Note: Since this podcast was recorded, John now identifies as non-binary and professionally uses the pronouns "they / them" and personally uses all pronouns. In drag, they only go by "she". ------- John McDermott is the Bodycare Manager at Natural Grocers and a good friend of mine with a gigantic heart. John shares in-depth about their mental health journey and diagnoses. They have been hospitalized eight times and have what is called chronic suicidal ideation. Trigger warning: John discusses multiple suicide attempts. They showcase an incredible amount of strength and ability to persevere throughout this conversation. This episode is equal parts heavy and fun. We end up talking about boxing, masculinity, identity and John's new passion for dressing in drag. I was really grateful to witness a story as powerful as this one and hope you have a similar experience. ------- For more from John, check out their event, The Love and Hope Drag show, which will be streamed on Facebook live at 11:00 AM on February 14th, 2021. It’ll feature Ximena Latinx, Jessica L’Whore, Bella C Le Cher, Simon Paul, Celeste Brooks, Betty Sparkles, Lola Fierce, and Patricia Del Rosario.  ------- Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories! ------- 3:29 - Suicide in our country 11:33 - John's attempts and their love for others 17:16 - Experiencing a Mental Health Hospital 25:12 - Planning for a downward spiral 30:01 - "Seeing myself as worth it and deserving a life" 35:47 - Boxing and privilege 43:21 - White privilege and mental health co-existing 51:20 - Borderline Personality Disorder 58:36 - John's fluid identity and reckoning with masculinity 1:05:49 - Living in Alaska 1:11:09 - Pursuing the feminine  1:16:22 - Discovering drag See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.