On this episode, Athena and Caroline meet Olivia Nied, a radiant queer, trans, and neurodivergent musician whose voice and artistry are as nuanced as her identity. They begin by tracing Olivia’s creative roots, from her early musical influences like Queen and the Beach Boys to her transformative experiences at a UK ukulele festival. Along the way, Olivia reflects on how music became both a mirror and a map in her gender journey, helping her find language for joy, self-recognition, and resistance.

As the conversation deepens, the trio explores Olivia’s most recent album Just Enough, an intimate project born from personal heartache and defiant self-expression. Olivia shares how her neurodivergence and transness shape her songwriting and how reclaiming what it means to be “too much” helped her land in the sweet spot of being “just enough.” Together, they dive into everything from musical improvisation to the psychedelic arms race between Pet Sounds and Sgt. Pepper, all while celebrating the queerness embedded in music’s DNA.

They close with reflections on persistence, creativity, and the power of finding joy in small moments. Olivia offers advice to her younger self, talks about balancing art and survival, and dreams out loud about a future where music sustains her full-time.

“Olivia Nied (she/they) is a singer/songwriter whose work is shaped by her experience as a queer, trans, and neurodivergent artist. Olivia has been writing and performing original music since she was nine years old. Her debut solo album, Just Enough, released last year, dives into themes of radical joy, identity, neurodivergence, and the search for belonging.”

https://olivianied.com/home

**

“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 is joined by guest cohosts Alicia Mullins and Jenna Daugherty as they meet Mary Almy, a resilient and radiant trans woman whose story weaves together themes of faith, identity, and radical hope. Mary shares her powerful journey growing up in a conservative Christian environment, enduring rejection, self-harm, and suicidal ideation before discovering a path of healing through transition, advocacy, and community. Her story moves from the U.S. to Africa, from military and missionary work to life-affirming moments of self-realization and survival—including harrowing encounters with crocodiles and venomous snakes during her darkest hours.

The episode dives deep into the intersection of queerness and Christianity, with heartfelt reflections on how Mary and others are reclaiming faith from the clutches of bigotry. Together, the group challenges the narrative that Christianity and queerness are incompatible, with moving testimonies from Mary about her Presbyterian congregation, and from Alicia and Jenna about their own transformative journeys. The conversation turns toward the power of storytelling—especially through Mary’s forthcoming documentary—and how media can shift perceptions, bridge divides, and humanize trans lives across generational and ideological lines.

In a time marked by anti-trans legislation and rising fascism, this episode is a fierce call to love, empathy, and action. From embracing visibility to uplifting trans youth and elders alike, Mary and the team offer a vision rooted in hope, grace, and the belief that compassion can dismantle hate.

“ Mary Transitioned latter in life although she knew that she was different and that she was a girl from the age of 5. Growing up in the 60’s and 70’s information about transgender was hard to find for a young girl living in a small town in Western Pa. Her life’s journey included time as a Military Police Officer, a civilian Law enforcement Officer and a Mission Co-worker serving for 14 years in Africa. Mary Is married to an ordained minister of the PCUSA (Presbyterian Church USA). They have been married for 40 years, her wife is one of her staunchest supporters and cheer leader. Since her Transition Mary has been active in a variety of organizations and has worked as a big sister for other Transgender women and their spouses.  Mary was awarded the BULGQA (Bloomsburg University Lesbian, Gay, Queer Alliance) 2018 Community Advocacy award. Mary is a strong advocate for the Transgender community where she has worked as a peer mentor, educational speaker and on various boards and Transgender organizations, she is currently serving on the board of the Rainbow rose Center, York County’s LGBTQIA Support organization. Mary is also a Transgender Woman of faith, whose desire is to build bridges and heal hurts between the LGBT community especially the Transgender community and the Church. Mary is currently living in south central Pa. with her wife, dog and two cats.“

**

“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 welcomes back Della Licious, Jordan Braxton, and Kristen Browde as they gather for a vibrant, honest, and deeply human roundtable on drag, transition, and advocacy. The conversation flows from laughter and casual catching up into a powerful exploration of identity, visibility, and the ongoing challenges facing LGBTQ+ communities—especially in the face of anti-drag and anti-trans legislation. Della shares stories from her 23-year journey in drag and HIV education, while Jordan reflects on drag as an early pathway to self-discovery and transition. Kristen adds insight from her dual life as a journalist and advocate, grounding the conversation in lived experience and legal perspective.

