Trans Canada Stories is about sharing trans stories and celebrating trans people and allies, from coast-to-coast-to-coast. In episode 7 'AccessAbility Week and Toilet Talk', we’re shaking it up a little, in the spirit of celebrating equity and inclusion.This week is National AccessAbility Week!The theme of this year's Accessibility Week is Forward Together: AccessAbility and Inclusion for All. It runs nationally from Sunday, May 26 to Saturday, June 1, 2024, to celebrate:the valuable contributions and leadership of persons with disabilities in Canadathe work of allies, organizations and communities that are removing barriersongoing efforts to become a more accessible and disability inclusive CanadaPhysical accessibility is a major component of inclusion work, but we always have to consider less obvious barriers to creating welcoming environments. Today, we’ve called in an expert, and she’s unstoppable when it comes to her valuable contributions and leadership, advocating for accessibility, life and laughter.Michelle Mahoney was born with a condition that limited mobility in her arms, hands, and knees, and she was born with clubbed feet and a dislocated hip. The doctors told her parents she would probably never walk.Flash forward to 1995 … when Michelle graduated from St. Francis Xavier University with what she likes to refer to as a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Independence. After working at Dalhousie University for 23 years, Michelle now sits on the Board of Directors for Easter Seals Nova Scotia, and Easter Seals Board of Canada as the Nova Scotia representative. She is also the Accessibility Officer at University of King’s College in Halifax, Nova Scotia.Michelle is an avid surfer, enjoys downhill skiing, and waterskiing, and enjoys spending time with her husband, family, friends, and her dog, Gus and in this episode we're talking about accessibility both visible and invisible and the inequities of needing to pee.Show Notes:Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn.Thank you to TD Bank Group for making stories like these possible.Red Shirt Day: https://redshirtday.org/about-us/Easter Seals Nova Scotia: https://easterseals.ns.ca/Easter Seals Canada: https://easterseals.ca/en/Today's TD Connected Community Moment:Red Shirt Day: https://www.facebook.com/share/tbhVf9YZLzRpfiEV/?mibextid=WC7FNeRed Shirt Day of Action for Access Ability and Inclusion is a day when people across Canada come together and wear red to create a visible display of solidarity: to show their support for disabled people and their families, celebrate the achievements of disabled Canadians, and to pledge their commitment to help create a fully accessible and inclusive society.Red Shirt Day is an Easter Seals initiative and was first celebrated in 2019. It takes place on the Wednesday of National Access Ability Week each year.Anyone can take part in Red Shirt Day. Put on your favourite red shirt, take some photos and make a pledge to help improve accessibility and inclusion in your community. Then post your photos and your pledge on social media with the hashtags. #RedShirtDay#RedForAccessAbilityOther great Red Shirt Day Resources for kids:Kids Inclusive: Kids Corner: A resource designed to help children understand different abilities through games, stories, and activities.The Rick Hansen Foundation: School Program: Offers lesson plans, toolkits, and activities for educators and parents to promote inclusion and accessibility.PBS Kids: Disability Awareness: Tips and resources for teaching children about disabilities and promoting inclusivity.Book List: Children's Books About Disabilities: A collection of children's books that highlight different disabilities and promote empathy and understanding.Today's TD Connected Community Moment:Be a guest. Tell us who you'd like to hear on an upcoming episode. Share with us the trans-forward topics most important to you. We would love to hear from you and it's easy to engage. You will NOT be added to any emailing lists; infact, participation is anonymous! Share with us here.#TD #AccessAbilityFor more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm
This episode we’re featuring an interview with Terri McDowell (She/Her), who has built a career working in a traditionally male dominated industry. As an award-winning trans woman, who rose to the C-Suite level on her own terms, Terri reflects on her growth both professionally and personally. Terri is a Senior Tax Partner with EY: Ernst Young. Globally, EY has a presence in 183 countries and has almost 450,000 employees based around the globe. Firstly, we are NOT talking tax on this episode. What can employers can do to create a professional services firm where people feel safe to show-up as their authentic self everyday?Cyn first met Terri in 2022, at the National 2SLGBTQIA+ Chamber of Commerce Awards, where Terri won Business Leader of the Year. Terri is Partner/Principal at EY in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and her recognition as Business Leader of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce underscores the significance of representation and visibility for marginalized communities in leadership positions, serving as a role model for others.During this interview, you’ll hear Terri's insights on transitioning while building her career and moving from surviving to thriving.Our conversation highlights several key Topics:Key principle for anchoring a corporate business inclusion strategy.Balancing Professional and Community Engagement.Inclusive Leadership: Terri's experiences as a trans woman in various professional settings and creating welcoming work environments for all employees, regardless of gender identity or expression.nuances of cultural dNA and trans inclusion.Career Development and Diversity of Experience.Building Allyships and the importance of finding common ground.Show Notes:Connect with Terri on LinkedIn.The 2SLGBTQIA+ Chamber of CommerceThe Tax FoundationToday's TD Connected Community Moment:Be a guest. Tell us who you'd like to hear on an upcoming episode. Share with us the trans-forward topics most important to you. We would love to hear from you and it's easy to engage. You will NOT be added to any emailing lists; infact, participation is anonymous! Share with us here.#TDFor more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.
