” (podcast with 45K+ plays), Jaison Thomas' Brand Identity Podcast, and “Moments of Clarity” (radio show with 12M+ listeners). In 2018, he won the Young Leader Award from the New York State chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and is a featured speaker with This is My Brave, RespectAbility, and the JED Foundation.

Serving in the U.S. military is a challenge for anyone – but it can be especially tough when you're dealing with mental health conditions.  Public speaker and mental health advocate Rudy Caseres, who was serving in the Army during his first experience with catatonic schizophrenia, understands this firsthand.  In today's episode, I sat down with Rudy to discuss his experience with mental health in the military, being discharged from the Army, and what he learned from his time in psych wards. Rudy also talks about the difficulties of being formally diagnosed, and the conflicting feelings his diagnoses brought.  “When you're going through this stuff, you have no fucking idea what's going on with you. And then you're just entrusting your life to these strangers that you never met. It takes a lot to take that leap of faith to be like, okay. And when I heard my diagnosis though, I was like, you know what, thank God. Because that at least gives me some kind of explanation of why this is happening to me. But my thing was ‘All right, diagnosis. That's great. What the fuck am I supposed to do now?'” – Rudy Rudy also shares how his difficult journey eventually led to his “aha moment,” which helped him find his niche as a public speaker. “It kinda wakes me up to like, realize like, ‘Hey, you don't have to let the universe, like, just have its way with you. Like, you don't have to completely just be sucked into the depression and let the depression win. … You can actually turn a negative into a positive and make the most of it. You're not a freak. You're not a mutant. You're just built differently. And we need people like you and you can still contribute a lot to this world. Not just in spite of it, because of it.” – Rudy In This Episode (01:43) When Rudy first noticed he might have mental health concerns (03:29) What drew Rudy to public speaking (15:56) Rudy's first catatonic episodes during his time in the Army (20:23) Being considered “mentally ill” in the military (27:13) Coming home after being discharged from the Army and leaving the psych ward (30:00) Rudy's first experiences with catatonic schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (38:59) The “aha moment” of finally being diagnosed (41:11) Harnessing bipolar energy (53:28) What Rudy's manic episodes feel like, and his second time in a psych ward (59:41) How Rudy began his public speaking career (1:12:48) Rudy's next steps   Our Guest Rudy Caseres is an award-winning public speaker, live-streamer and social media influencer who has given over 100 presentations across the country sharing his story of surviving a mental breakdown while in the U.S. Army and living with bipolar disorder.  He is the host of “No Restraints with Rudy Caseres,” which features live, candid discussions with mental health, human rights and suicide prevention activists, and hosts a monthly panel on mental health for The Mighty.  Rudy has been featured in This is My Brave, HealthyPlace, The S Word, OC87 Recovery Diaries, Sweatpants & Coffee, Stigma Fighters, and Schizophrenic NYC, and was named one of The Mighty's Mental Health Heroes of 2017.   Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/ https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ Rudy Caseres https://www.rudycaseres.com/ http://facebook.com/rudycaseres http://instagram.com/rudycaseres http://twitter.com/rudycaseres Mentioned https://www.nami.org/Home

Interview With Maria Sosa and Katie Grana Maria is a therapist based in Florida, and a Mederma brand ambassador. Mederma is of course, the No.1 doctor and pharmacist recommended scar treatment brand that you know and love.  Katie Grana, the Director of Programming at This is My Brave, a nonprofit that encourages storytelling to help those struggling with mental health issues and addiction. Mederma partnered with This Is My Brave, making a $25,000 donation to the charity to further its mission to empower individuals to share stories of their scar healing journeys. We talk all about the partnership, mental health and more. https://www.instagram.com/p/CdOnAITMkJy/ https://www.holisticallygrace.com/about (https://www.holisticallygrace.com/about) https://www.instagram.com/holisticallygrace/?hl=en (https://www.instagram.com/holisticallygrace/?hl=en) https://thisismybrave.org/our-story/ (https://thisismybrave.org/our-story/) News from TheTease.com https://www.thetease.com/the-best-hairstyles-from-the-2022-billboard-music-awards/ https://www.thetease.com/maintaining-our-respect-in-the-salon/ https://www.thetease.com/give-locks-a-spring-refresh-with-christophe-robins-hello-salon-pro-box More from TheTease: Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/readthetease/ (readthetease) Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/kellyehlers/ (KellyEhlers) Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/eljeffreycraig/ (eljeffreycraig) Web: http://www.thetease.com/ (TheTease.com) Email: VolumeUp@TheTease.com Credits: Volume Up is a Tease Media production. This episode was produced by Monica Hickey, and Madeline Hickey. Brian Daly is our editor and audio engineer. Thank you to our creative team for putting together the graphics for this episode.