Together, the group addresses the HIV epidemic with raw vulnerability and urgency, confronting stigma head-on and advocating for better access to healthcare, testing, and education—particularly in rural and underserved communities. From the Ryan White Program to the realities of aging with HIV, they highlight the continued need for policy, compassion, and public funding. They also reflect on the strength and resilience of the transgender and drag communities, emphasizing the power of joy, community, and collective resistance in the face of ongoing marginalization.

They remind listeners that drag is more than a performance—it’s a culture of survival, expression, and truth-telling. And in the face of fear and legislation, their message is clear: keep showing up, keep living fully, and don’t let anyone steal your joy.

“Della Licious is the heartbeat of Fort Wayne’s queer nightlife and a radiant symbol of service, performance, and community care. A 20-year drag veteran, Della hosts dazzling shows at After Dark and produces monthly fundraisers for the Positive Resource Connection. With wit, rhinestone flair, and devotion to HIV/AIDS education, she uplifts queer visibility in small-town America—proving that resistance can shimmer, strut, and serve pie with a side of advocacy.

Jordan Braxton is a St. Louis icon and longtime activist whose work bridges performance and policy. Known as Dieta Pepsi, she merges glamour with grassroots leadership, serving as Director of Diversity for Pride St. Louis and Vice President of St. Louis Black Pride. Her HIV/AIDS prevention work with Vivent Health and founding of the Transgender Memorial Garden reflect her lifelong commitment to honoring trans lives and building lasting change.

Kristen Browde is a journalist-turned-advocate known for her legal and political work on behalf of the LGBTQIA+ community. With years at CNN and CBS News, she now serves as president of the Florida Democratic Party LGBTQ+ Caucus and vice president of the National Stonewall Democrats. Her career is marked by bold visibility and unwavering dedication to justice across media, law, and policy.”

**

“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, Moth Moth Moth, and returning guest co-host—singer of our theme song—Boy Bowser sit down with Aj Evergreen, original co-host of The Trans Narrative Podcast, making her first appearance as a guest. Together, they revisit Aj’s early years growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, exploring how her insular religious upbringing shaped her understanding of queerness, language, and identity. They delve into the role of education and community in Aj’s journey of self-discovery, as well as how spiritual control and censorship influence the formation of trans and queer lives.

The group takes a critical lens to systems of power—capitalism, electoral politics, and carceral logic—examining how these structures constrain liberation. Aj offers a grounded critique of the two-party system, emphasizing the importance of local voting while acknowledging its limits. They discuss small acts of resistance—ethical consumption, unionizing, and community care—as ways to chip at capitalist dominance. They also highlight the need for solidarity among immigrants, non-citizens, and marginalized people in reclaiming agency.

In a powerful final act, the group envisions transformation rooted in care over punishment. Through laughter, vulnerability, and fierce love, this episode is a bold reminder of what becomes possible when we center authenticity, justice, and collective care.

“Aj Evergreen is a trans woman, ex-Jehovah’s Witness, Leftist, civil rights activist, volunteer with LGBTQ+ community organizations, and unapologetic nerd. She holds a degree in Sociology with an emphasis on Political Science and is passionate about understanding the structures that shape our lives. Raised in an insular, fundamentalist environment where conformity was demanded and queer identities were condemned, Aj’s journey has been one of deep questioning, painful growth, and courageous self-acceptance. After leaving the faith in her early twenties and beginning her transition at 25, she has fought to reclaim her sense of self, choosing to believe in a future where happiness and fulfillment are possible for everyone — not just the chosen few.

Her story reminds us that healing is not about erasing the past, but about living fully and authentically despite it. Through her resilience, advocacy, and fierce dedication to justice, Aj offers a powerful testament to the possibility of building a life rooted in truth, compassion, and hope — even when the foundation you were given was built to collapse.

• ​Buy nothing groups:

https://buynothingproject.org/

• ​American Community Gardening Association:

Tenants unions: https://abolitionnotes.org/a-quick-

guide-to-all-tenants-unions-in-the-us

National immigration law center:

https://www.nilc.org/resources/know-your-rights-what-to-do-if-arrested-detained-immigration/.

