The Purple Pawedcast

In this on-location podcast shoot, I have a grand time with Julia DiVerdi.  Julia is a stunning burlesque and belly dancer who shifted her focus to an inclusive dance studio where she can teach anybody how to dance!  We talk about subjects as far afield as accidentally starting to teach, how learning dance can be healing, and Julia's plan for my first burlesque routine (yikes!!).

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REFERENCES:
Julia DiVerdi and Starlight Studio:  https://juliadiverdi.com/
Overcoming My Hidden Transphobia:  https://genderidentitytoday.com/overcoming-my-hidden-transphobia/

  • (00:00) - Opening credits
  • (00:37) - Show opening
  • (01:29) - Introducing Julia DiVerdi
  • (03:47) - Beginning to dance...and teach!
  • (07:32) - Cupcake Cabaret and the burlesque explosion
  • (10:30) - Julia can teach anybody to dance
  • (15:05) - Teaching comfort by example
  • (20:02) - The hyperfemininity of burlesque
  • (23:20) - Is drag a mockery of femininity?
  • (27:36) - No drag class for you!
  • (32:30) - Fundamentalist Christian drag queens
  • (37:05) - Hair removal horror stories
  • (40:13) - A genderless mess
  • (43:43) - Body and mind as one
  • (48:25) - Dance for healing
  • (53:52) - Authentic expression of the feminine
  • (57:25) - Show closing
  • (58:35) - Closing credits
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Creators and Guests

Host
Amethysta Herrick, Ph.D.
Scientist, storyteller, and professional overthinker of all things identity. Also, I happen to be a transgender woman.

What is The Purple Pawedcast?

Welcome to The Purple Pawedcast, where we unpack the complexities of gender, identity, and what it truly means to be human—without the academic jargon (okay, maybe just a little, but only the fun kind).

Curated by Amethysta Herrick. Ph.D., this pod is where science, philosophy, and lived experience collide to challenge assumptions and spark new perspectives. Whether you’re here to explore your own identity, stay informed on the latest research, or just enjoy a deep dive into the human experience, we deliver thoughtful, engaging, and refreshingly honest discussions. No fluff. No gatekeeping. Just real conversations about who we are and how we navigate the world. Dive in, stay curious, and let’s rethink identity together.