The Purple Pawedcast

In this week's episode, I speak with Professor Loretta Breuning about human behavior.  Loretta is a Professor Emerita of Management, the Founder of The Inner Mammal Institute, and author of the book "Habits of a Happy Brain."  We consider such topics as how our undesired behavior can be modified given the appropriate reward, finding forgiveness even for our parents, and why not everybody is mad at you.

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REFERENCES:
The Inner Mammal Institute:  https://innermammalinstitute.org/
Alice Miller:  http://www.alice-miller.com/
Albert Ellis:  http://www.albertellis.info/

  • (00:00) - Opening credits
  • (00:37) - Show opening
  • (01:27) - Introducing Loretta Breuning
  • (02:13) - How conflict made a career
  • (06:22) - Building the brain's big highways
  • (10:05) - The animal brain explains it all
  • (13:00) - The mammal brain brings cooperation
  • (14:28) - Neuroplasticity demonstrates experience, not genetics
  • (18:03) - Working with our neurochemical preferences
  • (22:52) - Running away from fear and pain works
  • (26:12) - Not everybody is mad at you
  • (30:33) - Forgiveness is almost unnecessary
  • (35:37) - Rearing childhood out of children
  • (40:22) - At least your crush doesn't have lice
  • (43:26) - Being cool is hard work
  • (45:37) - Any similarity between the Mammal Brain and modern psychology?
  • (49:13) - The Mammal Brain in human identity
  • (53:03) - Life doesn't always suck
  • (57:15) - Show closing
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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.