ARCHIVE (Recorded in 2024): Meet Shawndeez, a non-binary trans dad who shares their journey towards self-discovery and parenthood. Shawndeez discusses the challenges they faced as a queer and trans individual, their decision to pursue IVF and egg retrieval, and the importance of unconditional love in the parent-child relationship. Shawndeez also talks about their work supporting parents of trans children and the need for compassionate guidance in navigating the complexities of gender identity. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation

🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways

• Shawndeez's journey of self-discovery highlights the complexities of growing up queer and trans in a conservative environment and the subsequent path to embracing their true identity.
• The decision to pursue reciprocal IVF, where Shawndeez provided the egg and their partner carried the pregnancy, underlines the diverse ways queer families can come about.
• Shawndeez emphasizes the importance of having supportive medical professionals and a spiritually-driven mindset during their transition and fertility process.
• Discussions about the emotional work that comes with navigating a trans child's experience, particularly for cisgender and heterosexual parents, underscore the need for understanding and open communication within families.
• Shawndeez's current work focuses on helping parents of trans children embrace and understand their child's identity, advocating for compassion and unconditional love.

🏳️‍🌈 About the Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈

With a PhD in Gender Studies from UCLA, Shawndeez is not only thoroughly literate in topics surrounding gender and sexuality but also applies this knowledge to real-world contexts. As a trans-parent who has navigated personal and social transformations, Shawndeez now dedicates a significant portion of their work to supporting parents of trans children, helping to bridge gaps in understanding and fostering love and acceptance within families.

If you loved this conversation, share it with someone who needs it — especially a parent, grandparent, or loved one who’s trying to learn how to better support the trans young person in their life. And if you want to support the show, check out the Patreon: patreon.com/thequeerfamilypodcast.

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🏳️‍🌈 Resources Mentioned

• Queer midwife Marea Goodman's virtual community: Pregnant Together
• Shawndeez on Instagram- @drshawndeez
• Shawndeez’s website: https://www.shawndeez.com/

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