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 wi...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 4Ep. 11
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 hi...
Apr 21, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 4Ep. 12
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...
Apr 14, 2025•1 hr 1 min
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 auth...
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 4Ep. 10
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 poli...
Mar 31, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 4Ep. 9
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 t...
Mar 24, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Season 4Ep. 8
, On this episode, Athena and Caroline are joined by Carl Charles as they discuss his work as a senior attorney at Lambda Legal and his journey as a trans advocate. Carl shares how his experiences as a teacher led him to pursue law, ultimately shaping his career in trans rights advocacy. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs he has encountered while fighting for LGBTQ+ civil rights, highlighting the importance of resilience and joy even in the face of adversity. The conversation also explor...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 26 min
On this episode, Athena, Caroline, and Ellie have the pleasure of meeting Laurie Lee Hall, a transgender woman and former high-ranking member of the Mormon Church. Laurie shares her remarkable journey of self-discovery, transition, and advocacy, highlighting the importance of community, support, and acceptance. Her story is one of resilience and courage, offering valuable insights into the experiences of transgender individuals within religious communities. The group explores themes of identity,...
Mar 10, 2025•1 hr 22 min•Season 4Ep. 6
On this episode, Caroline, Della, and Honey are joined by Tia Mirage Hall as they discuss the challenges and fears surrounding the new political climate in 2025, with a focus on the increasing number of bills targeting the trans community and the potential for AI to systematically remove changes made to names legally. The conversation delves into the rise of the alt-right and religious nationalism, the importance of providing accurate and factual information to counter misinformation and disinfo...
Mar 03, 2025•1 hr 29 min•Season 4Ep. 5
On this episode, Athena and Caroline are joined by Quinn Dinsmore as they discuss Quinn's background in education and public health before transitioning into voice work, drawing from their family's radio background and personal journey with voice training. Quinn discussed their unique approach to vocal coaching, emphasizing inclusivity, nervous system work, and the importance of personal practice while also sharing their plans for making voice lessons more accessible through scholarships and sli...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 4 min
On this episode, Caroline and Kevin are joined by returning guest Flamy Grant as they delve into the intersections of faith, identity, and creativity. Flamy shares their journey from Christian music artist to full-time musician and drag artist, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. Flamy opens up about their personal story, including the inspiration behind their new album "Church" and their song tribute to Leslie Jordan. They also share their experiences with the church and the i...
Feb 17, 2025•57 min
On this episode Athena, Caroline, and Honey are joined by returning guest from season 3, Sasha Buchert as they discussed their concerns about the current political climate and its impact on the trans community, focusing on anti-trans legislation and the importance of solidarity and support. They also discussed the current state of bills and executive orders affecting the transgender community, the implications of redefining gender, and the legal complexities faced by schools in complying with bo...
Feb 10, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 4Ep. 2
On our season 4 premiere episode, Athena, Dr. Ann Pellegrini, and Caroline meet Honey Rose as they delve into the challenges and fears surrounding the current political climate, particularly for the transgender community. Our guest, Honey, shares their personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance, highlighting the importance of community support and understanding. They also discuss the alarming rise of bills targeting the trans community, the potential dangers of AI in systematically removi...
Feb 03, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 4Ep. 1
On this episode Ari and Caroline are joined by returning guests Dr. Avgi Saketopoulou, Dr. Ann Pellegrini, and Dr Kriya Gishen as they continue discussing Gender without identity, what is means to be trans in a world that dictates so much of our lives, when gender is being used to control others, and how to find ourselves authentically in an unauthentic world. Ave-hee"Last Name: "Sock-eh-to-poo-loo”Dr. Avgi Saketopoulou is a psychoanalyst in private practice in NYC and a member of the faculty at...
Nov 04, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 3Ep. 24
On this episode Athena and Caroline had the pleasure of meeting Reverend Oliver snow as they export feed the trauma embedded in the queer community about how the church has treated us, healing in community through faith and acceptance of others and finding peace within in yourself "Rev. Oliver Snow, a queer Christian leader, fosters inclusive communities and empowers LGBTQ+ spiritual growth through Mothman Ministries. A transitioned man living in Appalachia since 2019, Oliver's journey offers un...
Oct 07, 2024•56 min•Season 3Ep. 23
On this episode Caroline and Lusi meet renowned Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) specialist Dr. Kriya Gishen as they explore facial reconstruction, facial feminization surgery, access to care, and the benefits of gender affirming care.Dr Kriya specializes in facial aesthetics and reconstruction. Her formal training in both the biological sciences and the visual arts was completed at Brown University and her surgical fellowship in Craniofacial reconstruction and facial aesthetics was completed a...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 3Ep. 22
On this episode, Ariya, Caroline, and Rachel sit and talk with Derik Davis as they discuss their personal experiences, political views, and advocacy work for transgender rights, with a focus on the challenges and progress within the trans and broader LGBTQIA+ community. They also engaged in a light-hearted discussion about their shared interests in various forms of media, including TV shows, movies, books, and anime. The conversation concluded with an emphasis on the importance of supporting eac...