"I am mentally ill. I can say that. I am not ashamed of that. I survived that. I'm still surviving it, but bring it on. Better me than you." Carrie FisherMara received her BFA in directing from NYU – Tisch School of the Arts. Her short documentary, The Sound of Silence, was showcased in the NYU Film Festival. Mara received her MFA in screenwriting from AFI. Her Script, Brooklyn Beauty, was a finalist in the script of the year contest garnering Mara a manager and development deal. She's worked on the following sitcoms: FRIENDS, South Park, That's My Bush, Jesse, Veronica's Closet, Ladies Man and Inside Schwartz.In 2005, Mara hit a bottom and checked into rehab. Upon leaving rehab Mara was fired from her job, going through a divorce and was homeless. Carrie Fisher took Mara in. While living with Princess Leia, Mara wrote the novel, Junky American Princess. She also started writing for The Huffington Post, The Jewish Journal, The Hollywood Journal, The Fix.com, Glamour Magazine and LA Magazine.In 2008, Mara became a stand-up comic. She performs regularly at The Comedy Store, Improv, Laugh Factory and many other venues. Mara is also a producer/host of two successful comedy/variety shows. She can also be seen in an episode of Season 6's Kathy Griffin's – Life on the D-List.As a result of being on the Jenny Craig diet, in 2012, Mara was rushed to the ER for emergency gallbladder surgery. On June 3rd, 2013, Mara's lawsuit against Jenny Craig went public. She was on TMZ, People Magazine, USA Today, The Today Show, the LBN Report…Mara soon realized that her battle was not with Jenny Craig, her battle was with food. She sought help for her food compulsions, dropped the lawsuit and created the popular blog, The Self Worth Diet. The blog's purpose is to shine a light on the dieting industry as well as help others with their food/body image issues.When Carrie Fisher died in 2016, Mara decided to write an article for LA Magazine about their relationship. The article resulted in Mara working for mental health organizations, continuing on Carrie's work. Mara decided to marry her love of baking (she's been baking since 8 years old), mental health awareness activism and stand-up comedy to create the upcoming web series and baking company called, Stand-Up Kitchen – Baked Goods To Benefit the Half Baked (a portion of the proceeds will go to mental health organizations) She is also writing a book of essays/interviews of celebrities with mental health and addiction (Wattpad 2018)."If my life wasn't funny, it would just be true, and that is unacceptable." Carrie FisherMore info: http://marashapshay.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mara.shapshayThis is My Brave: https://www.facebook.com/thisismybrave/Twitter: @marashapshaySponsored by:The Addictions Academy – The Nation's Leading Accredited Addiction Treatment Services, Recovery/Sober Coaching & Intervention Training Academy: https://theaddictionsacademy.com/Music courtesy of Crowfly - http://crowflyrocks.com/

Jennifer Marshall – The Truman Charities Podcast: A Community of Caring with Jamie Truman Episode 019 Jennifer Marshall. Jennifer Marshall was diagnosed with Type 1 Bipolar Disorder in 2006 at the age of 26. She's had four hospitalizations within five years – two in 2005 before any diagnosis was reached, and two more because she was trying to protect her newborn son (postpartum psychosis) in 2008 and her unborn daughter in 2010 – and all were because she was unmedicated at the time. Writing her way through life with a mental illness became her way of healing, and her award-winning blog BipolarMomLife became an inspiration to many. Jenn created This Is My Brave because she learned firsthand how powerful and therapeutic it was to live openly and not hide her diagnosis. She wanted to give brave individuals from the community a platform through which to creatively share their stories of living with mental illness to educate and inspire others. She lives outside Washington, DC with her husband and two children. Listen to this uplifting Truman Charities episode with Jennifer Marshall about living and conquering life with mental illness.  Here is what to expect on this week's show: Why Jennifer believes storytelling is such a powerful way for individuals to express their feelings and how someone can bring “This is My Brave Storytelling” to life in their community.  Her organization's shows they put on across the country, and how its' teens decide on which type of performances they're going to do and the overall production of them.  Why Jenn created “This is My Brave” and the amazing programs they offer. Jenn's “Brave Ambassador” program and the importance of having the program on college campuses.  Connect with Jennifer: Guest Contact Info: Website- https://www.jennifermarshall.me    https://thisismybrave.org/author/jenniferthisismybrave-org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we talk with Tim Daly and find out how he came across ‘This is My Brave' Australia. We also learn why Tim is passionate about breaking the stigma of mental illness and what how sharing stories can be a catalyst for positive change.

You went into your business as a way to help and support other people. So many of the clients I work with have started their business from a personal passion, and a desire to make a positive change in peoples' lives. Today's episode is different from any other episode I've done before. You may not recognize our guest, but he's a master at online content. I discovered Paul Churchill last summer through his Recovery Elevator podcast. It was right around when I started my health journey and started toying with quitting drinking. In this interview, we talk about the moment when Paul realized that the podcast was so much more than an accountability tool—it was a way to help others and, eventually, to grow a business. I invited Paul onto the podcast to share that your passion CAN become a business.  As you're listening, I would love to have you listen with the lens of...what's your passion? Have you built a business around it? Because your audience is waiting for it!  Tune in!   Mentioned in This Episode Café RE: Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the setup fee Alcohol is SH!T Podcasters Paradise The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber Johann Hari Ted Talks “Rat Park” Experiment Episode 61: Take Care of Yourself and Your Business with Allison Jordan Client Journey Ebook The Content Mastery Lab   About Paul Churchill In 2006, Paul Churchill moved to Granada Spain where he purchased a bar. In the following three years he became dependent on alcohol, blacking out close to 7 nights per week. In 2009, Paul walked away from the bar hoping a geographical cure would curtail the drinking but continued to drink for another 5 years.   In February 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator podcast as an accountability tool to stay sober. Today, it's been over 5 years since Paul had his last drink of Alcohol and the podcast has surpassed 5 million downloads, and evolved into a private membership community with over 1,300 members from all over the world.  Paul is the author of the best-selling book Alcohol is SH!T, has delivered two TEDx talks, was a featured speaker at My Brave in Los Angeles, and plans to continue eradicating the stigma surrounding alcohol and addiction. Follow Recovery Elevator on Instagram and Facebook.

