The Reconstructed Man

On this episode, Layne talks with Clara Lefton, a Trans man from Wisconsin. Clara shares his powerful journey to finding himself and talks about his advocacy work in DEI and how being a college athlete impacts his life. Take a listen as these two guys talk about what they have in common and what makes them unique.

On this episode, Layne talks with storyteller, playwright, poet, and artist Juliany Taveras about their journey to finding themselves, what it means to authentically express yourself and how it feels to be the playwright for a critically acclaimed show at the Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis.Juliany is an amazing, trans/non-binary soul who stopped by the Podcast to spread some love and awareness. It was a wonderful conversation that was a helpful reminder that while we are all so, so different, there is SO much we have in common. Layne also shares what he loves (EVERYTHING) about being Trans and also what he hates (NOTHING really). Learn more about Juliany at www.julianytaveras.com and score tickets for the upcoming show of Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress live in Minneapolis October 10 - November 19!Get Tix here!

This powerful episode is centered on family as Layne talks with two of his aunts, both from different states, about how his transition has affected them, what they've learned and how they think it has impacted the family. This meaningful discussion shares two different sides of the transition; from the perspective of relatives coming to terms with a big change and of Layne, coming to terms with himself. He also shares what he hates and loves about being Trans this month and... you'll never guess what happened!Listen and share! Connect with Layne on Twitter at @thermpodcast.Read his blog at www.therightlayne.blog.

The Reconstructed Man Podcast is back and Layne is ready to talk... about everything. This season he'll share what he absolutely loves about being Trans and also some things he hates about it... (there's not really any). Amazing guests and the LGBTQIA+ topics on the top of everyone's minds. Season Four kicks off with a bang as Layne takes on Jason Aldean, praises Dylan Mulvaney, and is (just about) ready to say goodbye to Twitter. Listen to past episodes on The Reconstructed Man Podcast website and read Layne's blog at therightlayne.blog. Follow on Twitter: @theRMpodcast

On this amazing episode, Layne talks with Tyler, a 17 year old high school student from Michigan, who knew he was Trans from the age of 11 and shares what it was like coming out in middle school, who is in his support system, when he got his first haircut and how much has changed since he was able to start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in 2021. To Tyler,Thanks for reaching out to me and being brave enough to share your story. I'm so proud of you.

Layne talks with Tahtianna "Candy" Fermin about her experience as a Trans woman in America, growing up on the East Coast trying to find her way through coming out as gay - and knowing that wasn't right; realizing she was Trans, being unsuccessful at finding employment and ultimately turning to sex work before turning her life around to become the CEO of Bridges4Lyfe, an ordained minister, model and choreographer. Listen to her incredible story and gain a new perspective on what it's like to be a Trans woman in America from an actual Trans woman. Tahtianna's Bio:A Choreographer, Model , an Ordained Minister; the founder and CEO of Bridges4Life, www.Bridges4Life.org which works to help teens and young adults on the street and in foster care become responsible, self-sufficient, confident and educated adults. Bridges4Life provides housing, preparation for adulthood involved in the SexTrade specifically Black Trans Sex Workers and Sex Trafficking survivors.Tatiana is also CEO and chair president of The National LGBTQ Workers Center’s NYC chapter, serving on the Center’s National Board as its New York Liaison. A community activist since 2008, Tahtianna has been a Community Follow-Up Worker (CFW) at Housing Works Inc., a recovery coach and patient navigator at The Alliance For Positive Change, amongst other initiatives, as well as speaking at the Presidential debate in 2008 for Barack Obama, Tahtianna was a key element, in the implementation of hormonal therapy through Medicaid.With passion for business, preaching, ministry, social media, and of all things TGNC inclusive. She has both the skill set and professional background necessary to dive deep into the ministry world. As an upbeat, self-motivated team player with excellent communication skills, She envisions an exciting future in the industry.Tahtianna is a WIFE , a Mother , a daughter a sibling and most importantly a minister of our community.

In the Season 3 opener Layne talks with Meeka Webb, Barber extraordinaire and Michigan native about how and when she knew she was part of the alphabet mafia. They talk candidly about the uniqueness of their individual journies within the foundational similarities of being part of the LGBTQ+ community.Find Meek on TheCut App at Meek Supreme or at Klassy Kutts, 517-482-3212.Interested in being on the show, have an idea or want to connect with Layne? Visit The Reconstructed Man website to get started.

