The Trans Narrative Podcast

On this episode Ari, Caroline, and Kevin, along with guest cohost, season two guest, Samantha H. and our friend Justin Calloway as they talk substance abuse, trans inclusive recovery, and overcoming adversity. "Meet Justin Calloway, a 43-year-old from Fort Wayne, Indiana, who has transformed his life from a former gang member to a dedicated recovery advocate. With 13 years of sobriety under his belt, Justin has channeled his experiences into helping others overcome addiction. As the Program Manager of Road to Recovery, a recovery residence, Justin has made a profound impact on his community. His latest endeavor is particularly groundbreaking - he's opening the first recovery home in Indiana specifically designed for trans individuals. This pioneering initiative aims to provide a safe, supportive environment for trans individuals to heal and thrive in their recovery journey. Justin's remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of redemption and the importance of inclusive support systems."** “Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy BowserThe Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcastersIf 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 $gottabesomthinmoreFind us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcastsThank you for your support Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUTAmerican Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVORFamily Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFEDrug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Maebe A. Girl joins Athena, Caroline, and Jenna

Together, they discuss progressive political organizing, breaking barriers in public office, and advancing systemic change. The conversation covers grassroots advocacy for Medicare for All, housing justice, environmental action, alleviating homelessness, and legislative solutions to protect LGBTQIA+ rights across the nation.

⸻

About the Guest

Maebe A. Girl is a progressive Democrat who ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in California's 30th District. In 2019, she made history as the first drag queen elected to public office in the United States while serving on the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council in Los Angeles. A dedicated community leader, she helped form the Silver Lake LGBTQIA Advocates Committee and the LGBTQ+ Alliance of Los Angeles Neighborhood Councils, advocating for universal healthcare, housing for all, racial and environmental justice, and anti-war policies.

⸻

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is an international storytelling and archival platform dedicated to preserving trans and gender-diverse lives through long-form narrative. With over 150 episodes across five seasons and listeners in more than 80 countries, each episode captures lived experience from beginning to end, treating every story as historical record rather than soundbite.

🎙️ Trans or gender-diverse? Share your story at [email protected] 🏳️‍⚧️

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus

Featuring: Talk my Ear Off by Mateo Briscoe and Cameron Love, with the local Slothbois

Powered by Spotify for Creators

📧 [email protected]

💵 Support via PayPal: CarolineREssence

Find us on Facebook, TikTok, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you listen.

⸻

Resources

Suicide Hotline: 1 800 784 2433

Trevor Project: 1 866 488 7386

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 800 799 7233

Drug Abuse National Helpline: 1 800 662 4357

S A F E Self Abuse Finally Ends: 1 800 366 8288

Family Violence Prevention Center: 1 800 313 1310

On this episode Athena and Sonya meet Alex Bailey “Alex Bailey (she/her): Born and raised near St. Louis, Mo, Alex yearned for a life authentic to her true self even from a young age. Early misconceptions about the LGBTQ+ community and societal pressures led to years of suppressed feelings and unfulfilled potential. In 2017, a spark of self-discovery ignited, leading to years of exploration and acceptance. After coming out publicly as non-binary in 2021, Alex began hormone therapy in 2022 and embraced her identity as a trans woman. Today, with bottom surgery scheduled for April 2024, Alex stands poised to finally step into the future she always envisioned. Having overcome the limitations of dysphoria-fueled asexuality and aromanticism, she now flourishes in a supportive relationship and looks forward to a future filled with joy and intimacy.”** “Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy BowserThe Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for podcastersIf 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 $gottabesomthinmoreFind us Facebook, TikTok, and on Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, or anywhere you listen to podcastsThank you for your support Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUTAmerican Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVORFamily Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFEDrug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Ellie Dote joins Ari, Athena, and Caroline.

Together, they explore navigating faith as a queer and trans person, advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion within Evangelical church spaces, and building affirmative ministry. The conversation highlights using graphic design, writing, and spiritual advocacy to foster acceptance, heal religious trauma, and support queer communities.

⸻

About the Guest

Ellie Dote is a queer, trans Christian woman based in Southern California. She works as a graphic designer, author, and dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Through her Pastor Ellie ministry, she actively strives to create radical inclusion within the Evangelical Church and provide spiritual support, resource guidance, and community for the LGBTQ+ community.

⸻

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is an international storytelling and archival platform dedicated to preserving trans and gender-diverse lives through long-form narrative. With over 150 episodes across five seasons and listeners in more than 80 countries, each episode captures lived experience from beginning to end, treating every story as historical record rather than soundbite.

🎙️ Trans or gender-diverse? Share your story at [email protected] 🏳️‍⚧️

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus

Featuring: Talk my Ear Off by Mateo Briscoe and Cameron Love, with the local Slothbois

Powered by Spotify for Creators

📧 [email protected]

💵 Support via PayPal: CarolineREssence

Find us on Facebook, TikTok, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you listen.

