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**Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior: Episode with Marlee Kivens**

In this heartfelt episode of Advancing With Amy, we are honored to have Marlee Kivens share her personal journey with us. Marlee opens up about living with a physical disability, her experiences with depression and anxiety, and how she has found strength and independence through her endeavors as a Pampered Chef virtual consultant.

**Episode Highlights:**
- Meet guest Marlee Kivens from Minnesota, who discusses her life with spina bifida and learning differences, as well as her long-time battle with depression and anxiety.
- Discover how Marlee was first diagnosed with depression and anxiety in college and how she manages her mental health today through weekly therapy sessions and journaling.
- Gain insight into Marlee's personal growth and how she found empowerment through Pampered Chef after dealing with self-esteem issues due to her dependency on personal care assistance.
- Marlee shares her inspiring transition to independence, emphasizing the importance of self-esteem and having a supportive community.
- A candid conversation around the challenges faced by those with disabilities in the schooling system and societal integration.
- Learn how Marlee became an advocate for living in the moment, seizing the day, and the unpredictability of tomorrow.
  
**Call to Action:**
- For a dose of inspiration and to support Marlee, head over to her Pampered Chef website (https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/Kivenskitchen*corner). Don't forget to mention "Advancing With Amy" when placing your order to claim a special gift from Marlee herself!
- Connect with Marlee Kivens on Facebook to join her Pampered Chef community, receive updates on her journey, and check out her kitchen tool recommendations.
- If Marlee's story has touched you, please subscribe to the Advancing With Amy podcast for more stories of resilience, mental health awareness, and transformational personal journeys.
  
**Subscribe & Follow:**
- Never miss an episode! Subscribe to Advancing With Amy on [Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you enjoy listening].
- Help us reach more listeners and bring forward more empowering stories by rating and reviewing our podcast.
  
**Closing Thoughts:**
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Advancing With Amy. Marlee's story is a profound reminder that despite the challenges life may throw at us, strength and autonomy are possible. Join us again for another episode where we continue to break down barriers and advance together as Mental Health Warriors.

**Contact Information:**
- Marlee Kivens’ Pampered Chef: Kivenskitchen Corner https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/Kivenskitchen*corner
- Friend Marlee on Facebook: [Marlee Kivens](#)
- Text or Call Marlee: 612-701-4805

*Links and contact information are included for ease of access for our listeners. If you're seeking further support or resources in mental health and personal empowerment, be sure to reach out.*

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Join us for an enlightening episode of Advancing With Amy, the Mental Health Warrior, where we delve into the powerful journey of neurodiverse christian couples coach, Dr. Stephanie Holmes. Discover how a personal family diagnosis evolved into a life mission, shaping a pioneering advocate for neurodiversity and the author of 'Embracing the Autism Spectrum: Finding Hope and Joy, Navigating Your Neurodiverse Family.' Stephanie shares the heart-wrenching challenges faced in the education system, the intersection of faith and neurodiversity, and provides a beacon of hope for families embarking on similar paths. Dive deep into a candid discussion on societal misconceptions and the courage it takes to challenge stigma, advocating for a more compassionate world. Are you ready to embrace the autism spectrum with love, understanding, and joy? Purchase Stephanie's book today on the Bookbaby store, Amazon, or download the audiobook. Connect with her work at holmesasr.com, christianneurodiversefamilies.com, and christianneurodiversemarriage.com to learn more, follow her projects, and listen to her podcast. Don't forget to subscribe to Advancing With Amy for more inspiring stories and expert insights. Together, let's journey towards mental wellness and acceptance.

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Summary:
In this episode, Amy speaks with Shelley Meche'tte, a mom, mom life strategist, international speaker, and best-selling author who shares her personal journey of rediscovering herself while navigating the challenges of motherhood. Shelley candidly discusses her experience of losing herself while being a stay-at-home mom, her subsequent emotional breakdown, and the signs that indicated she needed to embark on a journey of self-awareness. She also provides valuable insights into incorporating new passions and finding harmony between motherhood and personal fulfillment.

Key Takeaways:
1. The Struggle of Self-Identity: Shelley talks about how she lost herself in the role of being a mom, leading to an emotional breakdown where she realized she needed to make a change.
2. Signs of Burnout: Shelley reflects on the signs of burnout, including short temper, taking on too many activities, feeling overwhelmed, and negative self-talk, which served as indicators for her that she needed to address her well-being.
3. Incorporating New Passions: Shelley emphasizes the importance of understanding one's daily schedule and making intentional choices to incorporate self-care and new activities, as opposed to feeling overwhelmed by a lack of time.
4. Self-Appreciation: The importance of acknowledging and appreciating one's efforts, even if the day’s tasks weren’t all accomplished, is highlighted by Shelley as a way to promote gratitude and self-kindness.

