In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Drason, an entrepreneur, coach, and leadership expert, who has an incredible story of transformation. From spending time in prison to building multiple successful businesses, Andrew shares how overcoming a challenging past shaped his mindset and set him on a path to success. He talks about the lessons learned from adversity, the power of personal growth, and how he turned his setbacks into powerful comebacks. Whether you’re facing your own challenges or striving for greater success, Andrew’s journey will inspire you to rethink what’s possible and take control of your future.

Check out his book A Vision Of HopeA Vision of Hope: A Story of Redemption and Purpose - Andrew Drasen - Google Books https://www.avisionofhopebook.com

Check out Andrews Offical WebsiteAndrew Drasen's Website

Thank you Guys

xoxox

In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Dickson — a man who went from battling schizophrenia for years to fully recovering and then cycling across Canada twice. His story isn’t soft, polished, or “inspirational-quote cute.” It’s gritty, honest, and proof that you can rebuild your life even when the world tells you it’s impossible.

We talk about:

• How Matthew healed schizophrenia and reclaimed his life
• What pushed him to bike across an entire country again
• The moment he realised he wanted to help others through Mind Aid
• Actionable steps for anyone struggling with their mental health
• Why hope is a strategy, not a fantasy

Matthew’s work: Mind Aid

 https://www.MindAid.ca

Here are the powerful books that helped shape his recovery and thinking — worth checking out:

The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge — https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1101147112  

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle — https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1577311525  

Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by Dr. David D. Burns — https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0380731762  

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl — https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0807014273  

You Are Not Your Brain by Jeffrey M. Schwartz & Rebecca Gladding — https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0061996102  

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, scared, or like their mind was working against them. Matthew’s journey is living proof that you can come back — stronger, clearer, and on your own terms.

Please like, comment, and subscribe.

Love you guys

Xoxox

In this episode, I wake up and think… holy crap, not another day. I’m not okay, and I’m done pretending I am. I feel lonely, lost, like the black sheep of the world.

“Normal people” … don’t have to live like this. But I do. I try to survive, I try to function, I try to show up — and somehow, I still do.

This episode is for anyone fighting themselves, their mind, and the world… but still getting up anyway. No pretending. No sugarcoating. Just me, real and raw.

Love you

Xoxox

In this episode, I get raw about the three things that saved my life — God, drugs, and friendship. I share how my best friend’s love kept me grounded when I felt like giving up, how psychedelics helped me see beyond the darkness in my head, and how my faith in God has been the anchor I never knew I needed.

It’s messy, unfiltered, and a little unholy — but this is my truth, the story of how these three forces came together to pull me through my darkest moments.

Love you

Xoxox

Hello guys,

I’m back!!! Wow… yes, I disappeared for over a month and I am so sorry.

I’m back to it now — this episode has no editing, no filters — just me talking about exactly where I’ve been and what’s been going on. I’ve been traveling, seeing new places, and having some incredible moments… but also making mistakes I’m not proud of. I’ve hurt people close to me, and this episode is me unpacking the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable truths I’ve had to face about myself over the last few weeks.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re figuring life out while making a mess of it at the same time, this one’s for you.

Love you

Xoxox

Content Warning:

This episode contains discussions about sensitive topics, including death and cancer. The conversation may be upsetting for some listeners, so please proceed with caution. We encourage anyone who may need support to reach out to a professional or trusted individual.

This episode is not part of my BPD Diaries series. 

In this deeply personal episode, I’m joined by my amazing friend Stano—my second podcast guest—as he shares the emotional journey of loving and caring for his late wife, who battled cancer. Stano opens up about their relationship, the challenges and beauty of being her full-time carer, and what it was like to be by her side from the very beginning to her final breath. We also discuss practical advice for carers, the importance of support, and how Stano has been navigating his own path of grief and healing.

This is a moving conversation about love, loss, resilience, and hope.

A Special message to Stano: Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with us. You are incredibly courageous, strong, and an amazing person. I feel so blessed to have you in my life. I’m beyond excited to share your voice and your journey with the world. You’ve been doing an incredible job of taking care of yourself, healing, and moving forward. 

PS: I'm excited for our next Superstore Session.

Thank you Stano

Here are some resources that are available for current carers: 

UK- Carers UK Website: www.carersuk.org Carers UK provides support, advice, and information on a wide range of issues, from financial assistance to emotional well-being. They also offer a helpline for carers and provide a community for carers to connect.

