Interview with Kelly Grice

In the heart of Manchester, among the terraced homes and unmistakable Northern charm of Burnage, grew a girl who hadn't yet found her reflection in the mirror. That girl would one day become Kelly Grice, a tall, elegant woman with a warm laugh, a resilient spirit, and a story of courage that would inspire many across the UK and beyond. Known for her height at 6 ft 4, Kelly’s true measure is found not in inches, but in strength, grace, and kindness. Today, Kelly lives happily with her husband, Darren Grice, whose support and love became her anchor during the more turbulent waters of her transition. Together, they prove that love transcends every expectation. In 2017, Kelly published her memoir “My Journey from He to She and How to Transition”, a heartfelt and practical guide born from the meticulous notes she kept throughout her experience, written not for fame, but to ease the journey of others walking a similar path.

 

From navigating the NHS system to embracing life as her authentic self, Kelly's journey is one of honesty and hope. She speaks candidly about the challenges trans women face, the importance of self-compassion, and the quiet victories that come from being seen and accepted, not only by others, but by oneself. Beyond her book, Kelly is now pursuing a degree in Psychology, with the dream of one day supporting other transgender individuals through their own transitions. In her downtime, she finds joy in simple things, comfortable leggings, conversations by the canal, and historical novels set in ancient times, including the one she's currently writing about Alexander the Great. In this interview, Kelly shares her experiences, insights, and a wisdom that only comes from living life fully, openly, and without apology. It is my honor and pleasure to introduce you to a woman whose voice, both gentle and powerful, reminds us all that the journey to becoming ourselves is one worth every step.

Interview with Shauna Marie O'Toole

Shauna Marie O’Toole is a woman whose life story reads like an epic, full of resilience, reinvention, and radiant authenticity. An activist, scientist, engineer, educator, and mother, Shauna has lived many lives before fully embracing the one that brings her the most joy: her life as a transgender woman, committed to fighting for justice and equality. Currently living in Geneva, New York, she is the Director of the We Exist Coalition of the Finger Lakes and a proud voice for her community. Her activism is grounded not only in policy and advocacy but in profound personal experience, from moments of homelessness to the power of reclaiming identity and voice. 

 

A self-described “accidental heroine,” Shauna began publicly transitioning at the age of 50, documenting her journey in her deeply moving memoir, You Can’t Shave in a Minimart Bathroom. With honesty and heart, she has spoken out about the joy and heartbreak of transition, the importance of chosen family, and the continued fight for transgender visibility in political and social arenas. Whether she's standing at the podium at the Women's March in Seneca Falls or speaking from her heart in a quiet classroom, Shauna radiates the kind of quiet courage that changes lives. In this interview, we meet a woman who has not only walked through fire for her children and her truth, but who continues to stand tall, spine forged in steel, voice full of empathy, so that others might walk a little more freely. With her fierce intellect, biting humor, and unwavering hope, Shauna reminds us that authenticity is not only beautiful, it is revolutionary. 

Interview with Lisa Bunker

It is my joy and privilege to introduce Lisa Bunker, a woman whose life and words shimmer with authenticity, resilience, and quiet grace. Lisa is best known for her imaginative and deeply human novels Felix Yz and Zenobia July, stories that open portals not only to other worlds, but into the hearts of young readers who yearn to see themselves reflected with tenderness and truth. After decades of persistence, Lisa is now living her dream as a full-time writer, creating stories that blend whimsy with wisdom, and crafting characters who are wonderfully, unapologetically themselves. Having transitioned in her mid-forties, she speaks with gentle clarity about the realities of gender, love, and becoming.

 

Her path was not without its challenges, but Lisa’s story is one of remarkable grace: she did not lose family or friends, she found herself. Beyond the page, Lisa has also stepped into the realm of politics, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and standing as a powerful example of how trans voices can shape public life with dignity and purpose. In love, too, she has found joy and sanctuary, engaged to the woman who loves her for exactly who she is. Lisa Bunker is not only a writer of trans stories, but a writer of human stories. Her voice is thoughtful, lyrical, and grounded in a deep belief in the worth of every person. In this conversation, she opens up about her creative journey, her experience of transition, and the quiet power of simply not giving up. Let’s meet her.

Interview with Marissa Alexa McCool

Meeting Marissa Alexa McCool is like stepping into a world where words are electric, emotions unapologetically raw, and courage is worn as elegantly as eyeliner. A vibrant force in the transgender and neurodivergent communities, Marissa is a proud trans woman whose voice resonates across books, podcasts, and stages alike. Based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, she is a loving mother of two, a devoted spouse, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (cum laude, no less), and a fierce advocate for visibility and justice. A storyteller by instinct and craft, Marissa was typing before she could tie her shoes, dreaming up characters and conversations that would later come alive in her novels, essays, and public performances. Whether exploring the pain and poetry of identity in Passing Cars: The Internal Monologue of a Neurodivergent Trans Girl, speaking out against bigotry in The PC Lie: How American Voters Decided I Don’t Matter, or weaving the ache of adolescence into fiction like False Start, Marissa creates space for voices so often pushed to the margins. Her work doesn’t just reflect her life, it becomes a lifeline for readers searching for representation, reflection, or simply the comfort of not being alone. 

