This Way Up

Andrea
  • ٥٫٠ (١٨)
  • الصحة النفسية
  • يتم التحديث أسبوعيًا

Welcome to "This Way Up," the podcast dedicated to supporting parents and caregivers navigating the complex world of mental health. Each episode, we dive deep into conversations that matter—exploring the challenges, triumphs, and transformative journeys of those facing mental health struggles within their families. Whether you’re here for expert advice, inspiring stories, or just a little boost to get you through the day, we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of coffee, kick back, and join us as we find the bright spots in the mental health journey—because we're all climbing our way up together!

  1. Presence is Self Care

    ٤ فبراير

    Presence is Self Care

    Being present can be one of the most powerful forms of self-care for caregivers. In this short episode I reflect on caring for a loved one’s mental health, navigating a heavy season, and why treating everyday moments like they matter is a gift—for them and for you. This season of This Way Up has looked a little different for me. My mom is going through cancer treatment, and over the past several months I’ve been spending more time traveling back to be with my family. It’s meaningful time—but it’s also changed the rhythm of my life in ways I didn’t expect, leaving less flexibility, less margin, and less space for some of the things I love. On a long drive home after one of those visits, something quietly landed for me: there is always a last time for everything. A last goodbye. A last hard moment. A last ordinary moment that doesn’t feel significant until it suddenly does. In this episode, I reflect on what it means to treat everyday moments like they’re the first time—because we don’t know when they’ll be the last. Not as another thing we should do for others, but as a way of caring for ourselves. This episode is for parents and caregivers who are tired, stretched, and doing their best to love well—especially when mental health challenges are part of the story. You don’t have to do more.  You don’t have to be better.  Sometimes, being present is enough. Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٦ من الدقائق
  2. Emotions in the Body: How to Sit With Hard Feelings

    ١٥ يناير

    Emotions in the Body: How to Sit With Hard Feelings

    Explore felt emotion and somatic techniques with Dr. Jen Rapkin to notice, endure, and move through anxiety, anger, and other challenging emotions. Summary  Dive into the essence of 'felt emotion' with author Jen, as she gives an in-depth exploration of her book 'The Feeling Muscle: How Felt Emotion Can Help You Sit With and Outlast Hard Feelings.' Jen and Andrea discuss the concept of felt emotion—our body's physical experience of emotions such as anxiety, rage, and contentment. The conversation delves into how recognizing and sitting with these emotions, rather than distracting or numbing ourselves, can lead to a fuller, more connected life. Learn about somatic therapy, common avoidance behaviors, and how to truly connect with your body's signals. This insightful episode provides practical advice on building a vocabulary for your inner experience and emphasizes the importance of outlasting hard feelings. BIO:  Dr. Jenn Rapkin is a licensed naturopathic physician, bodyworker, former dancer, and Frequent Feeler with more than 25 years of experience in integrative mental health, mind-body medicine, and body-centered therapies. Her new book The Feeling Muscle: How Felt Emotion Can Help You Sit with and Outlast Hard Feelings chronicles her personal and professional transformation from physician to a shepherd of “feelings.” In her clinical practice, her bodywork table is a place to hold space for, validate, and give voice to her patients’ inner felt emotion by combining a gentle, listening touch with dialogue, imagery, mindfulness, and self-awareness. She has had the good fortune in her life to balance deep and meaningful inner reflection with rich and interesting life experiences – from growing up on Nantucket Island, go-go dancing in the Guggenheim Museum, and living as an expat in Barcelona to raising two amazingly soulful and spirited children in Connecticut. Website:  www.drjennrapkin.com Book page:  www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWDW1R2M Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575991456912 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennrapkin/ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٥٠ من الدقائق
  3. Alcoholism, Motherhood & Sobriety: Breaking Generational Cycles

    ١ يناير

    Alcoholism, Motherhood & Sobriety: Breaking Generational Cycles

    Being a parent doesn’t stop addiction—but it can be a reason to fight for recovery. In this raw and  powerful episode, Emily Redondo, author of Wife Mother Drunk, shares her journey with alcoholism, recovery, and breaking cycles of generational trauma. Having been in rehab and psychiatric institutions over 20 times, Emily opens up about what it’s like to navigate life as a parent while struggling with alcohol, and how addiction isn’t about being a “good” or “bad” person—it’s about what’s happening in the brain. Emily also discusses the impact of past generations of alcoholism, how it shaped her life, and the courageous steps she took to reclaim herself for her family and future. She candidly describes facing the shadows of her past, choosing life over self-destruction, and confronting trauma head-on. This episode is for anyone grappling with alcohol, generational trauma, or the challenges of midlife reinvention. Emily’s story is raw, real, and a reminder that healing is possible, even after decades of struggle. A conversation about survival, self-trust, and the courage to choose life. BIO:  EMILY REDONDO is a writer, bookworm, and proud mother of four whose articles on recovery and motherhood have been featured in Love What Matters, Genius Recovery, and Legacy Launchpad. Her interests include gardening, camping, collecting antique curiosities, and tinkering with her latest diy project in her workshop. She lives with her husband, Pete, and their lively household in McKinney, Texas. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://a.co/d/anhTJJm Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٥٤ من الدقائق
  4. Beyond Medication: Exploring TMS for Depression, Anxiety and More

