Episode 596 Baker Act Lifelines: Mark Astor's Legal Hack to Rescue Families from Addiction Hell!

mark G astor esq

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Welcome back, Bizzy Fam! In Episode 596, we are diving into a heavy but absolutely critical topic that touches so many families: the legal side of mental health and addiction.

I sat down with legal advocate Mark Astor, a powerhouse attorney who has been in the game since 1994. Mark’s background is incredible—born and raised in the UK, he started his career right here as a Palm Beach County Assistant State Attorney, handling thousands of cases from misdemeanors to capital murder.

In this episode, Mark shares his mission to help families navigate the complex behavioral health system. In 2016, he founded Drug and Alcohol Attorneys, and later co-founded Astor Simovitch Law with his wife, Audra, specifically to save families whose loved ones are struggling with substance use and failed recovery attempts. He also founded Baker Act Attorneys in 2020 to fight for those wrongfully detained in the mental health system.

We get into the nitty-gritty of the Baker Act vs. the Marchman Act, how guardianship works, and why the legal system needs a major overhaul to improve access to resources. Mark also drops some serious wisdom on why physical health fosters mental well-being—something he lives by as a Krav Maga instructor.

If you are looking for advice on legal intervention or just want to understand the system better, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• Family is Key: Mark emphasizes that the role of family is absolutely critical for effective recovery.

• The Baker Act: Explaining how this allows the state to take custody of individuals in immediate mental health crises.

• The Marchman Act: A deep dive into this act specifically designed for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

• Guardianship: How this legal tool can give families the control they need over a loved one’s decisions during a crisis.

• Commitment is Crucial: Why treatment success is a marathon, not a sprint, and requires long-term dedication.

• The Reality of Denial: Many individuals in treatment struggle to fully understand or accept their addiction.

• Barriers to Care: We discuss the harsh reality that quality treatment is often financially inaccessible for many.

• Systemic Change: Mark discusses why the legal system needs to evolve to better support mental health resources.

About the Guest:

Mark Astor is an attorney admitted to the Florida Bar, the U.S. District Court, the District of Columbia Bar, and the Massachusetts Bar. He holds a JD from Nova Southeastern University and an LLM from American University. Mark is known for his relentless commitment to securing releases for wrongfully detained individuals, day or night, and litigating against hospitals violating patient rights.

Connect with Bizzy:
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To Reach Mark Astor Esq.

mark@astorsimovitchlaw.com

https://mentalhealthaddictionlawfirm.com/

https://www.facebook.com/mark.g.astor

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markastor/

https://x.com/AstorSimovitch

https://www.instagram.com/astor.simovitch.law/

https://www.tiktok.com/@astorsimovitchlaw

https://www.youtube.com/@astorsimovitchlaw

https://vimeo.com/user100078315

Thanks for showing up!

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XOXO,

Bizzy

Podcast 595 Finding Peace in the Holidays: Advent, Recovery, and Self-Worth

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https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy Fam, in this episode, I reflect on my Thanksgiving experience, sharing how unexpected peace can be found when we learn to manage our expectations. As we transition into the season of Advent, I discuss the importance of spiritual growth and the tools that ground her, including her daily practice with the Holy Bible app and the Hallow App.

The conversation goes deeper into the vulnerable realities of recovery, touching on the feelings of abandonment and loneliness that often accompany addiction—not just for the individual, but for the whole family. I talk about the pressure of social media, the distortion of self-image, and why embracing your unique individuality is vital for true happiness.

Join me as I offer insights on maintaining integrity, setting realistic resolutions for the future, and, most importantly, remembering never to give up on yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Holiday Reflection: How Thanksgiving can serve as a time for peace rather than stress.

• Spiritual Connection: Using Advent and tools like the Holy Bible app and Hallow to deepen faith.

• Navigating Recovery: Addressing feelings of abandonment and the importance of family support.

• Digital Wellness: Understanding how social media impacts self-perception and the need to break free from unhealthy comparisons.

• Moving Forward: The power of simplicity, keeping your word, and setting resolutions rooted in personal growth.

Join me in Hallow's Community Challenge: Be Still https://hallow.app.link/p8KVgcwwyYb

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Join me in Hallow's Community Challenge: Be Still https://hallow.app.link/p8KVgcwwyYb

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up!

