Ep 118 Breaking Stereotypes to Progress: A Non-Binary Journey

In this conversation Charlotte & Heather explored the complexities surrounding #gender and sexual orientation, while stressing the importance of embracing the changes in such a subject.

They discussed the importance of breaking the stereotypical mindset of gender being limited to man or woman, and how gender and sex are not interchangeable. Charlotte travels through their journey of coming out as gay and discovering their gender queer/fluid #identity, and the need for people to be more accepting of others and their different gender identity, sexual orientation, and marriage forms such as #polyamory and consensual non-monogamy.

Parents should be more supportive of their children, whatever their identity may be, and sex education should cover more than just the mechanics of reproduction, but should also educate about different genders, sexual orientations and consent.

It was also discussed that body dysmorphia is an issue for those transitioning genders and transition involves taking testosterone, various surgeries and wading through legal hoops. Unfortunately, not all governments are on board with this change, but the ultimate goal is global acceptance.

The key takeaway was that people should be open-minded and accepting when speaking about gender and sexual identity, and it is important to educate oneself on the right terminology and language to use. To ensure everyone is accorded equal respect, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations of other countries when travelling. Overall, it is essential to accept and respect one another's individual identity, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, in order to ensure progress in this area.

1. Breaking Free From Societal Labels: Gender and Sexuality Explained (00:00 - 05:06)
2. Coming out as Non-Binary and Queer: Exploring Gender Identity and Sexuality. (05:06 - 10:02)
3. Coming Out Over and Over - a Reflection of the Journey Ahead (10:02 - 14:47)
4. Exploring Gender Identity: Describing the Struggle to Find Comfort in Oneself (14:47 - 19:37)
5. Exploring Change: Understanding Different Genders and Non-Monogamous Relationships. (19:37 - 24:43)
6. Acceptance and Empowerment in Raising a Family: A Balancing Act (24:43 - 29:12)
7. Finding Balance: Exploring the Masculine and Feminine Within Us. (29:12 - 34:27)
8. Navigating Gender For Respect in Healthcare Settings (34:27 - 39:31)
9. Body Dysmorphia and the Difficulties Facing Trans People Accessing Gender Affirmation Surgery (39:31 - 44:57)
10. Navigating the Gender Transitioning Minefield: How To Educate and Evolve as a Straight Person (44:57 - 49:46)
11. A Path to Utopia: Creating an Inclusive Future Through Education, Acceptance, and Open-Mindedness. (49:46 - 54:38)
12. Utopia: Embracing the Dignity of All and Letting People Live Their Lives Freely (54:38 - 58:44)

 You can connect with Charlotte, her work and the charities she supports using the links below

Linkedin 

Instagram - @yourglutenfreegaybestfriend

Associations I am involved with LGBT Great (Top 100 rolemodel/Project 1000 rolemodel) - https://www.lgbtgreat.com/

myGwork (Mentor and country ambassador) - https://www.mygwork.com/en/

It Gets Better UK (Regional ambassador - https://www.itgetsbetter.org.uk/

Diversity Role Model - https://www.diversityrolemodels.org/

Stonewall - https://www.stonewall.org.uk/

Mermaids - https://mermaidsuk.org.uk/