Recently, I was invited to be on the live show, The Backpack Show, with Chris Brogan and Kerry O'Shea Gorgone, which describes itself as a business podcast but fun. Watch the reply below or scroll down to read a summary.

During the podcast, I had the opportunity to share various aspects of my life and expertise. We engaged in a casual conversation that touched upon my experiences as a trans person and my professional journey as a vocal coach specializing in trans voice training. We explored broader issues related to gender identity and representation, providing insights into my background and the evolution of my career.

I discussed how I initially conducted live workshops for trans organizations in Montreal but shifted to online programming due to the pandemic, leading me to develop and offer online courses. The importance of curiosity in interactions with trans individuals was a key theme, and I shared how my teaching experiences had contributed to my personal growth in understanding and respecting diverse gender identities and presentations.

The conversation also delved into my journey from live workshops to online courses and highlighted the impact of the pandemic on trans organizations receiving funding for online initiatives. I talked about my move to Mexico City, emphasizing the vibrant queer community in the city and the positive experiences I've had.

We explored my teacher training course, where I help others understand and communicate effectively about trans issues. Throughout the discussion, I emphasized the fundamental principle of accepting individuals' self-identification with their gender from the moment they share it, regardless of their appearance.

We touched on the challenges faced by the trans community, including the resource-intensive nature of transitioning. I underscored the privilege associated with accessing resources for surgeries or other aspects of transition and acknowledged the diverse experiences within the trans community.

The podcast also allowed me to share personal aspects of my life, such as my commitment to journaling as a "beige trait" and my experiences of not always presenting as visibly trans in certain contexts, acknowledging the double-edged sword of this situation.

We delved into the representation of transgender people in popular culture, where I emphasized the importance of trans individuals telling their own stories and cautioned against narratives crafted by cisgender individuals. I advocated for diverse representation beyond trans identities, encompassing individuals with different backgrounds and characteristics.

Towards the end of the conversation, I shared my perspective on the role of trans individuals in challenging societal norms and making it more acceptable for everyone to be authentic. I expressed frustration with people who judge others based on appearances and stressed the significance of allowing people to be themselves without unnecessary scrutiny.

In summary, the podcast provided an opportunity for me to offer a nuanced and insightful glimpse into my life, my professional journey, and my advocacy for the trans community. The conversation covered a range of topics, from the impact of the pandemic on trans organizations to broader issues of representation and acceptance in society.

I hope you enjoyed listening and watching!