Therapist and producer of the college edition of "This is My Brave", Audrey Grubb joins us to talk about her experience with anxiety. We explore the shape shifting of her anxiety that eventually led to an eating disorder and how she found empowerment in sharing her story and helping others who are also struggling. Audrey also shares some of her favorite exercises for mitigating anxiety and we discuss navigating depression and anxiety during COVID.

Hosts Chris Ryan and Paul Quitadamo are joined by Jenny Hoffman, who was a 2020 cast member of "This is My Brave" for a discussion of mental health.

“Storytelling is the water of human communication…”(Bayer & Hettinger, 2019, p. 4) “Neither revolution nor reformation can ultimately change a society, rather you must tell a more powerful tale, one so persuasive that it sweeps away the old myths and becomes the preferred story…”~Ivan Illich Our individual narratives are “building blocks” for our collectively shared representations of the past and our projections for the future. When our stories collide and reconcile with one another on an interpersonal level, they start to illuminate the nuances of underlying themes and concerns, especially among marginalized groups like those impacted by mental health conditions, suicide loss and suicidal intensity.“Even though storytelling is a traditional means of delivering knowledge, wisdom and culture, it has a central role in social movements because it constructs agency, shapes identity and motivates action.” (p. 2, Prasetyo, 2017).This Is My Brave Logo.pngCommunity activism is built on a cycle of trust, undergirded by stories. Synergy is achieved by weaving together purpose-driven and authentic voices that together represent a community as a whole. When the collection of stories is shared publicly, the advocates have an easier time enrolling others into the movement. When people listen to stories, communities are formed and pull together. Shared experiences become a profound source of validation and consolidation of learning. We are co-constructed by relationships in the community and the stories that arise as a result.It is no wonder, then, that a number of collective storytelling initiatives about suicide prevention and mental health promotion have emerged, including “This is My Brave.” In this interview I interview Jennifer Marshall, founder of this nonprofit storytelling organization.About Jennifer MarshallJennifer Marshall headshot B&W.pngJennifer Marshall is the co-Founder/Executive Director of This Is My Brave, Inc., the nonprofit platform for individuals to share their story of overcoming mental illness through creative expression. This Is My Brave held its first show in 2014. Since then, the organization has produced 70 shows across the US featuring over 825 individuals who've shared their stories on stage in front of a live audience. Jennifer gave a TEDx talk in October of 2016 entitled “Mental Illness: Being Brave Saves Lives.” In June of 2018 Jennifer was awarded the prestigious Clifford W. Beers Award by Mental Health America. In December 2018 Jennifer was named Washingtonian of the Year by Washingtonian Magazine

In 2006, Paul Churchill moved to Granada Spain where he purchased a bar. In the following three years he became a dependent on alcohol, blacking out close to 7 nights per week. In 2009, Paul walked away from the bar hoping a geographical cure would curtail the drinking, but continued to drink for another 5 years. In February, 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator podcast as an accountability tool to stay sober. Today, it's been over 5 years since Paul had his last drink of Alcohol and the podcast has surpassed 5 million downloads. The Recovery Elevator podcast is in the 97th percentile out of all podcasts on iTunes, has been downloaded in all 50 states and over 145 countries. The Recovery Elevator podcast has evolved into a private membership community with over 1,000 members from all over the world. Paul has spoken to thousands of students about alcohol awareness across the country. Along with putting on alcohol-free wellness retreats and seminars across the country, he hosts sober travel itineraries across the globe. Paul is the author of the best selling book Alcohol is SH!T, has delivered two Tedx talks, was a featured speaker at My Brave in Los Angeles and plans to continue eradicating the stigma surrounding alcohol and addiction. Connect with Paul Churchill: Website: https://www.recoveryelevator.com Paul Churchill paul@recoveryelevator.com www.recoveryelevator.com https://www.facebook.com/recoveryelevator Join us in Making Pittsburgh Healthy: www.makingpittsburghhealthy.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakingPittsburghHealthy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingpittsburghhealthy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/draarontressler Don't forget to subscribe, rate & review the show! (:

This week we hear from AJ French, CEO of Gift of Voice (www.giftofvoice.com). AJ is a long time advocate for mental health recovery and a wonderful person. AJ tells us about an exciting new bill proposed in Illinois. She also talks about her journey getting involved with This is My Brave. Hope you enjoy the episode! As always, feel free to email me questions! To contact AJ French - email at aj.french@giftofvoice.com To purchase Tickets to This is My Brave - STL visit: https://thisismybrave.z2systems.com/np/clients/thisismybrave/eventRegistration.jsp?event=49&fbclid=IwAR1C9hJYTL93P_Rrj5A88MVLeXhh6hoa4t1kxgDW-9XjpPG01ToukohUNDk Don't forget to Follow me on Twitter at @PersonFirstPod, on Instagram at issandidge and on Facebook at facebook.com/IsaacMHFA --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/personfirstpodcast/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/personfirstpodcast/support

