Welcome to Episode 17 of Queer Storytime! In this deeply moving and enlightening episode, we sit down with the incredible Jemarc Axinto (They/Them) a trauma-informed recovery coach, award-winning consultant, and devoted advocate for queer and trans healing. Together, we explore the profound journeys of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of community in the gender and sexually expansive world. Here’s what you can expect:

Highlights from the Episode:

1. Jemarc’s Journey to Self-Discovery

• Jemarc reflects on what they would tell their younger self about identity: “You’re gay. It’s okay. You don’t have to be perfect. You’re allowed to make mistakes and have difficult emotions.”
• Their touching realization of how societal and personal pressures shaped their journey and the lessons they’ve embraced about self-compassion and non-attachment.

2. Queer Gatekeeping and Harm Within the Community

• Jemarc addresses a critical issue: the harm caused by queer gatekeeping. They share a vulnerable experience of being turned away by their own community, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and healing from internalized heteronormativity.

3. Healing Through a Decolonial Lens

• To Filipino queer and trans youth, Jemarc offers powerful advice rooted in decolonization: “Queerness is innate. Shame tied to colonization is not your responsibility to bear.” They beautifully highlight indigenous traditions that celebrated gender and sexual diversity.

4. What Lawmakers Need to Hear

• In a heartfelt call to global lawmakers targeting the queer and trans community, Jemarc says: “Go to therapy. Heal your trauma. Address why you feel unsafe in yourself and your position. The harm you cause others reflects your unhealed wounds.”

5. Advice for Queer and Trans Youth

• Jemarc reminds queer and trans youth, as well as adults, that self-identity is a journey: “It’s okay to change your mind. Gender and sexuality are fluid. Be gentle with yourself.”

6. Grounding in the Body

• On connection and presence, Jemarc discusses their struggles with technology addiction and the power of grounding through the breath: “You can’t breathe in the past or future. When I’m breathing, I’m here now.”

Jemarc’s Current Projects:

• Consultation and Coaching: Working toward a sustainable balance to make their services more accessible.
• Upcoming Book: I Am My Own Safe Space: Transforming the World Through Trauma Healing (self-publishing soon!).
• YouTube Channel: Teaching wellness through the lens of pop culture. Episodes like “What Star Wars Teaches About Accepting Death” are in the works. Sign up for updates at: jmarkxsanto.com/spiritual-geek-and-newsletter.

Additional Resources:

• Jemarc’s Website: https://www.jemarcaxinto.com/
• Follow Jemarc on Instagram: @Jemarcaxinto
• Connect on LinkedIn: Jemarc Axinto

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Host: Stevie Inghram, M.S., YT, AWC, NMS-4 (She/They)