Do shifting attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights reflect broader trends in the American political landscape?As the 2024 elections approach, the intricate dance between political agendas and voter inclinations, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights, intensifies. As citizens, can we do anything to contribute to the greater good? Yes, we can start conversations. In today's episode, we analyze the results of a poll and survey conducted by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), illuminating the upcoming election's complex landscape. From voters' motivation regarding candidates' stances on transgender issues to the complexities of LGBTQ+ support for Biden and Democratic candidates, we ponder the deeper undercurrents in what we believe is a presidential election that can change it all. In This Episode, You Will Learn:Jackie shares some results of GLAAD's poll (1:30)What voters think about Republicans’ efforts to bar transgender-affirming care for youth (4:00)Why the Democratic Party is losing support from non-white voters (7:40)Why Republicans "can't stop" talking about transgender people (9:30)About the critical importance of the 2024 elections (12:40)Resources Mentioned:Democrats' events, volunteers, and petitionsConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can gender-affirming therapy change people's minds?Transgender kids and their parents often have very different expectations about what gender-affirming therapy will provide. For some parents, the hope is that when their child starts therapy, they’ll realize they aren’t really trans, but instead are gay, confused, or just in a phase. But studies have shown that among transgender kids, less than 3% give up on their transition.In today's episode, Jackie and Bridget unveil a part of Jackie's coming-out story that they haven’t previously discussed publicly. They share details of Jackie's first appointments with the gender affirming therapist who helped and supported her in her transition. In this honest and open conversation, Bridget confesses a secret wish she had in the beginning, which she now realizes was based on delusional thinking. There are valuable lessons to take away from this part of Jackie and Bridget’s story - about unconditional love, acceptance, support, trust, and how allies are made. In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why some parents are reluctant to believe their kids are trans (4:00)Jackie talks about how gender affirming therapy helped her come out (8:20)The importance of keeping trust healthy and robust in families (12:10)How to choose the right gender affirming therapist (16:00)Resources Mentioned:The Trevor ProjectPFLAGEpisode #8 - Medical Care for Transgender Youth with Dr. Johanna Olson-KennedyEpisode #23 - LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy & Parenting with Dr. Rebeks Clark Mane and Aba HorthyEpisode #30 - Meet LGBTQ+ Inclusion Author and Speaker Dr. Kryss ShaneConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we update you on the concerning trend of states banning trans-affirming care for transgender youth and enacting laws and policies that discriminate against them.As if it weren't an already daunting experience being trans in America, these actions represent a massive blow for trans rights and, unfortunately, force thousands of people to either let go of their hormone treatment or flee their states. Throughout this episode, you'll hear our thoughts on the damage these administrative decisions will cause to the trans community, the housing problem in blue states, the myths about detransitioners, the division these kinds of decisions promote in our country, and much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:How these new laws and policies affect the trans community (2:00)The terrible situation these new laws and policies put transgender people in (7:20)How we are in the process of dividing ourselves into two countries (11:40)Affirming care saves lives (16:00)Resources:Erin in the MorningConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Though right-wing talking heads try to manipulate suicide rate statistics, the data proves that the number one cause of self-harm and destructive behavior in the LGBTQ+ community is a lack of family acceptance. Kids who come out as transgender are not confused, are not in a phase, are not following a fad, and are not trying to rebel against their parents. From conversion efforts to more subtle forms of non-affirming communication, there is no question that the damage done can be significant and can often be avoided with a little education and effort. LGBTQ+ kids need and deserve our respect, support, and love. In this episode, we talk about what to do and say, as well as what not to do and say when your child (or any child) trusts you enough to come out as transgender, at any age. You'll hear about the critical importance of family and community acceptance, statistics that show how destructive the lack of support can be for transgender youth, and how some of the most well-intended questions can cause deep wounds for trans kids. We also discuss the mistakes Bridget made when Jackie came out and the challenges they faced. We learn ways to support transgender kids, support and respect their privacy, the ways to ensure affirming