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XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 594 Surviving the Turkey Trek: Embracing the Chaos of Holiday Travel with Kids

Let go…Relax and remember being a child

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy fam! Surprise—episode 594 is your ultimate Thanksgiving Road warrior guide! Becky Shipos and I spill the hilarious horrors and heartwarming hacks of hauling kids through holiday traffic, from epic meltdowns to magic unplanned pit stops. We get real on ditching perfection for presence, navigating family feast feuds with grace, and why gratitude turns "are we there yet?" into "thank God for this crew." If you're bracing for car-seat battles or awkward aunt convos, this episode's your sanity saver—pack light, laugh loud, and let's roll! Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-bizzy/id1208326332! #ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

Takeaways:

·       Pack light and keep it simple for road trips.

·       Kids enjoy unplanned adventures just as much as planned ones.

·       It's okay to leave family gatherings if you're not comfortable.

·       Focus on the joy of the moment rather than perfection.

·       Listening to others can provide perspective and connection.

·       Traveling with kids can be fun if you embrace the chaos.

·       Creating traditions can enhance family bonding during holidays.

·       Gratitude can transform your holiday experience.

·       Don't compare your family to others; every family is unique.

·       Being of service during gatherings can help you stay grounded.

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up! Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone! XOXO, Bizzy

If you want to reach out to Becky;

📬 rmf727@me.com

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 593 Choose Joy: Your Thanksgiving, Your Rules

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https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

While the holiday may look different than planned, Elizabeth reminds us of a vital truth: Feelings aren't facts, and you oversee your perspective. She encourages listeners to move past disappointment and actively choose gratitude, reflecting on the holiday's original purpose of giving thanks for the gifts we've received.

Discover practical, joy-boosting tips for celebrating on your own terms: from making your favorite mocktail and rewatching Home for the Holidays to simply making what you like to eat. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of self-love, reaching out to friends (especially those who may be alone), and appreciating the little things in life. Finally, join the community focus by learning about the Hallow's Community Challenge: Be Still, a perfect way to shift focus from the fleeting holiday to the true reflection of Advent and the meaning of Christmas.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Join me in Hallow's Community Challenge: Be Still https://hallow.app.link/p8KVgcwwyYb

Here is the link for my mocktails https://www.busylivingsober.com/mocktails

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 592: Gym Shocker! 58 & Sober: Nichole's Heart Attack Wake-Up Call

Nichole Evans

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy fam! Talk about a wake-up call! At 58, healthy, and five years sober, Nichole Evans was lifting weights at the gym on September 17, 2025, when a strange sensation in her hands suddenly left her fighting for breath. She's incredibly lucky to be alive, and as she shares in this episode, things may have been drastically different if she hadn't already committed to her sobriety.

Nichole is here to tell the story of the heart attack that shocked her—and why it forced her to become a fierce advocate for women's heart health awareness (and the tricky symptoms we need to look out for). She shares how her incredible resilience was built through her journey to overcome alcoholism and the deep impact of grief. Join us for a candid discussion on the power of community, the importance of emotional clarity in recovery, and how she's now facing her fears to take absolute control of her health and well-being.

Key Takeaways You'll Learn:

• The Unbelievable Wake-Up Call: Nichole details the heart attack that struck her while actively lifting weights at the age of 58.

• Sobriety is Life-Saving: Why being five years sober likely changed the outcome of her heart attack.

• Women's Heart Health Symptoms: The critical, often-missed differences in symptoms women exhibit compared to men.

• Building Resilience: How overcoming alcoholism and processing grief prepared her to fight for her life.

• Facing Fear Post-Crisis: Navigating the mental health challenges and anxiety that follow a major health event.

• Your Genes are Not Your Destiny: Understanding the impact of genetics while taking back control of your health.

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Connect with Nichole:

📸 Instagram: infrangible_one/ 
🎵 TikTok: @nichole_2.0

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 591 Holiday Hoard Bust: Ditch the Clutter, Unlock Your Joyful New Year!

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy fam! Episode 591 is your holiday declutter detonation—I'm spilling the tea on the emotional baggage of family heirlooms, that sneaky societal pressure for a "perfect" home, and why letting go feels like ripping off a Band-Aid (but the good kind!). I get raw about downsizing my way to clarity and why it's the ultimate self-care move before the new year hits. If you're buried under boxes of "what ifs" and ready to trade accumulation for actual peace, this one's your spark—light it up! Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-bizzy/id1208326332! #ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

Takeaways:

·       The holiday season often brings a mix of joy and stress.

·       Many people accumulate more possessions than they need.

·       Sentimental attachments can make it hard to let go of items.

·       Downsizing can be a liberating experience.

·       Quality over quantity is essential when it comes to belongings.

·       It's okay to not pass down family heirlooms to the next generation.

·       Decluttering can lead to a clearer mind and space.

·       Consumerism can lead to unnecessary accumulation of items.

·       Letting go of possessions can be a form of personal growth.