Join us for an exciting journey in Episode 5 of Trans Canada Stories, titled 'Equitable Horizons: Conversations on Workplace Inclusion'! In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome B Adair (he/they), a fresh addition to the SGF Inclusion team. B shares their inspiring journey from navigating the challenging anti-trans climate in Alberta to embracing new horizons on the East Coast of Canada.Get ready for an engaging discussion as we delve into topics ranging from beachcombing adventures to the vital concept of privilege, and why equity work is beneficial for everyone. Plus, we tackle burning questions about inclusive forms and the imperative to redefine professionalism in the workplace.But wait, there's more! We absolutely adore hearing from our listeners, and during our TD Connected Community Moment, we extend an invitation for you to send in your questions. Your queries might just be featured in our next episode of Trans Canada Stories!Let's embark on this enlightening journey together! 🎙️✨TD Connected Community MomentDon't miss out—share your questions with us right here: https://forms.gle/e4mUyfaQEwWRftC77 We'll include answers in an upcoming episode! For more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Emma Stanley (She/Her) and Cyn Sweeney (She/Her)
Few Webcomics have been as prolific and long-running as Assigned Male, the brainchild of trans Québécois cartoonist Sophie Labelle. First releasing in October of 2014, Assigned Male portrays life through the eyes of a trans middle schooler named Stephie who alternately makes light of, and chafes under the realities of growing up a transgender child in a cisgender world. The webcomic series is still ongoing. In 2017, Labelle first squared off against the rising tide of anti-trans and fringe-right haters, when a book reading for her new comic, Dating Tips for Trans and Queer Weirdos, was cancelled under threats of violence. During this time, Labelle received death threats and was doxxed, which would ultimately lead to her resettling with her partner in Finland, where she lives today. In the wake of these events, however, Labelle's audience expanded rapidly across Canada and the world. Today, she has more readers and supporters than ever before. To see Sophie's work, or to purchase one of her books, visit her website at https://www.serioustransvibes.com/TD Connected Community MomentFor a chance to win a signed copy of one of Sophie Labelle's books, follow this link and fill out the form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeiXNtHEfun9GeOwTQs_vnf7ahZurKtjfkIu9VTfUxE0pIbkA/viewform?usp=sf_link Contest runs until January 6.For more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Emma Stanley (She/Her) and Cyn Sweeney (She/Her)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.io
"You read the book, you have a visceral reaction to things, you take note of it, and you bring it to the author..."In anticipation of Shelley Thompson's novel Roar hitting shelves, Emma and Cyn take the opportunity to learn more about the process behind the publication of this fiercely anticipated novel. This episode, we're taking a peek into the world of sensitivity reading, and the sorts of insights this process gives to authors looking to properly represent marginalized communities in their works of fiction. Emma and Cyn are joined by Ronnie Ali, a Registered Psychotherapist, Diversity and Wellness Consultant in the arts and entertainment production, a Trauma-Informed Practice Specialist with Challenge Accepted, and Clinical Supervisor at the Toronto Institute for Relational Psychotherapy. Due to these exceptional qualifications and her insightful nature, Ronnie was chosen to be a sensitivity reader for Roar, and worked closely with Shelley Thompson to deliver a narrative that felt respectful, gripping, and authentic to the trans experience. Outside of her work as a sensitivity reader, Ronnie focuses on ending cycles of violence by addressing the roots of oppression and discrimination through research, psychoeducation, social programming, mindfulness training, and consultation services. The majority of the clients at her practice are trans and gender non-conforming. Ronnie identifies as a trans woman of colour and an immigrant settler in Turtle Island. Order your copy of Shelley Thompson's RoarFollow this link to order from the publisher: https://nimbus.ca/store/roar.htmlTD Connected Community MomentHere are a couple of book recommendations from our guest, Ronnie. Both are written by trans BIPOC femmes. Check them out: From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea by Kai Cheng Thomhttps://arsenalpulp.com/News/2020/LISTEN-Julie-Andrews-reads-from-From-the-Stars-in-the-Sky-to-the-Fish-in-the-Sea-by-Kai-Cheng-Thom-for-Julie-s-Library Zom-Fam by Kama La Mackerelhttps://metonymypress.com/shop/books/zom-fam-la-mackerel/For more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Emma Stanley (She/Her) and Cyn Sweeney (She/Her)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.io
