Straight Up Zoe

Zoe

Welcome to The Straight Up Zoe Show! In this show I am raw, have unfiltered conversations about my life, struggles, and truths. From navigating mental health (BPD) to breaking free from my past, questioning faith, and embracing who I really am, nothing is off-limits. This is my space to be real, and if you’re here for honesty, you’re in the right place. I am not my mental health or my trauma—I refuse to be defined by it. I'm speaking about it not because it controls me, but to remind you that you're not alone. Let’s get into it!

  1. 12/04/2025

    The Man Who Beat Schizophrenia and Biked Across Canada — Matthew Dickson

    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 lifeWhat pushed him to bike across an entire country againThe moment he realised he wanted to help others through Mind AidActionable steps for anyone struggling with their mental healthWhy 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

    50 min
  2. 06/18/2025

    Love, Loss and Healing: Stano’s Journey

    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

    1h 19m
  3. 05/27/2025

    First Guest! Featuring My Best Friend Ducharme | BPD Diaries Ep.7

    *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

    51 min
5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Straight Up Zoe Show! In this show I am raw, have unfiltered conversations about my life, struggles, and truths. From navigating mental health (BPD) to breaking free from my past, questioning faith, and embracing who I really am, nothing is off-limits. This is my space to be real, and if you’re here for honesty, you’re in the right place. I am not my mental health or my trauma—I refuse to be defined by it. I'm speaking about it not because it controls me, but to remind you that you're not alone. Let’s get into it!