    ١١‏/١٢‏/٢٠٢٥

    Beyond Medication: Exploring TMS for Depression, Anxiety and More

    Imagine a treatment that wakes up the parts of the brain that have been dimmed by depression, anxiety, or trauma—without medication or downtime.  That’s exactly what Andrea explores in this episode with Dr. Suzanne Kerns, a leading expert in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), one of the most exciting advancements in mental health care today. TMS uses gentle, targeted magnetic pulses to activate and strengthen mood-related networks in the brain—essentially giving those underactive areas a nudge back into gear. It’s non-invasive, has minimal side effects, and requires zero anesthesia. It’s FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, depression with anxious features, and OCD, and research is showing impressive promise in areas like addiction, PTSD, and even pain management. Andrea and Dr. Kerns dive into the surprisingly fascinating history behind TMS, how the technology works, what actually happens during a session, and real-life success stories that are nothing short of transformative. They also cover what to look for when choosing a qualified provider and why this treatment is becoming a go-to option for people who’ve tried “everything else.” A hopeful, energizing conversation that reminds us just how many new possibilities exist for healing—and how rapidly the future of mental health is evolving. BIO:  Dr. Suzanne Kerns is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in neuromodulation and interventional psychiatry techniques, including TMS, ECT, and other forms of brain stimulation therapy. She is the owner and Chief Medical Officer of Inner Healing Charleston in Charleston, SC. Former Director of the Neuromodulation Clinic at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, she is a Fellow and current Treasurer of the Clinical TMS Society. Dr. Kerns has trained clinicians globally and held academic appointments as an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Washington and the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Kerns views every patient as unique, and strives to create individualized care plans using not just medications, but also psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and interventional treatments to support her patients in achieving their goals. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://clinicaltmssociety.org/ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٤٥ من الدقائق
  5. Understanding the Power of the Neurodivergent Brain

    ١٤‏/١١‏/٢٠٢٥

    Understanding the Power of the Neurodivergent Brain

    So many neurodivergent kids grow up thinking they’re the problem, when in reality they’re carrying ADHD, anxiety, or bipolar symptoms no one ever recognized. This conversation digs into what that actually feels like through Arthur Williams’ story—growing up undiagnosed, masking to survive, and constantly being praised for traits instead of effort, which only widened the gap between who he was and who he thought he should be. Arthur opens up about the pivotal moments that helped him finally understand his own mind, the difference between parental standards and rigid expectations, and why grace matters so much for neurodivergent kids trying to navigate a world not built for them. He also shares how he went from barely getting through college to becoming a peer mentor with The NAN Project, helping teens understand mental health, suicide prevention, and the power of lived experience. At its core, this episode is a reminder that even when ADHD is loud, anxiety is relentless, or bipolar depression insists you don’t matter, there is a reason to keep going—and more people value your presence than you’ll ever know. BIO:  Arthur is a recent but proud Peer Mentor with The NAN Project. He started this work to continue his goal of spreading awareness about mental health challenges with a neurodivergent voice. He believes that a mental health diagnosis or comorbidity does not have to be a source of shame, fear, or a life without determinism. Those of us who are “too much” are more than enough in the right setting with the right support. That all genius exists in those people who are willing to find the holes in their world, and their thinking, and fill them with something they created if it does not exist. As a person of color, he aims to provide meaningful representation and amplify the voices of neurodivergent individuals within his communities. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://www.thenanproject.org/ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٥٥ من الدقائق
  6. How to Spot and Manage Controlling Behaviors

