There are people who move through the world with a kind of quiet gravity, their stories unfolding not with loud declarations but with a steady, unwavering truth. Alana Nicole Sholar is one of those rare voices, soft-spoken, yet impossible to ignore. Born and raised in Kentucky, she grew up in a deeply religious, working-class environment that made it difficult to speak her truth, let alone live it. But she persisted. With time, reflection, and an inner strength forged through years of self-discovery, Alana emerged as an author, activist, and advocate, not just for herself, but for countless others navigating the complex terrain of gender identity. In 2012, Alana published her groundbreaking memoir, Hung in the Middle: A Journey of Gender Discovery, which explores her life growing up as a transgender person assigned male at birth.
The book resonates with warmth, candor, and the kind of wisdom that can only come from lived experience. It became more than just a personal testimony, it became a beacon of understanding for readers who may have felt alone in their own transitions or who simply wanted to better understand someone else's. Beyond the page, Alana is a vibrant presence. Whether she’s speaking at LGBTQ+ events, engaging with readers, or sharing tender moments with her loving partner, Bobbie Thompson, she brings a sense of calm authenticity that invites others to feel safe, seen, and validated. Together, the two have become known for their openness, compassion, and unwavering support for the transgender community. Alana reminds us that our journeys don’t have to be rushed or linear. That it’s okay to take your time, to question, to pause, to begin again. That visibility can be an act of love, and survival. Today, I have the honor of speaking with Alana about her story, her advocacy, and the lessons she continues to learn and share along the way.
