Welcome to 'this is bipolar' hosted by Shaley Hoogendoorn, a platform dedicated to sharing the lived experiences of those with Bipolar Disorder. In this episode, Shaley introduces the "Going Deeper" series, which delves into specific topics of a previous podcast guests. These episodes are designed to further inspire, educate, and break down the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Join Shaley and her guest, Bassey Ikpi a New York Times bestselling author, as they explore the profound impact of Bipolar Disorder on daily life. Shaley and Bassey share some of their most painful friendship & romantic break ups. Bassey also shares her journey of writing a deeply personal book that serves as both a mirror for those who need to see themselves and a window for others to understand the experiences of their loved ones. Through vivid storytelling and candid discussions, this episode aims to foster empathy and awareness.

Tune in to hear about the challenges of living with Bipolar, the importance of sharing our stories, and the power of understanding and support. Whether you're seeking comfort, knowledge, or a sense of community, this episode offers valuable insights.

* Reminder* -the first full episode where Bassey shares her story is also available on the podcast. It would mean so much to me if you would be willing to go and follow the podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts or hit subscribe on here on YouTube. It’s completely free for you to do but it’s so valuable for me because I know it will help the episodes reach those that need it most.

This is Bipolar.

IG @this.is.bipolar YouTube: this is bipolar 

More about Bassey:

Bassey Ikpi is a Nigerian American writer and mental health advocate. Her debut essay collection, I’m Telling the Truth, But I’m Lying, was an instant New York Times bestseller. She appeared on HBO’s Def Poetry Jam and joined the touring company for their Tony Award-winning Broadway show, and has appeared on numerous stages across the globe. Bassey is an active voice in the mental health community and a pop culture connoisseur; Her essays on both topics can be found on platforms including The New York Times, The Root, and Okay Africa. She is also the creator of #NoShameDay, an initiative that normalizes conversations surrounding Black mental health in order to reduce stigma. In short: Bassey Ikpi is a Nigerian American writer, ex-poet, constant mental health advocate, underachieving overachiever, and memoir procrastinator. She lives in Maryland..

Recognition and Awards:

New York Times Bestselling Author

Reading Women’s Nonfiction Award Nominee

Washington Post Bestselling Author

WSJ+ Book of the Month

Amazon: Top 100 Books

Essence Magazine’s Woke 100

The Root 100 Public Figure

GOOP: 10 New Favorite Books

Bitch Magazine: Most Anticipated Books of 2019 

Bustle: 21 New Memoirs That Will Inspire, Motivate, and Captivate You

Publishers Weekly Spring Preview Selection

Electric Lit: 48 Books by Women and Nonbinary Authors of Color to Read in 2019

Bookish: Best Nonfiction of Summer Selection