In this episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by storyteller, advocate, and Hezzie Mae author Bella Tousignant for a conversation that’s as courageous as it is deeply human. Bella opens the door to her memoir, The Uninvited Passenger—a book that spans six decades of carrying, and finally embracing, her truth as a transgender woman. From a childhood in the 1950s to navigating marriage, secrecy, and ultimately transitioning later in life, Bella’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and the radical power of choosing yourself. We dig into what it truly means to carry an “uninvited passenger” for most of your life, and the liberation and joy that come when you finally stop hiding. I’m so proud to know Bella and to help bring her voice to the world.
#36 When Girls Believe They Belong: A Conversation with Sarah Jakle
In this episode, I’m joined by social worker, policy advocate, and founder of DemocraShe, Sarah Jakle, for a conversation that feels both deeply grounding and powerfully activating. From her early work supporting unhoused communities and studying trauma, to navigating her own life-altering autoimmune diagnosis, Sarah shares the personal and professional experiences that led her to reimagine what leadership development could look like for young women. What began as a passion for advocacy evolved into a bold, necessary mission: equipping high school girls with both the practical skills and emotional resilience to step into civic spaces with confidence, compassion, and a deep sense of belonging. Through DemocraShe, Sarah is not just preparing girls to lead, she’s helping them believe they deserve to. Together, we explore what it means to nurture the nervous system, reclaim your voice, and create environments where young women are seen, heard, and truly valued.