 

As a public speaker, podcaster, and community builder, Marissa is radiant and relentless. She’s not afraid to raise her voice, whether it’s to a hate preacher or a packed auditorium, and she does so not for attention, but to deflect the fire from others who may not have the safety or privilege she’s fought hard to secure. Her activism is deeply personal, born of trauma, transformation, and an unwavering desire to make the world more livable for the next generation of trans kids. Marissa’s journey is one of defiance and discovery. From coming out in the aftermath of the Pulse nightclub shooting to co-founding the Trans Podcaster Visibility Initiative, she has turned grief into grit, silence into stage presence, and marginalization into meaningful change. And through it all, her message remains beautifully clear: we exist, we matter, and our stories are worth telling. It is my heartfelt honor to share this conversation with Marissa Alexa McCool, a woman whose presence is as powerful as her prose, and whose light continues to reach those still searching for their own.

Interview with Shandi Strong

From the heart of Winnipeg, Manitoba, emerges a woman whose resilience and advocacy have carved out a path of courage, compassion, and transformation. Shandi Strong is not only a powerful voice for transgender rights in Canada, but a symbol of what it means to rebuild a life with fierce authenticity and tender hope. As a public speaker, author, photographer, musician, and dedicated community leader, Shandi's journey is one of deep losses and even deeper triumphs. Crowned as the first transgender Grand Marshal of the Winnipeg Pride Parade in 2015, honored with the Trail Blazer Award by the Winnipeg LGBT* Chamber of Commerce, and currently serving in multiple leadership roles, Advocacy Coordinator for Pride Winnipeg, Executive Secretary for Manitobans For Human Rights Inc., and a constituency assistant at the Manitoba Legislature, Shandi has committed her life to lifting others even as she walked through her own storms.

 

Her story, detailed in a forthcoming book and widely shared across Canadian media, is a mosaic of personal reinvention, political ambition, and quiet grace. From performing live music at Pride events to organizing Winnipeg’s first Trans March, she embodies the beautiful intersection of creative spirit and civic service. What stands out most, however, is her unwavering belief in the power of visibility, empathy, and the strength found in simply being oneself. In this interview, Shandi speaks openly about her journey, her heartbreaks, her rediscovered connection with her daughters, and her unrelenting hope for the next generation of trans youth. Her words are honest and warm, touched by a lifetime of growth, and a heart that never stopped loving, dreaming, and believing in a better world for all of us.

Interview with Lisa O'Connor

In a world where the transgender community often finds itself navigating uncharted terrain, it is heartening to meet women like Lisa O’Connor, who not only survived her own transition but chose to transform it into a beacon of support for others. A physician, therapist, and proud founder of Healthy Transitions, LLC, Lisa is a steady and compassionate presence for countless transgender and gender-diverse individuals seeking guidance, affirmation, and care. Born and raised in the vibrant heart of New York City, Lisa brings a blend of sharp intellect and warm humor to everything she does, from her clinical work in endocrinology and psychotherapy to the simple yet profound act of helping someone pick their first outfit or find the courage to come out. Her approach is holistic, deeply human, and grounded in lived experience. Lisa’s journey into womanhood was anything but easy. 

 

Like many of us, she walked through fire, losing family, a job, and nearly her peace of mind. But in the ashes, she found a calling. Her mother’s unexpected embrace became a light in the darkness, one that still shines in Lisa’s practice today, where kindness and knowledge go hand in hand. She’s the kind of woman who understands that beauty isn’t about passing, it’s about presence. That health isn’t just medical, it’s emotional, social, and spiritual. And that freedom for trans people won’t come in a bottle or a scalpel alone, but in the fierce, daily act of living authentically. Today, I have the honor of speaking with this extraordinary woman, part healer, part advocate, part philosopher, and always herself. Please join me in welcoming Lisa O’Connor, a woman whose work, wisdom, and warmth continue to shape lives far beyond the walls of her clinic.

Interview with Rachel Eliason

Rachel Eliason is a deeply thoughtful writer, speaker, and author whose life’s calling has always been two-fold: a passion for storytelling and an unyielding journey to live as her true self. Growing up in the U.S. Midwest during the 1970s and ’80s, she harbored fantasies of transformations and adventures within the pages of science fiction and fantasy, worlds where the impossible felt not only possible but profoundly personal. Her path led to the creation of The Agony, The Ecstasy and The Buddha: One Woman's Month in Thailand having a Sex Change, a work that blends memoir with courage. Alongside, she nurtured a reflective creative life, crafting both fiction and nonfiction from the quiet of her attic office. 

 

One of her proudest works is Run, Clarissa, Run, a novel born from her determination to portray the intricate and beautiful diversity of transgender lived experiences, and from her belief that no single story can encapsulate them all. Rachel’s activism is rooted in gratitude. She credits her supportive community in Iowa, including the civil rights climate, her transition-friendly workplace, and vibrant local groups, for helping her embrace her identity with grace and resolve. She stands inspired by trailblazing voices like Aleshia Brevard, Laverne Cox, Janet Mock, and Michelle Hendley, along with younger activists like Jazz Jennings. Driven by earnest conviction, she remains active in politics and education, giving talks, supporting causes like One Iowa, Des Moines Pride, the ACLU, and the Sierra Club, and trusts that courage and focus can change even the smallest part of the world.

Interview with Samantha Lauzon

There are women whose strength takes the shape of quiet resilience, and then there are those like Samantha Lauzon, radiant, outspoken, unapologetically fierce, and unmistakably feminine. A Canadian model, actress, adult film director, and beloved YouTube vlogger, Samantha is not only a powerhouse in the entertainment world, but also a heartfelt voice for transgender visibility, mental health awareness, and self-love. Her journey began early, transitioning at just 13, in a time when role models for trans girls were almost nonexistent, and when love, both from others and for herself, had to be fiercely fought for. With a career that dances between vulnerability and boldness, Samantha shares her life online with unfiltered honesty, offering everything from beauty advice to deeply personal reflections on depression, sex work, and empowerment.

 

Her storytelling invites us into the real, messy, beautiful corners of a woman’s life, one built on courage, compassion, and an endless willingness to uplift others. Her resilience is grounded in experience, her words in truth, and her laughter in knowing that nothing, not stigma, not rejection, not even fear, can outshine authenticity. In a world that often underestimates transgender women, Samantha stands tall, camera in hand, heart on sleeve, a living example of what it means to never shrink for anyone. As she says herself: “I don’t need a man, I want a man. There’s a difference.” And that difference is called power. It’s my honor to introduce you to Samantha Lauzon: a woman who has transformed her pain into passion, and her voice into a lifeline for those still learning to love the reflection in the mirror.

Interview with Claire-Renee Kohner

It is my heartfelt honor to introduce Claire-Renee Kohner, a remarkable woman whose life story weaves together resilience, motherhood, and tireless advocacy. Claire-Renee is an American transgender journalist, activist, blogger, and devoted mother of three sons. Through her writing, she brings attention to both the everyday realities and the extraordinary achievements within the transgender and queer communities, with a special focus on artists, entertainers, and changemakers who are shaping culture from the margins inward. Claire-Renee has contributed over 100 published articles to esteemed outlets including The Advocate, Bustle, PlanetTransgender, GayEssentials, Original Plumbing, and her own platform Claire Channel Media, which she developed to amplify underrepresented voices in trans and queer storytelling. She has appeared on HuffPost Live, The Queer Radio Network, and MyTalk107.1, boldly discussing trans visibility, dating, and representation in media. Her digital presence, including PlanetClaire, continues to serve as a thoughtful hub for global transgender news.

 

Behind every article and appearance is a personal journey of astonishing depth. Claire-Renee came out publicly in support of gender-inclusive policies before city councils and national television cameras, moments that were as brave as they were vulnerable. Her path to womanhood was not easy, shadowed by depression, survival, and ultimately, rebirth. Yet, with quiet strength and radiant authenticity, she embraced her truth, turning hardship into hope, not only for herself, but for those who see themselves reflected in her words. Claire-Renee speaks not only as an advocate but as a survivor, a parent, a woman who knows loss and love, and a fierce believer in the power of community. Whether highlighting trans representation in media or confronting injustice in politics, she brings a fearless, compassionate voice to the ongoing fight for transgender dignity and visibility. Today, I am deeply moved to sit down with Claire-Renee, a woman whose story deserves not just to be read, but to be remembered. 

Interview with Emily Crose

In the world of cybersecurity, where silence, precision, and vigilance are the tools of the trade, Emily Crose has built a name for herself not only as a formidable network threat hunter, but also as a woman of quiet resilience, clarity, and strength. A former civilian cybersecurity specialist with the U.S. Army, Emily's story is a rare blend of technological prowess and deeply personal transformation. When she made the brave decision to transition medically and socially in 2016, she was not just stepping into herself, she was stepping into the spotlight of a career field dominated by men, and into a world still struggling to understand what it means to be truly inclusive. Emily’s life is grounded in love, curiosity, and purpose. With the unwavering support of her wife and two children, she navigated her path with grace and intentionality. Her shift from aspiring history teacher to cybersecurity expert speaks to a woman who would rather shape the future than only study the past. Yet, her love for history still glimmers behind the lines of code and firewalls she now commands.

 

She calls the trans women who guided her early steps her “fairy godmothers,” and speaks with admiration of figures like Jenny Boylan, Sarah McBride, and countless others whose courage paved the way. At the same time, she is refreshingly modest about her own journey, acknowledging the privileges she’s had, while never minimizing the weight of choosing authenticity over comfort. Emily is not just a voice of reason in the volatile realm of cybersecurity. She’s a voice of reflection and honesty in a society still learning how to hold space for trans stories, stories like hers, rooted in everyday love, tenacity, and fierce femininity. Whether she's discussing the broken landscape of cybersecurity policy, the stubborn glass ceilings in tech, or the understated beauty of a well-fitted skirt and a favorite nail polish, Emily brings insight, sincerity, and strength. It is my honor and delight to share this conversation with a woman who exemplifies intelligence and integrity, not only in what she does, but in who she is.

Interview with Ryka Aoki

There are artists who write to tell a story, and then there are artists like Ryka Aoki, who write to save lives, stitch together lost histories, and offer fragments of joy to those who’ve forgotten how to hold it. A poet, novelist, teacher, and martial artist, Ryka moves through the world like a quiet storm, gentle, grounded, but full of power. A two-time Lambda Literary Award finalist, she has made her mark not only with books like He Mele a Hilo and Seasonal Velocities, but through her compassionate presence in classrooms, shelters, and queer community centers across Los Angeles. Her work has been featured in Gender Outlaws: The Next Generation, Transfeminist Perspectives, and The Transgender Studies Reader 2, not simply as literature, but as lived truth.