Canada: Caregiving Canada Website: www.caregiveresource.ca This website is a Canadian resource for caregivers, offering educational tools, emotional support, and practical tips for those caring for someone with a serious

Global: The World Health Organization (WHO) - Caregiving

Website: www.who.int

The WHO provides global guidelines and advice on caregiving, including the mental, physical, and social challenges caregivers face, as well as strategies for improving caregiver well-being.

Thank you Guys

xoxox

In this episode, I open up about what it really means to change your life. The truth is—stepping into a new version of yourself often means grieving the old one. Change is scary, but its all part of the process.

I talk about the identities I shed, and the painful moments of letting go. But I also share the freedom, peace, and strength I’ve found on the other side. If you’re going through a season of transformation—or if you’re standing at the edge, scared to leap—this episode is for you. Growth costs, but so does staying stuck.

Remember Growth is VERY uncomfortable. Embrace it.

Thank you Guys,

xoxox

*Be compassionate, curious and caring*. Quote by Ducharme.

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of Straight Up Zoe, I’m joined by my very first guest—and best friend—Ducharme. Together, we explore deep and meaningful conversations about his work in homicide support, living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), the role of faith in healing, and the beautiful chaos of everyday life.

From family and friendship to mental health and spiritual growth, this episode is real, raw, and rooted in compassion. Ducharme’s wisdom, honesty, and heart shine through every moment. We talk about the importance of showing up for others, navigating grief, choosing curiosity over judgment, and finding hope in the hard places.

This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a journey through vulnerability, resilience, and connection. Whether you’re going through something heavy or just need a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode will speak to your soul.

A special message to Ducharme: Thank you for being my Bestie. You are my biggest supporter and I wouldn’t be doing this podcast right now if it weren’t for you. I’m so excited to share this conversation with the world, as everyone will get to see just how incredible and kind you are—not only to me, but to everyone you meet.

Thank you Ducharme.

Check out Ducharme's Websites:

https://ducharmeservices.com/

https://ducharmeglobal.com/ - Check out his previous interviews on the Social Purpose link in the Bio, click on Stories, then watch all the amazing videos Ducharme has created and been a Guest on. ( My favourite is the Galiano Island BC. Its a beautiful hand made documentary created for his incredible Mum's memorial).

https://prettypatticheesecakes.com/

https://youtu.be/HCahYNRHuCY-

Thank you Guys

xoxox

In this deeply personal episode of Straight Up Zoe, I open up about the loss of my soul cat — the one who stayed with me through darkness, breakdowns, and quiet moments.

Grief hits differently when you live with mental illness sometimes. It’s not just sadness — it’s heartbreak in every cell of your body. In this episode, I talk about what it felt like to lose her, how grief has been showing up in my life, and what I believe about the afterlife — especially for our beloved pets.

If you’ve ever lost a pet and felt like the world didn’t understand your pain — this episode is for you. You are not alone in your grief. And love never dies.

A slideshow Ducharme and I created for Cat Kat — CHECK IT OUT! Look how cute she was. She was precious.”

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1WH8XA0QS39XwJxnMALCMaSuHFO-kMnALmR4PnZoaisw/edit?usp=drivesdk

Life waits for no one. Here's Next Year by Donovan Woods –
https://open.spotify.com/track/3tf7tejvFw0l4Dtq6l5JtD?si=eKl_OpypSC-NJN0FX-q_rg

Special thank you to my Besties Ducharme, Vas, and Lucy — I wouldn’t have got through it without you. You guys are Awesome. 

Thank You Guys, See you next week

Xoxox

In this episode, I open up about the incredible friends who came into my life exactly when I needed them most — especially two best friends who know me better than I know myself. They’ve become everything to me.

To my dear best friends: I love you, you mean the world to me. I also dive into the challenges of living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and how it affects relationships. Through it all, I reflect on how I believe God placed these amazing people in my life for a reason. This one’s personal, raw, and full of heart.

I wouldn’t be here doing this podcast if it wasn’t for Ducharme. Thank you for always believing in me and encouraging me to share my voice.

Go check out his website https://ducharmeservices.com/

P.S. Go hug your friends, tell them you love them, and remind them how much they mean to you. ❤️

Thank you Guys, See You Next Week

xoxox