⸻

Resources

Suicide Hotline: 1 800 784 2433

Trevor Project: 1 866 488 7386

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 800 799 7233

Drug Abuse National Helpline: 1 800 662 4357

S A F E Self Abuse Finally Ends: 1 800 366 8288

Family Violence Prevention Center: 1 800 313 1310

On this episode Athena hosts with Kevin and returning from season two, Alicia, as we meet Blanca Flores Blanca, aka This Squishmallow Queen, is a rising star who's taken the scene by storm. They're a:Talented drag performer: With captivating shows that draw inspiration from fashion and pop culture.Passionate fashion designer: Creating unique garments sure to turn heads.Bold activist: Using their art to fight against anti-drag laws.Blanca is a force to be reckoned with, and their future is full of possibilities. Stay tuned for their upcoming clothing line and witness their rise to stardom! Content for today provided by: Music by Athena Promachus Make it real to me written by Athena PromachusThe Trans Narrative Podcast: The Trans Narrative was created by Caroline Essence and is powered by Spotify for podcasters , aka Anchor, the easiest way to upload a podcast. Todays episode was produced and edited by Caroline Essence The Trans Narrative PodcastSupport can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmoreThe Trans Narrative is brought to you by listeners like you, who tune in and subscribeThank you for your support. The Trans Narrative Podcast is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive space for gender diversity. It provides a platform for connection, sharing stories, and finding support within queer spaces. Follow, like, and subscribe TikTok @thetransnarrativepodcastYouTube.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Facebook.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Anchor.fm/transnarrativeFull interviews will be made available via YouTube, clips via TikTok Subscribe on anchor.fm for exclusive behind the scenes and bonus content If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at “[email protected]” Or by messaging Caroline Essence at ”Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUTAmerican Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVORFamily Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFEDrug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode Cynthia fills in as host with Salamander Brandy as they sit with returning guest from season one Rory phoenix Monroe and our special guest Carmen Love Monroe "Carmen Love Monroe, a resilient and inspiring individual, has embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery. As a seasoned performer in burlesque and drag shows for over 13 years, Carmen has left a lasting impact across the Midwest. From Minneapolis to St. Cloud, and now in Iowa City, Carmen has directed and emceed shows, including Fusion Cabaret at the Red Carpet. As a show director and emcee, Carmen took aspiring performers under her wing, nurturing them as her drag children. She has also been an integral part of local burlesque troupes, such as the Vendetta Vixens and Nikita's Kittens. Carmen's dedication to the LGBTQIA+ community shines through her involvement in various shows and events. Notably, she was crowned Mrs. Trans Iowa 2023 alongside her drag husband, Rory Monroe. Together, they represented Iowa at the national pageant, where they placed 10th in their respective divisions. Carmen Love Monroe's journey is a testament to the power of self-expression, resilience, and the celebration of diversity."** ** Content for today provided by: Music by Athena Promachus Make it real to me written by Athena PromachusThe Trans Narrative Podcast: The Trans Narrative was created by Caroline Penny and is powered by Spotify for podcasters , aka Anchor, the easiest way to upload a podcast. Todays episode was produced and edited by Caroline Essence The Trans Narrative PodcastSupport can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmoreThe Trans Narrative is brought to you by listeners like you, who tune in and subscribeThank you for your support. The Trans Narrative Podcast is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive space for gender diversity. It provides a platform for connection, sharing stories, and finding support within queer spaces. Follow, like, and subscribe TikTok @thetransnarrativepodcastYouTube.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Facebook.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Anchor.fm/transnarrativeFull interviews will be made available via YouTube, clips via TikTok Subscribe on anchor.fm for exclusive behind the scenes and bonus content If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at “[email protected]” Or by messaging Caroline Essence at ”Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUTAmerican Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVORFamily Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFEDrug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode Caroline is joined by Cynthia and Kevin as they meet with Rachel Crandall Crocker, the founder of international trans day of visibilityRachel Crandall Crocker, LMSW, Executive Director and Co-founder, is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in transgender issues. She is also an international transgender activist and the founder and organizer of the International Transgender Day of Visibility. Ms. Crandall has consulted for corporations, government agencies, and universities. She runs the Transgender Michigan helpline which is the first transgender helpline in the US. [email protected]** ** Content for today provided by: Music by Athena Promachus Make it real to me written by Athena PromachusThe Trans Narrative Podcast: Caroline Penny Guest: Rachel Crandall CrockerThe Trans Narrative was created by Caroline Penny and is powered by Spotify for podcasters , aka Anchor, the easiest way to upload a podcast. Todays episode was produced and edited by Caroline Essence The Trans Narrative PodcastSupport can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmoreThe Trans Narrative is brought to you by listeners like you, who tune in and subscribeThank you for your support. The Trans Narrative Podcast is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive space for gender diversity. It provides a platform for connection, sharing stories, and finding support within queer spaces. Follow, like, and subscribe TikTok @thetransnarrativepodcastYouTube.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Facebook.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Anchor.fm/transnarrativeFull interviews will be made available via YouTube, clips via TikTok Subscribe on anchor.fm for exclusive behind the scenes and bonus content If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at “[email protected]” Or by messaging Caroline Essence Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUTAmerican Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVORFamily Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFEDrug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1

On this episode, Speyder Webb join Caroline and Mikaela

Together, they explore grassroots advocacy, the impact of trans-led community organizing, and building intentional networks of care. The conversation covers decades of TLGBQ+ leadership, integrating spiritual and artistic expression with activism, and the transformative power of trauma-informed healing practices.

⸻

About the Guest

Speyder Webb is the Administrative Coordinator for TransSOCIAL (a trans-led non-profit organization) and an Ambassador for Venture Café. With 25 years of experience as a leader in the TLGBQ+ community, Speyder is an artist, writer, educator, empathic energy witch, and avid fundraiser who believes deeply in the power of direct community networking. He is also currently working toward certification as a trauma-informed yoga instructor.

⸻

About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is an international storytelling and archival platform dedicated to preserving trans and gender-diverse lives through long-form narrative. With over 150 episodes across five seasons and listeners in more than 80 countries, each episode captures lived experience from beginning to end, treating every story as historical record rather than soundbite.

🎙️ Trans or gender-diverse? Share your story at [email protected] 🏳️‍⚧️

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus

Featuring: Talk my Ear Off by Mateo Briscoe and Cameron Love, with the local Slothbois

Powered by Spotify for Creators

📧 [email protected]

💵 Support via PayPal: CarolineREssence

Find us on Facebook, TikTok, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you listen.

⸻

Resources

Suicide Hotline: 1 800 784 2433

Trevor Project: 1 866 488 7386

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 800 799 7233

Drug Abuse National Helpline: 1 800 662 4357

S A F E Self Abuse Finally Ends: 1 800 366 8288

Family Violence Prevention Center: 1 800 313 1310

On this episode host Sonya Hawthorn and Salamander Brandy are joined by Brynn Lee “Brynn Lee, originally from Phoenix, AZ, now resides in Minneapolis, MN, where she has carved out a niche for herself as an advocate and specialist for those with visual impairments. Brynn was born with an eye condition called Septo-Optic Dysplasia. This rare condition involves the underdevelopment of the optic nerve, causing visual challenges. Brynn's personal experiences have shaped her career path. She works at State Services For The Blind in the Senior Services Unit, applying her knowledge as an Assistive Technology Specialist to help others. She is also involved with the American Council of the Blind and Blind LGBT Pride International, where she serves as a board member. As chair of the podcast committee, Brynn is instrumental in producing the "Pride Connection" podcast, which focuses on the intersectionality of being blind and part of the LGBTQIA+ Community. In her own time, Brynn explores her love for humor and music through her podcast, "The Fun Zone," and furthers her interest in audio production by editing various podcasts, including "The Penny Forward Podcast." Brynn is an avid enthusiast of comedy music and sci-fi. Her passion for HAM radio and web development offers a nod to her tech-savvy side. She is also a dedicated advocate for blindness and transgender rights. Her hobbies and advocacy work are integral to her identity.”** ** Content for today provided by: Music by Athena Promachus Make it real to me written by Athena PromachusGuest: Brynn Lee The Trans Narrative was created by Caroline Essence and is powered by Spotify for podcasters , aka Anchor, the easiest way to upload a podcast. Todays episode was produced and edited by Caroline Essence The Trans Narrative PodcastSupport can be made to cash app tag $gottabesomthinmoreThe Trans Narrative is brought to you by listeners like you, who tune in and subscribeThank you for your support. The Trans Narrative Podcast is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive space for gender diversity. It provides a platform for connection, sharing stories, and finding support within queer spaces. Follow, like, and subscribe TikTok @thetransnarrativepodcastYouTube.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Facebook.com/thetransnarrativepodcast Anchor.fm/transnarrativeFull interviews will be made available via YouTube, clips via TikTok Subscribe on anchor.fm for exclusive behind the scenes and bonus content If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at “[email protected]””Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) 1-800-DONT-CUTAmerican Foundation for low vision 212-502-7633.Trevor Hotline (Suicide) 1-866-4-U-TREVORFamily Violence Prevention Center 1-800-313-1310National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFEDrug Abuse National Helpline 1-800-662-4357National Human Service Call Center 2-1-1