A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast - podcast cover

A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast

Gabe Howard and Michelle Hammerthisemotionallife.org
Each episode looks at life through the unique lens of people living with depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The podcast is hosted by Gabe Howard and Michelle Hammer. A Bipolar, a Schizophrenic, and a Podcast was one of the first podcasts by people with mental illness for people with mental illness.
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Episodes

Balancing Support and Boundaries: Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Friendship

In today’s episode, Gabe and Michelle discuss the challenges Michelle faces with her friend who exhibits erratic and aggressive behavior, likely due to untreated mental illness. Despite Michelle's continued efforts to support her friend, including texting her mom and trying to be there, she struggles with the constant verbal abuse and feels unable to help effectively. Gabe suggests setting firm boundaries and considering intervention via 988 when her friend's behavior becomes dangerous, but both...

May 28, 202436 minSeason 4Ep. 8

Good vs Bad Vulnerability and What's The Difference?

Today Gabe and Michelle continue openly discussing living with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, respectively, aiming to reduce stigma around mental health. Gabe expresses gratitude for the support that has allowed their podcast to continue, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in their journeys and their work. Today’s guest, Sara Danner, shares her experiences with schizoaffective disorder, discussing the role of vulnerability in recovery, the challenges she faced with law enforcement ...

May 14, 202433 minSeason 4Ep. 7

Navigating Gifts, Criticism, and Friendship While Managing Mental Illness

Today, Gabe and Michelle share their insecurities and lament that they do not feel more successful. They discuss navigating their challenges, the importance of support, and working to help others through their platform despite personal struggles. Encouraging each other and their audience, they emphasize self-acceptance, perseverance, and the significance of striving for improvement in mental health advocacy. Join us as Michelle and Gabe share some of the things that inspire them....

Apr 30, 202441 minSeason 4Ep. 6

Can schizophrenics and bipolars be good pet owners?

In today’s episode, Gabe and Michelle talk about the positive impact their dogs, Peppy and Paisley, have on their mental health, debunking misconceptions that people with mental illness cannot be good pet owners. While Gabe's dog offers comfort during his bouts of loneliness, Michelle's dog provides a routine and socialization, though she faces criticism due to the stigma of schizophrenia. Join us as we share more of the advantages of pet ownership on mental illness....

Apr 16, 202442 minSeason 4Ep. 5

Passively Suicidal: Are You Still in Recovery?

Today, Gabe and Michelle explore the nuances of navigating passive suicidal ideation within the context of long-term mental illness recovery. They highlight that occasional fleeting thoughts of suicide don't necessarily signify a regression in recovery. However, they stress the importance of addressing any inclination towards developing a plan or taking action regarding suicide immediately. They urge listeners to reach out to their support networks and seek assistance. Additionally, Gabe and Mic...

Apr 02, 202445 minSeason 4Ep. 4

Women v Men: Who Has More Stigma From Mental Illness?

Today's discussion explores the challenges men and women face in managing mental illness, examining societal expectations, medication, and support systems. What disparities exist? What similarities emerge? Who triumphs in the battle of the sexes? Michelle and Gabe also delve into the question of whether it truly matters who suffers more (spoiler alert: it doesn't) and why society perpetuates a competition of suffering. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation rooted in the timeless debate of...

Mar 19, 202448 minSeason 4Ep. 3

Challenging the Stupidity Stereotype in Mental Illness

Can people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia be intelligent, or are they dumb? Tune in as we navigate the intersections of intelligence, creativity, and mental health, challenging the stereotypes that people with mental illness are somehow less than other people. Our hosts also address the concepts of genius and the enigmatic "spark of madness." But that's not all – buckle up for a rollercoaster of tangents, including a deep dive into Mayim Bialik's role as a host on Jeopardy and the surpr...

Mar 05, 202450 minSeason 4Ep. 2

Season 4 Premiere: 2 Truths and a Lie

In this riveting episode, join Gabe and Michelle as they embark on a gripping game of "Two Truths and a Lie." Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions as they open up about personal stories from their past, navigating the maze of their mental health struggles. Tune in for an immersive journey that unveils the misconceptions and hurdles they encountered, and stay hooked until the grand finale where they unravel which stories are true and which is the lie. Along the way, get an intimate look...

Feb 20, 202432 minSeason 4Ep. 1

The Schizophrenic Hippie -- Kody Green -- shares his BSP Story

The Schizophrenic Hippie -- Kody Green -- shares his BSP Story and why he wants a season four. Check him out here, it'll be the best 90 seconds of your day. To learn more, please visit bsp.show/support . Full URL: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/season-4-a-bipolar-a-schizophrenic-and-a-podcast/x/33835752#/

Aug 23, 20232 min

Help us do a Season Four: Details Inside

To learn more, please visit bsp.show/support. Lots of podcasts are hosted by doctors and other mental health professionals. The podcasting space is filled with them because that is who major networks often hire. But who is helping to elevate the patient voice? Short answer? They're counting on you. To learn more, please visit bsp.show/support.

Aug 10, 202344 sec

Want more A Bipolar, a Schizophrenic, and a Podcast? We Need Help!

To learn more, please visit bsp.show/support . Lots of podcasts are hosted by doctors and other mental health professionals. The podcasting space is filled with them because that is who major networks often hire. But who is helping to elevate the patient voice? Short answer? They're counting on you . What We Need & What You Get In order to have a Season 4 (they've done over 100 episodes in the past six years), which will consist of 10 brand spanking new episodes, they need to raise $5,500. T...

Jul 29, 202344 secSeason 4Ep. 999

We Are Frauds (Talking About Imposter Syndrome)

Gabe spoke at Oxford University in England and hosts multiple award-winning podcasts. Michelle owns a clothing line that is incredibly popular and has spoken for TEDx. Both of them are widely recognized and respected across the country as advocates. They also both believe themselves to be failures. Listen now as Gabe and Michelle discuss why they feel this way and break down imposter syndrome. About the Hosts of A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast Gabe Howard is a professional speaker, wri...

Apr 04, 202345 minSeason 4Ep. 1

Serious Questions About Life with Bipolar Disorder

The final episode of season three features the host with schizophrenia interviewing the host with bipolar disorder about his life managing mental illness. Confused? No need to be, just listen now to found out Gabe's biggest regret, whether he would get rid of bipolar if he could, and whether or not he is truly happy. (plus more!) Hey! Follow Society of Valued Minds on Instagram by clicking here or search for @societyofvaluedminds. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your...

Jun 28, 202242 minSeason 3Ep. 5

Deep Q's For an NYC Woman with Schizophrenia

Sometimes people think our hosts, Gabe and Michelle, are actors just playing a role for the show. We can assure you, they are real people managing severe and persistent mental illness. In this episode, Gabe interviews Michelle about her life in New York City living with schizophrenia. Secrets are revealed and you won't know what it is truly like being a New York City schizophrenia unless you listen in now. Hey! Follow Society of Valued Minds on Instagram by clicking here or search for @societyof...

Jun 21, 202232 min

Trauma and Mental Illness

People with mental illness have almost certainly experienced trauma -- whether they are aware of it or not. Having a life-long serious illness like bipolar disorder, depression, or schizophrenia, can be traumatic. In this episode, Gabe and Michelle share their personal trauma stories and discuss why people think that only people who have been in a war-zone can be traumatized. Hey! Follow Society of Valued Minds on Instagram by clicking here or search for @societyofvaluedminds. This podcast is pr...

Jun 14, 202232 min

Our Take on Gun Violence and Mental Illness

Whenever there is mass violence in the United States, politicians are quick to blame people living with mental illness. These same politicians are often also quick to the cut mental health budgets and create barriers to psychiatric care for people who are sick. In this episode, Gabe and Michelle discuss guns, mental illness, and sex toys -- among other important points. Needless to say, they aren't happy being blamed for the deaths of innocent people, including children. Hey! Follow Society of V...

Jun 07, 202237 minSeason 3Ep. 2

Packing for a Psychiatric Inpatient Hospital Stay

Being in the psychiatric ward is not the ideal way to spend a night, weekend, week or more. However, sometimes we find ourselves there. What should you pack? What should you ask your friends and family to bring? What is generally allowed versus never allowed? Learn all this -- and more -- on the season three premier of A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast. Hey! Follow Society of Valued Minds on Instagram by clicking here or search for @societyofvaluedminds. This podcast is proudly sponsored...

May 31, 202227 minSeason 3Ep. 1

ICYMI: Panic Attack LIVE on air

Season three is coming, but before it launches here is a blast from the plast! Back in February of 2019, Gabe had a panic attack LIVE during a recording. The episode proved popular and if you haven't heard it already, now is your chance. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code “BSP22” or by clicking here .

May 02, 202229 min

Crazy Outtakes from the Edge (The Bonus Episode)

Bonus episode filled with outtakes and additional information. Put together by the show's producer and editor, Lisa Kiner. Tune in if you want to learn more about how the show is made and how much work goes into the back-end. Plus, it's hilarious. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code "BSP22" or by clicking here . About the Hosts of A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast Gabe Howard is a professional speaker, writer, and activist ...

Mar 15, 202230 minSeason 2Ep. 11

One of us Was Naked! Truth or Lie?

For the final episode of season 2, we play Two truths and lie. Gabe covers eating disorders, inappropriate behavior, and his hatred of language policing. Michelle covers zoning out, disclosing her diagnosis, and takes us back to her freshman year in high school. Tune in to find out if Michelle was really naked outside Gabe's hotel door and see who guessed correctly and won the prize pack. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code "BSP22"...

Mar 08, 202240 minSeason 2Ep. 10

Moving Past Depression (and Other Musings)

We've all heard the adage, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." When it comes to depression, however, this expression holds even more significance. For one thing, there is no "cure" for depression, so prevention is obviously deserving of our efforts. But how do you prevent something when you're already suffering from it? Moving forward with depression is the best most of us can hope for. Today's episode focuses on this journey -- and we fall down a few rabbit holes here and there. ...

Mar 01, 202238 minSeason 2Ep. 9

To Therapy or Not to Therapy?

Today, we discuss the pros and cons of therapy. What it is, why it works, why it doesn't work, and every tangent in between. Spoiler Alert: One host loves therapy and the other host doesn't love therapy. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code "BSP22" or by clicking here . About the Hosts of A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast Gabe Howard is a professional speaker, writer, and activist living with bipolar and anxiety disorders. D...

Feb 22, 202237 minSeason 2Ep. 8

Died From Mental Illness (CW: Suicide)

Last summer, Michelle Hammer's friend died by suicide. In this heartfelt and vulnerable episode, Michelle discusses her emotions about her friend, including her anger and confusion. Both hosts discuss why it would be better if people saw suicide for what it really is -- death from mental illness. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code "BSP22" or by clicking here . About the Hosts of A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast Gabe Howar...

Feb 15, 202226 minSeason 2Ep. 7

Nail Biting and Hair Twirling (Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors)

Skin Picking. Nail Biting. Hair Pulling. All of these "bad habits" fall under the category of Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors or BFRBs. In today's episode, Gabe and Michelle discuss their issues with BFRBs and some potential solutions -- though they readily admit sometimes the solution can be worse than the habit. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code "BSP22" or by clicking here . About the Hosts of A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and ...

Feb 08, 202232 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Is Mental Illness Trendy Now?

"Hauntingly beautiful," "ride the lightning," and even famous quotes like "we're all mad here" are often used to positively describe mental illness. An "every cloud has a silver lining" mentality. But is it true? Does mental illness have a positive side that is used to create things like incredible art and great literature? In this episode, our hosts push back against the idea that mental illness is anything other than a awful disease that doesn't contribute to a better life -- but keeps us from...

Feb 01, 202236 minSeason 2Ep. 5

Tik Tok Star Kody Green Talks Schizophrenic Story Time

Kody Green, better known as the schizophrenic hippie, is a tik tok sensation -- among other things. But did you know that this podcast inspired him to start his channel? Our hosts were just as surprised as you. In this episode, Michelle, Gabe, and Kody discuss advocacy, hateful emails, and the benefits of putting yourself out there. Join us as two schizophrenics and a bipolar shoot the shit about what life is like living with mental illness. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save ...

Jan 25, 202238 min

Loved Ones Distrust Us Due to Our Mental Illness

Recovery is hard to both achieve and maintain when it comes to mental illness. It's a long journey and in its wake are mistakes, missteps, and relapse. But, once you come out the other side and start living the life you were meant to live, everyone gets on board with the new you. Right? Join our hosts as they discuss the family and friends who still don't trust our thoughts, views, and choices because of mental health symptoms we experienced in the past. Listen as they share how they feel about ...

Jan 18, 202229 minSeason 2Ep. 3

Handling Money with Mental Illness

Bipolar and schizophrenia can make handling finances challenging -- to say the least. Even famous pop stars like Britney Spears have had well documented issues managing money. In this episode, our hosts discuss some common issues, ponder some solutions, and vent about the obstacles people living with mental illness face while trying to support themselves. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Betterhelp. Save 10% on your first month with the discount code “BSP22” or by clicking here . About the H...

Jan 11, 202228 minSeason 2Ep. 2

2 Truths, 1 Bipolar, 1 Schizophrenic, and a Lie

"It's called two truths and a lie. It's called A Bipolar, a Schizophrenic, and a Podcast. It's not called blow sunshine up your ass and make you feel better." ~Gabe Howard Season two episode one brings back fan favorite Two truths and a lie where Gabe and Michelle each tell three stories about their experiences with mental illness and try to figure out which one is just made up. Plus, they announce a home version of the game for you to play -- and you can win free stuff. This podcast is proudly ...

Jan 04, 202227 minSeason 2Ep. 1

A Bipolar, a Schizophrenic, and a Podcast is Coming Back!

Starting on January 4th, 2022, 10 brand new episodes will be released (weekly). Featuring the original hosts, Gabe Howard & Michelle Hammer , they talk living with with mental illness, love, the pandemic and how much they love -- and hate -- each other. Subscribe to this feed to ensure you don't miss a thing! Can't Wait? Check out the book, Mental Illness is an Asshole and Other Observations , available on Amazon or get a signed copy here. Not into books? Check out all the cool mental health...

Nov 05, 20217 min
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