Layne is back for Season 3 of The Reconstructed Man Podcast! Available on your favorite podcast app starting March 2nd!This season is all about sharing the voices, stories and experiences of Trans and LGBTQ+ people who are from or live in Michigan. If that's you, let's connect and control the narrative around our stories. Send me an email at thereconstructedman@gmail.com or fill out the form on the home page of the website: thereconstructedman.com.

Layne goes one-on-one with Trans advocate, Forbes contributor, journalist, columnist and nationally known trailblazer Dawn Ennis. They discuss when and how Dawn came out, what it's like to be a Trans woman in America today and how Trans men fit into this whole equation. Learn more about Dawn at LifeAfterDawn.com.

On this week's show, Layne talks with Damien Lopez, author of the inclusive LGBTQIA+ children's book: I Am a Prince. Damien shares his coming out story and journey to where he is today and both guys talk about the biggest threats and obstacles to the Trans community. Get Your Copy of Damien's Book Here: www.IamaPrinceBook.com Or Pick it up on Amazon Learn more about Layne and submit show ideas at thereconstructedman.com or email thereconstructedman@gmail.com!

In this Pride Month episode, Layne goes one-on-one with LGBTQ+ Advocate and fierce Trans Ally Micah Porter. After spending much of his life in the closet and in conservative circles, Micah shares how difficult it was coming out and finding himself. Now, 10 years later, his work with LGBTQ+ youth in sports is changing lives!Learn more about Micah at micahporter.com - catch up on the first episode at thereconstructedman.com!

The Season 2 Premiere of The Reconstructed Man Podcast! Layne talks about current events including the anti-Trans legislation sweeping the nation and shares what Pride means to him!Season 2 also features amazing guests every other episode including Micah Porter, LGBTQ+ Advocate, Damien Lopez, Author of I Am a Prince Book and award-winning journalist Dawn Ennis.Learn more about The Reconstructed Man podcast at www.thereconstructedman.com. Email your questions and comments to: thereconstructedman@gmail.com!

Layne and Daniel discuss some of the most important lessons they learned about being Trans. Despite having vastly different experiences, the hosts reveal something unexpected about their choices. Watch now on YouTube.

Layne and Daniel share their personal experiences dating, coupling and honoring their trans identies with others. How to approach difficult conversations, when is the right time to disclose your gender identity, and the joys of trans relationships are all discussed. Trans Dating ResourcesLET'S GET REAL: A Question And Answer Guide for Dating Trans FolksTinder #AllTypesAllSwipesLiving and Dating as a Trans Man (video)Watch now on YouTube.

In this new, monthly segment called Q&A, Layne and Daniel take 30 minutes to answer as many questions as they can about trans-related issues.If you have a question you would like Layne and Daniel to answer, connect by email at layneanddaniel@gmail.com or find them on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. You can also learn more by visiting The Reconstrcuted Man website.This month’s questions:1. Has anyone been so dysphoric that you don’t think you can handle it?2. How do you feel about being referred to as “a Trans” or “a Transgender”?3. If you could change one thing about being Trans, what would it be?4. Is anyone else at that point where they realize it doesn’t matter what other people think “manly” or “masculine” should be?5. Scenario Question: I'm trying to figure out how to come out to my mom. She said some pretty transphobic stuff when a friend of mine came out, but that was 10 years ago and it seems like her views have changed. (Another friend came out and she was happy for her, used correct pronouns etc). Does anyone have any advice? Or some kind words?

Layne and Daniel share their many 'coming out' stories which include hilarious, beautiful and painful moments and the lessons they have learned from them. For the LGBTQ+ community, coming out is a life-long process, presenting infinite opportunities to evolve and may even become an unusual kind of art form. Resources:Know Your Rights - Center for Transgender EqualityComing Out: A Handbook for LGBTQ Young People - The Trevor ProjectComing Out: A resource for LGBTQ Students - GLSENComing Out Resources - Human Rights CampaignComing Out Resources - Matthew Shepard FoundationComing Out Resources - PFLAGBe Yourself

