Dem Bois Podcast

Send us a textDem Bois Inc. is an organization dedicated to amplifying trans men of color voices, and today on Dem Bois Podcast, we are continuing our Board Member Highlight Series with Tiana Moon, our board secretary. Tiana shares their background, including their mixed-race heritage, queer identity, and extensive experience in training and community education. And, they emphasize the importance of financial support for gender-affirming procedures, recounting their own experience with top surgery in Tijuana. We talk:Tiana’s career and personal life - 1:21Dem Bois Inc mission - 5:17Their hopes for the future of Dem Bois - 8:10Read more about Tiana in their bio below:Tiana grew up in Kumeyaay territory, living on both sides of the U.S/Mexico border in San Diego, CA and Tijuana, MX. They are a mixed race Chicano of Indigenous and Jewish ancestry. They are also queer, polyamorous, trans, nonbinary, and disabled. All experiences that shape their sense of community and commitment to care work.They are a Co-Director at Brown Boi Project, an organization dedicated to Gender Justice and leadership development with a focus on how Black, Indigenous, and other people of color experience masculinity. They are also a facilitator and logistics nerd. In addition to formal training and curriculum design, their facilitation includes holding other dynamic spaces like support groups, retreats and gatherings, repair processes, community building events and action planning. Most recently they presented at the Caring Futures conference at The American University of Paris to present on mutual aid, building community care projects and decreasing reliance on violent state systems.Furthermore, they have a decade of experience providing trauma informed direct services and mentorship to LGBTQ2S+ youth and families experiencing homelessness, incarceration, and co-occurring psychiatric disability and substance use dependence. Both in professional capacities represented by organizations and informally through community relationships and activist care spaces.They are excited to bring these experiences to their role and honored to support the work of Dem Bois through service as a board member!tiana@dembois.org Dem Bois seeks a trans leader of color, or other queer folks of color, along with allies who understand the importance of accessing medical transition-related care, and other trans related issues to join our Board.We are looking for someone who would like to become our Vice-Chair to work alongside the other dynamic leaders of the board to help support the mission and vision of the organization.What does board membership mean? What does a Vice-Chair of a non-profit board actually do? Are you interested in being a part of Dem Bois board, but would like to learn more before applying? Schedule a 15-minute meeting to learn more about board service. Learn how you can use your skills and talents to support the mission and vision of Dem Bois Inc.Link to application to join Dem Bois Board - Join Dem Bois Board of DirectorsAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textWith everything going on in the world today, it’s especially important for he LGBQ and Trans community to learn to shut out the noise so that we can focus on what is actually important. But how? Today on Dem Bois Podcast, Ja’Mel Ashely Ware gives advice on how to do just that. Ja’Mel discusses his transition, the impact of his mother's early death, and his experiences with grief and anger. He emphasizes the importance of mental health support for trans men of color. And, he recounts his decision to become a birthing parent, the challenges of public backlash, and the significance of creating a loving, supportive family environment. We talk:Backlash from first pregnancy - 16:26The importance of therapy - 24:19Being born with HIV - 31:59Recognizing how your actions impact your children - 45:10References:Living Untethered, book by Michael A. SingerEmory University Hospital MidtownRead more about Ja'Mel in his bio below:Ja'Mel Ashely Ware is a visionary leader known for his impact as an entertainer, entrepreneur, and educator. Beginning as an HIV advocate at age 7, Ja’Mel has passionately championed HIV awareness, reproductive health, and entrepreneurship within the LGBQ and Trans community. He holds a degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is pursuing an MBA at Emory University. As founder of The IR Agency, Ja’Mel merges business acumen with social responsibility, empowering organizations to embrace diversity and inclusivity. His work has earned numerous accolades, and he is the proud father of Sea Cannon and Heir Enéz.