The Purple Pawedcast

Today's episode follows Gretchen Schoser's chilling story of despair and rebirth.  Gretchen is a suicide attempt survivor, award-winning podcaster, and tech-savvy entrepreneur whose work focuses on healing the mental health Western society wears down.  Gretchen and I muse over topics as far afield as the importance of community, how friends love friends no matter what, and why baby raccoons are the balm for all maladies.

REFERENCES:
Gretchen Schoser’s website:  https://www.schosersolutions.com/
Sh!t That Goes on in Our Heads Podcast:  https://goesoninourheads.net/
Follow Gretchen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoser_tw_solutions
Follow Gretchen on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/schoser-talent-and-wellness-llc/

  • (00:00) - Opening credits
  • (00:37) - Show opening
  • (01:33) - Introducing Gretchen Schoser
  • (02:31) - Unlocking other people's prisons with our story
  • (08:05) - Healing through truly listening
  • (12:39) - Further negative self-talk for being Queer
  • (18:57) - Bringing your authentic self to work
  • (22:19) - Be safe, but show up for yourself!
  • (28:50) - You are NOT doing this for your child's sake
  • (34:36) - Love me for who I am or you don't love me at all
  • (39:13) - Pride as being that listening ear
  • (42:06) - Maintaining our own sanity while helping others
  • (47:09) - Healing work through authenticity
  • (50:51) - How to find Gretchen Schoser on the internet
  • (54:48) - Balloons and raccoons
  • (58:31) - Show closing
  • (59:46) - 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.