Unconditional Love and the Voyage Beyond Gender Norms with shawndeez, Ph.D.

Discover the power of love and acceptance as I am joined by the insightful shawndeez, Ph.D., to explore the journey of parenting LGBTQ children. Through our conversation, we unearth the intricacies of identity, acceptance, and the transformative self-discovery that not only reshapes the lives of LGBTQ individuals but also their loved ones. Hear the touching stories that cut across the fabric of spirituality, gender, and the path toward embracing one's true self, offering a glimmer of hope and guidance for those supporting queer and trans family members.The episode traverses the emotional landscape that parents navigate as their children reveal their gender identities, delving into the delicate balance of protecting and accepting, and the profound realization that unconditional love can deepen through understanding and awareness. We discuss the importance of patience, education, and dialogue in fostering a family environment where differences unite rather than divide. With shawndeez's personal narratives serving as a backdrop, the discussion highlights the healing potential of open-hearted acceptance within the family dynamic.Listen as we contemplate the societal impacts of gender fluidity, and how fostering joy within the lives of trans individuals can lead to a culture of thriving. Whether you're a parent, a friend, or simply someone seeking understanding, this episode is a beacon of hope and guidance in the quest for a more inclusive world.About our Guest:shawndeez, Ph.D. (they/them) received their doctorate in UCLA’s Department of Gender Studies. While at UCLA, they created and led courses on Trans Magic, Queer & Trans Muslim Feminisms, and QTPoC Resistances while simultaneously serving on the Trans Wellness Team, a collective of medical doctors and mental health providers working to provide gender-affirming healthcare to trans students across the UC system. shawndeez’s dissertation research explored how queer, trans, and nonbinary individuals engage with the spiritual as a form of resilience, healing, and possibility. They are now a full-time public speaker, spiritual guide, and workshop facilitator, offering spiritually-conscious spaces for queer/trans people to lean into their joys. shawndeez is currently most excited for their newest adventure – offering one-on-one support for parents and elders of trans and gender non-conforming people who seek guidance in reimagining their relationship with their child. If you are interested in learning more, please visit their website shawndeez.com.SOCIALS: ig - @drshawndeezwebsite: https://www.shawndeez.com/the specific page for parent support work: https://www.shawndeez.com/work/parentsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawndeez/email address: [email protected] Connect with Heather:The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your *free*