"this is bipolar' unveils another power-packed episode, featuring Shaley Hoogendoorn and TV presenter and Ambassador @bipolar_uk, Leah Charles King. Embodying strength and resilience, both women share their personal battles with bipolar disorder and their commitment to shattering mental health stigma. In a discussion that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, they underscore the impact of bipolar disorder, harnessing their own experiences to educate and inspire. With additional focus on racial disparities in dealing with mental health, Leah emphasizes the need to address mental health issues regardless of colour or creed. From childhood struggles with feeling out of place to her challenges in navigating the entertainment industry and understanding her mental condition, this episode offers a raw, honest, and powerful look at Leah’s journey in dealing with bipolar disorder.

The episode also provides a heartfelt discussion about embracing life with bipolar disorder. By sharing their personal tales of trials and triumphs, Shaley and Leah remind everyone struggling with their mental health that there is a way to rebuild their life after diagnosis, and that having bipolar disorder doesn’t define one's life. They underline the importance of self-love, faith, perseverance, and maintaining a solid support system.

Most importantly, Leah highlights the way she dealt with her mood shifts - from extreme depression to euphoria - which marks her experience with bipolar disorder. She encourages others to understand and support mental health, emphasizing the power of faith and hope.Through a shared narrative and unique perspective, these women offer an enlightening discussion about bipolar disorder and mental health as they continue their most rewarding mission to smash the stigma of mental illness. 

this is bipolar...

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Chapter Markers

00:04:20 Life Beyond the Bipolar Closet

00:09:23  Childhood Trauma & Early signs 

00:14:03 From Girl Bands to Mental Health Advocacy

00:21:03 Strive for Excellence & Perfectionism

00:28:03 Finding Hope & Life After Diagnosis

A Few Things about Leah Charles-King:

• Almost 20 years mainstream experience in the media industry alone


• 1000’s of hours of live unscripted TV presenting experience


• Countless speaking engagements as a host for prestigious events nationwide


• Produced and presented programs transmitted in Europe, USA and Africa


• Seen by a combined estimated TV audience of over 200 million viewers worldwide


• Producer credits for live and pre-recorded content for TV transmission


• Presented and appeared on ITV, BBC, BET, The Disney Channel, MTV, Sky1 and more


• Launched OHTV and BET International on UK television as their first on-screen talent


• First and only black female CITV continuity presenter in its 35 year history


• Has received 10 prestigious ‘Best Presenter” awards to date including Screen Nation


• Accomplished Voice Over artist for TV, Radio and Online advertisements and campaigns


• Corporate video presenter for high profile clients and brands


• Backing Vocalist for the likes of George Michael, Andreas Bocelli and Mary J Blige


• Female Activist for women in the creative industries with own initiative entitled “Wonder Women”; inspirational and networking events for International Women’s Month.


• Has trained over 300 speakers and presenters at The Red Carpet Academy


• Personal Mentor to young women aged 18-28 years by offering internships at The Red Carpet Academy


• You can connect with Leah on her IG advocacy page @illuminatemh


• #Bipolar #bipolarDisorder #mentalhealth #mentalillness