care for them, and much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:About how Jackie's story began six and a half years ago (3:30)What statistics teach us about self-harm and destructive behaviors in the LGBTQ+ community (6:00)Why family acceptance is crucial (11:00)Being trans is definitely not a phase or a way of being rebellious (17:00)Jackie shares tips and ideas to grant affirming care for trans kids (24:00)What do our trans kids really need from us (28:00)Resources:Family Acceptance Project - San Francisco State UniversityWhat to Do When Your Kid Comes Out as Transgender by Bridget Sampson on MediumConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Content warning: In this episode, we discuss suicide, online harassment, and death threats.Today we share two unsettling stories with the common themes of living secret lives and doing things that others would be shocked to discover.You'll hear about the tragic story of Alabama Pastor and Mayor, Fred 'Bubba' Copeland, who, forced to live his life in the closet, used private social media accounts to present himself as a transgender woman and encourage transgender people to come out and go on hormone replacement therapy. After his secret life was exposed by a conservative news website and he was subsequently subjected to relentless online bullying, he took his life. We discuss the complex issues involved in cases like this and the ways that pressure to suppress one’s identity can lead to dire outcomes.You'll also hear about a story published in the San Francisco Chronicle, in which a financially successful and apparently mentally stable man made several death threats to an operator from a Mental Health Hotline for LGBTQ+ youth in California. The name and address of this man, who lives in San Francisco, have been identified, but he will not likely face any consequences due to his power and wealth.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Pastor Fred 'Bubba' Copeland's tragic story (1:30)The effects of being forced to live a life in the closet (13:20)Online harassment shouldn't remain unpunished (16:00)People who spread hate online and showcase a "normal" life on a different platform (17:00)Resources Mentioned:Hotline for California's LGBTQ kids got a death threat.Connect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Joy is not just an emotion; it's a deep alignment with the self. And those of us who are in the LGBTQ+ community know better than most communities about what it really feels like to wake up with joy at your core because who you are is aligned." - Dr. Erin Baker.In today's episode, we are joined by the amazing Dr. Erin Baker, Executive Coach, Elite Certified Neurotransformational Coach, Internal Family Systems L2 Practitioner, and Self-Leadership Expert. Erin earned a PhD in Social Psychology and is the Bestselling Author of "Joy-Full AF: The Essential Business Strategy We're Afraid to Put First." They led a UX Research team at Facebook, were part of bringing Facebook Stories to 2 billion people, and were the Director of UX Research and Design at Microsoft Yammer. Throughout this episode, a true testament to the uniqueness of everyone's gender experience, Erin discusses the process of coming to terms with their nonbinary gender identity throughout adolescence and early adulthood. They also share some of the challenges they faced, especially at the beginning. And we learned a lot thanks to Erin's openness about their top surgery, which led to a greater feeling of alignment with their gender. It was also interesting to hear about Erin’s experiences as a nonbinary person working for tech giants. Additionally, Erin talks about their book, the multiple benefits of pursuing joy, Self-Leadership Coaching, Internal Family Systems, and much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Dr. Erin's coming out story (6:40)Erin shares a bit about their experience with they/them pronouns and being misgendered (11:00)The retreat in Mexico that changed everything for Erin (18:10)Erin shares their thoughts on top surgery (24:00)What is Self-Leadership? Erin shares their perspectives on it (39:00)Pursue joy and success will follow (45:50)Resources Mentioned:Book: Dr. Erin Baker - Joy-Full AF: The Essential Business Strategy We're Afraid To Put FirstBook: Richard Schwartz, Alanis Morissette - No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems ModelConnect with Dr. Erin:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsiteFacebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

College students should be able to focus on their education without having to spend time and energy battling for fundamental rights like being addressed by their correct pronouns or having their gender expression acknowledged. This is one of the many reasons that Pride Centers at universities are essential. In this episode, we were so happy to be joined by Whitney Workman (fae/they), Manager of the California State University, Northridge Pride Center. We talk about faer work with LGBTQ+ students, the holistic view of the Pride Center at CSUN, their thoughts on the best ways of spreading awareness of LGBTQ+ issues on college campuses and more.A trailblazer in faer teen years, as the second person in their high school to come out, Whitney immediately recognized the needs in the Queer community and hasn't stopped working to improve lives and create safe spaces for students in their early stages of transition or exploring their own sexuality and gender.Throughout this episode, you'll hear about Whitney's journey from being an organizer at feminist organizations and working with reproductive justice to making it to the CSUN Pride Center. Fae then provides a detailed list of the Center's services, how it supports LGBTQ+ college students, and how to learn about their services and programs. We also discuss the best ways of spreading LGBTQ+ awareness, free speech, hate speech, censorship, and much more.