Trigger warning: In this episode we do speak about self harm as it relates to body mods, and the blurry line there can be between the two. If you're concerned about listening with your child, maybe listen first and decide if you think it's appropriate. ReachOut have some excellent resources about self harm here: https://au.reachout.com/mental-health-issues/selfharm/help-services-for-self-harm

We recommend speaking to your doctor or counsellor about any concerns. In an emergency, please call 000.

Show notes:

Connor and Carolyn have a heart-to-heart about body modification - from Connor's perspective as both a trans person and a professional body piercer. They explore how body mods can be a powerful way for young people to express their authentic selves, plus all the things Carolyn wishes she'd known as a parent navigating this journey with Connor.

The Good Stuff We Cover:

• How body modifications can help young people feel more at home in their bodies

• The unexpected ways Connor's career choice has helped other young people feel seen and supported

• Why having a trusted professional matters more than you might think

• How Carolyn learned to balance parental concern with supporting Connor's choices

• What makes the difference between a safe, affirming piercing experience and a potentially harmful one

Hot Tips:

• Parents: Focus on safety and support rather than control

• Young peeps: Find professionals who make you feel genuinely comfortable and respected

• Everyone: Research proper aftercare (seriously, it matters)

Real Talk:

Every family's journey is different, and that's okay. The key is finding what works for your family while keeping communication open and honest. Sometimes the best thing we can do as parents is step back, listen, and trust our kids to know themselves.

Length: 35 mins

Connor and Carolyn chat about the early days of social transition - from trying out new names at Starbucks to dealing with high school friend dramas. Lots of practical chat about what worked, what didn't, and why your mum might get a bit punchy at the markets (and why she'll never be sorry about it).

The Good Stuff We Cover:

• Why friends are usually a great first testing ground (and why that can also get complicated)

• The utility of inventing new Instagram personas every week

• How Connor landed on his name (after trying approximately 47 others)

• What to do when medical receptionists and others need your "other" name

• Why Carolyn had her boxing gloves on 24/7 for a while there

• The unexpected chill of younger siblings

Hot Tips:

• Want to test drive a new name? Order a coffee. Seriously.

• Got weird admin stuff to deal with? Write it down instead of saying it

• Feeling lost with style? Start with what feels good, not what you think you "should" wear

Real Talk:

There's no rulebook here. Some stuff works, some doesn't, and that's totally fine. It's all about finding what clicks for you.

Length: 35 mins

Ever wondered how to start that conversation about gender identity with your family? You're not alone. In this episode, Connor and his mum Carolyn share their journey - from those first uncertain conversations to building a stronger relationship based on trust and understanding.

They share the real stuff: the worries, the wins, and the stuff they both wish they'd handled better. Whether you're questioning your gender or you love someone who is, their story offers honest insights and plenty of "wish we'd known that earlier" moments.

Quick Wisdom

If you're questioning: There's no race to figure it all out. Take it slow, try things out, and know that detours are all part of the story.

If you're a parent: You don't need to have all the answers - unconditional love is what it's all about. Listen lots, hug often, and don't stress about getting everything perfect all the time. Good intentions and a willingness to learn go a long way.

Need support? This list of resources from Rainbow Health Australia is a great place to start: https://rainbowhealthaustralia.org.au/research-resources

Running time: 29 minutes