Inside Mental Health

Why are conspiracy theories so popular, and why are so many people willing to believe the most unbelievable things? Today’s guest, New York Times’ bestselling author and historian Brad Meltzer, explains that the idea of secret societies and conspiracy theories are actually mirrors that reflect a culture’s fears, insecurities, and fascinations. Join us as Brad shares examples of how the Kennedy assassination conspiracy changed from decade to decade, how to speak with a friend or family member who believes in a conspiracy, and exactly who is buried in John Wilkes Booth’s grave. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the show's official episode page here. Guest Bio Brad Meltzer is the #1 New York Times’ bestselling author of 12 previous thrillers, including “The Escape Artist,” with more than 11 million copies sold. He also helped find the missing 9/11 flag with his History Channel TV show “Brad Meltzer’s Lost History” and “Brad Meltzer's Decoded.” In addition, he’s the author of the nonfiction bestseller “The Lincoln Conspiracy,” as well as the blockbuster children’s history book series “Ordinary People Change the World.” A PBS KIDS TV show based on his books, “Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum,” now has 28 million viewers and was recently nominated for multiple Emmys and TCA Awards. Meltzer has written bestselling comic books with Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man. The Hollywood Reporter put him on their list of the 25 Most Powerful Authors, he’s a favorite author of multiple U.S. Presidents, and he’s been asked to serve as a member of the America250 Council to celebrate the upcoming 250th birthday of the country. He lives in Florida with his wife and three children. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

True Crime podcasts are all the rage but did you know that most people with mental illness are not criminals, much less serial killers or mass murderers? Most people understand this, but those same individuals don’t realize that very few murderers have a diagnosable mental illness. Join us as Killer Psyche podcast host Candice DeLong – who is also a former psychiatric nurse and FBI profiler – discusses her years of experience interviewing murderers and researching murder and how sometimes that intersects with mental illness. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Former FBI profiler and bestselling author Candice DeLong is an internationally recognized homicide expert, TV news commentator, and TV documentary host, producer and contributor. She has been a guest on CNN, MSNBC, HLN, FOX NEWS, Meet the Press, Hardball, Dateline, 48 Hours, Today, GMA, as well as Dr. Phil and Oprah. Candice was recruited by the FBI while serving as Head Nurse at the Institute of Psychiatry in Chicago- Northwestern University Hospital. For twenty years, Candice was on the front lines of some of the FBI’s most memorable and high-profile cases, including the Chicago Tylenol Murders. She is now the host of the Wondery podcast Killer Psyche. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest tells us that the very idea of perfect happiness is an illusion. Being perfect will not make us happy, and happiness is not perfection. But we all still think if we can just reach one more goal, fix one more thing, be just a little better, that will be the key to happiness. Join us as Poppy Jamie and Gabe Howard discuss how to get over these feelings and accept yourself, even if you’re not perfect. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Poppy Jamie is an entrepreneur, influencer, a rising star in the mental health and mindfulness space, and the author of “Happy Not Perfect: Upgrade Your Mind, Challenge Your Thoughts, and Free Yourself from Anxiety.” She launched the “Not Perfect” podcast and the Happy Not Perfect app after 4 years of researching behavioral studies and developing the app with neuroscientists, researchers, and her mom, a neurotherapist. She has been featured in the New York Times, Wired, Fast Company, Refinery29, Forbes, Vogue, Bustle, Cosmo, E!, NBC News, and MTV. See more at PoppyJamie.com. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know the anti-drug propaganda, and we’ve all heard about “bad trips,” but how much of that is actually true? Today’s guest made the Netflix Documentary “Fantastic Fungi” and has a different viewpoint on psychedelics. In this episode, Louie Schwartzberg explains how many psychedelics, like "magic mushrooms," were never considered illegal until the drug war was ramped up in the 1970s. Before that, they had been used for thousands of years in various cultures around the world. Now that society is having a “psychedelic renaissance,” learn how these drugs — or “sacred medicines” — have found new applications in mental health. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Louie Schwartzberg is an award-winning cinematographer, director, and producer who has spent his notable career providing breathtaking imagery using his time-lapse, high-speed, and macro cinematography techniques. Schwartzberg is a visual artist who breaks barriers, connects with audiences, and tells stories that celebrate life and reveal the mysteries and wisdom of nature, people, and places.  Louie’s theatrical releases include the 3D IMAX film “Mysteries of the Unseen World” with National Geographic, narrated by Forest Whitaker; the theatrical feature, “Wings of Life” for Disneynature, narrated by Meryl Streep, and “America’s Heart and Soul” for Walt Disney Studios, and his TED talks have over 60 million views on YouTube. Louie’s most recent feature film, “Fantastic Fungi,” is now playing in local theaters throughout the U.S. to rave reviews. Louie has also directed “Soarin’ Around the World;” the most popular motion simulator ride film now playing at Disney Theme Parks globally. Season 3 of his series, Moving Art, is now streaming on Netflix. For Schwartzberg, the greatest satisfaction is creating works that can have a positive effect on the future of the planet, by protecting what we love. Find out more at movingart.com.  Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Foster is a teacher who survived one of the deadliest school shootings in American history. That is a fact, yet some people don’t believe it’s true and that people like Foster are hired actors paid by the government to perpetuate a scam on the public. Join us for a first-hand account of how these conspiracy theories — especially when repeated by government leaders — affect real people. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Jeff Foster was born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He has taught Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida since 2001. His first book, "For Which We Stand" was written to help young readers learn about government and understand how they can make an impact even if they aren't old enough to vote. With distrust of government growing across the nation, his goal is to engage young people who have a stake in America’s future. His message to his students has always been, "you can't complain about government if you don't participate." Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We expect pro athletes to deal with physical injuries. We recognize that the demands on an athlete’s body are intense. But what about when an athlete discloses mental illness? How do we — and how should we — react then? Today’s guest, retired NFL player and TV personality Nate Burleson, explains that usually the reaction is to mock the player as weak, not strong enough to compete, or accuse them of letting down their team.  We delve into all that and discuss whether professional athletes face additional mental health challenges due to their careers and celebrity.  To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official page here. Guest Bio Nate Burleson is a co-host of "CBS Mornings," an Emmy Award-winning studio analyst for the CBS Television Network's NFL pre-game show, "The NFL Today," and makes select appearances on Nickelodeon.  Prior to joining CBS News, Burleson served as a host on "Good Morning Football" on the NFL Network for 5 years. Burleson's television career began in 2014 with the NFL Network after retiring from the NFL. Burleson played in the NFL for 11 years as a wide receiver with the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions. In 2003, he was drafted in the third round by the Minnesota Vikings. Burleson is the only player in NFL history to have three punt returns of 90-or-more yards. A native of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Burleson resides in New Jersey with his wife, Atoya, and three children, Nathaniel, Nehemiah, and Mia Pearl. See more at www.cbsnews.com/team/nate-burleson/ Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nikki Sixx is a rock and roll legend. As the bassist for Mötley Crüe, his very name conjures up images of hardcore partying. The band even named an album after heroin (Dr. Feelgood). But what does that lifestyle do long term? Especially for someone who says they were “made to be an addict.”  Join us as Nikki tells us about his personal struggles with addiction, how he reached sobriety, and how he reconciles being sober with his public persona. To Learn more -- or read the transcript -- click here for the official episode page. Guest Bio Nikki Sixx is the international rock icon, founding member of Mötley Crüe and Sixx:A.M, three-time New York Times bestselling author with “The Heroin Diaries,” “This Is Gonna Hurt,” and Mötley Crüe’s “The Dirt,” philanthropist, photographer, and addiction recovery advocate. In March 2019, Sixx premiered Mötley Crüe's Netflix hit biopic, “THE DIRT” which is based on the band’s NY Times bestselling 2001 biography. The movie propelled Mötley Crüe’s music catalog, streaming, licensing, and merchandise to new heights while fueling tremendous popularity of the band with a brand new generation of younger fans. Due to the massive fan demand for live shows, the band subsequently announced a summer 2020 U.S. STADIUM TOUR and sold out most shows within just a short amount of time. Due to the global pandemic, the tour is currently set to take place in Summer 2022. Sixx has been a long-time advocate for expanding support services for people in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD), and has given testimony on Capitol Hill, made frequent media appearances to discuss his experiences, and authored op-ed’s on the subject in major publications, such as The L.A. Times, to help break the silence and fight the stigma that often accompanies SUD. It is Nikki’s strong desire to help make a change for the better with what is our country’s most prevalent public health crisis. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chief meteorologist for ABC News, Ginger Zee, describes herself as a “Natural Disaster” because of her experiences living with borderline personality disorder and other mental health challenges. In this compelling and candid interview, we learn what she does to stay well and what she believes triggered her mental illness in the first place. Learn more on the official episode page by clicking here. Guest Bio Ginger Zee is the chief meteorologist at ABC News, reporting on the nation’s weather for “Good Morning America” and across ABC News broadcasts and digital platforms. Since joining ABC News, Zee has covered almost every major weather event and dozens of historic storms. Zee, who has storm chased since college, has a genuine passion for the atmosphere and a dedication to getting young people interested in science. She’s the author of New York Times bestseller “Natural Disaster. I Cover Them. I Am One,” and the young adult trilogy “Chasing Helicity.” Her new book “A Little Closer to Home” is available now. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disney Channel star Cameron Boyce died over two years ago, but his parents are very much keeping his memory – and his legacy – alive. Join us as the grieving parents candidly share their healing process and what they wish the people in their lives would do differently. They also discuss what people can do to manage their own grief. An illuminating first hand look at what parents who lose a child go through. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Libby Boyce grew up in New Haven, CT, and has lived in Los Angeles for 30 years. She has a degree in social work and has worked for Los Angeles County in health care administration for the last 28 years. In addition to a full-time position as a social worker, Libby also serves as President of The Cameron Boyce Foundation.   Victor Boyce grew up in Los Angeles, and has a degree in business. After being self-employed for many years he now devotes his time to The Cameron Boyce Foundation, where he serves as Vice President.  Victor and Libby, alongside close friends and family members created The Cameron Boyce Foundation in July of 2019, after the passing of their son, the late actor Cameron Boyce, who died from SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy). The foundation was created to carry on Cameron’s legacy by supporting causes and organizations that were meaningful to Cameron, however its primary focus is raising awareness and research dollars for epilepsy. The lack of information that exists for this particular facet of the disease is astounding, and as such, it is their greatest mission to change that. Since the foundation’s inception, they have donated over $125,000 towards epilepsy research. Victor and Libby are also parents to Maya Boyce, Cameron’s younger sister, who attends college in Boston.  The Cameron Boyce Foundation was founded in July of 2019, to continue the philanthropic legacy of the late Cameron Boyce. Prior to his passing, Cameron created Wielding Peace, a social media campaign to encourage young people to choose peace through creative outlets instead of turning to violence. TCBF’s mission is to raise awareness and research dollars for epilepsy and SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) through digital campaigns and programmatic partnerships, however the foundation additionally supports other causes that were meaningful to Cameron, such as ending gun violence as well as the global water crisis. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a leading Afro-Latina actress, Cobra Kai’s Vanessa Rubio carries a unique perspective on the Emmy nominated Netflix series. Join us for a discussion of BIPOC representation in pop culture, the challenges of always having to “represent” for a larger group, how Vanessa finds time for self-care, and her thoughts on Mr. Miyagi from the original Karate Kid. To Learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio As a leading Afro-Latina actress on Cobra Kai, actress Vanessa Rubio carries a unique perspective on the Emmy-nominated Netflix series, which returned for its fourth season in late December. In the show, Vanessa’s character, Carmen, develops a romantic relationship with William Zabka’s character, Johnny Lawrence. In addition to Cobra Kai, Vanessa also recently starred in the Netflix series Chilling Adventures of Sabrina as the character Nagaina. Her additional TV credits include Dolly Parton's Heartstrings, Master of None, Gone and Deception. Join her on Instagram @veryvness. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new year is upon us, and that means it’s time for resolutions! For most people, better health is at the top of that list. And we typically focus only on physical health – things like diet and exercise.  Join us as today’s guest, famed physical trainer Jillian Michaels, explains why mental health is just as important as physical health, and she helps us “find our why.” You may be able to get inspiration from this podcast, but it’s your why that will give you the motivation to keep going. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official page here. Guest Bio World renowned personal trainer, businesswoman, author and television personality (Biggest Loser) Jillian Michaels. She’s a health and wellness expert and creator of The Fitness App by Jillian Michaels. Keep up with her at @jillianmichaels. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ah, the joys of a food service job: long shifts, irritated customers, and burning your hand on the grill. For most people, this is depressing, but for today’s guest, making smashburgers is part of his strategy to fight depression. Listen in as pop-up restaurateur Zack Fernandes explains how the repetitive routine, the social interaction, and even the burns help him manage the symptoms of his “cocktail of mental illnesses.” To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Zack Fernandes is a food and beverage enthusiast, freelance writer, and proprietor of Lil’ Eagle Burger, a monthly smashburger pop-up. The San Francisco Chronicle called Zack’s burgers “superlative” and “a fleeting, intense pleasure.” Zack and his pop-up are based in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he has lived and worked for the past 6 years. Zack has suffered with mental illness since young adulthood, and sees cooking as a therapeutic experience.To learn about Lil’ Eagle Burger or to read Zack’s writing, visit zackfernandes.com. You can find Zack on Twitter and Instagram at @zachareats, and Lil' Eagle Burger on Instagram at @lileagleburger. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us can only imagine how deep the pain of losing a child must be. But is there life beyond that grief? What should we do with all those feelings? Is it even possible to move forward? Join us as today’s guest, Lily Dulan, MFT, talks about her experience of losing a child to SIDS. Dulan also shares how this experience caused her to formulate The Name Work method, a way of imbuing the names of ourselves or those we’ve lost with meanings that can help focus us on our journeys through grief and loss. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here. Guest Bio Lily Dulan is an MFT psychotherapist who played an instrumental role in starting the LGBTQ Affirmative Psychology specialization at Antioch University. Dulan holds a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching from Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts, and she’s a certified Heart of Yoga Teacher. She studied Spiritual Coursework at Agape International Spiritual Center under the tutelage of Reverend Michael Bernard Beckwith. Lily drew on her studies of both Eastern and Western disciplines to create a heart centered system of healing and moving through trauma that she calls The Name Work. After her first daughter, Kara Meyer Dulan, died at home from SIDS at 2 months old, Lily started a foundation in her childʼs memory called The Kara Love Project. The Kara Love Project has teamed with local, national, and international organizations such as the Unatti Foundation in Nepal, Venice Arts in Los Angeles, and Foster Nation to serve marginalized youth. It has also developed and supported programming to benefit the mental and physical well-being of seniors in Los Angeles county. Dulan facilitates The Name Work workshops and educational events in the greater Los Angeles area for universities, organizations, corporations, and small private groups. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two daughters. Find more at LilyDulan.com. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are boundaries, exactly, and how do we know if we have good ones? What types of things keep us from setting good boundaries — and how do we set them in the first place? Join us as today’s guest teaches us how to be a “Boundary Boss,” and explains why women often have extra challenges when it comes to understanding and setting boundaries. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page here. Guest BioTerri Cole is a New York-based, licensed psychotherapist, relationship expert, and founder of Real Love Revolution, Boundary Bootcamp, and the co-founder of Crushing Codependency. Her female empowerment courses reach women in over 90 countries. She has been featured as an expert therapist and master life coach on A&E’s Monster In-Laws, TED X, The Lisa Oz Show, Real Housewives, and had a weekly radio show on Hay House Radio. Plus, she’s a regular contributor to The Huffington Post, Positively Positive, The Daily Love, Well+Good, and has been featured in Italian Elle, Forbes, Origin, Vogue, Self, and was honored to grace the cover of Inspired Coach magazine. Her latest book is “Boundary Boss: The Essential Guide to Talk True, Be Seen, and (Finally) Live Free.” Learn more about her work at terricole.com. Inside Mental Health Podcast HostGabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve never had a panic attack, it can be hard to understand. The worry, the anxiety, the physical sensations — What is going on? If you have had a panic attack, you’ve probably gone to great lengths to avoid another... and probably failed. If you have, or suspect, that you’ve experienced anxiety in any form, or just want hints and tips to better manage anxiety, anxiety attacks, or panic attacks, this is the episode for you. Join us as the Anxiety Sisters, Abbe and Maggie, explain what anxiety is, give us some tips for combating it at any level, and let you know you’re not alone. To read the transcript -- or learn more -- visit the show's official episode page here. Guest Bio Abbe Greenberg and Maggie Sarachek are trained counselors, mental health advocates, researchers, educators, writers, and long-time anxiety sufferers. In 2017, they launched their online community, which now includes more than 200,000 people in 200+ countries and territories. Together, the Anxiety Sisters write an award-winning blog and host a monthly podcast (The Spin Cycle). Having learned to live happily with anxiety, they spend their time coaching anxiety sufferers and conducting workshops and retreats all over the U.S. Their book, “The Anxiety Sisters' Survival Guide,” is now available. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Donald Trump is a textbook narcissist.” We’ve all heard that many times over the past 6 years. But what, exactly, does that mean? What is a narcissist? And what makes mental health professionals believe that our former president is one?  Join us as Dr. Karyne Messina from Suburban Hospital | Johns Hopkins Medicine discusses narcissism, as well as her book, “Aftermath: Healing from the Trump Presidency.” To learn more, or read the transcript, visit the shows official episode page here. Guest BioDr. Karyne Messina is a psychologist and psychoanalyst. She’s also on the medical staff of Suburban Hospital—Johns Hopkins Medicine. Her books include: “Misogyny, Projective Identification and Mentalization: Psychoanalytic, Social and Institutional Manifestations,” “Aftermath: Healing from the Trump Presidency,” “Aftershock: How Populism and Projective Identification are Changing the Political Landscape Around the Globe,” and “It's Not Me, It's You! How Narcissists use Projective Identification to Get What They Want and How to Stop Them” (coming Spring 2022) Inside Mental Health Podcast HostGabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Television’s Jenn Lyon is beautiful and famous; from the outside looking in, she seems to have it all. But Ms. Lyon has a serious eating disorder that, while in recovery, still impacts her daily life. Join us as the “Claws” star shares her lifelong struggle with food and dieting. We also discuss how the smoke and mirrors of Hollywood contribute to diet culture and how that culture affects every aspect of American life — especially for women. Visit the official episode page here to learn more -- or read the transcript. Guest Bio Jenn Lyon stars as Jennifer in the hit TNT series “CLAWS,” opposite Niecy Nash, returning for its fourth and final season this December.    