@sirjamelashely on all platformswww.jamelashelyware.comwww.theiragency.orgDonate today to support the care and visibility for trans men of color! The  Visibility = Possibility™️ Merch is here! Introducing a groundbreaking collaboration crafted by Emilio Perdomo (featured on Dem Bois Podcast episode 37). This isn't just merch--it's a movement! We're empowering trans men of color with creative freedom to design their interpretation of Visibility = Possibility™. Think of it like major brands collaborating with athletes, but this time, our community takes center stage. It will be great to have TMOC designing products that represents their community and that folks will feel proud to put on. Every purchase supports our vital programs!Craving more Connection? Dem Bois Community Voices Facebook Group is a safe, moderated sanctuary where trans men of color can connect authentically, discuss podcast episodes, share powerful experiences, and build support networks. Dem Bois YouTube Channel! @demboisinc - Exclusive content you wonAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textToday on Dem Bois Podcast, I get to sit down with Schereéya, who discusses his journey, including the challenges of navigating gender identity, the intersectionality of being autistic and trans, and the importance of visibility and representation. Schereéya also shares his positive experience with top surgery and the ongoing process of transitioning while co-parenting. He advises parents to be honest and open about their transition with their children and to seek support from trans-friendly communities.We talk:How the name Schereéya chose him - 4:06The intersectionality of being autistic and trans - 16:01How he feels one year after top surgery - 26:40Transitioning with a family - 33:00Talking to children about transitioning - 45:45Click here for transcription!Episode References:Start with Why, book by Simon Sinek Read more about Schereéya in his bio below:Schereéya (He/Him/Fae/Faer) is a multi-disciplinary artist and outspoken advocate for building equity through representation of Blackness, Indigeneity, neurodiversity and queerness. Currently based in Pittsburgh, PA, Schereéya’s practice focuses on freedom: Freedom of Play, of Joy, of Magic and Whimsy, of the mandate to Know oneself. “The act of Knowing myself helps me liberate myself from others’ expectations. Knowing is an ongoing process, and it takes practice and exploration. That’s what my work is- the practice of self-exploration as a method for understanding the condition of humankind.”Buy Schereéya’s poetry collection Prayers & Pixies at https://redhawkpublications.com/Poetry-c120141004Instagram: @schereeya Tiktok: @studios.pghAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a text“Doing the inner work,” has become a popular phrase, but what does it mean? In this episode of Dem Bois Podcast, Dr. Liam Johnson explains that a big part of “the work,” is self-reflection, shadow-work, journaling, and setting boundaries for personal growth. Dr. Liam discusses his journey and transition experience, highlighting the challenges he faced. He also describes his work with marginalized groups, particularly focusing on trans and non-binary individuals. And, he emphasizes the importance of specialized healthcare for the trans community, noting the lack of information in medical journals. We talk:How the name Liam chose him - 5:32The internal work that you should focus on - 14:27Setting boundaries with your family - 23:06Disassociating with your body - 31:26HIV prevention and advocacy work - 48:04Click here for transcription!Episode References:Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself (book by Melody Beattie)Read more about Dr. Liam in his bio below:Dr. Liam Johnson (He/Him) is a Clinical Exercise Physiologist and Research Scientist specializing in epidemiology, with a focus on special population diseases. As a Level 5 Master Trainer, he is dedicated to improving communal health in the African American and LGBTQ communities.Dr. Liam focuses his scope of work on special population diseases, developing tailored interventions that enhance health outcomes for marginalized communities, like African American and LGBTQ populations." This approach demonstrates his diverse level of expertise and dedication to improving health equity for his communities through academically justified research. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Liam combines his passions for research and helping others, creating educational prototypes for marginalized groups and developing life plans for patients. His work is driven by the joy of facilitating understanding and empowerment, leaving behind tangible knowledge. Recognized as one of the Best in Texas in Clinical Physiology, Dr. Liam continues to strive for excellence in all his endeavors.Link to Shadow Work Journal for Black Men: A Guided Mental Health Journal for Healing, Self-Discovery, Growth & Self-Awareness With Prompts to Work Through...Manifestation & Spirituality for Black MenTikTok: @affordably.affirmed1; @affirmedworkouts; @affirmednutrition IG: _affordably.affirmed_; _drliam.phys_specialistFB: Hellome R&R; Liam Johnson (no shirt) LinkedIn: Dr. Liam Johnson PhD., EdD., Doc.Sci. YOUTUBE: @AffordablyAffirmedAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textIf you are wondering how to be a better ally to trans men of color then this one's for you! In this episode of Dem Bois Podcast, I sit down with Nasir Young. Nasir shares his experience of transitioning at work, including the challenges of changing his name and navigating workplace dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of allyship and authentic support from colleagues. He also discusses the emotional impact of transitioning, including moments of missing his former identity. We talk:The meaning of “Nasir” - 5:57His transition journey - 12:28Seeing the queer community expand - 21:28Allyship in the