    ٣٠‏/١٠‏/٢٠٢٥

    How to Spot and Manage Controlling Behaviors

    What’s Really Behind Our Need to Control?  We all like to think we’ve got it together… until life throws a curveball, and suddenly we’re trying to control everything around us. In this episode of This Way Up, I chat with Kati Morton, LMFT — licensed therapist, bestselling author, and mental health educator — about why control feels so necessary, how it shows up in our relationships, and what it’s really trying to protect. We dig into the ways control can sneak into parenting, friendships, romantic relationships, and even our daily routines. Kati shares how to spot controlling behaviors in ourselves and others, practical strategies to manage anxiety without overstepping, and personal stories that make these lessons relatable. She also gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming book, Why Do I Keep Doing This? (Dec 9th, 2025), guiding listeners toward breaking unhealthy patterns and building stronger, more resilient connections. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Control and Its Illusions 00:41 Understanding Control in Relationships 03:20 Recognizing Controlling Behaviors in Ourselves 05:08 Coping Mechanisms and Personal Examples 07:30 Practical Tips to Manage Control Issues 10:49 Impact of Control on Relationships 17:52 Letting Go of Control in Parenting 18:22 The Challenge of Helicopter Parenting 19:12 Encouraging Independence in Children 21:24 Recognizing Controlling Behaviors in Relationships 24:11 Managing Children's Mental Health and Manipulative Behaviors 27:15 The Importance of Open Communication 31:45 Katie Morton's New Book Announcement 33:21 Conclusion and Social Media Plugs BIO:  Kati Morton, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, Best-selling Author, and a highly sought-after speaker in the field of mental health. With a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, Kati has delivered impactful talks at prestigious events and platforms worldwide. Kati's upcoming book, Why Do I Keep Doing This?  (out December 2025), explores why we fall into the same emotional loops, such as people-pleasing or self-sabotage, and how to break them once and for all. Kati has been at the forefront of the mental health movement since 2011, sharing powerful videos that demystify mental health and replace stigmas with understanding. Her influential YouTube channel - with over 1.5 million subscribers and 130 million views, has made her a prominent figure in translating complex mental health concepts into accessible language. An accomplished author of two best-selling books "Are u ok?: A Guide to Caring for Your Mental Health" and “ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٣٧ من الدقائق
  7. Healing with Horses Equine Therapy for Mental Health

    ٠٩‏/١٠‏/٢٠٢٥

    Healing with Horses Equine Therapy for Mental Health

    What if the key to healing anxiety, trauma, or depression wasn’t just found in an office — but in the quiet connection with a horse? In this episode, I sit down with Summer to explore the world of equine therapy and how these incredible animals are helping people transform their mental health. We dive into the difference between traditional hippotherapy and ground-based horse therapy, why spending time with horses has such a powerful impact on the nervous system, and the unforgettable breakthroughs Summer has witnessed with her clients. From easing stress and building confidence to creating trust after trauma, horses bring a kind of healing that’s hard to put into words. We also open up about the real-life challenges of caring for therapy horses and why community support is so vital to keep this work alive. If you’ve ever been curious about how equine therapy supports mental health, or you just want a fresh perspective on healing, this conversation will inspire you. BIO:  Summer Bouquet is currently working toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) while completing her clinical hours. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UC Davis, where she was also a Division I beach volleyball athlete. Summer’s interest in psychology began early and has grown into a deep passion for helping others navigate life’s challenges. While she works with clients of all ages, she has a special focus on supporting adolescents between 12 and 18. In her clinical practice, Summer integrates equine therapy with psychodynamic approaches to create meaningful, individualized experiences for her clients. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://www.walkintuit.org/ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٢٦ من الدقائق
  8. Breaking Cycles: Supporting Parents in Recovery and Their Babies

    ٢٥‏/٠٩‏/٢٠٢٥

    Breaking Cycles: Supporting Parents in Recovery and Their Babies

    Every year, thousands of babies are born into the chaos of opioid addiction—fragile, frightened, and in need of care. Tara Sundem, founder and executive director of Hushabye Nursery, has dedicated her life to giving these babies—and their mothers—a fighting chance. Through her work, she has already saved over 1,000 babies, transforming not just their lives, but the lives of their families.Through her work, Tara reminds us that every family deserves support, understanding, and a chance to thrive. Her stories will move you, her belief will uplift you, and her mission will leave you with a renewed sense of what’s possible when care meets heart. BIO:  Tara Sundem, RN, NNP-BC, MS is a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, educator, and advocate dedicated to supporting pregnant and parenting mothers in recovery from opioid use disorders. She is the Executive Director and co-founder of Hushabye Nursery, a pioneering program in Arizona that provides compassionate care and resources for families affected by neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Tara began her nursing career at Banner Children’s Hospital and went on to specialize in neonatology, earning her Master’s in Neonatal Nurse Practitioner from Arizona State University. Over the years, she has worked in multiple hospitals and practices across Arizona, providing care to the most vulnerable newborns and their families. In addition to her clinical work, Tara is an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona, sharing her expertise with the next generation of healthcare professionals. She has been featured in news stories and invited to speak at local and national conferences on NAS, maternal recovery, and stigma reduction. Through her work at Hushabye Nursery, Tara is driving innovative approaches to care and education, helping families thrive while advocating for systemic change in support for mothers in recovery. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://hushabyenursery.org/ https://www.facebook.com/hushabyenursery/ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

    ٥٤ من الدقائق
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Welcome to "This Way Up," the podcast dedicated to supporting parents and caregivers navigating the complex world of mental health. Each episode, we dive deep into conversations that matter—exploring the challenges, triumphs, and transformative journeys of those facing mental health struggles within their families. Whether you’re here for expert advice, inspiring stories, or just a little boost to get you through the day, we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of coffee, kick back, and join us as we find the bright spots in the mental health journey—because we're all climbing our way up together!

المعلومات

  • صناع العمل
    Andrea
  • سنوات النشاط
    ٢٠٢٣ - ٢٠٢٦
  • الحلقات
    ٦٨
  • التقييم
    فاضح
  • حقوق النشر
    © 2026 This Way Up
  • موقع البرنامج على الويب
    This Way Up

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