Trigger warning / sensitive topics to note
In this episode of Radiant Resilience, Tawny sits down with Clara Schroeder—eco-therapist, outdoor guide, and author—whose life changed in an instant after being rear-ended at a red light and sustaining a traumatic brain injury.
Clara opens up about the brutal reality of an “invisible” injury: the dizziness, overstimulation, isolation, and depression that came with months of not being able to drive, read, tolerate screens, or even handle everyday environments like restaurants and grocery stores. She shares what didn’t work, what helped a little, and the turning point that changed everything—an intensive concussion rehab program at the University of Pittsburgh that challenged the “dark room and rest” narrative and helped her reclaim her life.
We also talk about the emotional aftermath: PTSD, hypervigilance, grief over the version of yourself you lose, and the complicated road toward forgiveness. Clara explains what ecotherapy is, how nature became a healing partner in her recovery, and how that journey ultimately led to her book We Nature the People and a mission rooted in post-traumatic growth, nervous system healing, and reconnecting to the earth.
If you’ve ever felt like your life got split into “before and after,” this conversation is for you—especially if you’re walking through something no one else can see.
CONNECT WITH CLARA
My website: claraschroeder.com
My substack: https://claraschroeder.substack.com/
Instagram Handles: @livingwithclarity & @renaturebook
Facebook: Living with Clarity Coaching
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/clara-schroeder-ma/
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@ radientresiliencepodcast@gmail.com
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