Looking for some exceptional films that capture the Trangender experience in an authentically documented way? Layne and Daniel discuss two of their favorite films and why these are critical examples of uplifting the Trans community.Disclosure (2020): An in-depth look at Hollywood's depiction of transgender people and the impact of those stories on transgender lives and American culture. Available on Netflix. Click to watch the Disclosure trailerTransformer (2017): In the summer of 2015, former US Marine and world record weightlifter Matt "Kroc" Kroczaleski was publicly outed as being transgender. Transformer is a 2017 Canadian documentary film directed by Michael Del Monte, featuring competitive bodybuilder Janae Kroc coping with both the physical and social processes of gender transition after coming out as a trans woman. Available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV and Netflix Click to watch Transformer Trailer

Hormone therapy is a powerful gender-affirming experience for Transgender people and the transformation we undergo is truly life-changing. It is important to be aware of the potential changes that may occur, both good and bad, so we can respond to our transition in the best way possible. Layne and Daniel walk you through, The Reconstructed Man’s Guide to Taking Testosterone to help others prepare and plan for their own journeys on T. The Reconstructed Man's Guide to Taking TestosteroneHealth Insurance Resources:National Center for Transgender Equality - Health Coverage GuideOnline Trans/Queer Healthcare Providers:Plume: https://getplume.coFolx Health: https://folxhealth.com

Puberty… a most awkward and uncomfortable time for everyone. But for Trans kids, puberty is particularly painful and can be downright devastating. In this episode, Layne and Daniel get real, vulnerable and humorous (because... you have to) about things like chest binding, menstruation, dating and finding your outlets and support community. Get ready to get uncomfortable.    GLSEN is an invaluable support network for LGBTQ+ K-12 students and schools. Be sure to check out their awesome Back To School Tips.  Experiencing anxiety, depression or having suicidal thoughts? Reach out to The Trevor Project to talk to someone immediately. Available by phone, text, and chat (Text START to 678-678).PFLAG is a great support for families, friends and other allies. GLAAD works primarily through entertainment, news and digital media. They also provide an extensive collection fo resources and publications. Places to check out for Trans* products: gc2b Transitional ApparelTransguy SupplyFTM EssentialsChest Binding Tips

In this powerful episode, Layne’s dad and sister talk about what it’s been like to negotiate Layne’s very public transition, how they feel about having a Trans child and sibling, and how their family’s philosophy to lead with love gets them through even the most challenging moments.Watch the filmed podcast herewww.thereconstructedman.comlayneanddaniel@gmail.comABOUT THE PODCAST:Welcome to The ReConstructed Man, a filmed podcast exploring Trans issues—and more—from a Trans Masculine perspective, hosted by Layne Ingram & Daniel Thurman. Through real, emotional, and hilarious conversations, Layne & Daniel share their personal stories, interview guests and go deep into the often missed, often purposefully ignored stories of the transgender and trans adjacent community. We welcome anyone—Cis, Trans and everyone in between—who is interested in important conversations around our ever evolving and fascinating world of gender identity and ways in which we can contribute to a ReConstructed and more inclusive society. This project was born out of a desire to amplify the visibility of the FTM Trans experience, engage an active community of allies, and to embrace and uplift our beautiful Trans* community. Please share with anyone you know who may benefit from this work.ABOUT DANIEL:Daniel is a Transgender man, former high school and college drop out, healthy survivor of childhood trauma and life-long poet who is today, an educator, college administrator, social justice activist, inspiring public speaker, and now host of The ReConstructed Man Podcast. He started his transition in the early 1990s, well before Transgender identity was well known and support services existed. Yet, his understanding of who he knew himself to be originated very early in his life. Lacking familial and community support or awareness, Daniel found his way through some very dark times and has since dedicated his life to positively model and represent the Trans Masculine experience.ABOUT LAYNE:Layne Ingram is an out-and-proud Transgender man with a passion for raising awareness of and supporting the Trans community, specifically youth and teens. He is a strong advocate for people being exactly who they are and living their lives as authentically as they can. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 2002 with his bachelor's in communications after a standout, four-year career on the women's basketball team. He was then drafted to the WNBA's Sacramento Monarchs. Over the course of his professional career, Layne has worked in the non-profit, professional sports and higher-education sectors and is also an accomplished public speaker and national presenter.  Layne made the decision to transition in 2016 and hasn't looked back since.   ​Connect with him!Twitter: @The_Right_LayneRead his blog: therightlayne.blog