In honor of Mental Health Awareness month I really wanted to shed light on the issues which is why this week's episode I sit down with local Mental Health Advocate Rudy Caseres. Rudy Caseres is an award-winning mental health advocate, public speaker, and event producer. He has traveled the country delivering keynote presentations, worked with organizations such as the American Association of Suicidology, This is My Brave, Mental Health America, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and has hosted various storytelling events at The Garden Church and the Warner Grand Theatre. He was named one of The Mighty’s Mental Health Heroes of 2017 and hosts a Facebook Live interview show for them every month. Rudy currently serves as a board member of the Coastal San Pedro Neighborhood Council and is their Homelessness Liaison. He is also currently a candidate for San Pedro Honorary Mayor and you can still contribute to his campaign. Together we discuss what so many have wrong about mental health. For example the fact that mental health is something that affects us all and that people aren't necessarily mentally ill and mentally well, there are many "in-betweens". It's a spectrum that everyone is on. Rudy would like to see less binary definitions in the mental health world, where we put people into two categories; well and not well. He shares some personal stories and experiences he's had struggling with suicidal thoughts as many have. One of things we talk most about is how we can reduce the stigma around mental health. He thinks that giving resources and funding to peer-to-peer groups and advocates are one of the most impacting things we can do as a community. Often large organizations approach mental health struggles from an outside perspective, whereas peer-to-peer methods really come from the stand point of "we're in it together". LINKS: Rudy's website https://www.rudycaseres.com/rudy4mayor.html https://www.rudycaseres.com/no-restraints Rudy on Facebook Facebook.com/RudyCaseres Rudy's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rudycaseres/ Rudy's Twitter https://twitter.com/RudyCaseres SPONSORS Cryptospace https://www.cryptospaceus.com/ https://www.instagram.com/cryptospace.us/

“This is My Brave, Baltimore” -- is an evening of storytelling meant to erase the stigma surrounding conversations of mental illness ... one personal story at a time. We meet the show’s producers: Michele Wojciechowski shares her experience overcoming panic attacks through good meds and humor. And Phila Hoopes describes the show’s powerful effect for both performer and audience.

We welcome back Michele "Wojo" Wojciechowski- who came by to tell us all about a wonderful event she co-produced called "This is My Brave" which is a program performed by people who suffer from mental illness or have someone in their life that does. There will be essays, stories, songs, and will be held at LeClerc Auditorium at Notre Dame of Maryland University on April 4, 2019 at 4pm. Tickets may be purchased at the door or online at www.thisismybrave.org.The Chorus of the Chesapeake will be having their Spring Show at Kraushaar Auditorium at Goucher College on Saturday May 11, 2019. For tickets www.dundalk.orgThe Fowl Players of Perryville return to the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad on Saturday, April 6. The Murder Mystery Train boards at 5:30 and returns at 9. www.wmsr.com or 1-800-TRAIN50.

In today's episode, paramedic Joey Loehner and I discuss patient advocacy and some of the details on how to do this well. This is part 1 of a 2 part series.    Please check out my friend James Boomhower and hear his story on This is My Brave.  Here is a message from James: For those of you that don't know; mental health is my jam. I work hard to advocate for the mental health of civil servants throughout the country and have been very fortunate to have many opportunities to do this.This Friday I will be telling my story again with a fantastic group of individuals all who work to destigmatize mental health issues through storytelling."This is my Brave" is an awesome non for profit that works hard to advocate for these shows all throughout the country. If you can't attend Friday's show please consider sending a small donation there way if you can. I know it's the holiday season and this is when everyone asks for some cash but you'd be directly helping an amazing program whose message is near and dear to my heart. Ticket purchases: thisismybrave.org/eventsDonations: https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/STAGE/JamesBoomhower Have a great day and feel free to follow me on Facebook: Fit for duty and IG and Twitter at: @stay_fit4duty Thank you!

Rudy Caseres and I hung out, talked about bipolar disorder and This is My Brave, which debuts in Los Angeles tomorrow night! Here's more from Rudy. My name is Rudy Caseres. I am an award-winning public speaker, writer, and vlogger who shares his story of living with bipolar and surviving suicide. I have traveled the country to work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Mental Health America, Project Semicolon, and the American Association of Suicidology. My content has been featured on The Mighty, This is My Brave, OC87 Recovery Diaries, Wear Your Label, Project UROK, Schizophrenic NYC, The S Word, Mad in America, and HealthyPlace. In August 2017 I was awarded Outstanding Peer of the Year by NAMI California and in December 2017 I was selected by The Mighty as one of their Mental Health Heroes of 2017. I was born in and currently reside in San Pedro, Los Angeles, CA. Represented by This is My Brave Speakers Bureau

The Oddballs are back and on the docket is a topic that too often gets pushed aside on the podcast: Kanye West. We'll dig into Yeezy and G.O.O.D. Music's June dominance, and give Jason a chance for his fandom to run free. We'll also get an update on Jason's recent reading at 'This is My Brave', and we'll even save a little time to discuss the rapidly deteriorating reality of this dark and dystopian timeline in which we find ourselves. Tune in to the one and only Oddball Show, presented by Oddball Magazine and JP Lime Productions.