Recommended Resources:
- Shelley Meche'tte’s website: shelleymechette.com
- Connect with Shelley on social media: Instagram and Facebook
- FREE GIFT: “7 Powerful Ways to Fulfill Your Goals and Be a Great Mom, Too” available on Shelley's website, shelleymechette.com

Closing:
Join Amy and Shelley on this enlightening conversation about the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, and the empowering journey of reclaiming one’s identity and passions. Don’t miss out on Shelley’s valuable insights and the resources she provides for moms striving to achieve a fulfilling life beyond their roles.

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In this episode, Amy sits down with Sally Alter, a 76-year-old widow originally from London. Sally shares her remarkable life story of travel and adventure, living in four different countries, and settling down in Kerrville, Texas. But among her life experiences, Sally has faced the challenges of living with bipolar disorder since the age of 15. She candidly discusses the impact of the disorder on her life and her journey to managing it.

Sally's passion for writing shines through as she talks about her career as an author. With four books on bipolar disorder and additional works of fiction and non-fiction, Sally delves into the inspiration behind her writing and her latest novella, "Shards of Glass."

Throughout the episode, Sally and Amy explore the complexities of bipolar disorder, from the symptoms and challenges to the importance of medication and therapy. Sally's resilience and determination serve as an inspiring message to anyone facing similar struggles, as she encourages listeners to stay hopeful and never give up on their aspirations.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into living with bipolar disorder, the power of writing as a therapeutic outlet, and the importance of never losing hope, no matter the challenges they face.

Join us as we take a deep dive into Sally's journey as a mental health warrior and a passionate writer.

Key Discussion Points:
- Sally's life experiences and settling in Kerrville, Texas
- Living with bipolar disorder and the impact on daily life
- Sally's journey as an author, writing on bipolar disorder and releasing a new novella
- Exploring the complexities of bipolar disorder and its management
- Overcoming challenges and finding hope in the face of mental health struggles

To explore Sally Alter's compelling storytelling and gain an in-depth understanding of mental health challenges, be sure to check out her latest novella, "Shards of Glass." You can purchase the book directly from Sally's website at sallyalter.com or find it on Amazon. Immerse yourself in this captivating tale that weaves mental health issues into a riveting narrative.

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Support the show

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Title: Embracing Group Dynamics: The Power of Social Therapeutics in Coaching and Development

In this episode, Carrie, a seasoned life and relationship coach, delves into the transformative impact of her group-based coaching approach, emphasizing the pivotal role of Zoom sessions and the integration of diverse groups. She shares an insightful example from her book, shedding light on the significance of addressing assumptions within a group dynamic, showcasing her coaching practice, ZPD Coaching, with a focus on social therapeutics for group-based practices.

Drawing a compelling contrast between Vygotsky’s social and cultural approach to child development and Piaget’s fixed stages and internal processes, the discussion extends beyond individual development to encompass various life domains, including corporate settings. The text explores the application of these principles and underscores the burgeoning recognition of the potency of group work.

The concept of social therapeutics takes center stage, advocating for a shift from individualistic focus to a collective one. Carrie’s personal experiences with therapy and her deep involvement in a life development group for two decades with Fred Newman provide an authentic backdrop to her commitment to mental health and community-oriented practices.

This episode underscores the vital role of community support and intellectual grounding in Social Therapeutics, placing emphasis on group discussions to foster diverse perspectives. The approach encourages curiosity about interpersonal interactions and underscores the profound impact individuals have on each other.

The conversation concludes with expressions of agreement and gratitude, recognizing the invaluable advice provided, particularly in the context of an aging population and the importance of combatting loneliness among the elderly.

Please visit Carrie's website at www.zpdcoaching.com and you can find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ZPDCoaching.  

Please also subscribe to our podcast and share the episode and if you would like to make sure we can continue to bring you amazing guests like Carrie, please consider using the tip feature on www.advancingwithamy.com or donating on Patreon at http://patreon.com/user?u=111706400.  

As always, we look forward to seeing you next week.  Until then, Keep Advancing Warriors!

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Title: Overcoming Trauma: A Journey of Transformation and Empowerment

Main Theme: The Journey from Trauma to Empowerment

In this episode, Sharon Ann, a seasoned talent coach, shares her remarkable journey from a mental health professional to a successful coach specializing in supporting women dealing with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The show delves into her transition, initial struggles, and ultimate triumph in building a thriving coaching practice, notably through her authentic presence on LinkedIn.

The conversation focuses on the challenges of managing personal triggers while working with clients and the importance of prioritizing client needs over one’s own experiences. Sharon Ann emphasizes the use of self-care strategies, including positive self-talk and spending time in nature, to navigate these challenges.

