The Trans Experience
with Anne Mellenthin & Grae Mellenthin
Episode 15, Season 2 | December 16, 2021
Show Notes
We hear more about gender expression these days than we used to. Yet it’s rare to hear a raw, firsthand account about what it really feels like when your gender identity doesn’t match your biological gender — from shame and stigma to self-awareness and acceptance. In this episode, we hear from a trans adult and his mom as they share their inspiring journey. We talk about body dysmorphia, mental health issues, determination, self-acceptance and transitioning. Ultimately, theirs is a love story between mother and son, and son and self that applies to us all.
Guest Info
Grae Mellenthin
Grae Mellenthin lives in Seattle with his fiancé and his grumpy cat. He is a phlebotomist who has worked the frontlines during the height of the pandemic. Grae would trade anything for that California sunshine and he has fond memories of his childhood in Menlo Park, CA. He is very excited to share his gender journey.
Anne Mellenthin
My name is Anne Mellenthin. I live in Menlo Park and have three adult children, one of whom is a transgender man. I am an interior designer and a tutor for Reading Partners. I am a CHC Ambassador, former panelist, and sat on the advisory council during the formation of Sand Hill School. I seek to raise awareness of the mental health issues that may debilitate transgender youth as they come to terms with their gender identity.
Resources
Learn more about CHC’s Clinical Services
Learn more about Evaluations
Grae's Resources:
Schuyler Bailar – the first trans man on the Harvard swim team.
Aydian Dowling – has a YouTube channel about trans 101 and his journey.
Jazz Jennings – has a tv show on TLC called "I am Jazz". A great way to be introduced to the trans community. Her family is so supportive and her journey involved her everyday life.
From CHC’s Resource Library:
Safe Spaces for Teens Aren’t Controversial, They’re Critical. Here’s Why.
Pandemic Places Alarming Pressure on Transgender Mental Health
Transgender Youth Reluctant to Come Out to Their Doctors
Understanding Trans Teens: Trans Resources For Parents
Transgender and Nonbinary Teens Share Their Stories in New Book Series
What Transgender Teens Need From Their Parents
With Handout:
Supporting & Caring for Transgender Children
With Video:
Transgender and Gender Diverse Teens: How to Talk to and Support Them
