A Life Lived Trans

Season three, episode 12 of A Life Lived Trans opens with hosts Mardi P. and Lenny Z. checking in personally before diving into a packed agenda. Lenny shares that he's navigating some difficult family struggles, which leads to a warm exchange about the complexity of family relationships for trans people — estrangement, boundaries, and the particular pain of having unsupportive family members, including conservative relatives. Both hosts reflect on their own histories with chosen family, stealth living, and the hard-won community they've built over decades. The bulk of the episode takes on the Met Gala, where Mardi and Lenny call out what they see as the tokenizing of trans women — namely Hunter Schaefer and Alex Consani — at an event now bankrolled by Jeff Bezos. Mardi draws a sharp parallel to her own experience in the 1980s being the "token tranny" at wealthy Vancouver parties, and the conversation expands into a broader critique of "pick-me gays" who distance themselves from the trans community for social acceptance, at a moment when trans youth suicide rates are climbing in both the US and UK. They also touch on passport gender policy rollbacks under the current US administration, and celebrate Trans History Week with a rundown of Canadian and American trans trailblazers. The episode wraps with a joyful segment on Chris Paul Rainbows' upcoming children's book Guinea Pigs Don't Wear Pants — a gender-affirming picture book with charming self-illustrated pages, available for pre-order with a portion of sales going to the It Gets Better foundation. Mardi also gives a brief update on the memoir she's writing, describing the process as both cathartic and re-traumatizing, with a first chapter due the following week.https://www.guineapigsdontwearpants.com/

In this deeply moving episode, hosts MahD and Lenny Z sit down with guest Justin A. for an intimate and wide-ranging conversation about life, identity, and resilience. Justin opens up about his personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance — a path marked by courage, reflection, and an unwavering sense of self. The conversation takes an honest look at the realities many trans individuals face in today's political landscape, including Justin's decision to relocate to Mexico in search of safety and community. Far from a story of defeat, it's one of agency and intentional living. Throughout the episode, all three voices weave together themes of community, solidarity, and hope — reminding listeners that shared stories have the power to shift perspectives and build bridges. The hosts and Justin also reflect on how far trans rights have come, while acknowledging the very real work that remains. Thoughtful, warm, and inspiring, this episode is an invitation to listen, learn, and celebrate the strength found in living authentically. – This is a Life Lived Trans.

In this provocative episode, Mardi and Lenny peel back the layers of the current political landscape, from Minnesota’s legal battles to global efforts to erase trans identities. They share candid stories from recent activist efforts in Kelowna and reflect on their decades of experience living through transformative times in the trans community. Discover how undercover agendas, media manipulation, and political tactics threaten our rights—and more importantly, how we can fight back with truth, humor, and resilience.We break down some jaw-dropping revelations: why controversial figures like Pink News are losing support, how mainstream platforms like Pornhub reveal the true desires of the masses, and why trans joy and visibility threaten the status quo. You'll discover the deep connection between shame and oppression—and how genuine acceptance and self-love can dismantle it. Our hosts delve into the significance of trans athletes breaking barriers, the intersection of gender expression and societal expectations, and the importance of non-binary identities pushing for authentic representation.This isn’t just a rant—it's a call to action. If you’re tired of being misunderstood or marginalized, if you’re ready to see the bigger picture and stand up for your right to be proud, this episode is essential listening. The stakes are high: our rights, our safety, our very existence depend on it. But hope remains. Through storytelling, expert insights, and unapologetic honesty, Marty and Lenny inspire you to reclaim your narrative and challenge the system.Perfect for allies, activists, and anyone questioning the narratives fed by media and politics—this conversation will empower you to think critically, laugh loud, and act boldly. Tune in now to hear the truth about the confluence of politics, culture, and community, and learn how to turn awareness into resistance. Guest credentials: Mardi and Lenny are 'seasoned' trans elders, sharing insights from almost 100 years in the movement. With lived experience and activist spirit, they illuminate the path toward genuine liberation and self-acceptance.

In this episode we dive into the complexities of gender identity and the freedom that comes with embracing fluidity over binary thinking. Drawing on candid personal stories and sharp cultural commentary, we explore how fear of losing privilege drives societal backlash against inclusion — and why the push for acceptance is inseparable from the pursuit of authenticity. We talk about the recent groundbreaking runway show of fashion house Matieres Fecales titled "The One Percent” who's dark wit smashes gender stereotypes, framing creative expression as a form of resistance, mocking greed in top shelf couture. We also get into Mardi’s theory of the "privilege pyramid" — a framework for understanding how hidden trauma layers sustain inequality, and how healing requires recognizing the full spectrum of human experience. From reflections on recovery and aging as trans people to observations about global climate chaos and cultural rebellion, the episode ultimately lands as a call to action urging listeners toward greater compassion, community, and unapologetic self-expression.Moons Lane F*ck Off Spray - - The Spray Of Banishinghttps://www.moonslane.com.au/

In this episode Mardi P. and Lenny Z. begin with a guided breathing before diving into current events affecting the trans community. They recommend alternative news sources in light of mainstream media's decline, call out widespread shadow-banning of queer content on social media, and revisit the Kansas driver's license law. They also call out Lyft's "trans joy" discount as performative rainbow capitalism. They reflect on their own history of having no rights as trans women in the 1970s, drawing parallels between today's rollbacks and historical struggles like Jim Crow. Trans tropes of the week include strangers asking invasive questions about trans people's bodies, and "trans pick-me" gatekeeping of those who transition later in life — a bias Mardi admits she once held herself. On a lighter note, Mardi shares her excitement over her new supportive French bra and they tease upcoming guests including a well-known Instagram figure who transitioned after having a family. Buckle up for an episode soaked in some fun crazy wisdom! Alternatives to mainstream media:I've Had It Podcast (YouTube) - https://www.youtube.com/@ivehaditpodcastAlJazeera News - https://www.aljazeera.com/where/united-states/

In this lively episode of A Life Lived Trans, Mardi and Lenny—self-declared trans elders with nearly a century of combined wisdom—tackle the “trans tropes” that make their eyeballs roll clear out of their heads. With sharp wit and plenty of sidebars, they call out myths like “trans people are mentally unstable,” the backhanded compliment of “I never would have known,” and the rigid gender rules that shaped their early transitions under old-school medical gatekeeping. They mix social commentary with sass, poking fun at gender reveal parties, binary nonsense, and the political circus surrounding trans lives in the U.S. and Canada—all while reminding listeners that trans people have always existed and aren’t going anywhere. But it’s not all ranting and righteous indignation. The episode meanders delightfully through “Happy Bits Day” celebrations, questionable hospital compliments, crying therapy to Silver Springs, and the spiritual benefits of self-pleasure. Mardi shares heartfelt (and hilarious) reflections on love, loss, and surgeries past, while Lenny offers grounding wisdom and the occasional well-timed reality check. By the end, what started as a trope takedown turns into a warm, funny reminder to protect your peace, call a friend, have a good cry (or other release), and find joy—even when the world feels like it’s being run by the National Enquirer.

Staying centered isn’t about escaping life—it’s about knowing what to do when one of your wheels comes flying off at 60 miles an hour. It’s about meeting life exactly where you are, breath by breath. This short pre-break episode is a grounded, heartfelt exploration of mindfulness and meditation as lived practices. We try to use humor, honesty, and hard-earned insight as trans elders to demonstrate how returning to the breath, the body, and the present moment can be a radical act of self-care in a loud and often unkind world. Rooted in decades of survival, transition, love, and loss, we hope our conversations -- our testimonies highlight the unique benefits of meditation for trans elders: resilience in the face of change, compassion for aging bodies, and grace for minds that have seen it all. This is a space for slowing down, laughing a little, and remembering that peace isn’t found at the end of the journey—it’s cultivated along the way, one mindful moment at a time."Our Deepest Fear" - Marianne Williamson poemhttps://www.appleseeds.org/Deepest-Fear.htmTransparently Speaking podcasthttps://transparentlyspeakingpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Join Lenny Z and MahD as they delve into the profound connections between nature, community, and personal healing. In this episode, they discuss the wisdom of indigenous cultures, the sentience of plants, and the transformative power of meditation. Tune in for a journey through the ancient rainforests of Vancouver Island and discover how embracing interconnectedness can lead to resilience and peace in turbulent times.

What a journey it has been to navigate healthcare for Lenny and Mardi thru these last, almost 100 collective years! Lenny talks about meeting progressive doctors in the 1970s, while Mardi's shares surviving the more common and dangerous DIY journey of the streets for transition needs. They also discuss ageing and trans healthcare and how they are still teaching the medical establishment because not many of us survived this long. They have a discussion on the importance of gender-affirming care, and the challenges faced by trans youth today. ie., legislative issues in Alberta and the U.S. Thanks for listening to the podcast and please send us you thoughts and questions to alifelivedtrans@gmail.com and we will be sure to read some of them on air. Happy 2026 everyone. Be kind to your mind, stay close to the ones that lift you and hang on, we think it's going to be quite the Year!

Join us this holiday week for some heartfelt stories, insights and knee slapping ha ha that would make any Grinch’s frown turn upside down. We also talk about how to navigate unsupportive family at this time of year and make a call-out for greater understanding and inclusion of trans voices in the media. Remember you can email us at lifelivedtrans@gmail.com and send us questions, admirations, upcoming tranniversaries or any stories that we have missed that you think we should be taking about. Thank you for supporting us and making this podcast a safe space for us to come together and share each others experience, strength and hope. Have a fabulous New Year! 💜M & L

Mardi & Lenny reveal some of the things that has been bothering them, (Beefs). Mardi’s was sparked by a back and forth since deleted post by Indya Moore who Mardi had no idea it was. They did end up finding common ground.Written online discourse is so dicey and lacks nuance for topics that need to be discussed in real time to paraphrase boots the house so you know each other are talking about the same thing!!!They also discuss some things that have inspired them lately (bouquets) and get into some of the Hot Topics.taimi.comgetplume.comanne.health

In this episode of "A Life Lived Trans," hosts MahD and Lenny Z delve into the complexities of transphobia while highlighting the silver linings that can be found amidst the challenges. They discuss personal experiences and societal changes, emphasizing the importance of resilience and hope. The conversation touches on the progress made in trans visibility and rights, the role of allies, and the power of community support. The episode concludes with a guided meditation led by MahD, offering listeners a moment of peace and reflection. Join MahD and Lenny as they navigate the intersection of personal growth and societal change, reminding us all to look for the silver linings in every situation. *For paid Patreon members, there is a Bonus Clip about how Mardi learned this mediation practice from a Tibetan Buddhist nun.

In this episode of the Life Lived Trans podcast, hosts Mardi and Lenny welcome Regina, who shares her brave journey of transitioning the day she retired at 65, 10 years ago. Living in a very conservative rural community Regina recounts her experiences of acceptance in her community, the significance of being true to oneself and the importance of queer community support and networking.We discuss the differences and similarities between early and late transitions, emphasizing the shared struggles within the transgender community.Greater awareness and respect for trans persons transitioning later in life is unfortunately. The significance of storytelling and sharing of our differing trans experiences within the trans community can not be stressed enough.Reference: transrurallives.org