 

Raised in California and shaped by a complex mixture of cultural influences, Ryka brings to her writing a deep respect for memory, place, and music, often literally, as in her current novel-in-progress involving a runaway trans girl, a violin teacher bargaining with the devil, and a family of Vietnamese space aliens running a donut shop. What could be more Ryka than trauma, tenderness, absurdity, and sweetness, all tied together with a string of melody? Beyond the page, Ryka is a beacon for trans youth. At the LA LGBT Center, she teaches self-defense to queer and homeless teens, not just techniques, but dignity. She reminds us that while survival is often the first chapter in our lives, it is never the last. It is my deep honor and joy to welcome Ryka Aoki for this conversation.

Interview with Robin Diane Goldstein

Robin Diane Goldstein’s story is one of resilience, wit, and relentless authenticity. An American transgender rights activist, former talk-radio host, stand-up comedian, and blogger, Robin has gracefully woven together an extraordinary tapestry of life experiences, from law and engineering management to pioneering health projects at Apple Inc., nestled in the vibrant heart of Silicon Valley. Since childhood, Robin knew she was meant to be a woman, even when the world around her had no language or space to understand that truth. Navigating decades before the dawn of broad transgender awareness, her journey was marked by solitude, courage, and a fierce determination to be herself despite the cultural storms of her time. Through it all, she carried a radiant humor and a soulful spirit that have endeared her to friends, family, and countless others.

 

Robin’s activism is both grand and intimate: a fearless voice on public platforms and a gentle catalyst for change one heart at a time. Her story, shared in The New York Times and echoed through her work at Apple, is a testament to the power of authenticity to transform lives and communities. Beyond her professional accolades and advocacy, Robin is a woman who delights in the small joys, crafting the perfect New York-style cheesecake, strumming the guitar to satisfy her performance spirit, and finding fashion freedom in both funky hoodies and polished blouses. Her vibrant presence is a beautiful reminder that being true to oneself is the greatest success. As Robin approaches her 60th birthday, she continues to explore new passions and reimagine what it means to live fully. Her story is not just about transition, but about transcending, inspiring, and embracing every stage of life with love, humor, and grace.

Interview with Denise Chanterelle DuBois

There are women who live many lives in one. Denise Chanterelle DuBois is one of them. An actress, environmentalist, businesswoman, and author, Denise has carved her story with grace, resilience, and the kind of radiant strength that comes only after walking through fire. Born in Portland, Oregon, she bloomed into her truth later in life, transitioning just shy of her 50th birthday. But what might seem like a late arrival was, in fact, a bold and beautiful rebirth. In her unforgettable memoir, Self-Made Woman (2017), Denise opens the curtain on a life shaped by trauma, addiction, survival, and ultimately, transformation. With honesty and elegance, she recounts her path from turmoil to triumph, refusing to let the shadows of her past dim the light she now shares so freely with the world. Whether as Margaret le Plage in The Auteur or Sunshine the Barfly in Rid of Me, Denise’s screen presence is as magnetic as her real-life authenticity.

 

Beyond the spotlight, she is a passionate advocate for trans rights, a lover of fashion with a West Coast flair, and a woman whose inner peace radiates in every carefully chosen word. She writes, acts, and lives with intention, always mindful of the power of representation and the importance of being seen, not as a spectacle, but as a full human being. Interviewing Denise feels less like asking questions and more like stepping into a room filled with light, courage, and kindness. She is, in her own words, “fortune’s favorite daughter”, a phrase that captures both the miraculousness of her survival and the gratitude that defines her every day. And perhaps that’s her greatest gift to all of us: a reminder that no matter how late it may seem, it is never too late to become yourself.

Interview with Fran Fried

Fran Fried is an American writer, editor, DJ, music lover, community advocate, and, most authentically, a trans woman whose journey into self‑discovery began in her mid‑40s. Born and raised in Prospect, Connecticut, and initially a top‑performing sportswriter and music critic, Fran spent over two decades working for regional papers before accepting a move to Fresno, California. There, a deeply personal epiphany in January 2008 launched her transition, starting with hormones in 2010 and a courageous public coming‑out that same year. Throughout her evolution, Fran has balanced life’s highs and lows, job losses, family tension, relocation, and health struggles, while forging a resilient path of authenticity.

 

She founded the blog Franorama World, hosted a web‑radio show since 2013, and lent her voice to documentaries and public speaking engagements about trans lives and healthcare. Her op‑eds in publications like The New York Times and the New Haven Register have championed trans rights, coinciding with legislative progress in Connecticut. In addition to her editorial and creative work, Fran has spoken on trans and gender issues at universities and nursing classes, contributed to policy discussions, and staked her claim in media visibility, as one of the few openly trans contestants on Jeopardy! (pending airing in October). Fran's story is a testament to raw courage, the power of living one’s truth at any age, and the ongoing journey of finding your place, and your voice, in a world that’s still learning to listen.

Interview with Jaime Erin Fivecoat

There are women whose quiet strength speaks volumes, whose presence brings warmth, and whose journeys radiate resilience and grace. Jaime Erin Fivecoat is one of them. A retired benefits manager from Taylors, South Carolina, Jaime now dedicates her life to advocacy, compassion, and service. With an open heart and a determined spirit, she devotes her time to four organizations, supporting people struggling with addiction, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, uplifting transgender individuals, and working to combat the stigma surrounding obesity. Her work, much like her personal journey, is driven by deep empathy and unwavering optimism. Jaime transitioned later in life, after decades of love, work, and quiet self-reflection.

 

She speaks of her journey not with regret but with gratitude, for the experiences that gave her strength, for the love of her devoted wife Karen, and for the newfound joy she discovered in finally becoming the woman she was always meant to be. Her voice carries not only the wisdom of lived experience, but also the tenderness of a woman who knows how precious authenticity truly is. Whether she’s advocating in the halls of Congress or facilitating a peer support meeting, Jaime stands as a beacon of hope and dignity. Her story reminds us that it’s never too late to live fully, love deeply, and shine brightly as yourself. It is my great honor to share with you this inspiring conversation with Jaime Erin Fivecoat.

Interview with Aleana Robins

Aleana Robins is a remarkable woman whose life story reflects a tapestry of resilience, creativity, and fierce love. From her early days navigating a turbulent family background in California to carving a new path as a mother of seven, artist, farmer, radio announcer, and small business owner, Aleana’s journey defies convention and embraces the full spectrum of human experience. Now living in Launceston, Tasmania, she is the author of The Shadow of Ally (2016), a deeply honest and moving autobiography that honors both the life she once lived and the woman she has courageously become.

 

Aleana’s story is not simply about transition; it is about survival, healing, and gratitude. Through the shadows of her past and the protection of her former self, Allen, she found the strength to emerge fully as Ally, a testament to the power of embracing one’s truth with compassion and grace. Her life is a beautiful reminder that femininity is not defined by a single path but by the authenticity and love we nurture within ourselves and those around us. With warmth, wit, and unflinching honesty, Aleana offers insight into the complexities of identity, the struggles faced by many in the transgender community, and the boundless hope that sustains us. Her journey is a beacon of courage for anyone learning to live their truth and choose joy in the face of adversity.

Interview with Tuesday Meadows

Tuesday G. Meadows is the kind of woman whose presence lingers gently, like the last light of a Kentucky sunset, warm, honest, and quietly powerful. A transgender advocate, writer, and retired grocery store manager from Lexington, Kentucky, Tuesday came into her truth not to become someone new, but to finally be seen for who she always was. Transitioning at 59, she speaks not of transformation, but of alignment, an outward expression of the woman she’s always carried within. Her story is not of celebrity or grand stages, but of everyday bravery: writing heartfelt blog posts, speaking truth in state legislatures, and supporting families through the complex, beautiful journeys of their transgender children. A regular columnist and editor for her local LGBTQ+ magazine, Tuesday brings sharp insight, wit, and tenderness to every word she shares.

 

Her advocacy work is rooted in love, especially the enduring love she shared with her wife, Linda, her greatest champion and lifelong partner, whose memory lives in every step Tuesday takes. Unapologetically herself, Tuesday moves between boardroom meetings and beach walks with the same resolute grace. Whether wearing conservative dresses or short skirts, light makeup or none at all, she refuses to be confined by others’ expectations. In her world, fashion is a freedom, identity is sacred, and the scars we carry, whether from heart surgery or heartache, are proof that we survived, and kept loving. Above all, Tuesday reminds us that you don’t need to be famous to be extraordinary. Her life is a testament to the strength of ordinary women who rise, speak, and love fiercely, women who build bridges in their communities, refuse to be erased, and create spaces for others to shine. She is one of those women. And in this conversation, she opens her heart, so that others may find hope, clarity, and the courage to be wholly themselves.

Interview with Kristen Aaquist

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Kristen Aaquist, an American legal secretary from Reno, Nevada. Hello Kristen!

Kristen: Hello Monika and thank you.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Kristen: I’m a mother of two. I have a cat. I enjoy running, beading, watching movies, and playing video games.

Monika: I saw your short story in The New York Times series titled “Transgender Today.” Why did you decide to come out to the general public?

Kristen: As I’ve gotten more comfortable being myself, I have found myself wanting to be more outspoken and try to help educate the public about the trans community, which includes humanizing us to the rest of society. By telling our stories, we can show everyone that we are truly just like everyone else.

Interview with Becca Benz

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Becca Benz, an American model, writer, blogger, adult movie actress, Army veteran, trans advocate, and columnist for Transformation Magazine and her weekly column Through The Benz on Grooby.com, and formally for TransGlobal Magazine. Becca also has her own blog at BeccaBenz.com Hello Becca! You look fantastic!
Becca: Hello Monika, and thank you! I was fortunate to be born with good genes and a fast metabolism! Healthy living has also helped, along with working out at the gym six days a week to keep this old body in decent shape!
Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?
Becca: People know me mainly for my modeling and writing under the name Becca Benz, but my real name is Rebecca Pell. The past several years have been full of amazing experiences, but I also led an interesting life before I ventured into modeling. I served in the United States Army, worked at a university managing a research center, managed environmental remediation projects for the federal government, worked as a seasonal wildland firefighter during summer breaks while in college, and worked several summers for the National Park Service on a backcountry trail crew.

