Thought Experiment Called Life - Mindset, Resilience, Creativity, and Intentional Living

Greta Hotmer - musician, martial artist, herbalist, and educator
  • 5.0 (4)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

A grounded exploration of self-discovery, mindset, healing, and intentional living. Hosted by Greta Hotmer, musician, martial artist, herbalist, and lifelong creative, this podcast follows the real, nonlinear path of personal growth, resilience, and becoming who you’re meant to be. Each episode blends honest conversation, personal storytelling, emotional wellness, nervous system care, and practical tools for embodied healing and self-trust. Topics include mental health, creativity, mindfulness, the mind-body connection, chronic illness, reinvention, and living with purpose in an overstimulated world. Whether you’re navigating transformation, rebuilding your relationship with yourself, exploring new ways of thinking, or seeking deeper meaning, these conversations invite you to slow down, listen inward, and return to yourself again and again. Subscribe on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & more! https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife www.gretahotmer.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Grammy Winner Kaydence's Incredible Story On Her Path To Writing for Beyoncé, Ariana Grande & JLo | Mindset, Craft & Resilience

    2D AGO

    Grammy Winner Kaydence's Incredible Story On Her Path To Writing for Beyoncé, Ariana Grande & JLo | Mindset, Craft & Resilience

    In this episode, I’m joined by Kaydence, a 2x Grammy-nominated songwriter whose work spans records for Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and Jennifer Lopez. We explore her powerful journey through adversity, self-doubt, and industry challenges, and the mindset that helped her stay devoted to her craft when quitting would have been understandable. This conversation touches on resilience, creativity, self-belief, and the courage it takes to follow the path of your heart. If you’re navigating uncertainty, resistance, or questioning whether you can keep going, this episode is for you. Please share it with anyone who could use a little hope and encouragement right now. Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife IG: @thought_experiment_called_life / @altarviolet TikTok: @thoughtexperimentcalled / @altarvioletmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 23m

  2. FEB 3

    Bonus Episode: The 3.5% and the Power of Staying Human

    This week’s episode is a short bonus and a bit of a love note. I’m sharing a glimpse into my Nine Lives Longevity Training, an active recovery practice I use to keep training jiu jitsu and MMA at 43 after years of living with Lyme disease. It blends mobility, strength, stretching, breathwork, and nervous system support, with some herbal and nutritional tools at the end. This first class is available now on my Substack, and I’ll be releasing more as it feels aligned. I also reflect on something that’s been giving me hope lately. While listening to Tara Brach, I was reminded of research showing that when just 3.5% of people commit to sustained, nonviolent action, meaningful change becomes almost impossible to stop. In a noisy, overwhelming time, this episode is a reminder that our power lives in how we show up, stay grounded, and care for one another. Thank you for being here, and thank you for being part of the 3.5%. Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife IG: @thought_experiment_called_life / @altarviolet TikTok: @thoughtexperimentcalled / @altarvioletmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    7 min
  3. Why Creativity Needs Community: Art, Collaboration, and the Denver Creative Scene with Katie Puc

    JAN 27

    Why Creativity Needs Community: Art, Collaboration, and the Denver Creative Scene with Katie Puc

    Photographer Katie Puc doesn’t just take gorgeous editorial-style photos, she builds community. I met her through our wedding, fell in love with her work, and then discovered she’s also the kind of person who brings creatives together on purpose… and she trains martial arts too (yes, really). In this episode we talk photography, multi-passionate living (HR + art), the courage to reach out even when you might hear “no,” and Katie’s upcoming creative collaborative event Love In Focus at BlendCo in Denver on Feb 7. I’ll be there doing mini interviews, and I’d love to see you there. Get Your Tix: https://partiful.com/e/N0Fxk0OIfUVnIsWuK5aP Connect with Katie: Website: www.katiepucphotography.com IG: @katiepuc_photography Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife IG: @thought_experiment_called_life / @altarviolet TikTok: @thoughtexperimentcalled / @altarvioletmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 1m
  4. BONUS Episode: Healing Beyond Trauma: Why Remembering Your Strength Matters as Much as Tending the Wound

    JAN 22

    BONUS Episode: Healing Beyond Trauma: Why Remembering Your Strength Matters as Much as Tending the Wound

    In this episode, I talk about what it means to live through seasons that bring us to our knees and how healing isn’t only about examining our wounds, but also about remembering our strength. We explore: Why focusing only on pain can keep us stuckHow strength builds safety in the nervous systemWhy perspective shifts change not just how things feel, but how life unfoldsSmall, practical ways to reconnect with your strength when you feel depleted This conversation is for anyone navigating grief, illness, burnout, survival mode, or a dark night of the soul. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a place to start. Healing becomes sustainable when we include strength in the practice. If this resonates, I’d love to hear how you remember your strength. And if it feels helpful, share it with someone who might need it right now. Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife IG: @thought_experiment_called_life / @altarviolet TikTok: @thoughtexperimentcalled / @altarvioletmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    34 min
  5. Self-Defense That Prepares You for Life: Krav Maga and Resilient Mindset with John Whitman

    JAN 20

    Self-Defense That Prepares You for Life: Krav Maga and Resilient Mindset with John Whitman

