Summary

In this episode, Aaron Flores interviews Frank, a trans man, about his experiences with body image and food issues. Frank shares that he has struggled with body image since he was a child, and recalls a specific moment at the age of three when he felt his body was too big. As he got older, he noticed the differences between what boys and girls were allowed to do, which reinforced his feelings of not fitting in. Frank also discusses his journey of discovering his gender identity and how it intersects with his body image and eating disorder. He emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and not needing to prove himself to others. In this conversation, Frank shares their journey of body acceptance and navigating their identity as a transgender person with a disability. They discuss the importance of seeing their body as a partner rather than an enemy, and how karate helped them feel more confident. Frank also talks about their experience with advocacy and the need for better accessibility for all. They highlight the intersectionality of their identities and the importance of finding connections between different aspects of their life.

Keywords

body image, gender dysphoria, eating disorder, recovery, advocacy, masculinity, karate, body acceptance, transgender, disability,  intersectionality

Takeaways

• Body image struggles can begin at a very young age and have a lasting impact throughout life.
• The messages around bodies and gender can be restrictive and lead to feelings of not fitting in.
• Discovering and accepting one's gender identity can be a journey that intersects with body image and eating disorders.
• Advocacy can be a powerful tool for healing and creating change in society.
• Finding activities that allow for a positive connection with the body can be beneficial for body image and self-acceptance. Seeing our bodies as partners rather than enemies can help foster body acceptance.
• Karate can provide a sense of confidence and connection to the body, even when physical limitations arise.
• Advocacy is important for creating a more inclusive and accessible society. Intersectionality plays a significant role in how we navigate our identities and experiences.

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