Jennifer Marshall used to spend her days as an agency recruiter for creatives. Her story took a dramatic turn when she experienced a manic episode. Over 12 years ago she suffered two manic episodes. After a series of doctor’s appointments she was officially diagnosed Bipolar Disorder – type 1. She is now a wife and mother of two young children, whom she loves dearly. She began blogging on Bipolar Mom Life, telling her story about being a mother with Bipolar Disorder. She was hospitalized four times within five years – two before her diagnosis was reached, and two more because she was attempting to shield her infant son (during postpartum psychosis) and her unborn daughter – and all were due to the fact that she was unmedicated at the time. Jennifer has grown after being diagnosed and learning to live with Bipolar Disorder. She has worked hard to find the right medications and a great therapist. She now strives to help others live with mental illness through her nonprofit organization, This Is My Brave, a platform where people share their stories live on stage through poetry, original music, comedy, and essay. The performances are professionally videotaped and are available for viewing on the This Is My Brave YouTube Channel. To date, This is My Brave has produced 34 unique shows across the US. The show has recently expanded internationally with two shows in Australia!

Musician Karen Lidral talks to Joe about how music has always been a way for her to find peace while living with depression and bipolar.  Karen Lidral is a musician, artist, and former cast member from This is My Brave.  She is also the Director of Social Media for Gr8ter.org.  Growing up with a mentally ill parent, music was Karen's escape. However, it wasn't until this year that she received her own Bipolar Disorder diagnosis.  After a lifetime spent running from the stigma of mental illness, Karen is facing her fears, one note at a time.  She makes music and other art to spread a message of hope for anyone struggling with mental health issues to know that they are not alone, and help is out there.   Keep up with her across social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) @KayjeMusic, and at KayjeMusic.comYou can find out more about us at www.hysteriaradio.netYou can find out more about Mental Health News Radio Network at www.mhnrnetwork.comThank you for your support. We are always grateful and appreciative for you shares, recommends, and 5 star reviews.  

"I am mentally ill. I can say that. I am not ashamed of that. I survived that. I'm still surviving it, but bring it on. Better me than you." Carrie FisherMara received her BFA in directing from NYU – Tisch School of the Arts. Her short documentary, The Sound of Silence, was showcased in the NYU Film Festival. Mara received her MFA in screenwriting from AFI. Her Script, Brooklyn Beauty, was a finalist in the script of the year contest garnering Mara a manager and development deal. She’s worked on the following sitcoms: FRIENDS, South Park, That’s My Bush, Jesse, Veronica’s Closet, Ladies Man and Inside Schwartz.In 2005, Mara hit a bottom and checked into rehab. Upon leaving rehab Mara was fired from her job, going through a divorce and was homeless. Carrie Fisher took Mara in. While living with Princess Leia, Mara wrote the novel, Junky American Princess. She also started writing for The Huffington Post, The Jewish Journal, The Hollywood Journal, The Fix.com, Glamour Magazine and LA Magazine.In 2008, Mara became a stand-up comic. She performs regularly at The Comedy Store, Improv, Laugh Factory and many other venues. Mara is also a producer/host of two successful comedy/variety shows. She can also be seen in an episode of Season 6’s Kathy Griffin’s – Life on the D-List.As a result of being on the Jenny Craig diet, in 2012, Mara was rushed to the ER for emergency gallbladder surgery. On June 3rd, 2013, Mara’s lawsuit against Jenny Craig went public. She was on TMZ, People Magazine, USA Today, The Today Show, the LBN Report…Mara soon realized that her battle was not with Jenny Craig, her battle was with food. She sought help for her food compulsions, dropped the lawsuit and created the popular blog, The Self Worth Diet. The blog’s purpose is to shine a light on the dieting industry as well as help others with their food/body image issues.When Carrie Fisher died in 2016, Mara decided to write an article for LA Magazine about their relationship. The article resulted in Mara working for mental health organizations, continuing on Carrie’s work. Mara decided to marry her love of baking (she’s been baking since 8 years old), mental health awareness activism and stand-up comedy to create the upcoming web series and baking company called, Stand-Up Kitchen – Baked Goods To Benefit the Half Baked (a portion of the proceeds will go to mental health organizations) She is also writing a book of essays/interviews of celebrities with mental health and addiction (Wattpad 2018)."If my life wasn't funny, it would just be true, and that is unacceptable." Carrie FisherMore info: http://marashapshay.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mara.shapshayThis is My Brave: https://www.facebook.com/thisismybrave/Twitter: @marashapshaySponsored by:The Addictions Academy – The Nation’s Leading Accredited Addiction Treatment Services, Recovery/Sober Coaching & Intervention Training Academy: https://theaddictionsacademy.com/Hassle-Free Books - You have a message to share, it shouldn't be so difficult to get it out to the world. Become an author in a little as 45 days: http://hasslefreebooks.comMusic courtesy of Crowfly - http://crowflyrocks.com/Unpause Your Life with Dr. Cali Esteshttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/unpause-your-life/