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about Whitney and their background before becoming the manager of the CSUN Pride Center (2:20)What kind of support LGBTQ+ students will find at the Pride Center (18:30)Who should have access to students' legal names (23:30)Why the CSUN Pride Center is crucial for LGBTQ+ students (33:40)Whitney shares faer thoughts on the best ways of spreading awareness (42:40)Safety tips the Pride Center offers to LGBTQ+ students (54:40)Don't trust the Campus Pride Index, go to a college’s LGBTQ+ Center website to see what they offer (1:02:50)Connect with CSUN Pride Center:WebsiteConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"When I told my lesbian love that I was transitioning, she sat with me for four hours, and I said, I don't know what this means for us. Because I didn't know any families who looked like us, any couples who were a trans man with a lesbian. I found out later that there's a lot of us."In today's episode, you’ll get to hear the second half of our very special conversation with Peggy Gillespie, author of "Authentic Selves," and with Lana, Ted, Joseph, Tamira, and Christian, who shared their stories in Peggy's book. In this second part of our conversation, you'll learn about Christian, a suburban trans man, who was always told that it’s not okay to be out. He now embraces infinite, unconditional love, which he uses to teach his kids not to be ashamed of who they are or who their family is. You'll also hear about Joseph, a trans man, and his wife Tamira and their experiences parenting a trans kid. Additionally, we talk about couples that stay together after one of them transitions, Peggy talks about the importance of sharing her book and promoting these discussions, and much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about Christian's background and upbringing story (3:20)Christian's coming out story (9:20)The scary trans person the media warned you about (13:40)About couples that stay together after one of them transitions (18:10)How is it to be a Queer mom of a trans kid (25:40)How Peggy's book humanizes trans and nonbinary people (27:20)A bit about how Peggy's non-profit works (34:00)Resources:Book: Peggy Gillespie - Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their FamiliesFamily Diversity Projects: a non-profit organization with award-winning traveling photo-text exhibits, co-founded by Peggy Gillespie and Gigi KaeserConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I want other parents to know that it could be a life-or-death decision if you don't handle it right. Love your child. Carry the same love you had when they first came out of the womb, and you first saw them."In today's special episode, we’re joined by Peggy Gillespie, author of "Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families." Peggy's book, with a foreword by Jazz and Jeanette Jennings, depicts life stories and portraits of transgender and nonbinary people and their families. We get to know some of the stories in "Authentic Selves" first-hand since we are joined by Lana, Ted, Joseph and Tamira, and Christian, who are featured in the book and also in the award-winning traveling exhibits that Peggy organizes through Family Diversity Projects. In this first part of our two-part series panel discussion, you'll learn more about Peggy's background and motivation for developing her beautiful works of art, not only for the trans and nonbinary community but for society as a whole. You'll hear a little of Lana’s story and her struggles coming out as a transgender woman within her Caribbean-American culture, and you'll enjoy meeting Ted and hearing about his wonderful rainbow family.In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Peggy's background and how this extraordinary project was born (3:40)The importance of starting meaningful discussions with our children (9:50)A short introduction to the panel's guests and their stories (13:10)Lana shares her experiences coming out as a transgender woman (24:20)The moment Ted realized his assigned gender wasn't aligned with who he was (32:00)About a rainbow family with three dads (35:50)Resources:Book: Peggy Gillespie - Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their FamiliesFamily Diversity Projects: a non-profit organization with award-winning traveling photo-text exhibits, co-founded by Peggy Gillespie and Gigi KaeserConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re sure you’re aware of the wave of anti-trans legislation being proposed and passed across the United States, but much of the information out there is confusing and misleading. In today’s episode, we want to clear things up for you and identify the truth about what’s happening and why by