Gretchen’s Turning Point: What her suicide attempt taught her about living

In this deeply moving episode, Lisa Sugarman and Gretchen Schoser dive into Gretchen’s powerful story of survival, sharing the events that led to her breaking point and the path she took to reclaim her life. Together, they explore the importance of boundaries, community, and speaking up—even when it feels impossible.

🎥 Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube
A video version of this episode is available here:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel


🎙️ Episode Sponsored by Calmerry
This episode is proudly brought to you by Calmerry, an online therapy platform providing affordable and accessible professional counseling.
🌐 Visit: https://calmerry.com/the-survivors-podcast/
🎟️ Use code SURVIVORS20 for 20% off your first month.
Because your mental well-being matters. 💙


💬 Episode Summary
In this raw and profoundly human episode, co-host Gretchen shares her emotional journey through depression, grief, and survival after a life-altering series of events in 2022. From early retirement and her spouse’s illness to a terrifying car accident, being catfished, and enduring multiple personal losses, Gretchen found herself on the brink—until a freezing Christmas Day pushed her to reach out to the 988 Lifeline.

What followed was a transformational healing journey powered by therapy, boundary-setting, and the bold sharing of her truth. Now a thriving business owner and host of two mental health podcasts, Gretchen’s story is a testament to resilience, community, and reclaiming your voice. 


🔑 Key Takeaways
Extroverts Can Be in Crisis, Too:  People who always seem “okay” may hide intense struggles. Don’t overlook them—ask more profound questions.

Healing Isn’t Linear:  Growth comes in waves. Gretchen’s journey shows that recovery takes time, tools, and constant learning.

Boundaries Are Life-Saving:  Saying “no” and protecting your emotional space is essential—especially for empaths.



✅ Actionable Items

Save & Share 988:  Add the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to your phone and share it with others: https://988lifeline.org

Check on Your “Strong” Friends:  Go beyond “How are you?” Ask intentional, caring questions and create space for honest answers.

Protect Your Peace:  Audit your emotional energy regularly. Gretchen uses a mental “black box” to keep out unnecessary drama.


⏱️ Episode Chapters
00:00 - Intro & Content Warning
00:24 - Gretchen’s Mental Health Spiral
07:03 - Rock Bottom on Christmas Day
08:33 - Finding Support & Starting Therapy
10:50 - Sharing Her Story Publicly
13:20 - Creating a New Purpose
24:55 - The Power of Community & Visibility
26:40 - Final Thoughts & Resources


📚 Resources Mentioned in This Episode

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – https://988lifeline.org
• The Trevor Project (LGBTQIA+ Youth Crisis Line) – https://www.thetrevorproject.org
• Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads Podcast – https://goesoninourheads.net
• Calmerry – Online Therapy – https://calmerry.com
• Schoser Talent and Wellness Solutions – https://schosersolutions.com
• The HelpHUB™ – https://www.thehelphub.co
• The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net

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🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel

🎙️ See You Next Week!
Stay strong, keep going, and remember: You are enough. 💜

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