Classes | Trans* Lounge

Trans* Lounge Membership

PROGRAM LIBRARY

This is a sample of the types of programming we offer. Updated schedules and information about how to access are available to members who are signed in to the website at the Event Calendar!

Recurring Social & Support Groups

Breath, Body & Soul

A WEEKLY Feel Good Yoga Flow

Breath, Body & Soul

A WEEKLY Feel Good Yoga Flow

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India over 2,500 years ago. It is a mind-body practice that emphasizes breath integration. Yoga has many meanings including to unite, to tie together the strands of the mind and to attain something that was previously unattainable.

This WEEKLY DROP-IN class is a vinyasa flow yoga class that includes dynamic stretching and cardio incorporated into yoga poses (asana) with an emphasis on linking breath with movement. Students of all levels and beginners are welcome. Poses can be modified to accommodate physical ability, limitations and injuries. Benefits of regular yoga include physical conditioning, weight loss, increased strength and stamina, management of depression and anxiety.

Yoga is simple, yet profound. Yoga poses can be thought of as “a container for our experience”. By practicing yoga, you learn to trust yourself, appreciate your body and stay present in the moment, even when you are feeling challenged. We know that yoga classes can be challenging and even a little intimidating. In this class, you can expect to move, breathe, sweat, smile and enjoy spending time with like-minded individuals in a SAFE, non-judgmental space.

Class requirements: Students are advised to wear comfortable clothing that they can move and stretch in. Students should also bring water and a towel. Yoga mats are available to borrow or students may bring their own.

INSTRUCTOR

Lauren Peterson (she/her, they/them) started practicing yoga in the late 1980’s. Yoga asana, beautifully combined the spacial expression they had developed, from a career as a dancer, with the interest they had in philosophy and mindfulness.

Craving more knowledge, Lauren began to study with Iyengar teacher, Herb Sandoval, and Ana Forrest, the creator of Forrest Yoga. In the early 1990’s, they did their first teacher training with Maty Ezraty and Lisa Walford at Yoga Works, and Maty invited Lauren to join the teaching staff there. During this time Lauren did numerous workshops with senior teachers including, Dona Holleman, Gabriella Giubilaro, Kofi Busia, Aadil Palkhivala, Eddie Modestini, Bryan Kest, Richard Freeman, Shandor Remete, Tim Miller, Rodney Yee, and Patricia Walden.

At Yoga Works, Lauren eventually settled on ashtanga yoga, with Chuck Miller, as their primary practice. Chuck instructed hem through advanced “B”, or fourth series in the ashtanga system. They also studied in Boulder, Colorado with Richard Freeman. Richard showed Lauren the first five poses on the fifth series. In the early 2000’s Lauren first traveled to Mysore, India to study with Patthabi Jois and has studied with his grandson Sharath on several occasions. While at Yoga Works, Lauren also taught at Malibu Fitness, where they teach to this day, and has kept a steady clientele of private clients.

Lauren has been featured in the television series Healing Quest, and in Yoga Journal Magazine, for the yoga program they started at the Monte Nido Eating Disorders Center. Lauren has been seen in numerous yoga magazines and calendars and is honored to be in the definitive book on yoga asana, “Yoga” a Yoga Journal Book, by Linda Sparrowe and David Martinez. Lauren is also the creator of “The
Yogi’s Companion”, a yoga practice CD, which was picked “editor’s choice” by Yoga Journal Magazine. They were featured on The Ellen Degeneres Show, doing scorpion pose with a hat, (you can google it). Lauren also instructs teacher trainings, ashtanga and vinyasa workshops nationwide.

Lauren is registered with the Yoga Alliance at the E-RYT 500 (Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher) and as a YACEP (Yoga Alliance Continuing Yoga Education Provider).
Redefining Masculinities for All

Healing Your Personal Relationships with Masculinities

Redefining Masculinities for All

Healing Your Personal Relationships with Masculinities

All identities are fluid and hold multiplicities—just like masculinities—they are never singular, and there are infinite ways to relate to them. These relationships are both highly personal and highly public at the same time. Gendered socialization and expectations are difficult to navigate, whether they are coming from within ourselves, or from the people and environments around us.

No matter how you identify, if you are interested in healing these relationships for yourself, then this is your space. Most importantly, only you can determine what that those relationships look like. Each week there will be a topic to explore that allows individuals to really ask themselves who they want to be, and how they want to be that person in the world.

This discussion group is for ALL gender expansive identities who want to actively redefine and explore the possibilities of what it can and should mean to present as their own unique gender in this world.

FACILITATOR
Ash Nichols (they/them) is a queer non-binary trans human, who spends their days gathering stories and facilitating other groups of humans.

