In this episode of "A Life Lived Trans," hosts MahD and Lenny Z delve into the complexities of transphobia while highlighting the silver linings that can be found amidst the challenges. They discuss personal experiences and societal changes, emphasizing the importance of resilience and hope. The conversation touches on the progress made in trans visibility and rights, the role of allies, and the power of community support. The episode concludes with a guided meditation led by MahD, offering listeners a moment of peace and reflection. Join MahD and Lenny as they navigate the intersection of personal growth and societal change, reminding us all to look for the silver linings in every situation.

*For paid Patreon members, there is a Bonus Clip about how Mardi learned this mediation practice from a Tibetan Buddhist nun.

On this week’s episode Mardi and Lenny are thrilled to be joined by the rising supermodel and youthful trans-advocate Vivian Jenna Wilson. They all share their stories of lives lived trans, and Vivian details her egg being cracked (beginning of her trans journey), what it was like to transition as a freshman in high school, peer support, as well as her takes on toxic masculinity, Zhoran Mamdani, the right’s fixation and targeted campaign against trans people especially youth, her hair care routine, changes in support for trans folk within the queer community over the years and a poignant message to trans youth just beginning to experience a gender expansive journey and what to do when it’s right for them.

In this episode of the Life Lived Trans podcast, hosts Mardi and Lenny welcome Regina, who shares her brave journey of transitioning the day she retired at 65, 10 years ago. Living in a very conservative rural community Regina recounts her experiences of acceptance in her community, the significance of being true to oneself and the importance of queer community support and networking. We discuss the differences and similarities between early and late transitions, emphasizing the shared struggles within the transgender community. Greater awareness and respect for trans persons transitioning later in life is unfortunately. The significance of storytelling and sharing of our differing trans experiences within the trans community can not be stressed enough. Reference: transrurallives.org