workplace - 35:51Missing former identities - 48:54Episode References:Ep. 7 - Transitioning at WorkRead more about Nasir in his bio below:Nasir Young is a dedicated leader committed to driving economic growth in underserved communities. Originally from Washington, D.C., and now based in New York City, Nasir has a strong passion for advocating social inclusivity and economic justice. His work focuses on creating opportunities and fostering development in areas that need it most, embodying a deep commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nasiry IG: @thedcmaticAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textWhat is family? Is it the people related to you by blood or by love? In this episode of Dem Bois Podcast, we question the idea of “family,” and what it really means. Today I sit down with Joël Simeu, a writer and poet from Cameroon now residing in New York, who is pursuing his PhD at Cornell University. Joel discusses his journey of self-discovery, transitioning to his chosen name Joel, and the challenges of “coming out” to a traditional Cameroonian family. He emphasizes the importance of self-love, gratitude, and community support. Joel also reflects on the impact of religious teachings and cultural expectations on his identity. Despite facing rejection from his family, he finds solace in friends and the freedom of living authentically. We talk:Joël’s transition journey - 8:11His “traditional” upbringing - 19:51“Coming out” to his family - 29:53Questioning what family actually is - 37:57Advice for listeners - 46:16Click here for transcription!Episode References:Dem Bois Pod Ep. 3 - Surviving homelessnessRead more about Joël in his bio below:Joël is a writer from Douala, Cameroon, currently based in Ithaca, NY, where he is completing his English PhD at Cornell University. His writing is grounded in a poetics of Black & queer futurity. Joël believes in the pursuit of liberation, justice, freedom, and love for all oppressed people. He enjoys going on walks and listening to jazz music. He’s an aspiring saxophonist and loves his friends. https://www.instagram.com/jojosim27Are you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textThe phrase “mental health” has become very popular in recent years. We hear speeches and podcast episodes devoted to it and we discuss it amongst ourselves, but how seriously do we really take it? This episode of Dem Bois Podcast is part 2 of my conversation with Micah Roldan and he highlights the lack of resources and support for mental health, particularly for trans men. Micah also advocates for increased awareness for men's mental health, noting the higher suicide rates among men. So if you don’t gain anything else from this episode, at least receive that! Start taking your mental health seriously today! We talk:What had to shift within Micah’s relationship with his wife - 7:44Advice on navigating transitioning with your partner - 14:05Micah’s advocacy work - 20:36Not taking mental health seriously - 35:10Micah’s nonprofit - 41:38Click here for transcription!Episode References:Mental Health AmericaThe Trevor ProjectSuicide and Crisis Lifeline - 988 (call or text) Band of the Hand (movie 1986)Pitch Black (movie 2000)The Chronicles of Riddick (movie 2004)Love Jones (movie 1997)Read more about Micah in his bio below:Hi! I’m Micah. I'm a 30 year old transgender man. I have a passion for discussing mental and emotional health within masc spaces. After the passing of my brother Jeffrey in June of 2023 who died by suicide I advocate even harder for IVP against men and men’s mental health. Connect with MicahAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textWhat is it like to be a true ally for trans men of color? That is what this episode of Dem Bois Podcast is all about. Today I interview another board member, Beauty Wright, spiritual coach and chaplain, and we discuss her journey to leadership and her role on the board. Beauty emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion, sharing her personal experiences and the impact of her support on her family and community. She also highlights the significance of authenticity and unconditional love in allyship, and advocating for visibility and representation of marginalized groups.We talk:Why it’s important for Beauty to show up for trans men of color - 4:22Her duties as a board member - 8:38What lead her to this moment - 11:22Beauty’s last words of love - 15:57Click here for transcription!Read more about Beauty in her bio below:I am a motivated Black woman, who is the CEO/Founder of Loving Your Crown LLC, and an Interfaith Chaplain at a local hospital. This has guided me with a life purpose of building up all persons by supporting them as they learn to love and embrace their crown which is inclusive to members of the POC Trans in my community. My educational background includes; AA in Sociology to understand the demographics in which I can better assess all persons who have been marginalized by their demographic locations. BA and MA in Communication Studies to be able to articulate in a relatable manner with everyone I come into contact with As I believe in meeting people where they are and not where you expect them to be. MDiv (Masters in Divinity) as spirituality is at the core of all things we encounter throughout