Ash has been a theatre and performance artist over the past decade throughout California. Ash has been a producer and manager specializing in new works, community-engaged projects, installations, non-traditional and other weird art things that defy categorization. Ash currently works with Trans* Lounge.
Surgery Suite

A Space to Discuss Gender-Affirming Surgeries

Surgery Suite

A Space to Discuss Gender-Affirming Surgeries

Do you have questions surrounding gender-affirming surgeries don’t know where to go for answers? Are you currently in line for a gender-affirming medical procedure and need some advice on after-care? Have you already gone through one (or more) surgeries and have experiences to share? Surgical procedures (even gender-affirming ones) are never easy. Trans* Lounge would like to help try and alleviate some of that anxiety with our newly-expanded THRICE-MONTHLY group offering… Surgery Suite – A Space to Discuss Gender-Affirming Surgeries.

TGI/ENBY+ healthcare, HRT and surgical procedures are much like the gender journey itself. The path is 100% unique to the individual but we all pass a lot of the same landmarks along the way. Sharing information and experiences can help ease some of the anxiety you may be feeling. So, if you are going to have a surgical procedure and need some advice; you’ve had surgeries in the past and want to share what you went through with others or are just beginning to explore gender-affirming surgeries, this group will give you the space needed to discuss your specific situation and hopefully give you some much needed piece of mind.

And to better serve our membership, we now offer specialized group sessions to focus on specific aspects of gender-affirming surgical procedures. While all are welcome to each offering of Surgery Suite, groups will now be scheduled to specifically focus on the trans masculine and trans feminine journeys, as well as an opportunity to ask questions of a medical provider from the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Trans Health Program

NOTE: This is NOT a medically based group. This is a casual space led by volunteer facilitators, to share personal experiences, tips and resources. This DOES NOT replace a consultation with a medical professional. If you have medical or technical questions about your surgery, please contact your doctor.

Meets every 2nd & 4th Thursday

FACILITATORS
Gina Bigham (she/her) is Program Manager of the Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and a woman of trans experience. She has been a Center employee since 2011 and has made her mark on the organization as the long-time lead organizer of Trans Pride L.A., one of the oldest and best attended trans specific pride events in the country.

Along with her work at the Center, Gina is also known throughout the community as one of the co-founders of WildSide’s Sin City Soirée. Founded in 2007 and continuing to this day, the Sin City Soirée is a week-long empowerment party in Las Vegas bringing together hundreds of trans individuals from all over the globe.

Born and raised in San Francisco and a Los Angeles resident since 2009, Gina adores spending time at the beach (#bikinilife) and quiet time at home with her cat, Trixxi. She is committed to empowering all that cross her path and making the trans journey as easy to navigate as possible for as many as possible.

Ash Nichols (they/them) is a queer non-binary trans human, who spends their days gathering stories and facilitating other groups of humans.

Ash has been a theatre and performance artist over the past decade throughout California. Ash has been a producer and manager specializing in new works, community-engaged projects, installations, non-traditional and other weird art things that defy categorization. Ash currently works with Trans* Lounge.
The Exchange™

An Intergenerational Space for Transmasculine Folx

The Exchange™

An Intergenerational Space for Transmasculine Folx

Intergenerational social space for Transmasculine individuals to share experiences across generations and talk about things that are important to us. This space is for healing, hugs, laughs, inspiration, and community care. Come join us, and let’s talk about it.

FACILITATOR
Luckie Alexander Fuller (he/him/Superman) is a passionate advocate and founder of Invisible Men, aa organization focused on uplifting and building community among trans men and nonbinary transmasculine folks centered on people of color. Luckie is an important connector across LGBTQI community groups and organizations and a steadfast advocate for transmasculine people and trans parents. You may also know Luckie as:

– a member of Gender Justice Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Transgender Advisory Council; AND
– a proud member & Historian of Brown Boi Project; AND
– an HIV Commissioner and a community advisory board member for UCLA’s Center for HIV Identification, Prevention, and Treatment Services ; AND
– a recipient of the Lou Sullivan Award for his work centered around transmasculine individuals in the HIV/AIDS arena; AND
– 2018 Mr. Quest, a community advocacy award with APAIT.

Luckie is a crucial voice in health education and organizing, trans justice, and the movement for black lives. In 2019, he was the Assistant Strategy Director for the historic 2019 National Trans Visibility March. In 2020, he was the designer of the “ALL BLACK LIVES MATTER” art installation on Hollywood Blvd.

IG: @invisibletransmen
IG: @luckiealexander
Trans Tales from the Vaults

Trans History Podcast

Trans Tales from the Vaults

Trans History Podcast

While we seem to have some extra time on our hands, now is the perfect chance to bone up on your trans ~~his~~ OURstory. Come connect with other Trans* Lounge members to learn some fascinating historical tales of our many trancestors; and then chat about it afterwards.