Aug 05, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 3Ep. 21
On this episode, Ariya, Athena, and Caroline meet Lucas as they discuss his personal journey of self-discovery and authenticity. They dive into his experience coming out to his family, his passion for marketing, and his thoughts on gender identity and expression. They explore how he's built an authentic connection with his online audience through content creation and online marketing. They also discuss the impact of societal policing of gender on individuals and communities, and how important it...
Jul 15, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Season 3Ep. 20
On this episode Caroline, Claudia Alick sit with Sonja Young and discussed their personal experiences with gender identity, representation, and activism, with a focus on the intersections of marginalized identities and the role of the internet in shaping these aspects. They also explored the power of art and writing in understanding and navigating the world, and the importance of community care, self-care, and representation in creating a more just and inclusive society. Lastly, they discussed t...
Jun 17, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 3Ep. 19
On this episode Ari, Athena, Caroline, and Jessie join to discuss Jessie's most recent video "how anti trans hate fuels fascism, when our favorite content creators are pro Israel, and envisioning a world post capitalism “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 “transnarrativepodcast@gmail.com” Support a...
Jun 10, 2024•1 hr 30 min•Season 3Ep. 18
On this episode Ari, and Caroline meet Dr. Ann Pellegrini and Dr. Avgi Saketopoulou as they engaged in a comprehensive discussion on gender identity, expression, and the evolution of psychoanalysis, with a focus on the challenges of researching and publishing on these topics. The conversation also touches on the intersections of trauma, gender development, mythology, and the concept of self-narration, with an emphasis on the importance of respecting individual experiences of gender identity, cha...
May 27, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 3Ep. 17
On this episode Caroline, and Jason meet our new friend Van Ethan Levy as they explore “Do something Conference” which takes place May 31st, identity erasure, and trust in fostering an inclusive society. Van (they) is a queer, non binary, trans, socialized as female, Egyptian, Jewish, LatinX, who is autistic and has dynamic disabilities amongst many more historically and currently excluded identities. They are dually licensed as a Marriage & Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clini...
May 13, 2024•56 min•Season 3Ep. 16
On this episode Caroline, Jason, and Mar meet Sasha Buchert as they discuss Sasha’s military background, her work at Lambda Legal, and the challenges faced by trans and non-binary communities in the US, along with discussing ongoing protests, recent court cases, and the importance of voting, with a focus on trans rights and the corrupting influence of money in politics.Sasha Buchert is a Senior Attorney in the Washington D.C. office of Lambda Legal, the oldest and largest organization dedicated ...
May 06, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 3Ep. 15
On this episode Caroline, Jason, and Mar meet our new friend Ben Greene as they talk about the impact of social media on mental health, trans youth, and Ben’s new book “my child is trans, now what” out May 7thBEN GREENE is a trans man, transgender advocate, and educator who has spoken internationally on topics surrounding transgender inclusion. After coming out at 15 in small-town Connecticut and giving a popular TEDx talk at Brandeis University, Ben has devoted his career to spreading empathy, ...
Apr 30, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 3Ep. 14
On our 100TH EPISODE Caroline and Lusi meet Jason Lee from the uk as they explore gender inclusive healthcare, Jason’s transition, Alzheimer’s, being visible in a dangerous world, and a special throwback clip from the original original first ever episode of the trans narrative podcast. "Jason Lee, a fully medically transitioned trans man, has overcome a life of hate crimes and transphobia. He realized his male identity at age 5 and began his transition in 2001. Jason has made significant contrib...
Apr 22, 2024•1 hr 32 min•Season 3Ep. 13
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 Mana...
Apr 15, 2024•53 min•Season 3Ep. 12
On this episode Athena and Caroline are joined by returning guest from season two, Jenna D, and our friend Maebe A. Girl!! Maebe is an amazing progressive Democrat running for the U.S. House of Representatives in California's 30th District. She's currently serving as Treasurer and At-Large Representative for the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council in Los Angeles. In 2019, Maebe made history as the first drag queen elected to public office in the United States. She's been instrumental in forming the...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 3Ep. 11
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 em...
Apr 01, 2024•51 min•Season 3Ep. 10
On this episode Ari, Athena, and Caroline meet Ellie Dote. Meet Ellie Dote, a queer, trans Christian woman from SoCal. She's a graphic designer, author, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Through her Pastor Ellie ministry, she strives to create inclusion in the Evangelical Church and support the LGBTQ+ community. 🌈✨ 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 p...
Mar 26, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Season 3Ep. 9
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 o...
Mar 18, 2024•1 hr•Season 3Ep. 8