life. “I am a board member of Dem Bois Inc., because I support its mission and important presence for trans men of color. I am a firm believer in everyone living their life in an authentic way, so they can love their crown genuinely on the outside, ensuring it aligns with the crown in their heart - reminding them they are loved, heard and visible. Being a board member of Dem Bois organization gives me the outlet to do this meaningful work.”beauty@dembois.orgWould you like to make a difference in the lives of trans men of color? Are you or someone you know interested in serving on a non-profit board?We are looking for one individual who is committed to supporting trans men of color.Dem Bois seeks a trans leader of color, or other queer folks of color, along with allies who understand the importance of accessing medical transition-related care, and other trans related issues to join our Board.We are looking for someone who would like to become our Vice-Chair to work alongside the other dynamic leaders of the board to help support the mission and vision of the organization.What does board membership mean? What does a Vice-Chair of a non-profit board actually do? Are you interested in being a part of Dem Bois board, but would like to learn more before applying? Schedule a 15-minute meeting to learn more about board service. Learn how you can use your skills and talents to sAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textIn this season of Dem Bois Podcast, we will be giving you a behind the scenes look into Dem Bois, Inc. I want to introduce you to the board members that make everything possible and show you that I do not do everything on my own, hence: this Board Member Highlight Series. Today I sit down with Board Chair, Boo McCaleb, and we talk about his life, career, and what led him to this leadership position. We also discuss what he does in his role as board chair, and his vision and goals for Dem Bois' future.We talk:Boo’s life journey so far - 2:42What Dem Bois, Inc. means to him - 4:49His roles and responsibilities - 9:06What is next for Boo - 11:44Click here for transcription!Read more about Boo in his bio below:Boo McCaleb, aka Booscapes, is a Minneapolis-based Projection Artist, Filmmaker, and Public Arts Consultant. Grounded in Justice, community equity, and care, Boo blends sensory experiences and creative technology to foster holistic wellness and pathways to community. A graduate of Macalester College in Media and Cultural Studies, Boo is driven by a passion for public art, community engagement, and entrepreneurship. As a Black Trans, and Native artist, Boo brings unique perspectives to his work, believing in its power to promote wellness, joy, and healing for all Black and brown trans folx.boomccaleb@dembois.orgWould you like to make a difference in the lives of trans men of color? Are you or someone you know interested in serving on a non-profit board?We are looking for one individual who is committed to supporting trans men of color.Dem Bois seeks a trans leader of color, or other queer folks of color, along with allies who understand the importance of accessing medical transition-related care, and other trans related issues to join our Board.We are looking for someone who would like to become our Vice-Chair to work alongside the other dynamic leaders of the board to help support the mission and vision of the organization.What does board membership mean? What does a Vice-Chair of a non-profit board actually do? Are you interested in being a part of Dem Bois board, but would like to learn more before applying? Schedule a 15-minute meeting to learn more about board service. Learn how you can use your skills and talents to support the mission and vision of Dem Bois Inc.Link to application to join Dem Bois BoardJoin Dem Bois Board of DirectorsAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!

Send us a textWelcome to season 3 of Dem Bois Podcast! This is a very special episode because we have a returning guest, Marz Turner, aka MoLa Flo, independent artist from Tucson. Marz is responsible for the new sound you will be hearing on Dem Bois Podcast, so I wanted to sit down with him and talk about his creative process. In this episode we also discuss our favorite lyrics, his personal journey and how it relates to the lyrics, and more. Marz also announces his upcoming acapella EP, "Mantras," out now!NOTE: There will be a BONUS episode right after this one where you can hear the full version of the song. Be sure to check it out!We talk:Marz’s creative process - 4:36The importance of amplifying trans voices - 8:42Respecting each other’s choices - 16:56What’s next for Marz - 24:30Click here for transcription!Episode References:Dem Bois Podcast Ep. 49Marz EP “MantrasRead more about Marz in his bio below:Mo LaFlo is a Tucson-based artist from Winter Park, Florida, whose sound has traveled the ears of many listeners all over the world. Mo LaFlo's sound is transformative, exuding emotion and a climate of reverence. His sound captures the essence of R&B, Hip Hop, and Neo Soul. Outside of the booth, he enjoys mentoring youth and helping them find their voice and tap into their creativity. https://www.instagram.com/laflo_444/ molaflo.music@gmail.com Are you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!