"It's the work of all of us to make sure people are informed."During the Cold War, Canadians became targets of a widespread, systemic effort to identify and expel all any queer people working in the military or public service. This included today's guest, Martine Roy. Martine was a young woman from Montréal who, looking for a purpose-driven career, joined the Armed Forces. Her world was shattered when one day, she was arrested out of the blue, and subjected to rounds of humiliating interrogation on the subject of her intimate life and sexuality. Eventually, she was dishonourably discharged for being in a relationship with another woman. This so-called "homosexual witch hunt" lasted for over three decades, and the stories of those persecuted during this time are shared in Sarah Fodey's 2018 documentary, The Fruit Machine.In this episode, we hear from Martine what it was like to live through this traumatizing experience, but also how she's found new purpose in her life and what steps have been taken to secure justice for the hundreds of people affected by the Purge. Watch The Fruit Machine (2018) on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dLEn0h4hJITD Connected Community MomentSo, what did you think about The Fruit Machine? Did you know about Canada's LGBT Purge? Send us a message on our SpeakPipe, and you may be featured in our next episode! To leave us a message on SpeakPipe, follow this link: https://www.speakpipe.com/TransCanadaStoriesFor more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Emma Stanley (She/Her) and Cyn Sweeney (She/Her)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.io
Welcome to Trans Canada Stories! In this episode, hosts Emma (she/her) and Cynthia (she/her) talk about the reason behind this podcast, and how they came to know each other. The two also have a conversation on the subject of transitioning as a process, the importance of being able to access gender affirming care, and the role of the queer community as a support resource. Emma shares a beautiful story about her own transition, recalling how the experience drew her closer to not only her community, but to her mother as well. Later in the show, Emma and Cyn speak with Felix Vandergrift (He/Him). Felix is a researcher and works in governmental relations. He is an active advocate for TGNB rights, access to gender affirming healthcare, supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, harm reduction and human rights. Felix recently underwent top surgery in Dartmouth thanks to the plastics team at the QEII and is continuing to push for more access to better gender affirming care for all TGNB folks in the province. Felix's Literature Reviewhttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1w93LegmDGp-NjYUpMIq96g_mhMe6gF_WK-7cMnkCMzY/editTD Connected Community MomentTrans Canada Stories are your stories, and we want to know what you want to hear. Follow this link to fill out our Google Doc form and let us know what you want from this podcast!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc5FM151Ud0q-I3V_EoDii5c600DVf-a-_Y9BYf1dd366cdsw/viewformFor more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Emma Stanley (She/Her) and Cyn Sweeney (She/Her)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.io
Welcome to Trans Canada Stories! It's a podcast dedicated to cutting through the headlines and clickbait to tell real stories about real trans people living in Canada today. "This show isn't going to be a bunch of inspiration porn about people having terrible lives and overcoming challenges..."This is a place to celebrate trans joy and the successes (big and small) which inspire it. We'll desensationalize the stories of trans people to tell honest accounts of the trans experience. We want to provide role models and heroes for the community to look up to and admire, while helping to foster the development and strengthening of trans communities across Canada.For more information on Simply Good Form, follow this link: https://www.simplygoodform.com/Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)This podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Trans Canada Stories is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Emma Stanley (She/Her) and Cyn Sweeney (She/Her)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.io