221: BrainStorm: From Broken to Blessed

Unveiling the Stigma: A Conversation with Sara Schley on Bipolar Awareness and Empowerment. Paris sits down with Sara Schley, a business consultant, social change entrepreneur, and author, to discuss her experiences living with Bipolar Type II disorder. Sara shares her personal journey of enduring years without a proper diagnosis and living in secrecy until revealing her condition in her memoir, 'Brainstorm: From Broken to Blessed on the Bipolar Spectrum.' The discussion delves into her life before and after the diagnosis, the immense support from her family, and her path to mental wellness. Sara’s upcoming film aims to crush stigma, save lives, and maximize healing through compelling personal stories, brain science, and breakthrough treatments. She emphasizes the importance of compassion, emotional fearlessness, discipline, and gratitude alongside maintaining a strong support network. The episode is filled with life-changing insights and serves as an inspiration to those affected by bipolar disorder, whether through personal experience or through loved ones. Check out the work Sara and her team are doing to bring BrainStorm to life here! 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:05 Sarah Schley's Background and Achievements 01:43 Sarah's Bipolar Journey Begins 02:10 The Long Road to Diagnosis 03:57 Family Support and Stigma 04:45 The Turning Point: Diagnosis and Treatment 06:07 Overcoming Shame and Embracing the Diagnosis 10:08 The Power of Sharing and Receiving Love 13:09 The Four Pillars of Strength 18:30 Managing Fears and Setting Boundaries 18:48 Struggles with Alcohol and Self-Perception 21:07 The Importance of Support Networks 23:08 Building Community and Relationships 28:08 Upcoming Film and Future Plans 32:27 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude