Leland and Bonnie share their journey through identity, gender, and family. Leland, identifying as Two-Spirit, discusses Native American gender roles and their impactful transition story. Bonnie recalls navigating her identity from the '70s to a polyamorous marriage and raising a son. Together, they recount their creation of a trailblazing trans/non-binary surgical recovery center, a yearly educational BDSM conference, and delve into their latest project, the Beyond Gender conference, aimed at fostering community, education, and support across the gender spectrum. This episode explores acceptance, resilience, and the power of chosen family.

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🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Two-Spirit Identity Explored: Leland's discovery and embracement of their Two-Spirit identity, reflecting on its historical significance in Native American cultures and how it informed their personal journey.
• Evolution of Gender & Sexuality Understanding: Bonnie’s early coming-out story in the 1970s, living in a polyamorous relationship, and her transformative path to queerness highlight the evolving acceptance and understanding of diverse identities.
• Community Building: The duo’s extensive work in LGBTQ+ community support, including running a recovery center for gender-affirming surgeries and organizing educational events like the Beyond Gender Conference.
• Chosen Family: Emphasizing the critical role of chosen family in LGBTQ+ lives, providing support, acceptance, and love that might be lacking in biological families.
• Navigating Political Challenges: A candid discussion on the current political climate, its impact on the LGBTQ+ community, and the urgent need for advocacy, education, and unity.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

Leland - Leland, who identifies as Two-Spirit, draws from their Native American heritage, with roots in the Apache and Seminole tribes. They have significantly contributed to the LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit communities through various initiatives, including running a surgical recovery center for transgender and non-binary individuals and organizing the Beyond Gender Conference. Leland transitioned later in life and has connected deeply with their Two-Spirit identity, which emphasizes a balanced blend of masculine and feminine traits.

Bonnie - Bonnie, a dynamic and resilient individual, identifies as queer and has been active in the LGBTQ+ community for decades. She has vast experience in the medical field and has co-organized several LGBTQ+ supportive conferences. Formerly married in a polyamorous relationship, Bonnie has raised a son and ha

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Beyond Leather: beyondleather.net
• Beyond Gender Conference: beyondgenderconference.org
• Free Mom Hugs (Sarah Cunningham): Supporting LGBTQ+ community through stand-in weddings and education on acceptance.
• How We Sleep at Night by Sarah Cunningham: A book detailing her journey from being a conservative Baptist to supporting her gay son.
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