The Trans Narrative Podcast

On this episode, Caroline and Dr. Avgi Saketopoulou are joined by clinical psychologist Laura Scarrone Bonhomme as they meet at the intersection of psychoanalysis, gender, and liberation. This episode Dr. Laura Scarrone Bonhomme brings her perspective as a clinician working in the UK, sharing how both personal and professional experiences have shaped her approach to affirming care amidst rising political backlash.

The episode explores the limitations of diagnostic systems like the DSM and the impact of social norms on therapeutic models. Dr. Laura highlights how transnormativity, fertility access, and systemic bias affect both patients and practitioners, while Dr. Avgi stresses the importance of not collapsing gender exploration into pathology. Her book been awarded the 2025 Distinguished Book Award by The American Psychological Association’s Division 44 .

The episode emphasizes the value of radical listening, community care, and the courage to question entrenched narratives, whether in psychology, media, or public policy. Dr. Laura and Dr. Avgi underscore the urgency of creating spaces where trans and non-binary lives are affirmed, not analyzed out of existence.

“Dr. Laura Scarrone Bonhomme is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and global leader in gender-affirming mental health care. With over a decade of experience across the UK, Spain, and Chile, she’s supported hundreds of trans, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ clients through therapy, research, and clinical supervision. A chartered member of the British Psychological Society, she’s also the co-founder of Affirm, a global training platform equipping clinicians to provide inclusive, trauma-informed care. Dr. Scarrone Bonhomme is the author of Gender Affirming Therapy: A Guide to What Trans and Non-Binary Clients Can Teach Us and a regular voice in international media and conferences, challenging bias in mental health systems and advancing care rooted in dignity, self-determination, and liberation.”

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline is joined by trans artists and creatives Marla Alpert, Freja Ki Gray, and Foxx Cant for an expansive, spirited discussion on storytelling, media, and trans identity. The episode opens with a discussion on trans representation in theater, where Marla critiques the persistent casting of non-binary actors in roles that align with binary expectations. Foxx shares their experience managing a queer production company and developing stories centered on housing crises, while Freja dives into her literary worldbuilding and her trans horror fiction.

As the conversation deepens, the group unpacks the complexities of gender, monogamy, and self-expression. They reflect on the societal pressures imposed by capitalism and cisnormativity, especially within queer communities. Freja and Foxx weigh in on gender abolition, questioning whether dissolving binary structures leads to freedom or invisibility.

The episode concludes with reflections on liberation, planned obsolescence, and trans representation across industries. Each guest underscores the urgent need for professional opportunities, fair pay, and broader cultural understanding of trans experiences.

Marla Alpert (she/they) is a seasoned actor and singer with national tour credits in Jekyll and Hyde and Ragtime, and performances with the Yiddish Theater Folksbiene. She starred in A Leg Up, the first LGBTQIA+ farce, and Miss Step at Playwrights Horizons. Marla is co-host of Flop of the Heap, a podcast about Broadway flops, and a vocal TikTok advocate for trans media representation.

Freja Ki Gray (she/her) is a Canadian trans writer and performer known for her novels Neon Acid Switchblade and Demon of Want. Her short fiction appears in Rumble and Grow. Freja also works in live performance, creates visual art exploring gender and identity, and performs annually as a monster actor in a Halloween park.

Foxx Cant (she/they) is a non-binary trans femme filmmaker based in Vancouver, on the unceded lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations. She is the founder of Anomalous Transmissions Media, creator of the YouTube channel Foxxlales, and a manager of two queer small businesses while volunteering for a queer nonprofit.

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline and Honey sit down with Grace O’Connor, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to explore her personal and professional journey as a trans woman navigating healing, identity, and mental health advocacy. Growing up in a working-class, Catholic neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago during the 1960s and 70s, Grace shares the deep sense of isolation and fear she experienced while concealing her identity.

Grace discusses how decades of internalized transphobia, trauma, and addiction eventually led her to seek therapy in 2005, a transformative step that launched both her healing and her career. She opens up about surviving clergy abuse, confronting depression and substance use, and coming out first as gay in 1999 before embracing her trans identity in 2015.

The episode also explores current challenges facing the trans community, including the rollback of healthcare access and the emotional toll of political hostility. (Recorded before SCOTUS decision in Tennessee on trans healthcare ban for youth) Grace emphasizes the importance of community-based mental health, decolonized approaches to care, and sustainable strategies for resilience.