    This week’s episode is a special one for me. I’m sitting down with John Whitman, president of the Krav Maga Alliance, and one of my longtime mentors in martial arts. I first met John when I was 18 or 19, training with the Krav Maga Worldwide crew, and his clarity, focused presence, and approach to teaching and training shaped me in ways I’m still carrying forward today. We talk about mentorship, mindset, confidence, and what martial arts teach us far beyond techniques. This conversation is about training for life, building real self-trust, and the grounded strength that comes from knowing you can handle yourself. If you’ve ever been curious about self-defense or the deeper lessons found on the mat, I think you’ll really enjoy this one. Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife IG: @thought_experiment_called_life / @altarviolet TikTok: @thoughtexperimentcalled / @altarvioletmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr
  6. From Chronic Illness to Black Belt: What Jiu Jitsu Taught Me About Life - On micro wins, slow healing, and finding your way back

    JAN 13

    From Chronic Illness to Black Belt: What Jiu Jitsu Taught Me About Life - On micro wins, slow healing, and finding your way back

    I earned my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt after 8 years of training and a long detour through Lyme disease and chronic illness. In this episode, I share what BJJ taught me about resilience, micro wins, and finding your way back after life changes your path. If you’re returning to martial arts, rebuilding after illness, or learning to trust the long game, this one’s for you. Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife IG: @thought_experiment_called_life / @altarviolet TikTok: @thoughtexperimentcalled / @altarvioletmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    34 min
  7. Just Be Soul: Choosing a Soul-Based Life in a Noisy World

    JAN 6

    Just Be Soul: Choosing a Soul-Based Life in a Noisy World

    What does it really mean to live a soul-based life in a world that’s loud, overstimulating, and constantly pulling us away from ourselves? In this episode of Thought Experiment, I sit down with Sally Marie Young, Reiki Master, teacher, and founder of BeSoul, for a grounding and expansive conversation about energetic healing, nervous system regulation, and remembering who you are beneath roles, expectations, and cultural noise. We explore how Reiki and energy work have evolved from being labeled “woo” into practical tools for emotional regulation and holistic wellness, why ritual and intentional practices are essential for mental health, and how reconnecting with nature and natural rhythms helps us come back into alignment with ourselves. Sally shares her personal journey through motherhood, identity shifts, divorce, and rebuilding a life rooted in soul, along with the moment she heard the phrase that became the foundation of her work: “Just be soul.” This episode is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and remember that you are more than productivity, performance, or survival mode. If you’re navigating burnout, anxiety, spiritual awakening, or a desire for deeper meaning, this conversation offers a gentle but powerful reset. Topics We Explore in This EpisodeWhat it means to live a soul-based lifeReiki healing and energetic hygiene as practical wellness toolsNervous system regulation and emotional resilienceRitual, meditation, and intentional livingComing back to yourself during and after motherhoodIdentity beyond roles and expectationsHealing through nature, rhythm, and breathFrom “woo” to grounded spiritualityFinding meaning in a noisy, modern world About Sally Marie YoungSally Marie Young is a Reiki Master, energetic healer, and founder of BeSoul, a community and teaching space devoted to helping people reconnect with their inner world through Reiki, ritual, and soul-based living. Her work supports nervous system health, emotional regulation, and spiritual growth in a grounded, accessible way. Connect with SallyInstagram: @besoulstudio & @sallysoulspace Website & offerings: https://signup.sallysoulspaceportal.com/register https://besoulwellnessstudio.carrd.co 🎧 If this resonates, you may enjoy Thought Experiment, a podcast exploring mindset, creativity, embodiment, and the art of living a meaningful life. ✨ Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of this growing community. Connect with me on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & much more: https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 39m
  8. Setting Intentions That Love You Back: Choosing seasonal cycles, intention, & a more human pace for 2026

    12/30/2025

    Setting Intentions That Love You Back: Choosing seasonal cycles, intention, & a more human pace for 2026

    As we close out 2025, I’m sharing why I’ve never really resonated with New Year’s resolutions and what I do instead. In this episode, we explore intention setting through cycles, seasons, and a more human rhythm that actually supports your nervous system. This is a grounded, practical, and slightly magical way to approach the new year without pressure, rebranding, or forcing change. ✨ I’ve shared a simple reflection practice and the five journaling questions I personally use to close a cycle exclusively on my Substack. If you want to go deeper and reflect alongside this episode, you’ll find them there. Listen gently. Move slowly. Find the questions on Substack →https://thoughtexperimentcalledlife.substack.com/p/setting-intentions-that-love-you Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

A grounded exploration of self-discovery, mindset, healing, and intentional living. Hosted by Greta Hotmer, musician, martial artist, herbalist, and lifelong creative, this podcast follows the real, nonlinear path of personal growth, resilience, and becoming who you’re meant to be. Each episode blends honest conversation, personal storytelling, emotional wellness, nervous system care, and practical tools for embodied healing and self-trust. Topics include mental health, creativity, mindfulness, the mind-body connection, chronic illness, reinvention, and living with purpose in an overstimulated world. Whether you’re navigating transformation, rebuilding your relationship with yourself, exploring new ways of thinking, or seeking deeper meaning, these conversations invite you to slow down, listen inward, and return to yourself again and again. Subscribe on Substack for videos, guides, and resources on mindset, BJJ, music, herbalism & more! https://substack.com/@thoughtexperimentcalledlife www.gretahotmer.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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