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  • Why do kids freak out, and how can adults guide them through it without just saying, "Stop it?” Dr. Carla Naumburg, clinical social worker and author of How to Stop Losing Your Shit with Your Kids, joins Gabe Howard to unpack the science of emotional outbursts. Learn the surprising reasons behind freak-outs, how to manage them with humor (learn about acronyms FART and BuRP), and why telling kids to calm down often backfires. This episode is packed with practical advice for parents, teachers, and anyone who works with kids, helping them navigate tough moments with empathy and skill.
    “Let's say you are a kid and you have a parent who stays 100% perfect and calm and smiley and always gives you what you want. When you go out in the real world, you're not going to be able to deal with life at all because that's never going to be recreated, right? And so, when your parent loses their temper with you from time to time, packs you a lunch you don't like, forgets to pick you up at school and you're left there for half an hour. When your parent does X, Y, and Z that are considered less than perfect parenting, what you learn is that people aren't perfect, and that's okay. That you can handle things not going the way you want, and you'll be okay. It actually makes kids more resilient.” ~Carla Naumburg, PhD

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode webpage.

    Our guest, Carla Naumburg, PhD, LICSW, is a clinical social worker and the author of five books, including the bestselling How to Stop Losing Your Sh*t With Your Kids and its middle-grade companion How to Stop Freaking Out. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Huffington Post, CNN, and Mindful Magazine, among other places. Carla lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two daughters.

    Our 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

  • What if trauma didn’t just break us but could also shape us in powerful ways? In this thought-provoking episode, Krista St-Germain and Gabe Howard dive into the complex world of post-traumatic growth — exploring how some people emerge from life’s darkest moments with deeper purpose, stronger connections, and realigned values.
    This concept, however, isn’t about being “grateful” for suffering. It’s about rejecting toxic positivity, confronting internal conflicts, and embracing intentional choices. Discover how curiosity, authenticity, and self-reflection can guide you from surviving to thriving — without minimizing pain. If you’ve ever wondered whether growth after trauma is possible (or how it really works), this episode will change the way you think about resilience.
    “My husband died when I was 40. He was killed by a drunk driver. And that was the most awful thing I ever experienced, right? Bar none. I didn't want it to happen. I'm not grateful that it happened. I used to think that in order to experience post-traumatic growth, when I first learned about it, that would mean I would have to be happy that it happened, 100%, no! Right? No, not at all.” ~Krista St-Germain

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    Our guest, Krista St-Germain, is a Master Certified Life Coach, Post-Traumatic Growth and grief expert, widow, mom and host of The Widowed Mom Podcast. When her husband was killed by a drunk driver in 2016, Krista’s life was completely and unexpectedly flipped upside down. After therapy helped her uncurl from the fetal position, Krista discovered Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Growth and learned the tools she needed to move forward and create a future she could get excited about. Now she coaches and teaches other widows so they can love life again, too. Krista has been featured online and in print in Psychology Today, Medium, Thrive Global, Bustle, Psych Central, and Parents Magazine and on select podcasts such as The SelfWork Podcast, Seek The Joy, Life Check Yourself, and You Need A Budget to name a few.

    Our 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

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  • Why won’t mental health professionals share with the public when they suspect a presidential candidate has mental illness? As election cycles intensify, the public often seeks expert opinions on candidates’ mental health, but there’s a reason psychiatrists stay silent.
    In today’s episode, host Gabe Howard and guest Rachael Beairsto dive into the history of the 1964 Goldwater Rule, which prohibits mental health experts from publicly diagnosing public figures without firsthand evaluation. They explore why this rule was established after the Barry Goldwater controversy, the ethical and practical dilemmas it addresses, and how "post-truth" culture challenges its boundaries.
    In a world where facts can feel secondary to personal beliefs, this episode unpacks why mental health diagnoses in the political sphere may be more divisive than informative. Tune in to discover the surprising reasons why expert silence might protect both democracy and those living with mental illness.
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

    Guest co-host, Rachael Beairsto, is a senior editor with Healthline Media. She covers many health topics, including mental health, chronic conditions, and skin care. Most recently, she supported the launch of Wellos, a mobile wellness app that helps members reach their stress, nutrition, and weight goals. She’s passionate about sharing accurate, engaging health information to help people lead their healthiest, happiest lives.

    Our 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

  • Today’s guest is a self-described “Grim Reaper’s cheerleader” and author of You Only Die Once. In this episode, we explore a fascinating approach to breaking out of autopilot: counting how many Mondays you have left to live. With a blend of humor and urgency, Jodi Wellman challenges us to think differently about mortality and how it impacts our choices, passions, and the way we live each day.
    Our host, Gabe Howard, calculates his own remaining Mondays, where he’s hit with the reality of limited time. This sparks a conversation about how the knowledge of a final “deadline” can help us seize the moment. Jodi reveals how facing our own mortality — without an existential crisis — can motivate us to act on our dreams and live with intention. With insights from positive psychology and a unique perspective on life’s ultimate countdown, this episode will change how you look at the life you have left.
    “It is not remembering we're going to die so that we can just be dour and have a really morbid conversation and talk about how well that sucks. I grew up and my mom had a button that she wore on her lapel, like on her acid-washed jacket. Like, life sucks and then you die. We're not talking like that. No, this is about remembering that you're temporary so that it does help you to refine what your priorities are, to feel a little bit more of that sense again, or maybe that intensity and urgency.” ~Jodi Wellman, MAPP
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

    Our guest, Jodi Wellman, is the founder of Four Thousand Mondays, a speaker, author, and assistant instructor in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania. Jodi's TEDx talk is called How Death Can Bring You Back to Life; with over 1.3 million views, it is the 14th most-watched TEDx talk released in 2022, out of 15,900! Check her book out, too... “You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets.”

    Our 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 
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Mental health professionals often provide support, but what happens when they need help themselves? In this episode, Dr. Jessi Gold and Gabe Howard explore burnout, emotional exhaustion, and the unique challenges doctors and therapists face. Using humor and honesty, they discuss the stigmas around mental health care providers seeking treatment themselves and the importance of "practicing what you preach."
    Dr. Gold reveals how burnout can manifest emotionally and physically, from depersonalization to feeling disconnected from personal accomplishments. She explains why mental health workers, who deal in emotions daily, often avoid addressing their own emotional struggles. The episode explores the delicate balance between maintaining empathy and protecting oneself from burnout, and Dr. Gold shares practical strategies for self-care – for professionals and patients.
    Whether you're a healthcare worker, a patient, or someone curious about the inner lives of mental health professionals, this episode offers a candid look into the emotional toll of caregiving. Listen Now!
    “And it did not help my burnout. I think that I do what a lot of people do, which is actually a symptom of burnout, which is depersonalization, which is disconnecting as much as humanly possible. And I think we learn that in training as a way to protect ourselves. But what happens with burnout or what happens when story after story after story is resonating too much is we kind of disconnect completely. And so we're no longer like that person is a person. We're sort of like, that's just another, like it's an object.” ~Jessi Gold, MD, MS

    This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD and THC gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    Our guest, Jessi Gold, MD, MS, is the Chief Wellness Officer of the University of Tennessee System and an associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. This inaugural leadership position encompasses all five University of Tennessee campuses, UT Knoxville, UT Chattanooga, UT Southern, UT Martin, and UT Health Science Center, and includes up about 59,000 students and 19,0000 faculty and staff. In her clinical practice, she sees healthcare workers, trainees, and young adults in college. 
    Dr. Gold is also a fierce mental health advocate and highly sought-after expert in the media on everything from burnout to celebrity self-disclosure. She has written widely for the popular press, including for The New York Times, The Atlantic, InStyle, Slate, and Self. Her first book, “HOW DO YOU FEEL? One Doctor’s Search for Humanity in Medicine” is out available now from Simon Element. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in anthropology), the Yale School of Medicine, and the Stanford University Department of Psychiatry, she spends her free time traveling with her friends, watching live music (especially Taylor Swift) or mindless television, and on walks with her dog, Winnie. Find her on X, Instagram, TikTok, or Threads @DrJessiGold.

    Our 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

  • How does a woman with schizophrenia manage life as an entertainer, stuntwoman, and podcast host all while managing a severe mental illness? In this episode, Rachel Star Withers shares her intense and often shocking journey—from growing up in the Bible Belt believing her hallucinations were demons, to undergoing an exorcism before finally receiving a medical diagnosis of schizophrenia.
    She candidly discusses the stigma she faced, including being told she was "choosing Satan," and how she overcame it to become a thought leader in schizophrenia advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in psychology, mental health advocacy, or learning more about Rachel’s badass life as a stunt performer in blockbuster movies like Black Panther.
    Rachel’s story is a testament to resilience, and she opens up about what it truly means to live with schizophrenia while pursuing your passions and defying expectations. Hit play to learn more about this inspiring story of strength and survival and how you can help yourself – or your loved ones – do the same.
    “You know, I always think every thought that I have is dipped in schizophrenia. It’s all I've ever known. I grew up seeing monsters. It's not something that I've ever lived without. There's monsters with me right now. I hallucinate a good 90% of the time. I'm always kind of not 100% sure if something I saw or experienced is all real. It's very much a part of me. For me, this is part of who I am.” ~Rachel Star Withers
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

    Our guest, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.
    Rachel grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself. She creates videos documenting her schizophrenia and ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

    Our 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

  • How does the patriarchy shape women’s thoughts and actions, often without them realizing it? In this episode, Gabe Howard sits down with feminist thought leader Kara Loewentheil to discuss how patriarchal conditioning impacts women, both at work and at home.
    Kara explains the concept of the “brain gap” — the internal conflict between societal expectations and personal beliefs — and how women can work toward overcoming it. Through practical tools like her “10% Less (Crappy) Thought” technique, she helps listeners begin the journey of unlearning toxic thought patterns.
    This conversation digs into the subtle, often unnoticed ways sexism shapes women’s everyday lives and offers actionable advice on how to reclaim their mental freedom and build stronger mental health. Listen now!
    “​​We're all making a deal with the devil to some extent, like I think beauty norms are patriarchal and oppressive. And also I'm about to go on a book tour, so I'm going to get a lash lift, like, because I'm going to have a lot of photos taken and I don't actually like to do makeup. And yet I want my eyes to stand out in photos. I think people assume that if you're a feminist, you are like a kind of purist ideologue. And that is not the case for me or most of the women I work with.” ~Kara Loewentheil
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

    Our guest, Kara Loewentheil, J.D., is a Master Certified Life Coach, founder of The School of New Feminist Thought, and host of the internationally top-ranked podcast UnF*ck Your Brain: Feminist Self-Help for Everyone (50 million downloads and counting!). 
    Her first book, Take Back Your Brain: How A Sexist Society Gets in Your Head – and How to Get It Out (Penguin Life May 2024) has been called a “galvanizing debut” by Publisher’s Weekly, chosen as a “must-read” by the Next Big Ideas Book Club for May 2024, and praised by NYT-bestselling authors including Mel Robbins, Elise Loehnen, Dr. Marisa Franco, and Tori Dunlap. 
    A graduate of Yale College and Harvard Law School, Kara did what every Ivy League lawyer should do: Quit a prestigious academic career to become a life coach! Eight years after she stepped down as director of a think tank at Columbia Law School, she has created a seven-figure business, taught millions of women how to identify the ways that sexist socialization impacts their brains, and helped women all over the world rewire their thought patterns to liberate themselves from the inside out. 

    Our 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

  • Shame is everywhere, and for women, it’s a constant, uninvited guest. Join host Gabe Howard and writer Melissa Petro as they explore how shame functions as a tool to keep women in line—dictating what they can be, how they should look, and who they’re allowed to become.
    Melissa reveals the hidden forces at play that make women feel “not good enough,” no matter what they do. She introduces “shame resilience,” a powerful strategy to transform how we see ourselves by embracing our feelings and challenging the stories we've been told. If you're tired of walking the impossible line between “too much” and “not enough,” this episode is for you.
    Discover how to break free from the labels, live more authentically, and reclaim your power in a world that constantly tries to diminish it. Tune in and start rewriting your own narrative today.
    “Shame is going to lower treatment adherence. We're not going to follow their orders if we are having feelings of shame. And also, shame, just shame itself is bad for our health. So, when I say shame is killing us, I don't mean it's just really making us feel sad about ourselves. It's not. It's impacting our physical health, and it needs to be addressed on an individual but also societal level.” ~Melissa Petro

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

    Our guest, Melissa Petro, is a journalist whose writing has been featured in The Washington Post, Allure, Cosmopolitan, Rolling Stone, Good Housekeeping, The Guardian, InStyle, and many other national publications. She was a finalist for the PEN/Fusion Emerging Writers Prize and she holds a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies from Antioch and an MFA in creative nonfiction from The New School. She lives with her husband and two young children in upstate New York.

    Our 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

  • As political campaigns ramp up, many of us feel the pressure and anxiety that come with the constant stream of fear-based rhetoric. In this timely episode, Gabe Howard sits down with Dr. Michelle A. Patriquin, the director of research at the Menninger Clinic and an associate professor at Baylor College of Medicine, to explore the phenomenon of election stress.
    Dr. Patriquin sheds light on how these tactics prey on our core fears, the psychological impact of election-related anxiety, and why it affects people across political parties. Tune in to learn practical strategies for rising above the stress, understanding the broader picture, and maintaining your mental health in the face of uncertainty. This episode is a must listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by this year’s presidential election.
    “Like watching cars slow down when there's a wreck on the side of a road. It just evokes some emotions. And getting sort of sucked in. I keep using that word because it's so attractive. It's so like interesting and it’s like you get really caught up in it. And instead really kind of thinking about is this someone's opinion? Is this more logic and data driven?” ~Michelle A. Patriquin, PhD

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    Our guest, Dr. Michelle Patriquin, PhD, ABPP, is the Director of Research and a Senior Psychologist at The Menninger Clinic and Associate Professor in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. She is a board certified and licensed psychologist. She has authored over 185 publications and presentations and has been honored with numerous awards for her research and mentorship. She serves as a board member for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), as well as other nonprofits committed to mental health clinical care, research, and education. Across her work, she is committed to building real-world solutions that expedite the translation of mental health scientific discoveries into robust clinical innovation that improve mental health outcomes for all.

    Our 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

  • Why are we so drawn to the promise of quick fixes in our fitness goals, and why do they often lead to disappointment? In this episode, host Gabe Howard sits down with Dr. Cedric Bryant, CEO of the American Council on Exercise, to explore the psychological and social factors behind our attraction to these easy solutions. They discuss the evolving science of exercise, the importance of integrating physical and mental health, and practical strategies to help you stay on track with realistic, sustainable fitness goals. Tune in to learn how to spot the fads and focus on what really works for your long-term health.
    “So rather than focusing on running a four-minute mile or being able to bench press a certain weight, start with goals that are just about, kind of to borrow the old Nike, just doing it. You start with the process of, OK, I'm going to do some form of exercise or physical activity three times a week for 20 minutes a day. And just use that. Don't think about what's going to be the resultant outcome of that, and once you start to master those, then you can start shifting toward setting some performance or outcome-based goals for yourself, because then you're going to have a better framework of what is truly achievable for you.” ~Dr. Cedric Bryant

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit our official episode page.

    Our guest, Cedric X. Bryant, Ph.D., FACSM, is the Chief Executive Officer at the American Council on Exercise (ACE). On a typical day, he collaborates with various partners such as the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine to champion increased physical activity based on science and evidence-based practices. When sharing about physical activity Cedric often says, “Some activity is better than none, and more is better than some! Every little bit counts.” 
    Cedric has more than 35 years in the health and fitness industry and has authored more than 300 articles and co-authored or edited more than 40 books. He earned both his doctorate in physiology and master’s degree in exercise science from Pennsylvania State University, where he received Pennsylvania State University’s Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest honor presented to its alumni. 

    Our 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 
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this revealing episode, Dr. Tammy Nelson and Gabe Howard delve into the myths and realities of monogamy, infidelity, and open relationships. Discover surprising insights from Ashley Madison data and Dr. Nelson’s extensive research, revealing that women, not men, are often the gatekeepers of monogamy.
    Explore the dynamics of emotional and physical connections outside traditional boundaries, and learn how couples can navigate discussions about open relationships without damaging trust. Whether you're curious about alternative lifestyles or seeking to understand the evolving landscape of modern relationships, this episode promises to challenge your perceptions and spark thoughtful conversations. Listen now!
    “I don't know if it's about not being under someone's thumb. I mean, women have always had affairs, even in cultures where you can be beheaded and stoned to death in the street, women still cheat as often as they ever have. So I mean, that's an interesting statistic. Like, why are we looking for alternative relationships even when it could kill us? You know, it's hard to get really good statistics on how often people cheat because cheating is based on dishonesty, right? And so people lie to the researchers. So we don't really know.” ~Tammy Nelson, PhD

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    Our guest, Tammy Nelson, PhD, is a Board Certified Sexologist, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Imago Relationship therapist, and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor with over 30 years of experience working with couples and individuals and flexible monogamy relationships. She is a TEDx speaker and hosts “The Trouble With Sex” podcast. She speaks worldwide and consults with institutes, think tanks, and corporations on communication, integrity, and relationships. At this time of great global stress, Dr. Nelson helps people cope with working from home, disruption across all industries, and social distancing.

    Our 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

  • Dive into a candid discussion on mental health as host Gabe Howard speaks with Rachael Beairsto, a senior editor for Healthline. Together, they tackle tough questions about authenticity and stigma provided by listeners like you.
    Explore how misconceptions and pop culture blur the lines between genuine struggles and excuses, examining why some may fake mental health issues and the impact on those who truly live with them. From self-harm to artistic stereotypes, they challenge familiar narratives and offer insights into navigating this complex terrain. Join them for an eye-opening exploration that sheds light on the nuances of mental illness in today's society.
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- check out the official page.
    “We're using language that we don't fully understand. The wider conversation doesn't necessarily mean it's a more accurate conversation. If we're just learning a little bit about mental health here and there, it doesn't necessarily mean we understand the nuances. You know, people who have received a diagnosis professionally, the idea that they're faking it is really harmful. And it's a big part of mental health stigma. And it's like people assuming that maybe that that person is faking it can be a really hard part of living with a mental health disorder.” ~Rachael Beairsto, Healthline Senior Editor

    Our guest, Rachael Beairsto, is a senior editor with Healthline Media. She covers many health topics, including mental health, chronic conditions, and skin care. Most recently, she supported the launch of Wellos, a mobile wellness app that helps members reach their stress, nutrition, and weight goals. She’s passionate about sharing accurate, engaging health information to help people lead their healthiest, happiest lives.

    Our 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

  • Paul Gilmartin, host of the “Mental Illness Happy Hour” podcast, and Gabe discuss Paul’s struggles with anxiety, financial pressures, and porn addiction. They emphasize the importance of support networks, self-compassion, and finding healthy coping mechanisms. Paul shares how he moved past pornography addiction toward more fulfilling hobbies and relationships. A vulnerable and eye-opening story—listen now!
    “You'll never find out what your body feels like without being shocked by the intensity of pornography if you don't take a break from it. I think it's definitely worth some investigating because I also find I have way more sexual energy and desire to bring to my relationship. Because I'm not dissipating it. And it feels great. In many ways, it feels like self-actualization.” ~Paul Gilmartin
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official page.

    From 1995 to 2011, our guest Paul Gilmartin co-hosted TBS’ “Dinner and a Movie” and performed his half-hour stand-up special “Comedy Central Presents: Paul Gilmartin.”
    He is a frequent guest on the “Jimmy Dore Show,” performing political satire as his right-wing U.S. Rep. Richard Martin (R-Ohio).
    In 2011, he began “The Mental Illness Happy Hour,” a weekly audio podcast consisting of interviews with artists, friends, listeners, and the occasional mental health professional about all the battles in our heads. With a 5/5 Apple Podcasts rating, the show is frequently chosen as an Editor’s Pick. It was chosen by Esquire magazine as one of the best podcasts of 2016 and featured in the PBS Documentary "A New State of Mind."

    Our 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.
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  • On today’s episode, Gabe interviews Dr. Margaret Rutherford, a clinical psychologist and the host of “The SelfWork Podcast.” They discuss the pressing issue of loneliness as a global health threat, likening its mortality effects to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and explore its close relationship with depression. Rutherford emphasizes the importance of practicing social interaction, reevaluating perceptions of being alone, and taking small proactive steps to combat loneliness and build meaningful connections.
    “I think you have to look at your definition of alone. And what are you telling yourself about being alone? I'm alone because, what? Because I'm a failure? Because I am undesirable? What are you heaping on yourself about being alone that is detrimental to you? As long as you are engaged in constant negative appraisal of you spending an evening alone or a week alone or whatever it is, as long as you are calling that highly undesirable and actually that means you are less than, then you're going to run into trouble.” ~Dr. Margaret Rutherford
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    Our guest, Margaret Robinson Rutherford, PhD, is a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience, an author, TEDx speaker, and podcast host. Her book, “Perfectly Hidden Depression: How to Break Free from the Perfectionism That Masks Your Depression,” has reached thousands in the United States and is having an international impact, with translations reaching Korea to Italy, Turkey to Germany. Her podcast, “The SelfWork Podcast,” has been continuously rated as one of the best podcasts for mental health and depression.

    Our 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.
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  • Zach Tidwell transformed his life after a self-inflicted gunshot wound left him blind and deaf in one ear. Through perseverance, he has pursued numerous adventurous activities, including skiing and white water rafting. He demonstrated that with determination and support, one can regain independence and achieve remarkable goals despite significant challenges. 
    Tidwell now focuses on inspiring others, promoting mental health awareness, and aiding in the creation of blind accessibility technology. He emphasizes that life improvement comes through active effort and resilience. Hear his story now!
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.
    “That first snowboarding trip was eight and a half months after I shot myself. That next month, I got back into college. Six months later, I moved into downtown Denver to live on the college campus and had to learn to navigate the city with just my cane. It has been incremental, and those sports have been sprinkled in along the way, where even though I didn't have the skill to cook, I got a taste of independent snowboarding. And then when I moved out on my own, I got to OK, now the river was the new thing. And it's kind of supported all of the personal growth that I've had.” ~Zach Tidwell

    Zach Tidwell is a blind Marine Corps veteran and suicide survivor best known for his lighthearted approach to the hard topics in life and his ability to inspire others. Having shot himself in the head in an attempt to take his own life, he woke up blind and deaf in one ear and with a new perspective on life.
    At only 28 years old, Zach now shares his story and the lessons he’s learned along the way to save lives and motivate others to take control and write the stories of their futures.
    In addition to sharing his hard-learned lessons, Zach has gone on to found his own software development company so he can lead the way in inclusive design by creating software everyone can use, regardless of disability or lack thereof.
    Outside of work, he breaks down barriers and social perceptions of what the world thinks a disabled person can do. He skis, rock climbs, whitewater kayaks, skydives, and even competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu against other practitioners without disabilities.

    Our 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

  • On today’s episode, sponsored by NOCD, designer and producer Sam Temple shares her experience living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and her long journey to getting a diagnosis. Today's episode is sponsored by NOCD (learn more at treatmyocd.com).

    We delve into the many misconceptions about OCD, and Sam emphasizes how different forms of the disorder, like relationship OCD, severely impacted her life. Her psychiatrist recommended NOCD’s exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, and she shares her experience with ERP treatment and NOCD. 
    Sam now advocates for treatment and community support, and she finds solace and purpose in helping others navigate their OCD journeys. Listen Now!
    “I had the same misconceptions about OCD that most people had at that time. Where you think, ‘Oh, it's just, you know, being afraid of germs or being super tidy.’ I'm the messiest person there is. So, you know, it didn't make sense to me at first.” ~Sam Temple
    To learn more -- or read the transcript, please visit the official episode page.

    Today's guest, Sam Temple, is an artist, designer, and producer in the YouTube industry for the H3 show. She lives with obsessive compulsive disorder, and OCD advocacy has become a huge part of her life. She is here today to discuss her life with -- and her treatment for -- obsessive compulsive disorder.

    Our 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

  • Hey, everybody, this is Gabe Howard, host of the Inside Mental Health podcast. And for the last nine years, we have released an episode every single week, including over the holidays, over the summer. I have never taken a break. Well, that schedule just got a bit cumbersome. So, instead of releasing weekly episodes, we are going to switch to bi-weekly episodes.
    It's going to be the same great podcast, with the same great guests and the same cool things happening. But, instead of happening weekly, it will happen bi-weekly.
    So tune in next week for the next episode of the Inside Mental Health podcast!
    Gabe Howard (Healthline Media)
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  • on adoptees' perspectives, highlighting the often overlooked side of adoption narratives. Our conversation delves into how the adoption industry, driven by a multibillion-dollar market, prioritizes the narratives of adoptive parents, sidelining the voices and experiences of adoptees. We discuss the societal expectations placed on adoptees to feel grateful despite the complexities of their experiences, including feelings of loss, identity issues, and the challenges of connecting with their biological roots. Furthermore, the dialogue touches on systemic issues in adoption practices, such as the lack of access to original birth records for adoptees. Through their stories and insights, Sara and Louise stress the need for greater understanding, reform in adoption practices, and more inclusive conversations that give adoptees a platform to share their experiences and identities.
    “I think you can do both. You can love your family. And you can also want to know your other family and your roots and who you are. It's like an inherent right, I think, to know who you are because we strive for it. Like we may not know we're searching, but we are always, because you have like this, this hole that's missing. And you're taken from your mother. It's a strange scenario if you think about it, and you put somewhere else. No one talks to you about it, and you try to navigate the world. And so all these little subtle things growing up affect a lot of people.” ~Louise Browne

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

    Sarah Reinhardt is a co-host of “Adoption: The Making of Me,” a podcast by and for adoptees. She is a writer, empty-nester, OCD dog parent, and works in Public Media in Kansas City, MO. Sarah hopes her voice will help resonate with other adoptees facing similar issues. Currently, she is working on a book of humorous essays that follow the theme of searching for identity.

    Louise Browne is a co-host of “Adoption: The Making of Me,” a podcast by and for adoptees. Louise works for the executive leadership team in digital banking. She is working on a YA novel and has written two children’s books along and several poems. Louise lives along the Central Coast of California with her husband, Bill, and their dog, Gracie. She has a grown son who lives in Los Angeles. She is trying to change the narrative of adoption to include the voices of adoptees and to help change the way adoption is run as a business.

    Our 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

  •  “The Holocaust was real” should not be a controversial statement, but sadly it has become one. Today, we feature Dr. David Hazony, an expert on Jewish philosophy, who dives into the troubling rise of Holocaust denial and its roots in conspiracy theory and antisemitism.
    Hazony describes Holocaust denial as not only an offshoot of historical antisemitism but also a mechanism for individuals to express disenchantment with societal authorities, attributing personal or societal failures to fabricated Jewish conspiracies. He emphasizes the grave consequences of dismissing the Holocaust, warning that such denial undermines the lessons learned from one of history's darkest chapters, potentially making society vulnerable to repeating past atrocities.
    “When you don't want to believe something, you find ways of not believing it. When there's a market for disbelief and denial, you'll find people prepared to fulfill the needs of that market through false scholarship, through false books, through false documentaries and films, and all of the false information. The question is not so much what are they thinking as why are they thinking it. What need does it fulfill? What role in society does it fulfill? Why does it make them feel good? And how do we get to the bottom of what's driving people who want to believe that they’re forces geared up against them to take away that which is rightfully theirs? That's the real question that we need to ask.” ~Dr. David Hazony

    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

    David Hazony is an award-winning editor, translator, and author. He is the former editor-in-chief of the journal Azure and was the founding editor of TheTower.org. His book “The Ten Commandments” (Scribner, 2010) was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. His translation of Uri Bar-Joseph’s “The Angel” (HarperCollins, 2016) won the National Jewish Book Award. He has edited two previous anthologies: “Essential Essays on Judaism” by Eliezer Berkovits (Shalem, 2002) and, with Yoram Hazony and Michael B. Oren, “New Essays on Zionism” (Shalem, 2007). He has a PhD in Jewish Philosophy from the Hebrew University and lives in Jerusalem.

    Our 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

  • Dr. Asima Ahmad discusses the significant role doulas can play in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, highlighting the importance of clear roles and communication between healthcare professionals, doulas, and birthing individuals for optimal outcomes. Dr. Asima’s personal experience with a doula demonstrates the benefits of having tailored support for physical and emotional well-being, underscoring the potential for doulas to alleviate stress and anxiety, and contribute to a more positive birthing experience. The conversation also addresses controversies surrounding doula services, emphasizing the necessity of teamwork and understanding in medical settings to prevent miscommunication and ensure the safety and health of both the mother and baby, with research supporting the positive impact of doulas on reducing medical interventions and improving mental health outcomes.
    To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.
    “So I think there's a lot of different roles that doulas can play. I don't think it's just like a copy and paste for all. Personally, I've had five pregnancies, I have four children, and I'm lucky that I've always had a good support system in place. But for this last delivery, I did have a postpartum doula, and even though I had gone through it three times before, I found her insight and support to be valuable to not only myself but also to my family and friends.” ~Asima Ahmad, MD, MPH

    Our guest, Asima Ahmad, MD, MPH, is a co-founder and the chief medical officer (CMO) of Carrot Fertility, the leading global fertility care platform. As Carrot’s CMO, Ahmad leads clinical strategy, overseeing the company’s expansive network and telehealth program, which offers access to more than 10,000 reproductive endocrinologists, urologists, adoption experts, mental health experts, OB/GYNs, doulas, and midwives.  
    In addition to her role at Carrot, Ahmad is a practicing reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist. She is double board certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility and obstetrics and gynecology. Ahmad earned a combined medical and public health degree from the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston. She completed her residency in OB/GYN at Yale-New Haven Hospital in Connecticut and her fellowship training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the University of California, San Francisco. She has worked alongside and received mentorship from former ASRM presidents Dr. Hugh Taylor and Dr. Marcelle Cedars. Ahmad’s work has been published extensively in academic literature and internationally on various topics related to infertility, reproductive and hormonal health, gynecologic malignancies, and patient safety. 
    Ahmad has been recognized by Entrepreneur magazine and Fierce Healthcare on their Women of Influence lists and named to Business Insider’s 30 under 40 in Healthcare list. She has also spoken at The World Economic Forum and has been featured in The New York Times, the “Today” show, “Good Morning America,” NPR, CNN, USA Today, Women’s Health, and more.

    Our 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