Interview with Cassidy McGuinn

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Cassidy McGuinn, an Irish-American blogger from Boston, Massachusetts, that rambles on life, love, music, and baseball (not necessarily in that order) on her blog Cassidy's Quest and YouTube vlog. Hello Cassidy!

Cassidy: Hello, Monika! Thank you so much for this invitation. I am beyond flattered! 

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Cassidy: Let’s see… as you mentioned in your introduction, I’m an Irish-American gal from the Boston area. I’ve also been fortunate enough to live in Seattle and Newport, Rhode Island, two of the most beautiful places in the United States. (For your readers: be sure to try Del’s frozen lemonade if you ever visit Newport. You can thank me later!)

I am indeed a die-hard baseball fan – not just the Red Sox, the team from Boston, but also the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners. To be honest, I’ll watch any baseball game. :c)

Hmm… what else? I’ve gotten into running the past few years and absolutely love it. It’s also very peaceful; I wish I had a dollar for every time I’ve finished a run and realized I had worked out the solution to some issue I’d been wrestling with!

Interview with Laura Smith

Monika: Today’s interview will be with Laura Smith, a transgender woman that documents her transition on Reddit.com as inharmony123. Hello Laura!
Laura: Hi Monika!
Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?
Laura: I'm 49, single, and have been on hormones for nearly 3 years, and I live in the United Kingdom.
Monika: Why did you decide to share your transition details on Reddit?
Laura: As an older woman transitioning, I wanted to inspire others who transition later in life, and show them, that there is hope even for those late bloomers. So, what better way, was to show people what could be done, with makeup, and our appearance to make it possible to pass and blend in public? 
Monika: I am sure you get many questions from your Reddit audience. What do they ask for?
Laura: Where did I get my hair? What makeup do you use?

Interview with Sheri Swokowski

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Sheri Swokowski, an American advocate for transgender rights and former U.S. Army colonel. She is the highest-ranking, out, transgender US Army veteran in the United States. Hello Sheri!

Sheri: Hello Monika!

Monika: I am so happy to have you here! Let me start with a question about your professional life. You can boast a fantastic military career …
Sheri: I enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National Guard after high school and shortly thereafter started working full time as a federal employee. A dozen years later, I had the best of both worlds, as I was offered an opportunity to go on active duty in support of the WI National Guard.
I was a career infantry soldier who spent almost 35 years in uniform. I advanced through the enlisted ranks, attended the WI Military Academy, and earned a commission as a Second Lieutenant. I made the most of many opportunities and served as a Company Commander with two deployments, although in my day they were to Europe. I served on a two-star staff and was the Force Integrator, Strategic Planner, and finally the J1, Director of Manpower and Personnel.

Interview with Ísabel Pirsic

Ísabel Pirsic is a remarkable Austrian transgender rights activist whose quiet determination is helping shape a more inclusive society in her home country. Based in Vienna, Ísabel is an active member of TransX, an organization devoted to supporting the trans community through personal guidance, public education, and political advocacy, ranging from depathologization efforts to the protection of trans prisoners' rights. Ísabel began her public transition nearly four years ago and has been engaged in activism for the past two. When she’s not attending bi-monthly TransX meetups or pushing for social change, she can be found deep in the world of numbers and theorems, working as a university-based scientist and mathematics researcher. In this thoughtful and engaging conversation, we explore Ísabel's personal journey, the current state of the Austrian trans community, her views on visibility and representation, and the complex relationship between the trans experience and broader LGBTQ+ activism. With honesty, nuance, and a touch of humor, Ísabel offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who balances intellectual pursuits with grassroots advocacy, and does it all with humility and heart.

Interview with Roxanne Manzone

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Roxanne L. Manzone, a Florida Department of Transportation Roadway Inspector from Ocala, Florida. Hello Roxanne! 

Roxanne: Hello Monika!

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Roxanne: I retired from Law Enforcement here in Ocala, Fl, and have lived here for over 40 years, and grew up in New York. I am a “Car Girl” and enjoy displaying my car in car shows. I volunteer at a local soup kitchen once a week. I am a model train enthusiast, and I custom paint scale model trains.

Monika: I saw your short story in The New York Times series titled “Transgender Today.” Why did you decide to come out to the general public?

Roxanne: My attitude is that there is so little information about the Transgender Community, we are all responsible to be visible in a positive way, many people have never met a transgender person, and I want people who meet me to have a positive impression. I wanted people to see that we are everyday people too.

Interview with Jemma

Jemma is a transgender woman in her early 30s who began her transition at age 30. Known online as SuddenlyJemma, she has been candidly documenting her journey on Reddit, offering insight and inspiration to others just beginning their path. By day, Jemma works in a tire manufacturing factory producing colossal off-road mining tires, the smallest one towering at 9.5 feet and weighing nearly 2 tons! Her life outside of work includes caring for her two beloved rescue dogs and a mischievous group of guinea pigs. Starting her transition was a leap of faith fueled by the support she found in online trans communities. Sharing her story is her way of giving back. Over the last 18 months, she’s experienced dramatic physical and emotional changes, from rapid weight loss and unexpected medical setbacks to the surreal joy of looking in the mirror and seeing someone she finally recognizes.