Grace O’Connor (she/her) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in working with Trans and Non-binary communities. She is the Vice-President of Gender Wellness of Los Angeles and brings over three decades of experience in 12-step recovery and LGBTQ+ mental health. After struggling with internalized transphobia and growing up without cultural mirrors for her identity, Grace transitioned later in life and has emerged more grounded, joyful, and aligned than ever. Her therapeutic approach integrates somatic work, mindfulness, IFS, and a decolonized, anti-oppressive lens that deeply affirms trans and non-binary experiences. Grace earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, trained at the Colors LGBTQ Youth Counseling Center, and is a proud member of CAMFT and WPATH. Today, she uses her lived experience as a trans woman and seasoned clinician to build deep bonds of trust and healing with her clients.

Gender Wellness of Los Angeles | Transgender & Nonbinary Therapy

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline, Cherice, and Jordan sit with Indiana drag star Ana Crusis as they explore the powerful intersections of performance, advocacy, and identity. Ana shares her journey from growing up in Indianapolis to discovering drag as a form of joyful self-expression, detailing how influences like Judy Garland, Dennis Rodman, and Diana Ross shaped her early creative imagination. The conversation opens with reflections on her first full drag performance—Glinda the Good Witch—and how it embodied her gender fluidity and artistic vision.

The episode deepens as Ana discusses her work beyond the stage, including her leadership in local pageants and her advocacy against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Indiana. She reflects on testifying against House Bill 1608 and how drag has served as a vehicle for civic engagement, representation, and educational outreach.

In the final segment, the conversation shifts to HIV prevention, stigma, and community health. Jordan and Cherice speak candidly about the challenges of healthcare access for Black trans individuals and rural communities, highlighting the urgency of public health equity. Through rapid-fire questions and shared resources, the panel underscores the importance of education, testing, and supporting grassroots efforts.

“In the glittering realm of Indianapolis drag, one name shines brightly—Ana Crusis. A celebrated performer, fierce advocate, and community icon, Ana has graced stages across the Midwest for over a decade with her signature high glamour, sharp wit, and powerful presence. Ana began her drag journey in 2011 in Muncie, Indiana, and quickly made her mark, earning titles such as Miss Gay Muncie (2011), Miss Glamour (2019), and Miss Gay Indiana (2019 & 2020).

Her impact extends beyond performance. In 2021, the City of Indianapolis proclaimed an official “Ana Crusis Day” to honor her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. A fearless advocate, Ana testified before the Indiana House of Representatives against House Bill 1608 (“Indiana’s Don’t Say Gay Bill”), using her platform to speak truth to power. Ana Crusis stands as a radiant force of resilience, joy, and transformation—reminding us all that true queens don’t just wear crowns; they change the world.”

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline, Kevin, and Foxx meet Vega, also known as Genderfluid-ACAB Solid, a transfemme, nonbinary digital artist and media critic known for their incisive and comedic takes on gender representation in film and television. The episode explores Vega’s creative journey from studying biomedical engineering to working in indie game development, and eventually becoming a rising voice on TikTok..

The conversation highlights Vega’s latest creative project: a fanfic-inspired video series set in the universe of the television show Severance. Vega shares how the story, centered on dual identities and inner transformation, became a vessel for exploring trans experience in a genre-bending format.

Toward the end, Vega speaks candidly about transitioning during the pandemic, media influences like The Matrix and Star Wars, and the freedom that comes from creating outside normative structures.

“Vega (they/she)—also known as Genderfluid-ACAB Solid on TikTok—is a transfemme, nonbinary, genderfluid digital artist, gamer, and film enthusiast. Their channel features a blend of comedy sketches, personal vlogs, and sharp, trans-centered media analysis. Whether they’re deep-diving into a cult classic or joyfully unpacking queer representation, Vega always brings curiosity, wit, and a vibrant lens of lived experience. Most recently, they’ve been exploring a trans character in the world of Severance through a fanfic miniseries that blends identity, world-building, and storytelling with heart.”

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline, Jordan, and Tess meet JAD Davis a Memphis-based artist, performer, and community force whose life and work embody the beauty of unapologetic authenticity. Together, they explore JAD’s personal and artistic evolution, from growing up neurodivergent in the South to becoming Memphis’s first hyperpop artist.

The episode highlights JAD’s experience navigating the intersections of identity, creativity, and social pressure. They reflect on their roots in the fashion world and their early performances, their transition during a time of national tension, and the support they found in Memphis’s creative community.