"I am mentally ill. I can say that. I am not ashamed of that. I survived that. I'm still surviving it, but bring it on. Better me than you." Carrie FisherMara received her BFA in directing from NYU – Tisch School of the Arts. Her short documentary, The Sound of Silence, was showcased in the NYU Film Festival. Mara received her MFA in screenwriting from AFI. Her Script, Brooklyn Beauty, was a finalist in the script of the year contest garnering Mara a manager and development deal. She’s worked on the following sitcoms: FRIENDS, South Park, That’s My Bush, Jesse, Veronica’s Closet, Ladies Man and Inside Schwartz.In 2005, Mara hit a bottom and checked into rehab. Upon leaving rehab Mara was fired from her job, going through a divorce and was homeless. Carrie Fisher took Mara in. While living with Princess Leia, Mara wrote the novel, Junky American Princess. She also started writing for The Huffington Post, The Jewish Journal, The Hollywood Journal, The Fix.com, Glamour Magazine and LA Magazine.In 2008, Mara became a stand-up comic. She performs regularly at The Comedy Store, Improv, Laugh Factory and many other venues. Mara is also a producer/host of two successful comedy/variety shows. She can also be seen in an episode of Season 6’s Kathy Griffin’s – Life on the D-List.As a result of being on the Jenny Craig diet, in 2012, Mara was rushed to the ER for emergency gallbladder surgery. On June 3rd, 2013, Mara’s lawsuit against Jenny Craig went public. She was on TMZ, People Magazine, USA Today, The Today Show, the LBN Report…Mara soon realized that her battle was not with Jenny Craig, her battle was with food. She sought help for her food compulsions, dropped the lawsuit and created the popular blog, The Self Worth Diet. The blog’s purpose is to shine a light on the dieting industry as well as help others with their food/body image issues.When Carrie Fisher died in 2016, Mara decided to write an article for LA Magazine about their relationship. The article resulted in Mara working for mental health organizations, continuing on Carrie’s work. Mara decided to marry her love of baking (she’s been baking since 8 years old), mental health awareness activism and stand-up comedy to create the upcoming web series and baking company called, Stand-Up Kitchen – Baked Goods To Benefit the Half Baked (a portion of the proceeds will go to mental health organizations) She is also writing a book of essays/interviews of celebrities with mental health and addiction (Wattpad 2018)."If my life wasn't funny, it would just be true, and that is unacceptable." Carrie FisherMore info: http://marashapshay.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mara.shapshayThis is My Brave: https://www.facebook.com/thisismybrave/Twitter: @marashapshaySponsored by:The Addictions Academy – The Nation’s Leading Accredited Addiction Treatment Services, Recovery/Sober Coaching & Intervention Training Academy: https://theaddictionsacademy.com/Hassle-Free Books - You have a message to share, it shouldn't be so difficult to get it out to the world. Become an author in a little as 45 days: http://hasslefreebooks.comMusic courtesy of Crowfly - http://crowflyrocks.com/Unpause Your Life with Dr. Cali Esteshttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/unpause-your-life/

A mental health advocate shares her story that includes four involuntary hospitalizations, a period of anonymous blogging, and the life-changing decision to stop hiding her struggles. Her bravery has inspired others to share their experience with mental illness on stage with This is My Brave. https://thisismybrave.org

Rudy is a public speaker, writer, and vlogger who shares his story of living with bipolar. He travels the country to work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Project Semicolon, This is My Brave, and Active Minds. Interviewed for the Fall 2016 edition of BP Magazine. Creates video content for HealthyPlace.com. Featured on “The S Word” (documentary) blog. Rudy has proudly lived in San Pedro, CA his entire life. Follow him on Twitter @RudyCaseres and on Facebook www.facebook.com/rudycaseres

Tricia, with 30 days since her last drink, shares her story…. Congratulations Recovery Elevator on 100 episodes!  How did we make it to 100 episodes?  How else, but one episode (day) at a time. Problem drinking that becomes severe is often given the medical term alcohol use disorder or AUD.  Some interesting studies from the NESARC show that in 2012, 7.2% of the population surveyed had an alcohol use disorder (article found here: www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-use-disorders.)  Europe also has an organization (the ECA) who conducts alcohol related surveys.  They found that although people in Southern Europe drank larger amounts of alcohol, they were able to moderate their drinking.  In comparison, there were more alcohol related fatalities in Northern Europe.  Could this be because of binge drinking?  Perhaps the folks from the South can drink 1-2 glasses of wine with their meal while people from the North are drinking larger quantities in one sitting?  We will let the ECA draw that conclusion.   SHOW NOTES   [ 8:23 ] Paul Introduces Tricia who’s last drink was approximately 30 days ago   [ 9:00 ] When did you realize you had a problem?   Tricia – I knew I wasn’t a normal drinker even at the age of 23.  I always knew that I would have to quit one day.  I never drank just for the taste, it was always to get drunk.  Once I started drinking, I could not stop.   [ 11:28 ] Did you ever put any rules in place in order to control your drinking?   Tricia – I tried switching to a drink that I did not like.  This never worked and I would end up doing shots of something else.  My fellow drinker friends thought this was a great idea!  I was always into fitness and nutrition so I would make sure my daily caloric intake would allow for booze.   [ 15:41 ] Tell us about yourself?   Tricia – I am 35 year old chef who now owns her own business.  I have always been a runner but also enjoy anything in the outdoors, such as skiing and snowboarding.  I like to knit and cross stitch Gangsta Rap lyrics into items for friends.  My only hobby before was drinking.  I would work and drink.  That was it.      [ 19:18 ] Did you have a bottom?   Tricia – I was a high functioning alcoholic.  My bottom was very high.  I would always pretend that I wasn’t drunk or that I didn’t have a hangover. My motto was, “I’ve Got This.”   When I went on a 3 day binger, 30 days ago, I was so hung over that I could even fake it.  I had to stay in bed all day.  That was the first time I experienced the physical withdrawals of sweating, fever and shaking.   [ 22:15 ]  How did you reach the conclusion that you did not have control over alcohol?   Tricia – My friends and I were going out one night and rented a party bus.  I was terribly anxious for weeks up until this party.  I was afraid I would drink too much and black out.  The black outs were getting to be very common.  I ended up drinking too much and woke up the next day with bruises all over my legs.  I did not remember falling down but obviously it had happened.    [ 24:48 ]  Did alcohol play a role in your divorce?   Tricia – there were many other factors but both my ex-husband and I drank.  When we fought, we had usually both been drinking.  I wasn’t supposed to be the drinker of the family.  My brother was the center of attention since he had the alcohol/drug problem for years.  I was the over achiever who still managed to get to work on time and function normally.  Until I could no longer fake it.   [ 26:56 ] How did you get to day 1 without a drink?   Tricia – I had not planned on stopping drinking entirely.  It basically snuck up on me.  I had that terrible hangover and the physical withdraw symptoms so I called my brother who is now in recovery.  He is very supportive.  I went on-line and found the RE podcast and starting listening and hearing similar stories.   [  30:28 ]  What does a day in the life of Tricia look like?   Tricia – I started going to AA meetings.  I ended up being late to my first AA meeting because I went to the wrong room.  The security officer at the church shouted to everyone that the AA meeting was in the other room.  Even though I was 10 minutes late for that meeting, I was really 10 years late in trying AA.     [ 34:51  ] Rapid Fire Round What was your worst memory from drinking? the blackouts and everything that I do not remember Did you ever have an “oh-shit” moment? trying to moderate and being fearful that I would over indulge and put myself in danger What’s your plan moving forward? Every morning I read the Big Book pp 86-88.  I meditate on those pages.  I am also reading a book by Tara Brock called Radical Acceptance. What’s your favorite resource in recovery? AA meetings and connecting with other alcoholics What’s the best advice you’ve ever received (on sobriety)? keep an open mind and forget everything you think you know.  Do not try to do this alone. you need alcohol to do simple tasks you put vodka in your water bottle to go to the gym you think you are an alcoholic You might be an alcoholic if…. Paul ends the podcast with some questions for the listeners: What type of role does or did alcohol play in your life?  Does alcohol dictate your life?  Be honest with yourself. Resources mentioned in this episode: Paul will be speaking at a “This is My Brave” even on 1/22/17.  The event is at the Moss Theater @ 4pm.  The address is 313 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, CA.  Tickets can be found here:  www.bfrb.org Connect with Cafe RE- Use the promo code Elevator for your first month free Sobriety Tracker iTunes Sobriety Tracker Android Sober Selfies! - Send your Sober Selfie and your Success Story to info@recoveryelevator.com     “We took the elevator down, we gotta take the stairs back up, we can do this!”  

Shaun, with 2 months since his last drink, shares his story One of the most common questions we get asked as alcoholics is, “What do you drink now that you no longer drink alcohol?”  Or, “How do I fit in at social functions now?”  There are plenty of tasty non-alcoholic drinks to choose from, so when water is just not cutting it, check out the list below: Shirley Temple (don’t’ forget to double up on the cherries!)               Ginger Beer (Cock N Bull brand)                   Sugar Free Red Bull La Croix (basically flavored soda water) Soda water with a splash of cranberry World Market is the place to go if you are looking for a large selection of ginger beer.   SHOW NOTES   [ 11:48  ] Paul Introduces Shaun             Shaun is 30 years old and currently living in Bozeman, MT.  In his free time, he plays hockey, snowboards and coaches little league flag football   [ 13:13 ] Paul asks Shaun to describe his bottom   Shaun – I was drinking all day and through the night.  I proceeded to drive home after fighting a friend for my keys.  I drove down a very dangerous canyon and hit the guard rail with my car.  The police eventually pulled me over.  I woke up in the hospital and my father was there, looking very disappointed with me.   [ 18:00 ] When did you realize the gravity of your drinking situation?   Shaun – Even though I knew right away how bad it was, it still just seemed surreal.  A few weeks went by before I realized this wasn’t a dream.  I went about 3 weeks without a drink.  I started drinking again at my 30th birthday party and went on a 6 week bender.  I then started to just slow down on my own.  I was suffering from deep depression, had walked away from my job, and realized that I was not attaining the goals I had set out for myself.    [ 21:54 ] What do you think would happen if you started drinking again?   Shaun – I would be right back to where I was before.  I really do not want to know.   [ 23:00 ]  What were your drinking habits like?  How much did you drink?   Shaun – I was your typical college drinker.  When I started drinking, I was ready to party.  My drinking escalated when I moved to Bozeman.     [ 25:47 ]  What was your depression like while drinking?   Shaun – My depression was usually triggered by the hangovers.  I would think to myself, “What could I have done instead of drinking?”  I would feel worthless about myself the next day.  Alcohol just kept the depression going.  Without alcohol, mild depression is still there but overall I feel more even keel and it is easier to deal with.      [ 27:39 ]  How about anxiety?   Shaun – My anxiety was also heavily triggered by booze.  It is still with me now, but has lessened greatly.  Normally after a night of drinking, I would feel totally anxious and would end up with the “screw it’s,” it’s time to drink this away.   [ 29:00 ]  How did you get sober?   Shaun – I just took it day by day.  I would think that today may suck but tomorrow will be better.  I told many of my friends that I had stopped drinking.  Some of these friends understood, while others are still waiting for me to start drinking again (they are no longer friends).  I also tried to keep focused on my goals and my profession.  Alcohol does not fit within my goals anymore.   [ 32:00 ] What is your plan moving forward?   Shaun – I will continue to surround myself with positive peers, see my therapist, and basically build a new friend base that does not revolve around alcohol.   [ 34:00 ]  What is it like getting sober at a young age?   Shaun – It is very hard.  Beer seems to follow all activities but I am trying to make new sober friends.  You have to work through the uncomfortable feelings of being in a situation and not drinking.      [ 39:35  ] Rapid Fire Round What was your worst memory from drinking? After a birthday party, I punched my buddy in the head and he proceeded to throw me down the stairs. Did you ever have an “oh-shit” moment? When I would make jokes about being an alcohol and suddenly stop laughing because I knew it was me. What’s your favorite resource in recovery? Hitting the gym What’s the best advice you’ve ever received (on sobriety)? Just take it day to day.  Win the fight for that day. What parting piece of guidance can you give listeners who are in recovery or thinking about quitting drinking? Just start.  Start talking to people about your problem. You might be an alcoholic if……you make jokes about being an alcoholic but stop laughing because you know you are talking about yourself.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Recovery Elevator Retreat Connect with Cafe RE- Use the promo code Elevator for your first month free Sobriety Tracker iTunes Sobriety Tracker Android Sober Selfies! - Send your Sober Selfie and your Success Story to info@recoveryelevator.com   If you are in the LA area on 1/22/17, Paul will be talking at a “This is My Brave” event.  The event will be held at the Moss Theater in Santa Monica.  Just google the event to search for tickets.     “We took the elevator down, we gotta take the stairs back up, we can do this!”  