 

Jemma’s resilience has carried her through family rejection, the loss of longtime friendships, and the challenges of transitioning in a conservative, male-dominated workplace. Surprisingly, her job has become one of her safest spaces, a testament to the power of professionalism and quiet acceptance. She draws inspiration from everyday trans voices on Reddit as well as public figures like Michelle Hendley, whose role in Boy Meets Girl was pivotal for her. Though not deeply embedded in organized LGBTQ activism, Jemma takes every chance to lift others up, from sharing resources with newer trans folks to offering quiet encouragement. With a hopeful spirit, she dreams of a future where trans characters in media are treated not as punchlines or metaphors, but as regular people living ordinary (and extraordinary) lives.

Interview with Faye Seidler

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Faye Seidler, an inspirational American transactivist, educator, and writer from Fargo, North Dakota.
Faye: Hi! :)
Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Faye: I’m a trans activist, writer, and nerd with a strong belief in a better future. My work primarily focuses on my experiences, humor, and research, all of which seek to create positive change for the transgender community.
Monika: I saw your short story in The New York Times series titled “Transgender Today.” Why did you decide to come out to the general public?
Faye: I saw a serious lack of visibility in our community and that most people were getting their information about trans people from stereotypes they saw on television. I also saw a medical network that told trans people to blend in, deny, or hide their identity. I saw a tremendous amount of erasure for what it meant to be trans and the identity itself controlled and enforced as a stereotypical binary by the medical industry.

Interview with Jessica Harrington

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Jessica Harrington, an inspirational American woman from Reno, Nevada. Hello Jessica!
Jessica: Hi Monika. Thank you for having me. 
Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?
Jessica: I am a 42-year-old trans woman. I have been in transition for almost 5 years and while it’s has been amazing being free, it’s also been the hardest time of my life.
Monika: At what age did you transition into a woman yourself? Was it a difficult process? 
Jessica: I started transition when I was 38. The process itself wasn’t that difficult. I did my research for years beforehand. I knew what I needed, who I needed to talk to, and about what everything would cost me.

Interview with Charlotte Flanigan

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Charlotte Flanigan, a British writer, and the author of the biographical book titled “The Whole Shenanigans: Charlotte's Story” (2017). Hello Charlotte!
Charlotte: Hello!
Monika: You were born in Germany? Could you say a few words about yourself?
Charlotte: Well, I wasn't as such born in Germany but went there from a young age and fell in love with the country and for some strange reason I found speaking the native tongue natural and was surprised by how comfortable it felt.
Monika: Your most visible hobby is tattooing… :)
Charlotte: Yes, tattoos are a big part of my life from a young age. I fell in love seeing the stories behind the tattoos people had got whilst young.

Interview with Ella Marques

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Ella Marques, a Portuguese-American writer living in Boca Raton, Florida, the author of the biographical book titled “I was born a boy, from Venus. It’s time to be yourself” (2017). Hello Ella!
Ella: Hi Monika, Thank you very much for the interview, and for thinking about me. I like your blog very much.
Monika: You describe yourself as an “international” woman. Could you say a few words about yourself?
Ella: Sure. I was born in Portugal, at the age of 14 I went to an international boarding school in Switzerland, and since then I have lived, worked, and visited many countries. I lived in London, Paris, Fortaleza, a city in the Northeast of Brazil. Lived over 30 years in various cities in Switzerland and moved to the USA 6 year ago.

Interview with Molly Cutpurse

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Molly Cutpurse, a British writer from Stratford in the East End of London, one of the most prolific writers for the Amazon audience. Her portrait, as a transgendered writer, is now hanging in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and is a part of the museum's permanent collection. Hello Molly! 

Molly: Hello to yourself!

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself? When did you decide that writing will be your vocation?

Molly: I wrote my first novel in 1984 when I was thirty-two. It was an enormously lengthy piece of rubbish that eventually was rewritten several times and was finally published about 1996 as, Daffodils in Autumn. I wrote it because it was a novel that I wanted to read.

Interview with Ava

Ava is a transgender woman and entertainer for Carnival Cruise Line, where she travels the world, meets people from all backgrounds, and enjoys a career filled with excitement and adventure. When she’s not performing, she indulges in her love for gaming and cooking, always on the lookout for new recipes to share with her family. She also runs a YouTube channel dedicated to ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) content.

 

Monika: Hello Ava! Thank you so much for accepting my invitation!

Ava: Hello Monika!

Monika: Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your passions and interests?

Ava: Of course! I work for Carnival Cruise Line as an entertainer; I travel the world, meet people from all around, and get paid to have fun. I’m also an insufferable nerd and gamer. When not working, I’m either gaming or finding a recipe to cook up to share with my family. I also run a YouTube channel for people who experience the phenomenon ‘autonomous sensory meridian response,’ also known as ASMR. Performing on a cruise ship allows me to combine my love for entertainment with my passion for travel. One of my favorite things is seeing how different cultures celebrate music and dance.

Interview with Danielle Pellett

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Danielle J Pellett, an inspirational American woman, New Deal Democrat, trans rights activist. She is running for the Democratic nomination to represent Texas 32nd district in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018. She was the founding President of the first Transgender student organization at a Texas University, and later on, she worked with the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance and the Progressive Alliance. Hello Danielle!

