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

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

In this episode of Waking Up Bipolar, Chris Cole speaks with Phil Borges—esteemed human rights photographer and documentarian, and recent Director & Executive Producer of the film CRAZYWISE, which explores what can be learned from people around the world who have turned their psychological crisis into a positive transformative experience.  For over twenty-five years, Phil Borges has been documenting indigenous and tribal cultures, striving to create an understanding of the challenges they face. His work is exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, and his award winning books, which have been published in four languages, include Tibetan Portrait, Enduring Spirit, Women Empowered and Tibet: Culture on the Edge. He has hosted television documentaries on indigenous cultures for Discovery and National Geographic channels. Phil also lectures and teaches internationally. Phil’s recent project, CRAZYWISE, explores the relevance of Shamanic traditional practices and beliefs to those of us living in the modern world. CRAZYWISE centers around a young man struggling with his sanity, world renowned mental health professionals, and a gutsy survivor-led movement...all challenging a mental health system in crisis. As you’ll hear (or watch) in our conversation, Phil Borges has been thrusted into a profound curiosity for non-ordinary states of consciousness that touches on the experiences of many folks with bipolar. I am so inspired and grateful for this film, CRAZYWISE, which illuminates the spiritual nature and transformative potential of altered states so often associated with ideas of mental illness. CRAZYWISE Film: https://crazywisefilm.com/  Phil Borges's TED talk: https://youtu.be/CFtsHf1lVI4 Phil Borges website: http://philborges.com/ JOIN THE DISCUSSION at https://www.facebook.com/groups/wakingupbipolar Chris Cole hosts the Waking Up Bipolar podcast, focused on the intersection of bipolar disorder and spiritual awakening. He is the author of The Body of Chris: A Memoir of Obsession, Addiction, and Madness, inspired by his own journey of spiritual unfolding and mental health challenges. Chris Cole offers life coaching for any number of mental health conditions, specializing in bipolar disorder and spiritual emergence. Chris’s experience with addiction, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, psychosis, and spiritual emergency allows him to relate to a wide range of clients. He utilizes a holistic approach to mental health which views wellness in physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. Learn more about Chris and his work at colecoaching.com. The Waking Up Bipolar podcast in now available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts | apple.wakingupbipolar.com Google Play | google.wakingupbipolar.com Stitcher | stitcher.wakingupbipolar.com TuneIn | tunein.wakingupbipolar.com wakingupbipolar.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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