Jenn has graced both stage and screen, starring opposite the likes of Timothy Olyphant in “Hold On To Me Darling,” and as his love interest in FX’s “Justified,” (seasons three and four). She also starred opposite George Lopez and Danny Trejo in the sitcom “Saint George.” Having struggled for many years with an eating disorder that almost ended her life, Jenn has become a tremendous advocate for mental health; she serves as an activist for NEDA, as well as The Loveland Foundation (an organization that provides healing and opportunities to women and girls of color). Jenn also sits on the board for Martha Plimpton’s A is For (a nonprofit organization that advocates for women’s reproductive rights), and volunteers for Black Women Lead. In her spare time, she works at a food pantry in Brooklyn twice a week. Aside from her on-camera talents, Jenn is also a writer/producer/co-founder of internet sketch group POYKPAC, which has produced sketches with more than 100 million views to date. They have written for and been seen on MTV, IFC, G4, CBS, and CNN. Find Jenn on Instagram and at jennlyon.net. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s that time of year again — the holidays are upon us! We all want that to mean family, parties, and good cheer. But what if that isn’t working out for you? What if you have trouble getting along with your family or you have trouble navigating drinking at holiday parties? Join us as Dr. Nicole Washington helps us out with some quick hints and tips for surviving the holiday season. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page here. Guest BioDr. Nicole Washington is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to matriculate at the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completion of her residency training, Dr. Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental illness, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking and writing, she seeks to provide education in efforts to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric illness. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com. Inside Mental Health Podcast HostGabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Resilience is a word we’ve been hearing a lot lately, but does anyone really understand what it means — or if you have it? Good Morning America’s chief medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton knows a thing or two about resilience. In today’s episode, she helps us understand it, too.  Join us as we learn what we all need to know to be resilient in the face of COVID and other adversities. We also discuss the different types of resilience, from financial to psychological, and how to tell if we’re resilient — and if we’re not, Dr. Ashton shows us how to be. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page here. Guest BioDr. Jennifer Ashton is ABC News’ Chief Health and Medical Correspondent. As part of the ABC News medical unit, she reports on major health and wellness issues across all ABC News platforms. She also reports the latest breaking medical news for “GMA3: What You Need to Know,” informing viewers about how to stay safe and healthy during the pandemic and beyond. Ashton has been at the forefront of ABC News’ COVID-19 coverage, visiting the NIH Vaccine Development Lab and the White House, meeting with Vice President Pence and White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx. Ashton also interviewed National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director and member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, Dr. Anthony Fauci. Inside Mental Health Podcast HostGabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are we using the wrong criteria to diagnose mental illness? The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is the gold standard used by healthcare professionals as the authoritative guide to diagnose mental health conditions. But is it the best tool for clinicians to use? Were you even aware there are other options?  Today’s guest, Dr. Margaret Chisolm, a professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, tells us all about the “Perspectives Approach,” a method of evaluating a patient using multiple perspectives of their lives and experiences.  This method has existed for over 40 years and is taught and researched at the world-renowned Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Chisholm will explain how this method is superior, and some limitations and flaws of the DSM.  To read the transcript -- or learn more -- please visits the official episode page here. Guest BioDr. Margaret S. Chisolm, MD, FAMEE, FACP, FAAP, is vice chair for education, psychiatry, and behavioral sciences; professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences; and professor of medicine, at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She directs the Paul McHugh Program for Human Flourishing, which fosters a humanistic clinical approach to patient care. Find out more at MargaretChisolmMD.com. Inside Mental Health Podcast HostGabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices