Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate

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Thanks for tuning into Advancing with Amy! If you're as intrigued by the power of touch as we are after listening to our chat with the delightful Epiphany Jordan, you're probably itching to dive deeper. So why not get in touch (see what we did there?) with Epiphany herself? Head over to her website at www.nurturinghumantouch.com and explore how you can nurture more touch opportunities in your life.

Don't forget to check out her book, "Somebody Hold Me, the Single Person's Guide to Nurturing Human Touch," available in print, e-reader, and even as an audiobook for those bedtime listen sessions. Plus, if you're looking for some one-on-one guidance on how to wrap yourself in more touchy-feely goodness, Epiphany offers coaching sessions that are perfect for creative brainstorming. How cozy is that?

And while you're exploring, remember to follow us on social media and subscribe to our podcast so you won't miss our next episode. Until then, go spread the oxytocin! 🎧💖. And Keep Advancing Warriors!

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Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

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Welcome back to another in-depth episode of "Advancing with Amy," the podcast dedicated to exploring the intricacies of mental health and personal growth. I'm your host, Amy, and today we have the privilege of diving into the fascinating world of shadow work with our special guest, Chrissy Loveman. Chrissy, known for her expertise in shadow work and her integration of neuroscience into healing practices, shares insights into what shadow work involves and how it influences our lives, particularly through the lens of unacknowledged parts of ourselves that we often push into the shadows of our unconscious. We'll explore how these unintegrated aspects can lead to feelings of burnout and misalignment in one's life, and Chrissy will guide us through methods to address these shadow elements creatively and constructively. She also delves into projecting qualities onto others and how understanding these behaviors can transform self-perception and relationships. Furthermore, Chrissy sheds light on the transformative power of neuroplasticity in changing ingrained habits and establishing new patterns. Stay tuned for a conversation that promises to be both enlightening and empowering, offering new ways to understand and improve your mental health journey.

You can find Krissy Loveman and all of her free goodies at KrissyLoveman.com

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

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In this episode of "Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama," host Amy welcomes Stina Borth, an expert in neurodiversity education and the founder of Keymaker Services. Stina shares her insights and experiences in supporting neurodivergent individuals, focusing on neurodiversity awareness, neuro inclusion, and helping individuals find ways to amplify their cognitive differences for productivity and success. The discussion delves into strategies for managing the nervous system, such as using tapping, breath work, and hot and cold resets, while exploring the importance of proactive balance and self-advocacy. Stina also highlights the significance of understanding one's unique needs in educational and professional settings, including using tools like loop earbuds and weighted blankets. Tune in for enlightening conversations on how neurodivergent individuals, especially young adults, can thrive by embracing their unique capabilities and managing sensory input. Amy and Stina also touch upon the social aspects of neurodiversity, the potential of changing societal perspectives through education, and the power of being a 'key maker' to overcome challenges. Don’t miss this episode filled with practical advice and thought-provoking insights for neurodivergent individuals and those looking to support them.

You can locate Stina Borth at: (https://keymakerservices.hbportal.co/schedule/654d40ca4f62b7013929ce56) Facebook: Keymaker Services (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075719088463) Instagram: keymakerservices (https://www.instagram.com/keymakerservices/) LinkedIn: Keymaker Services, Inc. (https://www.linkedin.com/company/keymaker-services?trk=public_post_feed-actor-name) LinkedIn (Stina): Christina (Stina) Borth M.A. (linkedin.com/in/stinaborth) Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_sxI58uDOMl3U6jfHvWJ2Q Website: https://keymakerservices.com/

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

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Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

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Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

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In this insightful episode of "Advancing With Amy," host Amy delves into the transformative journey of Jill Sitnick, the author of "Rescuing Jill," a memoir detailing her healing process from childhood trauma-induced PTSD through psychedelic-assisted therapy. Jill unpacks her experiences with MDMA therapy, sharing how it helped her confront and reframe painful memories from her past. Amy and Jill discuss the nuances of MDMA and psilocybin therapies, their potential for healing, and Jill's advocacy and educational work in the psychedelic space. Tune in to explore the future of psychedelic therapies, their groundbreaking potential for PTSD recovery, and Jill’s inspiring journey toward healing and advocacy. Whether you're new to this field or keen to expand your knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of mental health, trauma recovery, and psychedelic therapy.

Don't Miss Out on Jill's Great Resources Below:

• Website: ​TheJourneySage.com​
• Smartlink: ​Click Here​
• Book on Amazon: "​Rescuing Jill​"
• Instagram: ​https://www.instagram.com/thejourneysage/​
• LinkedIn: ​https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillsitnick/​
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thejourneysage
• YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@thejourneysage
• ​Advancing With Amy Interview

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

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Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

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In this insightful episode of "Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama," host Amy, sits down with Melissa Crook, the creator of the F.E.E.L. Podcast. Melissa shares her personal journey of self-discovery and empowerment, born from hitting a metaphorical wall at age 50. She discusses her battles with anxiety, the impact of generational trauma, and the importance of dismantling societal stigmas surrounding mental health.

Melissa reveals the origins and intentions behind her podcast, where she uses eight talking points to foster conversations with women about self-worth, boundaries, and the intricate layers of life. She emphasizes the importance of honoring one's innate value and the power of community in changing narratives around mental, emotional, and physical health.

Throughout the episode, Melissa opens up about her upbringing in an emotionally chaotic household, the resulting hyper-vigilance, and her eventual diagnosis of anxiety. She provides listeners with heartfelt advice on navigating anxiety, learning to trust oneself, and the importance of self-care.

Melissa also touches on her faith journey, balancing personal beliefs with mental health challenges, and encourages women to embrace their true value, independent of societal expectations. Tune in for a candid conversation filled with wisdom and practical guidance for anyone on their mental health journey.

Learn more about Melissa Crook at embracinglayers.com where you'll find all her social links and information on her podcast and her book, "Embracing Layers Unapologetically" which you can also find on Amazon.

See more links below:

https://feelpod.substack.com/

http://linktr.ee/embracinglayers

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thefeelpodcast

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

Sign up for Amy's newsletter: https://advancingwithamy.kit.com/newsletter

Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

https://www.joinpodmatch.com/advancingwithamy

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Episode #49

Welcome back, listeners! In this compelling episode of "Advancing With Amy," your host, Amy, sits down with the dynamic and inspiring Randi Lee Bowslaugh. Randi is not only a mental health advocate but also a podcast host and author who dives deep into the complexities of mental health, developmental disabilities, and chronic illnesses.

🔊 Tune in to hear:

• Randi-Lee's Journey:
• How Randi-Lee's personal struggles with depression, PTSD, and autism diagnoses shaped her life's mission.
• Parenting Insights:
• Navigating the challenges of raising a child with autism while dealing with personal mental health issues.
• The Power of Diagnosis:
• How realizing she had PTSD and autism helped Randi-Lee get the help she needed.
• Career Path:
• How her background in psychology and social work influences her current endeavors, even without finishing her psychology degree.
• Creative Outlets:
• The origins of Randi-Lee's podcast, "The Write or Die Show," where she amplifies voices discussing mental health and writing.
• Life with Chronic Illness:
• The impact of fibromyalgia and arthritis on her daily life and mental health.
• Writing and Reading:
• Randi-Lee's tips on where to find her published works and the joy she finds in supporting indie authors.

📚 Special Mentions:

• Randi-Lee's recommended audiobook, "Embracing Me," available on Audible, which delves into the depths of depression.
• The Write or Die Show and where you can follow Randi-Lee's journey on Substack, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Get ready for an episode filled with raw honesty, practical insights, and a down-to-earth discussion on how mental health intersects with every aspect of life. Whether you’re navigating your own mental health journey or looking for inspiration and community, this episode is for you.

Listen now and join the conversation on mental health and resilience!

📍 Find Randi-Lee Bowslaugh:

• Website: rbwriting.ca & http://www.writeordieshow.ca/
• Podcast: The Write or Die Show (available on YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSTmVQUW8K8r1sBDchLyTwA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randileebowslaugh
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rbwriting
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@randileebowslaugh
• Substack: Randi-Lee Bowslaugh
• Books:  https://amzn.to/3LNbuCy

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to support our mission of mental health advocacy! 💪🧠✨

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

Sign up for Amy's newsletter: https://advancingwithamy.kit.com/newsletter

Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

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In this enlightening episode of Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama, we are joined by Shannon Sauer-Zavala, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and renowned expert on personality change. Shannon shares her groundbreaking work as a researcher at the University of Kentucky, where she tests innovative interventions aimed at alleviating common mental health conditions through the lens of personality change.

Throughout the conversation, Shannon addresses the inefficacies of popular commercial personality tests, such as the Myers-Briggs, and introduces us to scientifically-validated tools that offer a more accurate picture of personality traits. She delves into her work on developing new, more efficient treatments for conditions like anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder, making mental health care more accessible and effective.

Shannon also opens up about her own transformative journey—how she went from an underperforming high school student to a successful academic. She highlights how intentional personality change through consistent action and reinforcement can alter one's future for the better. Her TEDx Talk on this very subject serves as an inspirational anchor, encouraging listeners not to let personality tests dictate their potential.

This episode is filled with practical insights and hopeful messages, aiming to empower you to take control of your mental health and personal growth. Whether you're a mental health professional, someone experiencing anxiety or depression, or simply curious about the science of personality, you’ll find valuable takeaways here.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that challenges preconceived notions about personality and mental health, and learn how you, too, can embrace positive change in your life.

Find Shannon Sauer-Zavala online:

• Website: https://www.personality-compass.com/
• X: https://x.com/SauerZavala
• Instagram: @Self.Made.Personality
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sauer-zavala/

Don’t miss out—subscribe to Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama so you don't miss a thing!

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

Sign up for Amy's newsletter: https://advancingwithamy.kit.com/newsletter

Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

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Episode Description: In this powerful episode of "Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama," join hosts Amy and her guest, Ann Hince, as they dive deep into the journey of healing and transformation. At 19, Ann experienced a life-altering trauma when she discovered her mother deceased from cancer. For 20 years, the unresolved emotions lingered beneath the surface, affecting her well-being. Ann shares her incredible story of discovering Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and how it played a pivotal role in her emotional healing, allowing her to release deep-seated tension and trauma.

Listen in as Ann explains how she went beyond traditional EFT, learning to put her awareness inside her body, which not only changed her emotional state but also led to physical transformations, including changes in her bone structure and overall height. We explore the fascinating world of self-awareness, the profound impacts of releasing stored tension, and how Ann’s journey can inspire others to find their path to inner peace and healing.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, self-discovery, and holistic healing. Discover the potential of EFT and learn about Ann’s groundbreaking experiences that prove the mind-body connection is more profound than we might imagine.

Tune in, and let's advance together toward a healthier, more peaceful state of being.

Links and Resources:

•  
  • Ann's Book:
  •  A Pathway to Insight, dives deeper into her methods and journey. It’s available on Amazon.
  • Ann's Video Series Membership
  • Ann's Buy Me a Coffee
• Where to Find Ann:
  • Website: 
  • annhince.com
  • – Loads of info and resources.
  • YouTube:
  • Check out Ann’s channel for all things EFT.
  • Facebook:
  • Ann is super active and ready to answer your questions.

Keywords: Emotional Freedom Technique, EFT, tapping, trauma, healing, self-awareness, mental health, holistic healing, physical transformation.

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

Sign up for Amy's newsletter: https://advancingwithamy.kit.com/newsletter

Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

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Your host Amy dives deep into the world of sound healing with the extraordinary Molly Adkins, a certified sound healer with an impressive background in music and vocal performance. Molly shares her compelling journey from a music major and Japanese folk singer to becoming a transformative healer who uses her expertise to alleviate trauma, anxiety, and physical ailments through the power of sound.

**Highlights of this Episode:**

- **Introduction to Sound Healing:** Molly explains how she uses a variety of instruments such as crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, gongs, and tuning forks to balance energy and release emotional blockages.

- **Personal Journey:** From studying in Japan to overcoming personal struggles, Molly's story is a testament to the healing power of sound.

- **Scientific Insights:** Understand how vibration and frequency affect our physical and emotional well-being and how Molly listens to these vibrations to identify imbalances.

- **Practical Tips:** Learn simple techniques like humming and vocal toning to maintain balance between professional sessions.

- **Virtual Healing:** Discover how Molly conducts effective sound healing sessions via Zoom, breaking geographical barriers.

- **Energetic Awareness:** Gain valuable insights into how our daily environments and interactions affect our energy and wellbeing.

- **Inspiration and Hope:** Molly's journey of self-discovery and transformation offers hope and inspiration for anyone seeking a path to emotional and physical well-being.

**Key Quote:**
"We are affected by vibrations and sounds that are around us all the time, all day long. Just being aware of vibrations in that way and what the words we use and the things that we're experiencing around us could really be a first step in feeling better." – Molly Adkins

Discover more about Molly Adkins and her incredible work in sound healing on her website: [mollyadkins.com](http://mollyadkins.com).

Tune in now and embark on a journey towards emotional liberation and physical healing with the fascinating insights of Molly Adkins. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

And don't forget to check out my free WHO A M I (guided journal) at www.advancingwithamy.com

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

Sign up for Amy's newsletter: https://advancingwithamy.kit.com/newsletter

Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

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Send us Fan Mail

**Host:** Amy
**Guest:** Steve Wilson – Author of *Teetering on a Tightrope: My Bipolar Journey*

Trigger Warning:  This episode discusses sexual abuse, please do not listen if this is a trigger for you.

In this deeply insightful and powerful episode of "Advancing with Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama," we sit down with Steve Wilson, the author of *Teetering on a Tightrope: My Bipolar Journey*. Steve takes us on a raw, honest, and profound journey through his struggles and triumphs with bipolar disorder.

### Episode Highlights:

- **Traumatic Beginnings:** Steve shares the harrowing experience of being assaulted at nine years old and its long-lasting impact on his mental health.
- **Diagnosis and Misdiagnosis:** We dig into Steve's initial clinical depression diagnosis and the later realization that he is bipolar. Discover the turning point that changed his life trajectory.
- **Medication and Recovery:** Learn about Steve's experiences with different medications and how lithium, despite severe side effects, helped him function until a kidney transplant became necessary.
- **Support Systems:** The crucial role of family, support groups, and professional therapy in managing bipolar disorder. Steve discusses the importance of having a solid support network.
- **Government and Mental Health System:** A candid critique of the government's handling of mental health services and the burden of navigating through a flawed system.
- **Life Lessons and Advice:** Steve leaves our listeners with invaluable advice on perseverance, seeking help, and advocating for oneself in the mental health journey.

### Why You Should Listen:

- **Personal Storytelling:** Steve's narrative offers an extraordinary glimpse into the lived experience of someone navigating bipolar disorder from childhood trauma to adult resilience.
- **Educational Insights:** Gain an understanding of the complexities of bipolar disorder, medication trials, and the importance of correct diagnosis.
- **Actionable Advice:** Whether you are personally affected by mental health issues or know someone who is, Steve's story provides actionable advice and hope.
- **Advocacy and Awareness:** Be inspired to advocate for better mental health services and support systems.

### Key Quote:
"The biggest thing I have found is that you can never give up. You can't get a cure for bipolar, but if you keep working to get better and not giving up on the things a psychiatrist and therapist suggest... you can have as good a life as I have." – Steve Wilson

### Read Steve's Memoir:
*Teetering on a Tightrope: My Bipolar Journey* is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

### Tune In:

Join us for an episode filled with courage, candor, and crucial conversations. Don't miss out on Steve Wilson’s eye-opening interview that could provide the hope and support you or a loved one needs.

---

**Subscribe now** to "Advancing with Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama" and never miss an episode. Tune in next week for more stories, insights, and strategies for improving mental health and awareness.

Thank you for listening!

Support the show

Join a community of great women talking about living with mental health and/or neurodivergent struggles and supporting each other through life.  Currently free for a limited time here. 

Get a free WHO AM I Journal to learn more about yourself: https://advancingwithamy.com

Sign up for Amy's newsletter: https://advancingwithamy.kit.com/newsletter

Support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2434582/supporters/new

WE NEED YOU! 

Want to be a guest on Mental Health Warrior & Neurodivergent Advocate? Send Amy Taylor a message on PodMatch, here: 

https://www.joinpodmatch.com/advancingwithamy