#93 | 5 Ways Parents Can Support LGBTQ Gender Exploration With Courage, Guidance, and Connection
What if you could break free from the tiny box of gender expectations that society places on us from birth? Join our enlightening conversation with Rae McDaniel as we dive into the fascinating world of gender freedom. Rae shares the Gender Freedom Model, which guides individuals in exploring and transitioning their gender with more play, pleasure, and possibility. We discuss how identity exploration, including gender exploration, is not only a normal part of adolescence but can shift and change throughout our lifetime.
In this rapidly changing world, navigating the complexities of gender and anti-trans hate is more important than ever. Rae and Heather challenge traditional perspectives on gender, emphasizing the power of giving ourselves permission to explore and express it. They also touch on the importance of understanding gender with intention and ownership, and how it can impact our lives beyond the binary.
As they discuss the challenges of navigating gender transition and advocacy in the midst of a difficult political atmosphere, Rae shares invaluable wisdom for parents and allies alike. Learn how to approach gender conversations with curiosity, understanding, and forgiveness for those inevitable slip-ups. This eye-opening episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to embrace the vast possibilities of gender exploration and identity development and support others on their journey to authenticity.
Get Rae's book “Gender Magic”, on sale now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indie Bound and Bookshop.
About our Guest:
Rae McDaniel (they/them) is a non-binary Speaker, Author, Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, Coach, and Transgender Diversity and Inclusion Educator.
Rae helps audiences gain the sheer audacity to be themselves in the world through play, pleasure, and possibility.
Their book Gender Magic is a first-of-its-kind practical guide to achieving gender freedom with joy, curiosity, and pleasure for transgender and non-binary individuals, gender explorers, and those who love them (May 2023.) They have been featured in high-profile media such as The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, Time, and Women’s Health. As a sought-after professional speaker, Rae has spoken at Rutgers University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago, Soho House, The Wing, and Rachel’s Rodgers’ ROI: The Millionaires Summit.
Rae is also the founder and CEO of Practical Audacity, a Gender & Sex Therapy practice in Chicago, serving over 300 clients yearly.
When Rae isn’t educating audiences and bettering the world, they can be found drinking too much coffee, snuggling with their dog Gizmo (who might actually be a gremlin), or sipping whiskey with a good book.
IG & TikTok @theraemcdaniel
Facebook @raemcdanielgendermagic
Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!
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At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ+ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and foster courageous, compassionate connection.
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Heather Hester invites listeners into a heartfelt conversation with Rae McDaniel, whose insights into gender freedom resonate with parents and caregivers of LGBTQ youth. McDaniel discusses their new book, "Gender Magic," which introduces the Gender Freedom Model, emphasizing the importance of play, pleasure, and possibility in exploring gender identity. This discussion highlights that questioning and transitioning one's gender is not merely a journey for transgender and non-binary individuals, but a universal experience that everyone can explore. McDaniel encourages individuals to reflect on their own identities, dispelling the myth that gender is a binary concept and inviting a deeper understanding of self-exploration beyond societal constraints.
The episode explores the challenges that arise from societal and familial expectations surrounding gender identity. McDaniel provides practical advice for parents navigating the complexities of their child's gender expression, emphasizing the importance of open communication, support, and the willingness to learn. They tackle the fear and panic that often accompany these discussions, reminding listeners that discomfort does not equate to harm. The conversation is rich with personal anecdotes, demonstrating the powerful journey of discovering one's authentic self, which can be both liberating and daunting. Overall, the episode serves as a compassionate guide for those supporting LGBTQ youth, urging them to embrace the journey of self-discovery with patience and love.
Takeaways:
- The concept of gender freedom allows individuals to explore and express their identity without limitations.
- Gender exploration is a lifelong journey, and everyone has the right to redefine who they are.
- Parents and allies should actively support their loved ones by advocating for their needs and respecting their identities.
- Discomfort in others due to someone's gender expression is not the individual's burden to bear.
- Creating a supportive environment starts with asking loved ones what they need for comfort and safety.
- Joy and connection are vital in the fight against anti-trans legislation and discrimination.
More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen explores connection, courage, and community for every concerned parent, mom, or ally navigating fear, grief, and bigotry with hope, resilience, and empathy. Through open-minded education, inclusive parenting guidance, and advocacy for mental health, safety, and a human first approach, we support LGBTQ youth and stand for human rights and social justice. More Human. More Kind. empowers listeners to shift their mindset, embrace activism and allyship, and lead with kindness, healing, and purpose.
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