National Immigrant Justice Center:

https://immigrantjustice.org/immigration-legal-

services

**

“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, Athena and Caroline have the pleasure of sitting down with Jordan Braxton as they explore Jordan’s extraordinary journey of self-discovery, activism, and community leadership. Jordan shares her life story beginning in Kansas City, reflecting on the experiences that shaped her identity as a proud trans woman and intersex individual.

Through vulnerability, laughter, and wisdom, Jordan speaks to the importance of embracing authenticity, surviving systemic challenges, and leading with heart and purpose across multiple generations of LGBTQIA+ advocacy.

Together, they delve into Jordan’s decades of work in HIV prevention, her leadership roles in St. Louis’s Pride organizations, and the founding of the historic Transgender Memorial Garden. Jordan also shares insights from her performance career as Dieta Pepsi, where art, joy, and activism intersect to uplift and fund vital community programs. The conversation expands into the ongoing fight for sexual health education, the crucial role of trans voices in legislation, and the powerful coalitions Jordan is building across Missouri to ensure HIV prevention, care, and trans rights remain at the forefront.

“Jordan Braxton has been an activist in the St. Louis LGBTQIA+ community for nearly 40 years, raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, Intersex, and Trans Rights. She serves as Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Outreach for Pride St. Louis, Vice President of St. Louis Black Pride and Transparent, and Chair of the City of St. Louis Mayor’s LGBTQIA+ Advisory Board. Jordan is also a Co-chair of the Minority AIDS Initiative Committee and a member of the Metro St. Louis HIV Health Services Planning Council. She currently works at Vivent Health as a Prevention Supervisor, overseeing Project Impact and Ending the Epidemic grants. Jordan is the Chair of the Transgender/Gender Diverse Workgroup for Missouri’s Comprehensive Planning Group. Beyond advocacy, she is beloved for her performance as Dieta Pepsi, through which she has raised funds for organizations like Doorways, Food Outreach, and Metro Trans Umbrella Group. Jordan is also the founder of the Transgender Memorial Garden—the first memorial garden dedicated to transgender people in the United States.”

**

“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, Skye, and returning as guest cohost Torin Reilly Bowen meet with Lee Beineke to talk about authenticity, identity, and the journey of becoming. A dedicated special education assistant from Indiana, Lee opens up about his path from the fast food industry to the classroom, and the transformative years that followed. He shares with honesty and warmth the milestones of his transition—his marriage to his wife Jenny, his name change, and bottom surgery—all of which shaped his understanding of living a full, true life. Together, the group reflects on how the Trans Narrative Podcast itself has evolved, and how storytelling can illuminate the often-overlooked experiences within the LGBTQ+ community.

Religious trauma, community support, and chosen family are central themes in this candid and heartfelt conversation. Lee and Torin reflect on their Southern Baptist upbringings and the spiritual harm they endured, contrasting those experiences with the joy of finding inclusive spaces later in life. Skye brings in her own interfaith experience, weaving in stories of joyfully sharing queer representation with children in her Unitarian Universalist congregation. Throughout the episode, the hosts and guest uplift the value of safe adults, mentorship, and community infrastructure—especially for trans youth navigating complex environments.

From classroom advocacy to Big Brother mentorship, Lee offers a glimpse into what trans joy and quiet resilience can look like. He speaks about becoming a safe space for students, the importance of showing up with kindness, and the power of simply being visible. With deeply personal insights and practical advice, this episode serves as both a window into Lee’s world and a mirror for listeners navigating their own paths. The conversation ends with a powerful call to action: to be “that one person” for someone else, offering encouragement, compassion, and unwavering support.

“Lee Beineke is a dedicated Special Education Assistant with a passion for helping students reach their full potential. His journey to this career was shaped by resilience, self-discovery, and a deep commitment to making a difference.

Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Lee navigated the challenges of self-acceptance before fully embracing his identity as a transgender man. With the unwavering support of his wife, he found the confidence to live authentically. His personal journey has strengthened his ability to connect with and support students, fostering an inclusive and understanding learning environment.

Starting his career in the fast food industry, Lee eventually pursued his lifelong dream of working in education. Now, in his role as a Special Education Assistant, he is dedicated to empowering students and creating a positive impact in their lives. Happily married since 2019, he continues to follow his passion, living a life rooted in authenticity, purpose, and compassion.”