·       Finding freedom in minimalism can enhance overall well-being.

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 590 Holy Holiday Sparkle: Shawn Dee & Tina's CB Jewelry Christmas Gifts That Glow with God!

Shawn dee sharrett and tina e boyd

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy fam! Episode 590 is your ultimate Christmas gift guide—Shawn Dee Sharrett and Tina Elliott Boyd, the faith-fire duo behind CB Jewelry, spill on their stunning Holiday Line! From Holy Spirit-inspired bracelets that heal hearts to God-centered pieces perfect for gifting love and light this season, these aren't just jewelry—they're sparks of inspiration that ignite community and joy. If you're hunting meaningful, faith-packed gifts that say "you're seen and loved," this episode's your divine shopping spree. Head to cbjewelryfaith.com and don't forget code BIZZY for free shipping—snag that sparkle and spread the glow! Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-bizzy/id1208326332! #ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

Takeaways:

·       It only takes a spark to ignite love.

·       Sharing God's love can warm those around you.

·       Passing on bracelets symbolizes spreading joy.

·       The Holy Spirit guides us in sharing love.

·       A little sparkle can brighten someone's day.

·       Community is built through acts of kindness.

·       Inspiration can come from simple gestures.

·       Being attentive to others' needs is important.

·       Love can be shared in many forms.

·       Every small act of kindness counts.

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 589 Gratitude Glow-Up: Sober Thanksgiving Joy Hacks That'll Change Your Holidays Forever!

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy fam! Episode 589 is your holiday heart-pump—I'm firing up the gratitude engine for a sobriety-fueled Thanksgiving glow-up! From flipping solitude into soul-shine to ditching self-doubt for self-love, we’re cracking the code on mental health magic, family feuds, and finding pure joy in the chaos. If you're ready to swap holiday dread for dynamic growth and celebrate with pie, movies, and zero guilt, this one's your vibe-lifter—let's feast on faith and positivity! Watch: https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance! #ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

Takeaways:

·       Gratitude is always the best attitude.

·       Thanksgiving is a time to focus on positivity.

·       Finding grace in what we are thankful for is essential.

·       Even in solitude, we can change our perspective.

·       Sobriety can be challenging, but gratitude helps.

·       Celebrate the joy of others instead of feeling sorry for oneself.

·       Enjoy the simple pleasures, like pie and movies.

·       It's okay to indulge without guilt during the holidays.

·       Self-acceptance is key to happiness.

·       The holiday season can be a time for personal growth.

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy

Episode 588 Virginity Stolen: Erin's Nightmare Party & the Bully Hell That Broke Her (But Didn't Break Her Spirit)

Want to watch the podcast, here is the YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance

Bizzy fam! Episode 588 is a heart-wrencher—Erin Laine spills the gut-punch truth of losing her virginity at a party, only to face a tidal wave of humiliation, bullying, and whispers that left her feeling discarded and alone. From the aggression at school to the dark emotional spiral, she bares it all, showing how peer judgment crushes young hearts and why adolescents need real empathy. But here's the fire: Erin rose, reclaiming her power and turning trauma to triumph. If you're ready for raw resilience that screams "me too," this one's your anthem—listen and roar back! Watch: https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance! #ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

Takeaways:

·       Erin's experience of losing her virginity was traumatic.

·       The aftermath involved bullying and public humiliation.

·       She felt discarded and alone after the incident.

·       The whispers and energy at school were palpable.

·       Erin faced aggression from peers, leading to further trauma.

·       The experience pushed her to a dark place emotionally.

·       She resolved to take control of her life afterward.

·       Adolescents often struggle with handling such trauma.

·       The impact of peer judgment can be devastating.

·       Erin's story highlights the need for empathy and understanding.

Connect with Bizzy:
🎙️ Patreon: patreon.com/elizabethchance
💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
📸 Instagram: @itsbizzypodcast
▶️ YouTube: @elizabethchance
🎵 TikTok: @bizzychance
🐦 X: @itsbizzypodcast
📌 Pinterest: @BusyLivingSober
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethchance
💌 Updates: eepurl.com/iDtRnw
📬 Story ideas: elizabeth@elizabethchance.com

To Reach Erin Laine

Website: https://elaine.photobiz.com/?fbclid=IwAR1v3b_IepHEEMj_TNN8_cw5rTE80PCkE527w0xf8_L5pTCwD_3spjMDO1k

https://resurrectwoodrefinishing.com/

📸 Instagram: @theerinlaine

Thanks for showing up!

Share, subscribe, and know you’re never alone!

XOXO,

Bizzy