In Service to Rainbows

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 12 of In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today I'm joined by Kathy (they/she), the President and founder of Wortley Pride here in London, Ontario. Kathy is a Non-Binary Lesbian whose story is one of resilience, authenticity, and service to community. Growing up, Kathy knew they weren't like their friends—they didn't like boys the way others did. They pushed those feelings down, eventually married a man, and had children. While Kathy doesn't regret that part of their life, the truth of who they were could never stay hidden forever. After a divorce and later finding love with a wife, Kathy has stepped fully into their authentic self, supported by family and grounded in love. Of course, authenticity doesn't make them immune to the hate that surrounds us in these difficult times. Kathy shares openly about how that has touched their life, while also showing how service to the community—and the love that comes back in return—keeps them inspired and strong. This is a conversation about courage, truth, and the power of building spaces where all of us can belong.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 11 of In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today I have the absolute honour of talking with Sista Patricia, a self-described butch lesbian whose life has been defined by pride, activism, and community. Sista Patricia knew early in her life that she was a lesbian, and once she embraced that truth, she immediately sought out her community and dove in with both feet. In the 1970s, she stood shoulder to shoulder with others in the fight for queer rights, proud of how the community came together to demand acknowledgment and respect. In our conversation, we not only revisit those powerful moments in queer history, but we also celebrate the present—Sista Patricia's deep honor at being chosen as the Grand Marshal for the 2025 London Pride Parade. She led the parade at the head of a group of bikers, sharing in the joy, love, and strength that Pride represents. This is a story of resilience, solidarity, and celebration, and I can't wait for you to hear it.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 10 of In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today's episode is extra special because I get to introduce you to my new co-host, Olive—or Liv, as she likes to be called. Liv is a transgender woman who will be joining me on future episodes as we take on subject-based conversations that matter to the greater LGBTQIA+ community. In this first episode together, we talk about Liv's personal journey, and then branch out into some of the topics that affect so many of us—building and finding community, navigating life on hormones, and the complexities of family. This is the beginning of a new chapter for In Service to Rainbows, and I'm so excited to have Liv with me as we continue these conversations. Please join me in giving a warm welcome to Liv!

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 9 of In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today I have the privilege of sharing the story of Jennifer Wren, a remarkable trans woman whose journey to authenticity is nothing short of inspiring. Jennifer knew early in life that she was different, but like so many in our community, she spent years suppressing her truth—dabbling in cross-dressing, burying her desires through marriage, raising children, and trying to make it all fit. When she was finally ready to embrace who she truly was, she first had to navigate the difficult process of finding medical support in Canada before traveling to the United States for gender-affirming surgery. Through it all, Jennifer had the love of her daughter and the unwavering presence of her son by her side. Today, Jennifer stands as her authentic self—a woman, a mother, a role model, and an accomplished poet. In this episode, she not only shares her journey with us, but also reads one of her beautiful poems. Jennifer is someone I deeply admire, and I know her story will resonate with many of you too. If you would like to purchase one of Jennifer's books you can find it at www.jenniferwennpoet.wixsite.com/home

Welcome to In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and this is Season 2, Episode 8. In this episode, I sit down with Max, a transgender man with a story that's both fun and deeply heartfelt. Max began exploring gender expression in a unique way—through cosplay at Comic Cons, stepping into the roles of Batman, Robin, and other iconic characters. Those moments of play became powerful steps toward self-discovery. Max shares how his family, especially his mom, has stood firmly by his side throughout his journey. That unwavering support has made all the difference as he's navigated transition, life with autism, and the challenges of social anxiety. This conversation dives into the joy of creative self-expression, the importance of family backing, and the realities of living authentically when the world feels overwhelming.

In this deeply personal episode of In Service to Rainbows, I take you inside a world where fear is weaponized, silence becomes complicity, and human beings are reduced to talking points. From a humiliating confrontation in a grocery store to the constant barrage of online hate, I share what it really feels like to be a transgender woman in today's polarized climate — and why these attacks are about much more than trans people. This is a call to remember our shared humanity, to confront lies with truth, and to stand up — even when it's uncomfortable. Because extremism doesn't just happen in politics; it grows in the quiet spaces where good people look away. Join me as I challenge the noise, reject the hate, and fight for a future where we see each other not as enemies, but as neighbors.

Welcome to In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today's episode takes a turn inward. Instead of interviewing a guest, I'm talking about something that's been weighing heavily on my heart: the decline of politics, the corruption running through it, and how that corruption has been twisted into a weapon against trans and queer people. In recent years, we've watched lawmakers use fear and misinformation to push harmful agendas, turning real people's lives into pawns in a cynical game for power. This episode isn't just about calling out what's broken—it's about remembering what politics could be. I reflect on my favorite show, The West Wing, and how it showed me a different vision of leadership: one rooted in empathy, intelligence, and service. That show didn't just entertain me—it called me to something bigger. It reminded me that government, at its best, can be a force for good, a way to bring people together instead of tearing them apart. It's a deeply personal conversation about what inspired me, what still gives me hope, and why we can't afford to give up—even when the system feels impossibly broken.

Welcome to In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and in this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Rigel, a 64-year-old pansexual man who has lived boldly and authentically for decades. Rigel discovered who he was in his teens and explored his identity before, during, and after the AIDS epidemic. He shares his insights on embracing who you are without fear—especially in today's world of instant validation and social media scrutiny. We also dive into politics, the power of your vote, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. Rigel's story is also one of deep love and loss, as he recounts a long-term relationship with a partner who was ultimately taken from him due to illness. His journey is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering strength. I truly enjoyed this conversation, and I hope you do too. Let's get into it!

Welcome to a Special Episode of In Service to Rainbows Hello, beautiful souls, and welcome to In Service to Rainbows. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today's episode is unlike any other. This one comes straight from my heart—a love letter to my trans and rainbow community. Since coming out in 2017, my journey has been filled with moments of joy, struggle, resilience, and, ultimately, love. Love for myself, love for those who've supported me, and love for the incredible people who make up this community. This special episode is deeply personal. It's a reflection on finding my way back to the people who understand me most, the strength we share in the face of adversity, and the power of love to push back against the darkness. To my trans siblings, to every gender-nonconforming soul, to our fierce allies, and to the chosen family who lift us up—you inspire me every day. This is for you. So sit back, take a deep breath, and join me as I share my love letter to our community. Because together, we are stronger. Together, we are unstoppable.

Welcome to In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and in this episode, I have the honor of speaking with Jamie Marie, a transgender woman who embraced her true self in the golden years of her life. Jamie Marie began her transition at 67, proving that it is never too late to live authentically. Her journey is one of both joy and sacrifice. Coming out brought her immense happiness but also led to the painful loss of a long marriage. Despite this, she persevered and found unwavering love and support from her two sons, their wives, and her grandchildren. Jamie Marie's story is a powerful reminder that living as our true selves is always worth it, no matter when we begin. This conversation is filled with wisdom, resilience, and hope. I can't wait for you to hear Jamie Marie's incredible journey. Let's get into it!

Welcome to In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and in this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Jill, a thoughtful and passionate advocate for asexual visibility. Jill has been on a journey of self-discovery since she was 14, moving through different identities on the asexual spectrum—from demisexual to acespec to asexual. She believes in the power of labels to help people find belonging, but also in the freedom to change them as we grow. We dive into what it means to navigate the queer community as an asexual person, the struggle for full acceptance in LGBTQ+ spaces, and the importance of making room for all identities under our umbrella. Jill shares how, even after embracing a sapphic identity and marrying her wife, her ace identity remains central to her sense of self. She also opens up about being in a relationship with an allosexual partner and how mutual respect, boundaries, and consent have been key to creating a safe, loving, and validating marriage. This conversation is an insightful and important reminder that there's no one way to be queer—and that every identity deserves respect and recognition. I can't wait for you to hear Jill's story. Let's get into it!

Welcome to In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and in this episode, I have the absolute pleasure of chatting with Wren from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Wren is pansexual, duogamous, and a proud parent to children who are aroace and transmasculine. This conversation was pure joy—Wren's energy, humour, and warmth made for an incredible discussion filled with laughter and insight. Not only is Wren a vibrant part of our LGBTQ+ community, but they are also navigating parenthood while raising kids who are finding their own paths within the community. We talk about what it means to support and uplift our loved ones, the beauty of self-discovery, and the unique experience of being both a queer individual and a parent of queer children. Wren is also a talented musician, writing and selling their own music, and you can check out their work at www.wrennimusic.com. This episode is full of love, authenticity, and, most importantly, fun! Let's dive in.

Welcome to Season 2 of In Service to Rainbows! I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and I'm so excited to continue bringing you the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. We are here, we are valid, and we are not going anywhere. Kicking off this season, we have a powerful and emotional conversation with Kermmitt, a gender-fluid human who has fought tirelessly for the medical care they deserve. Their journey has been filled with obstacles—from misdiagnoses to outright discrimination, including being referred to a medical professional who turned out to be a literal Nazi. Despite the initial pushback from their family, Kermmitt has since found acceptance and support. In this episode, we talk about gender dysphoria, the fight for bodily autonomy, and the heartbreaking failures of the medical system. There were tears, followed by my own anger at how poorly Kermmitt was treated—because everyone deserves love, respect, and proper care. The medical world needs to do better, and sharing these stories is how we push for change. Let's get into it.

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows, where we share the stories that uplift and inspire the LGBTQ+ community. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today's guest is someone whose journey is a testament to the power of love and acceptance. Jessie, a trans person I met at the Trans Day of Remembrance ceremony in London, has come out twice in their lifetime. Unlike many in our community, Jessie had the extraordinary support of parents who simply asked, "What do you need from us?" This unwavering love has been the foundation for Jessie's ability to thrive. In addition to their inspiring personal story, Jessie is a gifted musician who finds joy and meaning in singing and playing music. This conversation is filled with positivity, grace, and passion, proving how transformative unconditional love can be. Let's dive into Jessie's story of triumph and joy!

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows, the podcast where we shine a light on the incredible resilience and determination of the LGBTQ+ community. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today we're talking with Catherine—a true testament to the power of love and authenticity. Catherine grew up as a religious conservative in Alberta, Canada. With time and support, she embraced her truth and began her transition, choosing to live with love in her heart and a commitment to helping others. At her workplace, she's been a driving force for inclusivity, spreading joy and advocating for change that uplifts our community. In this episode, we delve into the challenges of being trans in today's political climate and discuss the urgent need for dialogue to bridge our differences. Our message is clear: we cannot be legislated out of existence, and we won't allow it to happen. Let's dive into Catherine's inspiring journey and vision for a better future!

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows, where we celebrate the inspiring journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals who break barriers and redefine what it means to live authentically. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today's guest is someone who shows us that it's never too late to become your true self. Let me introduce you to Jennifer, a retired doctor who began her transition in her 70s and is now thriving in her 80s. Jennifer's journey is a testament to resilience. While she knew she wanted to transition years ago, the lack of support from her spouse and the societal challenges of the time made it impossible. Now, with a loving family and a supportive circle, Jennifer is living her most authentic life. Her story is a powerful reminder that living as your true self is always worth pursuing—at any age. Let's dive into Jennifer's incredible journey!

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows, where we explore the many layers of the LGBTQ+ experience with empathy, authenticity, and a touch of humor. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today's episode is a personal one as I sit down with my old friend Bear, someone I consider to be family. Bear is a fascinating character—he describes his sexuality as "wherever his genitals point to," lives a polyamorous life with two other humans, and was my co-host on a kink podcast and two other shows. While Bear identifies as conservative and I lean left, our ability to challenge each other's perspectives with love and understanding is what makes our bond so strong. In this episode, we dive into the messy state of U.S. politics and its impact on immigrants, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and especially transgender people. It's a candid, insightful conversation with plenty of nuance, and I can't wait for you to hear it. Let's jump in!

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows, the podcast where we celebrate the rich, sometimes complex, and often humorous journeys within the LGBTQ+ community. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today, I'm thrilled to share a conversation with Austin—a guest whose story had me laughing more than any other. Austin's journey began with identifying as a lesbian, then transitioning to male, and now finding their truth as Non-Binary. We had a blast discussing everything from a pharmacy tech's refusal to provide gender-affirming medication to how we can give people some grace when we come out. Of course, we touched on religion and how some teachings foster intolerance toward LGBTQ+ folks. We also dive into the dating world for trans people and laugh at the assumptions made by those overly fixated on gender and anatomy. This episode was an absolute joy to record and edit, and I think you'll enjoy it just as much. Let's dive into Austin's story and the laughs that come with it!

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows, the podcast celebrating the diverse stories and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community. I'm your host, Brooklyn Vennell, and today we're talking with Elliot, who also happens to be the husband of Christa, our wonderful guest from episode 2. Elliot's journey began in the heart of the U.S. Bible Belt, where he was a deeply religious person planning to dedicate his life to faith. At the time, as a woman, Elliot discovered he was a lesbian, and this realization led to immediate rejection from his church and community. Following this painful experience, he faced mental health challenges, which ultimately opened the door to self-discovery, leading him to realize he was a trans man. Now happily living in Canada with Christa, Elliot has become a pillar of his community—a family man, a passionate advocate, a bit of a lovable brat, and, without question, one hell of a human being. Join us as Elliot shares his story of resilience, family, and finding his true self against the odds. Let's dive in!

Welcome back to In Service to Rainbows. I'm Brooklyn Vennell, and today we're diving into an issue that's become a defining struggle for so many in our community and beyond—the relentless politicization of LGBTQ+ people. This episode isn't just about laws and debates in distant political offices. It's about the very real lives impacted by these headlines and policies, our rights to exist freely, and the power we all hold to create a world where everyone can thrive, no matter who they are or who they love. These are my thoughts and I hope they resonate with you. Brooklyn