Danielle: Howdy, Monika, and thanks for the opportunity to get my message out there.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Danielle: I think you covered a lot of it in the introduction; I was born on the border in Brownsville, Texas to a mixed-race couple: David Ellsworth and Maria del Rosario.

Interview with Melissa Seymour

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Melissa Seymour, a writer, a novelist from New South Wales, Australia, the author of “Mel's Fantasy Life” (2016) and “Mark's Real Life” (2017). Hello Melissa!

Melissa: Hi Monika, Thanks, I now reside in Melbourne, Victoria, which is an awesome place to live.

My novels have been renamed for a new broader website I have discovered. The names are now “Mel’s New Life” and “Mark’s Pathetic Life”—that is due for worldwide release July 30th, 2017 as I have made some minor adjustments.

“Mel’s Fantasy/New Life” is the first in my series, each part allows the reader to use their imagination as I stop sections abruptly. I also end each part on a Cliff-Hanger to hopefully maintain interest.

Interview with Lois Simmons

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Lois Simmons, an American tax preparer and writer from Suffern, N.Y. She writes posts for the blog titled “Being Christian and Transsexual: Life on Planet Mercury.” Hello Lois!

Lois: Hello Monika. To be included with such an illustrious group of trans women who you have interviewed is quite an honor.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Lois: This is the toughest question you asked me, as it is difficult to limit myself to a few words on almost any subject! But here goes.

I’m 64 years old. I was born in New York City (borough of Queens) and have lived all my life in the city or its suburbs. I went to Cornell with plans to be a Civil Engineer/Urban Planner/designer of roads and rail systems. I ended up with a degree in Government.

Interview with Roxanne Edwards

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Roxanne Edwards, an American architect and activist for LGBTQ issues from Washington, DC. Hello Roxanne!

Roxanne: Hello, Monika! Greetings from the United States Capital city, Washington, DC! It has always been an interesting place to live, but now more than ever, it is a critical place to be involved in issues that affect all our citizens.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Roxanne: I am a professional architect who has done projects nationally and in the Middle East. My entire life has been lived in the Washington area except during my degree studies at my university, Virginia Tech, where I met my spouse. We have been married for 43+ years and we have seven grandchildren. My activism started in 2000 with the beginning of my transition to my authentic self.

Interview with Meredith Guest

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Meredith Guest, a teacher, writer, and author of the memoir titled “Son, I Like Your Dress” (2015). Hello Meredith! 

Meredith: Greetings, Monika.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Meredith: Well, I think of myself as a rather unremarkable person who finds great pleasure in doing rather ordinary things. I’m a writer who loves to write, but you’re not likely ever to see my work on the New York Times bestseller list – and that’s okay.

I’m an educator who feels passionately about education, though no one’s beating down my door to get my ideas. I’m a parent, and now a grandparent, who loves her children and grandchild. I love this beautiful planet and grieve what we have done to it. And I also happen to be transgender.

Interview with Holly

Monika: Today’s interview will be with Holly, a transgender woman that documents her transition on Reddit.com as mikah_rowan. Hello Holly!

Holly: Hello Monika and thank you for this opportunity to share a bit about myself and my experiences.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Holly: Okay, so I was born in 1962 in Connecticut, the USA, not too far from New York City. My father died when I was only six months old, and my mother remarried before I can even remember. I had a brother six years older than me and a sister three years older. I realized that I was transgender at a very early age, even though to me, it had no name yet.

As soon as I was aware of being a human being and seeing the differences between boys and girls, men and women, I knew that I was a girl and that I would grow up to be a woman. But something was wrong. My mom kept dressing me in little boys' clothes and giving me boys' toys to play with. I would take my boys' clothing off and go to my sister's dresser and put on her clothes.

Interview with Ana

Monika: Today’s interview will be with Ana, a transgender woman that documents her transition on Reddit.com as MontanaPython1993. She describes herself as a writer and role-playing hobbyist. Hello Ana! 

Ana: Hello Monika! 

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Ana: For me, summing myself up is a bit of a chore, but I’ll try. I’m in the sticks of Washington state, I do a lot of reading and one of my favorite past times is tabletop role-playing games. I am actually quite invested in world-building for my own settings to use for Dungeons and Dragons.

I’m also a bit of a writer, in the process of regaining my momentum following a long and drawn-out writer’s block. I am also sort of between unemployment and not-very-stable employment. For this interview, I’m probably going to end up with long responses to questions.

Interview with Shemiyia O'Bannon-Sweeney

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Shemiyia O'Bannon-Sweeney, an inspirational young woman originally from Louisville, Kentucky, who now resides in the Greater New York area. Hello Shemiyia!

Shemiyia: Well Hello There!

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Shemiyia: Wow. Well, I like to refer to myself as "The Jacqueline of all trades"! I am a very busy bee! First and foremost I am the wife to my amazing husband of 2 years, Bobby. I have been a medical professional for the past 13 years, I now work for a very big hospital organization here in New Jersey that prides itself on its advocacy with the LGBT Community.

Interview with Bishesh Huirem

Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Bishesh Huirem, an Indian model and beauty pageant queen. Hello Bishesh, you look absolutely beautiful!

Bishesh: Hello Monika! Thank you so much for this compliment and opportunity to share my story with the readers of your blog.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Bishesh: I am Bishesh Huirem. I am a transgender woman who follows her dream, yet being simple, frank, and enthusiastic.