In this TQR Podcast episode, Co-Editor-in-Chief Dr. Ronald J. Chenail speaks with Professor Claude-Hélène Mayer, author of Positive Autoethnography: An Introduction to Theory and Practice. Together, they explore how autoethnography has evolved beyond personal narrative into a therapeutic, transformative approach rooted in anthropology, psychology, family therapy, and positive psychology. They discuss writing as a healing tool, the role of turning points in personal narratives, the interplay between cultural contexts and identity, and how autoethnography can be used with clients, students, and researchers. The conversation also highlights TQR’s upcoming special issue on Therapeutic Positive Autoethnography and related programming at the TQR 2026 Conference. Contact: TQR@nova.edu