analyzing the political discourse on LGBTQ+ issues. We also debunk some myths about the idea of San Francisco being a Queer haven. The increasing number of states that have outright banned gender-affirming care for anyone under 18 is forcing trans youth to flee red states and small towns to big blue cities. Unfortunately, they do not always find the support, safety, and opportunities they seek and may end up entangled in addictions, mental illness, and homelessness. Jackie describes how she has seen this firsthand in her career in local government in San Francisco.It’s not only trans youth who are affected. Many adults in some states, such as Florida, have been suddenly and shockingly prevented from renewing their necessary transition-related medications, due to new discriminatory laws making it incredibly difficult or even impossible. We discuss the effects of anti-trans legislation on the trans community, especially on trans youth, how we can all fight back, San Francisco's affordable housing issues, protests at schools that are teaching LGBTQ+ inclusion, and much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:The orange man and the political use of the transgender community (2:30)Making necessary HRT nearly impossible to obtain (5:40)Addressing the right-wing talking head Matt Walsh (9:50)Jackie's soapbox on the SF Board of Supervisors’ housing policies (13:00)The impacts of not having affordable housing (18:30)Connect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I believe that when something bothers you, either do something about it or get over it. And I couldn't manage to get myself over it. So that only left me one choice." - Dr. Kryss Shane on why she became an LGBTQ+ ally and advocate.In today's episode, we are joined by LGBTQ+ expert and cast member of TLC's "I Am Jazz," Dr. Kryss Shane. Dr. Kryss is an Educator and Consultant and the Author of "Creating an LGBT+ Inclusive Workplace," "The Educator's Guide to LGBT+ Inclusion," "Creating an LGBT+ Inclusive University," and "The Medical Professional's Guide to LGBT+ Inclusion." Throughout our conversation, Dr. Kryss talks about becoming an LGBTQ+ leading expert, the exhausting yet gratifying job of writing four books in four years, what people are saying about her recommendations for inclusion, and what it has been like to have her books banned. She shared some behind-the-scenes moments from "I Am Jazz" that showcase Jazz and her family's admirable human qualities.In addition, Dr. Kryss talks about her relationship with the Jennings family before the show aired, provides helpful advice for parents of LGBTQ+ kids, explains how she deals with online hate, and so much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Dr. Kryss' journey as an LGBTQ+ advocate and leading expert (3:30)Dr. Kryss talks about the positive feedback she gets about her books (10:20)What it feels like to have a book banned (12:10)How it was for Dr. Kryss to make her first appearance on "I Am Jazz" in season 7 (19:00)Dr. Kryss shares some juicy behind-the-scenes from the show (26:30)How to support LGBTQ+ kids the right way (38:20)Connect with Dr. Kryss:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterDr. Kryss Shane's booksConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we are so excited to be joined by the wonderful Sander Jennings. He is a creator, a digital marketing strategy expert, the Head of Marketing at Checkin, a love, positivity, and motivation spreader, an amazing LGBTQ+ ally, and the older brother of Jazz Jennings from TLC’s docuseries, I am Jazz. Throughout our conversation, Sander was very open about how it was for him growing up as Jazz's brother and how he dealt with being in the public eye. He masterfully cleared up some of the most common misconceptions about transgender people. For example, Sander had this to say about choice: "People don't choose to be transgender, people choose to come out. Yet support and becoming an LGBTQ+ ally is a choice." In addition, we discuss the need for allies to speak out and/or do what they can behind the scenes, the rewarding side of being an LGBTQ+ ally and advocate, how Sander deals with hate and bigotry online, and so much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:What it’s like to be Jazz's brother (3:20)Being an ally and advocate is a choice (6:30)Sander’s unique perspective on hate online (10:50)About social media platforms and their role in stopping hate and bigotry from spreading online (17:10)How allies can provide more support (23:10)About Sander’s work as a creator and digital marketing strategist (30:05)Connect with Sander:InstagramLinktr.eeConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are joined by the wonderful London Price. She is a queer, cisgender author who writes joyful trans romance. London has two beautiful kids and has been married to her transgender wife for 17 years.As an avid reader, London felt frustrated whenever she wanted to read queer romance and stumbled upon gigantic trigger warnings and stories that didn't resonate with her and her reality. She felt there was enough trauma and misunderstanding within the queer community, so she decided to write transgender romance stories focusing more on the joy of being queer and being part of a harmonious queer family.Throughout our conversation, London talks about her reasons for writing this kind of transgender romance, how she reacted when her wife, who used to present as male, came out to her as trans 3 years ago, and how her wife’s transition helped her learn new things about herself. We also discuss boundaries, consent, how transgender people are usually represented in the media, and much more.