The Story That Changes Minds – Celebrating Pride Month with Trystan Reese
On this episode of The Breakout, we sit down with the incredible Trystan Reese, a nationally recognized storyteller, executive coach, and trans advocate, to talk about what it truly means to live freely. In celebration of Pride Month, Trystan shares how breaking out of boxes—gendered or otherwise—isn’t just courageous, it’s transformational. His story is a masterclass in empathy, change-making, and what true allyship can look like.
Meet Trystan Reese
Trystan Reese is a transgender parent, author, and activist who has dedicated his life to building bridges through storytelling. He runs Collaborate Consulting, where he leads workshops, facilitates inclusive conversations, and helps companies embrace equity and inclusion at every level. A sought-after speaker and certified Dare to Lead™ facilitator, Trystan’s work has been featured globally—and for good reason.
Breaking Out of the Boxes: Trystan’s Journey to Family and Freedom
Trystan is a man who redefined what fatherhood could look like. From adopting his partner’s niece and nephew to carrying and giving birth to his own child, his family journey is anything but traditional—and that’s exactly why it’s so powerful.
Trystan and his partner stepped up to care for two young children facing separation and foster care. With no parenting experience but full hearts, they created a safe, loving home. Later, Trystan gave birth to a son—a story that not only challenged norms but helped normalize trans parenthood. “We just wanted to tell a nuanced story of two people who tried to show up and give love and support when it was needed.”
Empathy in Action: Changing Minds One Conversation at a Time
A defining moment in Trystan’s activism came in 2008 when he was helping communities combat anti-LGBTQ legislation. It became clear that awareness wasn’t enough—they needed to change hearts. And that meant learning how to talk to people who didn’t agree.
His approach? Empathy. “This person is not stupid or hateful. They are you, on a different path,” Trystan says. He emphasizes listening without judgment, looking for shared values, and telling stories that resonate emotionally. “Our brains latch onto stories so much more than statistics. People remember stories years later.”
Strategies for Allies and Advocates
Trystan’s advice to those who want to support the LGBTQ+ community is both inspiring and practical:
- Know your zone of influence: “No change is too small. If all you can do is talk to your neighbors, do it.”
- Match your zone of genius with your activism: “If you’re a policy wonk, don’t worry about storytelling. We need policy wonks.”
- Support inclusive parenting: “Parents talking to their kids about different types of families—that’s how my kids don’t get bullied.”
- Target your energy: “There are people out there who don’t understand but want to. Those are your people.”
And remember, the most effective method of long-term change isn’t a commercial or a policy—it’s a face-to-face conversation built on curiosity and connection.
Guest’s Inspiring Takeaways
Trystan’s ability to balance grace with boldness is what makes him such a powerful force for change. From fighting curriculum injustice at age 11 to embracing fatherhood in his own way, Trystan’s life proves one thing: everyone has the power to make a difference.
“I just want the world to be better,” he says. “So I show up in love, not judgment. I’m willing to fight for a transformed world way more than I’m willing to be right.”
And despite the current climate of resistance to DE&I, Trystan finds hope in the visibility of trans leaders. “We’ve never had this kind of access to revolutionary trans voices. We can watch a Supreme Court argument or listen to Laverne Cox on a podcast. That gives me hope.”
Summary & Reflection
Trystan Reese’s story reminds us that transformation starts with one decision: to live authentically. Whether it’s creating family outside of norms or fostering empathy through storytelling, Trystan leads with heart, clarity, and purpose. And in a time when DE&I is under fire, his message is clear: don’t stop. Show up where you can, as you are.
For anyone seeking to make a real impact—in leadership, in family, or in allyship—this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in to The Breakout to hear how Trystan’s story continues to shape a freer, more inclusive world.
About The Breakout
Dive into transformative tales of personal growth with The Breakout podcast by Abbracci Group’s thought leaders, Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther. Join them monthly as they chat with inspiring guests who offer practical insights on breaking boundaries, boosting confidence, and living boldly. Subscribe today to listen to our upcoming episodes filled with inspiration, motivation, and practical advice to help you unleash your full potential! Join our Breakout community.
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