Spirit, Purpose & Energy

JJ welcomes back Michelle Reittinger, author and host of The Upside of Bipolar, for a bold, hope-filled conversation that challenges common cultural narratives around bipolar disorder. Together, they unpack "myths" that can keep people stuck in fear and identity-based labels—and invite listeners into curiosity, root-cause investigation, and a more empowering view of symptoms, healing, and personal responsibility. In This Episode, We Cover · Michelle's story: diagnosed in 1998, years of intensive psychiatric treatment, polypharmacy, and a breaking point that became a turning point · Why a diagnosis can feel like an "answer," but often doesn't explain why symptoms started · The difference between a "cluster of symptoms" and an identified disease mechanism · Why curiosity (vs. shame) changes everything—especially with intense symptoms like rage, anxiety, and dissociation · The "detective" approach: identifying triggers, patterns, and underlying contributors · The role of foundational health (nutrients, sle