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about London's story and background (1:17)Lessons from the story of her wife coming out as transgender (5:09)How London decided to present transgender people in her books (10:46)The importance of thinking about how we teach our kids about boundaries and consent (16:13)About how London managed to create characters that are so relatable (23:29)Resources:London Price's booksConnect with London:WebsiteInstagramConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we’re thrilled to be joined by Jeanette Jennings, mother of the amazing spokesperson, YouTube and TV personality, and LGBTQ+ rights activist, Jazz Jennings. You may know Jazz and Jeanette from their popular award-winning docuseries, now in its 8th season on TLC, I am Jazz.Jazz was diagnosed with gender dysphoria at age three and socially transitioned at 5. She is one of the youngest publicly documented people who have identified as transgender. In 2007, when Jazz was only six years old, her story caught mainstream media's attention when Barbara Walters interviewed her and her family for 20/20. Throughout our conversation with Jeannette, we learn about the blessings and the most challenging parts of Jazz's journey as a transgender child, how Jeanette has fought for Jazz’s rights, and the support they received from friends and relatives. Jeanette also talks about how important it is for transgender kids' parents to set their egos aside and make informed decisions seeking the best for their children. We also discuss gender-affirming care, the story behind the interview with Barbara Walters, an interview with Oprah, and tons of behind-the-scenes golden nuggets from Jazz's family reality show, I am Jazz.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about Jazz's journey as a transgender kid (6:15)A family in transition (10:47)Jazz's experiences in kindergarten as a girl. How Jeanette learned to pick her battles (19:01)The most challenging parts of Jazz's transition (28:27)About the American states that don't provide gender-affirming care as a political decoy (42:43)What we can learn from transgender people's life experiences (58:29)Some behind-the-scenes stories from the show I am Jazz (1:09:13)Resources:I am Jazz on TLCTrans Kids Purple Rainbow FoundationThe Family Acceptance ProjectInterview with Barbara WaltersFollow Jazz on InstagramThe Jennings Family on InstagramConnect with Jeanette:InstagramConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook Group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A national Trevor Project survey of trans and nonbinary people found that being affirmed and having pronouns respected by most people in their lives dramatically reduced rates of depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts. One of the most significant ways we can support LGBTQ+ community members is through effective, affirming communication. Words are incredibly powerful. Choosing our language carefully when speaking with trans and nonbinary people isn’t as difficult as many people seem to think; in fact, in many cases, it literally takes fewer words. So, in today's episode, we go through some everyday words that when used in reference to trans experiences could be quite hurtful and disaffirming for trans people. We also cover terms that have recently been replaced, words that may once have been accepted, but are now completely outdated. In addition, we address generational issues for certain terms, such as "sex change operation," which many trans people today would not feel comfortable with using or hearing. We’re sure you can understand why the term “gender confirmation surgery,” which is now widely used, would likely feel more accurate and affirming. In This Episode, You'll Learn:How simple words can make a world of difference to someone else (4:32)What's wrong with the word "choice"? (6:05)Transition is not the same as change (7:18)What the word "preferred" implies when addressing a member of the LGBTQ+ community (12:23)Being transgender is never a "phase" (16:41)About the issues with the term "gender dysphoria" (24:12)Gender and the workplace (31:56)Resources:Confronting Gendered Workspaces by Jackie Thornhill. ArticleNational Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health 2020Family Acceptance Project. San Francisco State UniversityFamily Acceptance Project Research & Recommendations HandoutConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: Today's episode touches on extremely sensitive and upsetting topics. We’re addressing the harrowing hate crime at Colorado Springs’ Club Q on November 26th, where a shooter took the lives of Daniel Aston, Raymond Green Vance, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh, and Derrick Rump and injured another 25 people. The killing was stopped by Richard Fierro, a US Army veteran who, unarmed, managed to stop the 22-year-old gunman. Mr. Fierro's heroic actions not only saved many lives, but also sent a powerful message: the LGBTQ+ community is fighting this war with love, not violence, and they are going to win it. We discuss the underlying reasons behind the shooting, the rise of hate (as well as increasing support) for the LGBTQ+ community across the country, and the lack of humanity displayed by right-wing spokespersons when addressing grueling hate crimes. Jackie also shares her thoughts on the tweaks to legislation that could prevent these and other attacks and the cracks in gun control that consistently fail to stop the wrong people from accessing firearms. In This Episode, You Will Learn:About the brutal attack at Club Q (3:02)The things we can do to prevent this from happening again (7:08)What makes someone decide to get a gun and harm other human beings? (17:01)We must start asking who are we handing guns to (19:13)How can LGBTQ+ people feel safe? (23:23)Connect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we are joined by Kathleen Latlip and C.K. Malone, two amazing authors who recently each published a book designed to help and educate kids in their gender identity journey.Kathleen is a lifelong writer and editor who has worked as an Editor and/or Assistant Editor at Shondaland and ABC, Lionsgate, Marvel, Fox, Sony, Universal Pictures, and Grey's Anatomy, to name a few. She and her wife encourage their kids to fully express and be proud of their identities, whatever they might be, and however they may evolve. Kathleen recently published "Blink, Plue & Colorful You," a story of three monsters who realize their outside doesn't accurately communicate who they are on the inside. C.K. is a bigender award-winning educator and coach. They are a secondary-level teacher who loves educating people, promoting awareness about LGBTQIA2+ acceptance, and supporting and advocating for the cause. They wrote and recently published "A Costume for Charlie," a book about a child seeking the perfect costume that would help them express their bigender identity. Throughout this episode, our talented guests shared details of their books, what inspired them to create and share these unique stories, and what kind of feedback they’re receiving. They also described their experiences with editors and publishers, their passion for educating people on gender and sexuality, and how they see their work touching kids' and their parents' lives. In addition, C.K. explains the difference between bigender and non-binary, they talk about their journey as a bigender person, and we discuss code-switching and the choice to present our identity in specific ways in certain places for safety. In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about C.K and their life as an educator and coach (4:24)Kathleen shares her backstory and what inspired her to write this book (7:12)How these kinds of books can help children's gender identity journey (16:50)C.K. shares details of their process of writing "A Costume for Charlie" (28:55)C.K. explains the difference between bigender and non-binary (39:13)Kathleen and C.K talk about what happens when sexuality and gender identity put our safety on the line (46:50)Resources:Kathleen Latlip - Blink, Plue & Colorful You: A Story about Gender Expression and AcceptanceC.K. Malone - A Costume for CharlyConnect with Kathleen:websiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterConnect with C.K.:TwitterwebsiteConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentWebsite  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy & ParentingWhat does it actually mean to be an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist or parent? It may not be what you think. Today we’re honored to welcome Dr. Rebeks Clark Mane and Aba Horthy, highly trained therapists who specialize in this field as well as having their own lived experience as members of the community. The four of us explore this critically important topic with more depth and detail than we’ve ever gotten into before. What if we lived in a world where the model of responding to coming out (from parents, therapists, and others) was not about how hard life would be as an LGBTQIA+ person, but rather normalized and celebrated the experience and the uniqueness of the individual? This is what Rebeks and Aba teach us about in new, eye-opening ways. We know that outcomes are significantly more positive when LGBTQIA+ youth and adults are affirmed, encouraged, heard, seen, and believed. But what specifically does that look like? And, what might we be doing unknowingly that’s causing harm, even if we think we’re trying to be supportive? Rebeks is a transmasculine nonbinary therapist who loves working with folx in the "gray spaces" of identity. Aba is a queer mixed nonbinary therapist passionate about helping clients find and express their authentic selves. Both are Associate Marriage and Family Therapists and LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapists.Throughout our conversation, Rebeks, Aba, and Jackie share parts of their story, their relationship with their families before and after coming out, and the role affirmative therapy (and non-affirmative therapy) played in their journey. They also provide tips and advice for therapists and parents dealing with their kids' transition, how to support queer, nonbinary, and trans kids, and how to avoid disconfirming words and actions that can cause deep trauma.We