JAD encourages others to pursue their dreams without apology, to challenge dominant narratives, and to find healing through art and community. JAD also teases their upcoming music video release, continuing their legacy of pushing sonic and cultural boundaries through hyperpop.

“JAD Davis is a Memphis-based artist and creative force whose career spans music, fashion, and community advocacy. As the front-woman of Divergent, JAD began breaking musical boundaries in 2011 as Memphis’s first hyperpop artist, long before their transition. Their artistry has always been tied to self-expression and disruption of norms. Before stepping into music, JAD led the fashion world from 2009 to 2012 as production and operations manager with Revolutionary Runway, while also modeling, coaching, and serving as a creative director for numerous publications. In 2012, they combined music and compassion by collaborating with Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital to bring performances and recordings to children undergoing treatment. After a 3-year sabbatical, JAD returned to the spotlight, inspiring many by publicly embracing their transition during their 2024 Focus Magazine People’s Choice award acceptance. In a polarized world, JAD stands rooted in authenticity, committed to uplifting Memphis, pushing creative limits, and using their platform to offer hope and boldness.”

https://youtu.be/J1zXwt-uBx0?si=rybzxAjcTNxvu_B1

Instagram @Biblebeltbaddie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thatwitch901

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, AJ, Athena, and Caroline meet Rosalyn Sandri as they explore her powerful journey from high school English teacher to nationally recognized advocate for trans visibility. Rosalyn shares the roots of her story—from her early years in Philadelphia to her adolescence in Texas—highlighting the formative experiences in Catholic school, theater, and queer community that helped her understand herself in a world that often tried to define her differently.

The conversation turns toward Rosalyn’s time as an educator, her love of teaching detective fiction, and the moment she decided to live more openly and transition publicly while still in the classroom. She speaks candidly about grief, mental health, and the role that self-expression—through poetry, makeup, and online content—played in her survival. When far-right media targeted her TikTok videos, Rosalyn faced an onslaught of hate that forced her to resign.

The episode closes with a heartfelt conversation about recovery, resistance, and what it means to keep showing up in a world that punishes truth-telling. Rosalyn reflects on how AI, art, and community can all play a role in healing and visibility. With warmth and honesty, she reminds listeners that embracing who you are is not just an act of self-care, but a radical offering to others navigating similar paths.

“Rosie Sandri (she/her) is a transgender educator, content creator, and advocate for inclusive classrooms and authentic visibility. A former high school English teacher at Red Oak High School in Texas, Rosie began publicly sharing her transition journey on TikTok (@rosie.sandri), where her reflections on gender euphoria, language, and teaching resonated widely. Her honest storytelling garnered national attention, both in celebration and backlash, after far-right outlets targeted her content. In the face of harassment and threats, Rosie made the difficult decision to resign for her safety and the wellbeing of her students. Despite this, Rosie continues to lead with grace and resilience, using her platform to uplift trans joy, challenge injustice, and speak truth to power. Outside her advocacy work, Rosie is a poet at heart who finds solace under trees, thrives in the pit at punk shows, and delights in late-night horror films. Her story is a testament to courage, creativity, and the enduring power of self-definition.”

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline, Jordan, and Kevin sit with Ryan Klinghammer, reigning Mr. Trans Midwest, as they discuss gender identity, creative expression, and what it means to build community in the face of systemic adversity. Ryan walks us through his journey, from growing up in St. Louis and discovering his love of theater, to coming out as trans in high school and stepping into his power through the world of drag king performance.

Ryan speaks candidly about the challenges of navigating transmasculinity, especially as someone who didn’t see himself reflected in mainstream narratives. He describes how drag became a transformative outlet that allowed him to explore queer masculinity in liberating and joyful ways.

The episode closes with Ryan’s reflections on organizing large-scale community events, from trans prom to disability marches, and his goals as a leader within the Trans U.S.A. Pageantry system. He shares insights on balancing protest and celebration within Pride spaces, and emphasizes the importance of financial sustainability and access.

“Ryan Klinghammer is a transmasc drag king, advocate, and community builder based in St. Louis, Missouri. He currently holds the title of Mr. Trans Midwest 2025 and performs under the name Mars. His work spans the stage and the streets, from leading drag king showcases and workshops, to organizing queer proms, disability marches, and fashion shows that center trans joy. A former theater kid turned cultural worker, Ryan uses pageantry and performance as platforms for visibility, mentorship, and systemic change. His mission is to create sustainable, affirming spaces for trans people to thrive, connect, and reclaim their power.”