Listeners gain insight into Sharon Ann’s impactful work, which includes leading support groups for women and teaching grounding skills, identifying safe people, setting boundaries, and utilizing guided imagery. The caution around presenting techniques due to legal considerations is highlighted, as well as her facilitation of a book group focused on chronic PTSD.

The text also touches on the broader scope of support groups for depression, explains dissociation and its link to dissociative identity disorder, and mentions online sessions and a podcast titled “Metamorphosis from Trauma to Thriver,” designed to help others grow through social media.

The episode beautifully encapsulates the transformative journey from trauma to empowerment, emphasizing resilience, healing, and the power of mutual learning, making it a compelling and insightful listen for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance in overcoming trauma.

You can find Sharon Ann on her website at https://linktr.ee/sharon_a and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-ann-7715a6141/    Please consider taking her up on her free offer of a 30 minute consultation.

Please subscribe and share this podcast episode and if you would like to make a donation to make sure we can continue to feature amazing guests like Sharon Ann, please consider leaving a tip at https://www.advancingwithamy.com or donating on Patreon at http://patreon.com/user?u=111706400

Hope to see you next week.  Until then, Keep Advancing Warriors!

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Dive into the heartening world of Cari Eskridge on 'Advancing With Amy' as she talks about triumphing over mental health challenges to become a reputable event planner. From the importance of accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment to juggling the demanding life of entrepreneurship, Cari demonstrates resilience and dedication.

Her event planning prowess can be seen at idoidahoevents.com, a testament to her professional acumen. Cari's generosity extends to offering a free wedding guide for couples aiming to achieve their perfect day without breaking the bank.

Cari's commitment to mental health support shines as she shares her goal of launching a nonprofit to provide crucial funds for immediate mental health care. Her podcast, Sick Moms, available on all major platforms, is an enriching resource for mothers navigating the complexities of mental health issues.

For those inspired by Cari's journey, join us regularly on 'Advancing With Amy' for more uplifting dialogues. Support our mission by following, sharing, and listening. Your engagement counts. To Cari's remarkable endeavors, visit idoidahoevents.com and tune in to Sick Moms. Here's to advancing mental well-being, one story at a time.

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In this episode, Amy sits down with Melissa, a functional medicine practitioner from Sagebrush Wellness, with a specialization in autoimmune and complex illnesses. Melissa shares her personal journey of overcoming advanced multiple sclerosis and her mission to help others reclaim their health through functional medicine.
- Melissa reveals her personal journey of being diagnosed with advanced multiple sclerosis at a young age, defying the odds, and eventually recovering with the help of functional medicine practices.
- The discussion delves into the often overlooked mental health aspect of autoimmune diseases, shedding light on the intense depression and anxiety Melissa experienced during her illness.
- Learn how Melissa integrates trauma-informed therapy into her practice, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health in the healing process.
- Discover the diverse factors that functional medicine addresses, including food sensitivities, toxicities, and cellular dysfunction, providing a holistic approach to health and wellness.
- Melissa shares how her team at Sagebrush Wellness is expanding to reach more clients globally, offering hope to individuals across the world dealing with autoimmune issues.

Tune in to explore the transformative power of functional medicine and learn how Melissa is helping individuals reclaim their health and well-being.

Remember to visit sagebrushwellness.com or autoimmunerecovery.org to connect with Melissa and her team. And don't forget to share and subscribe to Advancing With Amy/Mental Health Warrior podcast to stay updated on empowering conversations with inspiring guests.

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In this inspirational episode of 'Advancing With Amy,' our Mental Health Warrior, Michelle Whiteside, shares her poignant life story. From battling trauma, ADHD, to overcoming substance abuse, Michelle's journey highlights the power of self-care and personal development. Delving into her tumultuous childhood and the pivotal moments of the Covid-19 pandemic, she reveals how these experiences led to her profound personal growth and her passion for helping others through NLP, mindfulness, and somatic work. Michelle's dedication to healing is evident as she discusses her work with troubled teens and her ambitions to guide women and children on a global scale. Amy joins the conversation with her own reflections on friendship, the societal pressures of romantic relationships, and the joys of embracing the journey of life. Their candid dialogue on midlife introspection, self-empowerment, and the necessity of support systems is both relatable and uplifting. If Michelle's story resonates with you or you seek guidance on your path to personal growth, be sure to visit her website at https://levelingupwithmichelle.com where you can also obtain a complimentary meditation to help you reconnect with yourself .  You can also find Michelle on LinkedIn at michelle-g-whiteside-🦋-levelingupwithmichelle-5809b1161. Please remember to rate and share our show. To support our podcast and join our journey of growth and discovery, visit us at http://patreon.com/user?u=111706400. Tune in, and may you find encouragement and wisdom to fuel your own journey.  Keep on advancing warriors!

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Amy's Introduction to Advancing With Amy!

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