also discuss the BIPOC queer, trans, and nonbinary experience, the white supremacist roots of the binary approach to queer representation, the informed consent model for gender affirming surgery, letters needed for surgery and their purpose, the need for cisgender folks to listen and learn with an open mind, gender policing, gender gatekeeping, media representation, the recent episode of The Problem with Jon Stewart called The War Over Gender, and much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:What LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy is (3:54)The current consent model for hormone therapy and surgery and the problems with it (7:07)What parents can do when they’re struggling with their kids' transition (18:44)Change in sexual orientation is entirely normal at any age and for any gender (21:12)How to avoid the trauma of being disconfirmed for trans and nonbinary kids (30:40)The damage gender reveal parties cause (43:32)What trans, queer, and nonbinary people's mental health and suicide rates look like when they are surrounded by love and support (56:43)Resources:Horthy & Mane Therapy websiteThe Problem With John Stuart - The War Over GenderConnect with Rebeks:LinkedInConnect with Aba:LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While it’s popular in some circles to suggest that LGBTQ+ activists are “canceling” people for transphobic or homophobic comments and that being canceled can ruin someone's career, we have plenty of evidence to the contrary. Jackie's grandfather, Bill, hosts today's show with us and brings a very interesting view on cancel culture. He invites us to reflect on what is hidden behind the idea of being canceled and its real-world consequences.We go through several examples of blatantly transphobic public figures who faced criticism and seem to expect sympathy for supposedly being canceled as a result of their harmful, cruel remarks about the transgender community. Exploring the controversies surrounding people such as Brittany Aldean, J.K. Rowling, Dave Chapelle, or Ricky Gervais, raises the question: were they really canceled?  We also analyze social media's role in spreading misinformation and exacerbating hate speech, and we take an honest look at ourselves to think about the content we decide to consume or support. We’d like to debunk myths about what actually prevents people from being considered allies, and bring a deeper awareness to the true consequences of our words and actions.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Bill's unique view on cancel culture and its effects (3:04)Do canceled people get anything canceled at all? (6:44)How semantics can totally distort the meaning of people's actions (8:04)The role of social media algorithms in defining what is allowed to be on our timeline and what isn't (12:30)Where and how we draw the line on the type of content we consume or decide to stop consuming (30:13)How being canceled can actually be really good for business (41:35)Connect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we analyze the political landscape around LGBTQ rights, the latest rollback from the Supreme Court on abortion rights, and the clear intention of the Republican party to have control over people's bodies and turn the clock back on civil rights. Far from falling into the blue or red dichotomy's rabbit hole, today's episode intends to invite you to pay attention to where democracy is heading and to look at the incipient growth of authoritarian tendencies, with groups in power making decisions about the lives of transgender folks, cis women, people of color, immigrants, and virtually every minority. Jackie shares alarming statistics about people's beliefs, from people who firmly believe the country is run by a satanic cult to others who are convinced that patriots might have to resort to violence to "restore the country's order."We also analyze how politicians use economic anxiety and the bitterness of those who feel they're missing a slice of the American dream to inflame xenophobic acts, violence, and hate against queer communities.In addition, Jackie makes a call to action and explains the many ways you can get involved with, assist, and do something to support human rights, even if you live in a blue state or city. In This Episode, You Will Learn:About the Republican Party's clear intention of legislating over people's bodies (7:06)Some of the most absurd and scary beliefs people now hold (15:39)The need for organizing, knocking on doors, and making phone calls to legislators (18:57)How politicians use people's economic anxieties and fears to manipulate them (22:31)About the alarming tendency to undo democracy (37:57)Jackie reminds us of the need to remain politically active and involved (41:57)Resources Mentioned: United States map showing connections between abortion rights, trans rights, and percentage of residents with a master’s degreeRelevant Past Episodes:Ep. 17: The Truth About Anti-Trans LegislationEp. 8: Medical care for Transgender youth w/ Dr. Johanna Olson-KennedyConnect with Jackie and Bridget:Transgender Support: Becoming a True Ally Video Course on VimeoTransgender School Patreon Membership with all exclusive contentTransgender School on MediumInstagramWebsite FacebookCommunity Facebook GroupYouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.