**

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) 988

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386

Family Violence Prevention

Call 800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

988 Lifeline - If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. 1-800-662-4357

Contact - Trans Lifeline U.S. (877) 565-8860 or Canada (877) 330-6366.

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline, Kristin, and Lusi meet Kaz Phillips, a 22-year-old trans woman currently serving in the U.S. Army as a human intelligence professional. As the military once again attempts to roll back protections for transgender service members, Kaz faces an involuntary discharge under a policy that forces trans personnel to separate or risk losing their benefits. With courage and clarity, she walks us through what it means to serve your country while being forced to hide who you are, and what it feels like when that service is deemed expendable by the very institutions you swore to protect.

Kaz opens up about her journey of self-discovery, from growing up in a large musical family in Cincinnati to navigating gender and marriage, military intelligence training, and the complexities of transition in uniform. She shares the tensions between duty and identity, patriotism and pain, and how her lived experiences have reshaped her purpose.

Through this intimate and powerful conversation, we explore not just the challenges Kaz has faced but the heart behind her advocacy. From TikTok activism to confronting transphobia within and beyond the military, Kaz speaks to the urgency of visibility, the need for diverse trans voices, and the resilience it takes to keep showing up.

“Kaz Phillips (she/her) is a daughter, sister, wife, and proud trans woman who loves her life. She currently serves as a Human Intelligence professional in the U.S. Army, where she gathers and analyzes critical information to support national security efforts. A graduate of the Defense Language Institute in French, Kaz has also trained fellow HUMINT professionals and led volunteer initiatives across the country.

Outside of her military service, Kaz advocates for trans rights, especially for those serving in uniform, and creates content to educate and uplift others navigating similar journeys. Raised in a Christian family split between rigid and more accepting views, Kaz’s path to transition was shaped by faith, reflection, and resilience. She began her transition at age 21 and continues to speak out about the realities trans people face in the military today. When she’s off duty, she can be found crocheting or dancing to just about every song she hears.”

**

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)

S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUT

American Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.

Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVOR

Family Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE

Drug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Caroline and Jordan have the pleasure of meeting Tessa White, a retired detective sergeant, Marine Corps veteran, and fierce LGBTQ+ rights advocate whose journey spans decades of service, transformation, and community leadership. Tessa shares stories from her upbringing in Philadelphia, her time in the military and law enforcement, and the pivotal moment when she began transitioning in 2015. With humor, heart, and unflinching honesty, she reflects on navigating gender dysphoria, family estrangement, and ultimately finding solidarity and love within Oklahoma City’s queer community.

Throughout the conversation, Tessa, Caroline, and Jordan dive into complex and often under-discussed dynamics within the transgender community—such as the pressures of “passing,” internal gatekeeping, and navigating identity in hostile environments. Together, they also reflect on deeply personal moments of growth and resistance, from confronting transphobia in public to reclaiming womanhood through community celebration. Tessa shares her experiences leading Oklahoma City Pride, where she’s used both visibility and behind-the-scenes advocacy to fight anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and create spaces of joy and resilience—even in the face of rising drag bans and political backlash.

The episode also explores the power of social media in building queer solidarity, with Tessa recounting her viral TikTok moments and emphasizing the importance of storytelling over statistics in shifting public opinion. Caroline, Jordan, and Tessa agree: living visibly, organizing across difference, and showing up with vulnerability are revolutionary acts. Whether organizing Pride events, dancing at the club, or testifying at the state capitol, Tessa’s message is clear—trans people belong everywhere, and their stories have the power to move hearts, change laws, and unite communities.

“Tessa White is a Marine Corps veteran, a retired detective sergeant from the Seacoast region of New Hampshire, and a bold, outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. After transitioning a decade ago upon returning to her birthplace of Oklahoma, Tessa immersed herself in queer activism, serving on multiple nonprofit boards and becoming a visible force for human rights in a deeply conservative state. Now in her fifth year as President of Oklahoma City Pride, Tessa leads with fierce compassion and community vision. She is also the owner and contractor of TwinStar HVAC Inc., a proud mother to two sets of twins, and someone whose life is grounded in love, justice, and the power of living authentically. Tessa is unafraid to speak truth to power—especially in confronting the cruelty of far-right policies targeting the trans community—and she’s recently experienced the wild ride of going viral on TikTok.“

**

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“[email protected]”

Support and donations can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmore

Find us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcasts

Thank you for your support

Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)

S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUT

American Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.

Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVOR

Family Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE

Drug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357

National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1