**

“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, Honey, and guest cohost MOTH MOTH MOTH join together to meet Eve Keller. Eve Keller is the Co-President of USA Prides, an InterPride Board Member, longtime Indy Pride volunteer and former VP, FEMA Reservist, and LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance Chapter President in Indianapolis. She brings decades of experience in advocacy, organizational leadership, and uplifting queer communities—especially during turbulent times for Pride.

Together, we explore Eve’s early life growing up as a military “brat”, how constant movement shaped her resilience, and her journey from instructional design and corporate leadership into LGBTQ+ activism. We dive deep into her work on community centers, rural organizing, and her path to leadership in both local and national Pride organizations.

As the conversation unfolds, we confront the challenges facing Pride in today’s political climate—corporate pullouts, rising hostility in red states, and the urgent need for inclusive leadership. Eve opens up about navigating gatekeeping within Pride committees, centering trans and nonbinary voices, and what it truly means to build a Pride that’s for all. With heartfelt reflections, actionable insights, and a call to protect our joy, this episode invites listeners into the heart of the queer movement and the fight to keep it alive.

“Eve Keller (she/her) is a nationally recognized LGBTQIA+ advocate, community leader, and organizer who currently serves as Co-President of USA Prides, where she helps support and uplift Pride organizations across the country. She also sits on the InterPride board, contributing to global conversations around LGBTQIA+ visibility, equity, and community empowerment. Eve has been a dedicated volunteer with Indy Pride, previously serving two years as Vice President, and continues to play a vital role in organizing Pride festivals, events, protests, and educational programming that reflect the diversity and resilience of queer communities.

Beyond her advocacy work, Eve brings over a decade of experience in instructional design, project management, and strategic leadership, having led high-impact initiatives across federal, state, and local sectors. She is PMP-certified and currently works in real estate as an Indianapolis Realtor and Chapter President of The LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance, while also serving as a FEMA Reservist and insurance broker.

Eve’s life and work are deeply rooted in building inclusive systems, strengthening grassroots movements, and ensuring that Pride remains a space for joy, resistance, and transformation—especially in communities facing increasing political and economic pressure.”

**

“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, Kevin, and returning from season two, as guest cohost, Ash Zvonham, Voice Coach at Wild Ferns Wellness Center, meet Stephen Davidson, a trans voice coach and founder of the London Trans Choir. Stephen, a transmasculine individual, shares his background in music, acting, and improv, as well as his journey toward advocating for trans voices. He discusses the creation of the London Trans Choir and the challenges and rewards of helping trans people find confidence and authenticity in their voices, especially through vocal training and community-building.

Stephen dives into the science behind vocal transitions, discussing misconceptions about testosterone’s effects on the voice, as well as emotional and psychological factors that influence vocal changes. He emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and patience in the voice transition process, sharing insights from his book, The Transmasculine Voice: A Guide to Vocal Euphoria, which offers guidance for transmasculine and non-binary individuals navigating their voice journey. Stephen also reflects on the role of community and how his choir has become a safe space for trans voices to grow and flourish.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of voice training for trans individuals, particularly those undergoing vocal changes. Stephen talks about his experiences conducting workshops and coaching, noting the challenges of maintaining a choir during the pandemic and the significance of creating accessible resources for trans voices. As a final call to action, listeners are encouraged to submit their own videos to Trans Story Time, a project dedicated to showcasing the beautiful diversity of trans voices.

“Stephen Davidson is a trans man and a voice coach specializing in working with trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals. He founded the London Trans Choir in 2017, aiming to create a supportive and inclusive environment for diverse voices. Stephen holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of British Columbia and a Master of Music from McGill University. Since relocating to the UK in 2010, he has combined his passions for music and acting to assist others in their vocal journeys. In 2024, he published “The Transmasculine Voice: A Guide to Vocal Euphoria,” further establishing his expertise in transmasculine voice training.”

**

“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 returning as guest co-host Wendy Cole meet Kristen Browde, an accomplished attorney, journalist, and LGBTQIA+ activist. Kristen shares her journey from a career in broadcasting at CNN and CBS News to becoming a leader in the fight for transgender rights. She reflects on her upbringing, her path to self-discovery, and the pivotal moment when she publicly came out, highlighting both the challenges and the support she received.

