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 Penny, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“transnarrativepodcast@gmail.com”

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

“This podcast ethically uses Chat GPT/Zoom AI to generate episode summaries, ensuring accuracy while maintaining the integrity and intent of our guests’ stories.”

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 Penny, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“transnarrativepodcast@gmail.com”

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

“This podcast ethically uses Chat GPT/Zoom AI to generate episode summaries, ensuring accuracy while maintaining the integrity and intent of our guests’ stories.”

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/t4EHqc
This 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 Penny, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“transnarrativepodcast@gmail.com”

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

“This podcast ethically uses Chat GPT/Zoom AI to generate episode summaries, ensuring accuracy while maintaining the integrity and intent of our guests’ stories.”

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