Elena J. Nova: Not an Apology | Drag, Disability, and Queer Defiance, Tracing Repentance

On this episode, Caroline, Jordan, and Jenna are joined by Elena J. Nova (Ru$ted Electra) the reigning Mx Trans Oklahoma 2025. A former ballerina and musical theatre performer, they now merge ballet-inspired movement with androgynous fashion to create drag that is raw, emotional, and boundary-pushing.

Together, they explore Ru$ted’s path from the discipline of ballet to the fluidity of drag, and how their work as a performer, producer, and poet (Not an Apology and The Last Man on Earth) intersects with activism. From queer joy to chronic illness awareness to domestic violence prevention, their artistry becomes both personal expression and public platform.

This conversation is about embodiment, resilience, and reclaiming space. Ru$ted Electra invites us to consider how movement, creativity, and lived experience converge to shape identity, fuel connection, and spark collective liberation.

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Ru$ted Electra Bio

Elena J. Nova, also known as Ru$ted Electra is non binary, an author, poet, and activist from Memphis, TN, and the reigning Mx Trans Oklahoma 2025. A former ballerina and musical theatre performer, Elena now channels their artistry into writing and drag performance, blending ballet-inspired movement with androgynous fashion to create work that is visceral, emotive, and transformative. They are the author of two poetry collections, Not an Apology and The Last Man on Earth, and use their platform to advocate for queer joy, chronic illness awareness, and inclusive creative spaces. Through poetry, performance, and activism, Elena uplifts LGBTQ+ people, disabled individuals, and fellow artists, inviting audiences to explore identity, resilience, and authentic expression.

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About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 75 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus

Created and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for Creator’s.

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💵 Support via CashApp: $gottabesomthinmore

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Resources

Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)

Trevor Project: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR

National Domestic Violence Hotline: [phone]-SAFE

Drug Abuse National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357

S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends): 1-800-DONT-CUT

Family Violence Prevention Center: 1-800-313-1310

National Human Service Call Center: 2-1-1