Episode 105: When The Narrators first started in Denver over six and a half years ago, storytelling shows were few and far between. There were poets and memoirists sharing true stories at open mics, and the oral traditionalists have always been around, at historical gatherings or elementary school assemblies, but personal narrative just wasn't a common thing. Today, Denver—along with many other cities in America—is exploding with new storytelling shows and projects. Established shows in Denver like us and Stories Stories Bring Us Your Stories, My Teenage Angst, Truth Be Told in Boulder and The Moth Story Slam in Englewood are still going strong, and there are so many new shows and events and podcasts and projects popping up that it's tough to keep up—there's The Raconteurs, This is My Brave, Misunderstood, We Still Like You, and we know of at least two more that will launch in the next 12 months. Here's the best part—there's more than enough room for all of us. Even though we're all ostensibly doing the same thing—sharing true personal narratives—each show has its own flavor and theme and feel, it's own attraction for both the performer and audience. All of us at The Narrators are excited about this, because it offers folks more places to share their stories and find their voice, and because it confirms what we've believed all along: people are longing for opportunities to build empathy, to listen and to connect. So, today, we're doing something a little different. We're going to share a story from one of those newer storytelling projects in town. It's called Unknown Caller. It's a podcast that collects stories anonymously via voicemail—no standing behind a microphone, no spotlights, no crowd of strangers—you just call in to their hotline and start talking. Unknown Caller is the brainchild of Cory Byrom, a storytelling alum of The Narrators, Risk!, and The Iceberg in Atlanta. The podcast has published 13 episodes so far and they're all worth a listen. You can subscribe to Unknown Caller on iTunes or SoundCloud, and find them on Facebook or Twitter (@1UnknownCaller). Let them know we sent you! This story was originally published by Unknown Caller podcast on May 2nd 2016. If you haven't already, please like our page on Facebook for the most up-to-date information on all of these events and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Links from the show: This is My Brave Weighted blankets Wasted Madness American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Blue Day Books Girl Interrupted  Shawshank Redemption Inside Out Stress BallsJenga DBT Skills Training Manual People mentioned: Joanne's Mom Brené Brown Marsha Linehan Marya Hornbacher Andrew Solomon   Carl Rogers Kurt Vonnegut Show notes: Joanne’s super cliche answer to Rob's super cliche question. [3:31] Joanne’s various friend crushes. [5;50] Why Joanne chose occupational therapy over clinical psych. [7:20 ] Full-on sensory integration. [10:29]  The magic of weighted blankets. [13:34] Back to the friend crushes. [16:42] This is My Brave. [20:07] Suicide Prevention. [22:28] Joanne and I attempt to explain axis 2 disorders. [24:49] Defining Depression. [27:19] Occupational therapy applications for treating depression. [28:27] Getting rained on. [30:02] Jenga as therapy?! [31:08] Rob tries to impress Joanne by using the word ‘proprioceptive’. [33:17] Free puppies for all, and advocating for ground up, community based programs. [33:40] Books Joanne has gifted. [36:27] Planning OT groups in acute inpatient psych hospitals. [38:32] Joanne’s morning routine. [40:12] A visit from future Joanne. [42:20] The best laid plans. How Joanne got through her own bout with depression. [47:18] Rapid fire questions (more theft from Tim Ferriss). [48:47]  Joanne’s nuanced belief’s about forensic patients, et. al.. [50:42]

This is My Brave is an innovative non-profit with a mission of igniting and actively promoting a positive and supportive national conversation about mental illness. We talk to This is My Brave Co-Founder Jennifer Marshall  and NYC Dads Group member and Producer Lorne Jaffe about the upcoming This is My Brave NYC show-- poets, musicians, and essayists sharing their truth about life with mental illness. The Parents Phrase Book Whit Honea joins to share why he writes, and a bit about the highs and lows of the writer's life.