The Purple Pawedcast

In today's episode, I speak with Karen Anne Coccioli.  Karen is a queer author and public speaker whose queer memoir "Paradise" is available on Amazon.  We cover topics as disparate as fleeing fascism, madness as a source of gender, and the purple light within.

REFERENCES:
Karen Anne Coccioli’s website:  https://www.karenannecoccioli.com/
Annie Moon’s website:  https://www.authoranniemoon.com/
Follow Karen Anne on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/karenannecoccioli/
Follow Karen Anne on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/karenanne.coccioli/
Gender Identity Today:  https://genderidentitytoday.com

  • (00:00) - Opening credits
  • (00:37) - Show opening
  • (01:29) - Introducing Karen Anne Coccioli
  • (02:02) - The origin of an author
  • (09:07) - Family flight from fascism
  • (16:01) - Writing through conversion therapy
  • (22:27) - The gendered body and madness
  • (27:12) - Is madness pathological or powerful?
  • (34:35) - Madness as a source of gender
  • (40:32) - Living as you are glows you up
  • (44:45) - Using what we have to work with
  • (50:25) - You can't be told who you are
  • (55:09) - Would you change it if you could?
  • (59:00) - Don't stamp your children's sparks
  • (01:03:05) - How to find Karen
  • (01:03:53) - Show closing
  • (01:05:29) - 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.