Coming home to yourself: Challenging the Binary with Kristen Gmerek

Here is what was covered in this episode: 

• Introduction of Kristen Gmerek, who worked with my company before starting a new path in social work. We discussed how our connection evolved and how I encouraged Kristen’s career shift.

• Kristen (they/them) shared their journey of identity discovery, starting with a sense of confusion about gender roles as a child and how this led to embracing a non-binary identity.

• We explored the concept of identity crises and how societal constructs, like gender norms, can limit personal growth and self-expression.

• Kristen discussed their experiences with gender expression, the fluidity of pronouns, and how embracing their identity helped them thrive.

• We reflected on how questioning norms, gender-affirming care, and self-acceptance can be empowering, while acknowledging societal pressures.

• I shared my personal experience of coming out as bisexual later in life and how I navigated the internal and external aspects of this realization.

• We discussed the complexities of coming out, societal expectations, and how these constructs can make identity journeys more difficult.

• Kristen encouraged listeners to find safe spaces for self-reflection and questioning, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments in thriving.