The conversation shifts to Kristen’s political work as the President of the Florida Democratic Party LGBTQ+ Caucus and Vice President of the National Federation of Stonewall Democrats. She discusses the critical role of visibility in advocacy, the importance of local elections, and the ongoing battle against anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation. Kristen shares her experience influencing policymakers and emphasizes why standing firm on equality is essential for progress.

As the episode airs on Trans Day of Visibility, the discussion turns to the significance of being seen and the necessity of staying proactive in the face of rising anti-trans sentiment. Kristen offers strategies for both trans individuals and allies to foster change, challenge misinformation, and ensure that the fight for equality remains at the forefront of political discourse. To close, we hear a personal voice message from International Trans Day of Visibility founder Rachel Crandall-Crocker, reinforcing the power of visibility and community in the fight for trans rights.

“Kristen Browde is an accomplished attorney, journalist, and trans activist with a passion for advancing LGBTQIA+ rights. She is the current president of the Florida Democratic Party LGBTQ+ Caucus and vice president of the National Federation of Stonewall Democrats, where she works tirelessly to promote equality and ensure the voices of LGBTQIA+ individuals are heard in political discourse.

Kristen has spent her career in media, having worked for major outlets such as CNN and CBS News, where her extensive reporting on societal issues shaped her perspective and advocacy.

Beyond her journalistic work, Kristen has been deeply involved in activism, particularly in advocating for trans rights and visibility. She has used her platform to raise awareness about the unique challenges facing the trans community, and her leadership in the LGBTQ+ caucus has focused on pushing for policy changes that protect and support trans people.

As a strong voice in the fight for trans rights, Kristen brings an informed and compassionate approach to her work. She continues to push for systemic change, ensuring that the rights of marginalized communities remain at the forefront of legislative discussions. Through her advocacy, she aims to create a safer, more inclusive world where trans individuals can live authentically without fear.”

**

“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, Athena, Caroline, and guest co-host Laurie Lee Hall sit down with Wendy Cole, a transition mentor who transitioned at 67. Wendy shares her journey of self-discovery, highlighting the mental and emotional aspects of transition. She reflects on repressing her gender identity, the impact of the DSM-5 reclassification, and the crucial role of therapy. The panel discusses closeting, containment, and generational differences in navigating identity.

Wendy explores the complexities of transitioning later in life, emphasizing mental transition over physical changes. She shares how shifting thought patterns and overcoming self-doubt were key to self-acceptance. The conversation touches on authenticity, safety, and resilience, including strategies for navigating public spaces and the value of LGBTQ-friendly communities.

The episode wraps up with reflections on visibility and storytelling in driving acceptance. Wendy shares her passion for mentoring, while Caroline and Laurie highlight the importance of fostering community and amplifying transgender voices.

Wendy Cole is a transition mentor who helps individuals navigate major life changes with a focus on self-acceptance. She works with transgender individuals, parents of transgender children, and women entrepreneurs facing self-doubt. Drawing from her own journey, she guides others through fear and transition.

Wendy knew she was a girl from a young age but spent decades conforming to societal expectations. At 67, she found medical validation for her experience, giving her the courage to transition. Within six months, she was living authentically, proving it’s never too late to be yourself.

Since 2017, Wendy has mentored others, helping them overcome doubt and anxiety. She is passionate about humanizing the transgender experience, educating allies, and fostering inclusivity. Through her work, she empowers people to embrace change with confidence and authenticity.

Meet Wendy Cole (CTA): https://MeetWendyCole.com

My main website: https://wendycolegtm.net

Link to Parents article published by PFlag (It’s in my Blog and downloadable):https://wendycolegtm.net/may-2024-pflag-council-of-northern-illinois-newsletter/

Demystifying The Transgender Journey podcast & Community Links:

*On YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thetransgenderjourney

*On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2U49KRk8uYHqT3Mm5PEAIt 

*On Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/demystifying-the-transgender-journey/id1799458202

Public Facebook: https://facebook.com/thetransgenderjourney

*About the “Demystifying” Project: https://thetransgenderjourney.com

*About the Community: https://demystifying.wendycolegtm.net/t4EHqcThis is the landing page for cisgender people to learn about joining the Demystifying Community and signing up for the newsletter to be informed of meetings. They can also schedule a short phone or Zoom conversatation.

**

“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