Everybody, say hi to Max Rigano!   Max is a Midwestern native, fitness enthusiast, and a storyteller. As a transgender man, he is an advocate and voice for the trans expansive community who seeks to raise cultural competency and comfortability around the beauty of gender and sexuality. Currently, he works for Yelp as the Saint Louis Community Manager.   We were very touched that he generously agreed to join us to discuss his journey over the past 30 years. He shares the transition that has allowed him to be his true self in his true body. From being a leader in a church where he was perceived as female to now being an open transgender man with a passion for bettering the trans community, he discusses the path that has led him to where he is today. He explains that although loss and hardships took place during this journey, profoundly beautiful and loving relationships with himself and others have grown and flourished in their place. He details his transition timeline, how he and his wife have navigated the changes and the what the next chapters in his story may be.   He was unbelievably transparent and kind as he helped us navigate this space by educating and correcting us to be better allies. He explains how changing language, using correct pronouns and showing acceptance and love can help transgender people feel the comfort that they deserve. Max has a profound awareness of his own personal privilege, which motivates him to advocate for the more vulnerable members of the trans community. He is striving to create a world in which transgender folk can thrive with no barriers, which is something we should all stand behind.   

We also chat about:

• The importance of offering and using correct pronouns
• The harmful impact of gender dysphoria 
• How to support trans folk in your community 

Resources: 

• Instagram: @maxsplain
• LGBTQ+ support organizations: Martha P. Johnson Institute, Metro Trans Umbrella Group, Courage MKE