Our trans and queer history is rich and vibrant but also human, gritty and sometimes salacious. Join Gina Bigham in an exciting interactive workshop that is part listening party, part talkback session as we go through the many episodes of the amazing trans historical podcast One from the Vaults with Morgan M. Page.

In this monthly 90 minute online workshop; you will begin by listening to an episode of One from the Vaults via our dedicated ZOOM room. We’ll start with season 1, episode 1 and go in order. We will share the Soundcloud file and you will listen to an episode of the podcast together with the rest of the group. This portion can be headphones only, if you prefer. Episodes are no longer than 30 minutes. Following the podcast, we’ll have an hour for discussion and feedback on what you’ve discovered.

This is a really fun way to learn our truly amazing and under-appreciated tales of trans past while connecting with your community in the present. And in these current times, we can all use some connection and inspiration.

CONTENT WARNING: As the One From the Vault’s tagline states… “We bring you all the dirt, gossip, and glamour from trans history!” While our history is bold and beautiful, it is also very real and some of the subject matter can be triggering. You may encounter outdated language and perilous situations but that is part of taking in the good, the bad and the ugly of our amazing history.

UPCOMING MEETING DATES:
August 18
September 15
October 20
November 17
December 15

FACILITATOR

Gina Bigham (she/her) is Program Manager of the Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and a woman of trans experience. She has been a Center employee since 2011 and has made her mark on the organization as the long-time lead organizer of Trans Pride L.A., one of the oldest and best attended trans
specific pride events in the country.

Along with her work at the Center, Gina is also known throughout the community as one of the co-founders of WildSide’s Sin City Soirée. Founded in 2007 and continuing to this day, the Sin City Soirée is a week-long empowerment party in Las Vegas bringing together hundreds of trans individuals from all over the globe.

Born and raised in San Francisco and a Los Angeles resident since 2009, Gina adores spending time at the beach (#bikinilife) and quiet time at home with her cat, Trixxi. She is committed to empowering all that cross her path and making the trans journey as easy to navigate as possible for as many as possible.
Trans* Spectrum

A Space for Neurodiverse Trans/GNC/ENBY+ Folx

Trans* Spectrum

A Space for Neurodiverse Trans/GNC/ENBY+ Folx

The Trans* Lounge would like to invite all those who identify as TGI/ENBY+ and also as neurodiverse to a unique BI-MONTHLY (First & Third Tuesday of each month) discussion group specifically for those on the spectrum.

This is a great opportunity to connect with other members of your TGI/ENBY+ & neurodiverse community in a SAFE, online format. Pre-Covid; the group met in a small, quiet, controlled space with soft lighting, comfy chairs, fidget toys, group discussion and activities table.

NOTE: This group is for neurodiverse members of our community ONLY. This is not for those doing research or looking to “observe”.

UPCOMING 2022 MEETING DATES:
January 4
January 18
February 1
February 15
March 1
March 15
April 5
April 19
May 3
May 17
June 7
June 21
July 5
July 19
August 2
August 16
September 6
September 20
October 4
October 18
November 1
November 15
December 6
December 20

FACILITATORS

Gina Bigham (she/her) is Program Manager of the Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and a woman of trans experience. She has been a Center employee since 2011 and has made her mark on the organization as the long-time lead organizer of Trans Pride L.A., one of the oldest and best attended trans-specific pride events in the country.

Along with her work at the Center, Gina is also known throughout the community as one of the co-founders of WildSide’s Sin City Soirée. Founded in 2007 and continuing to this day, the Sin City Soirée is a week-long empowerment party in Las Vegas bringing together hundreds of trans individuals from all over the globe.

Born and raised in San Francisco and a Los Angeles resident since 2009, Gina adores spending time at the beach (#bikinilife) and quiet time at home with her cat, Trixxi. She is committed to empowering all that cross her path and making the trans journey as easy to navigate as possible for as many as possible.

Rebekah Tweed (she/her) is a Mental Health Clinician at the McDonald Wright Building and a co-facilitator for the Trans Spectrum group. Rebekah is originally from Tennessee, but she spent the last 5 years in unpleasantly cold Boston. She has her master’s degree in social work from the University of Tennessee, and her bachelor’s degree from a tiny, religious, liberal arts college called Carson Newman. She loves food of all kinds (especially barbecue and bagels), reading, and her Boston Terrier, Abe.

Rebekah will happily talk to you at length about rural queerness, religious shame and guilt, and all things concerning Appalachia.

Astor Vogelmann (They/Them) is a Mental Health Intern at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and a co-facilitator of the Trans Spectrum and Nonbinary+ Groups. They are Neurodivergent (Autism + ADHD), Nonbinary, Queer, and endlessly enthusiastic about fun facts, “bad” jokes, and deep thoughts.

When not engaged in the work of completing their PsyD degree, you can find them playing games with friends, reading Queer
Sci-Fi or Fantasy books, befriending animals, or thinking about how to create more moments of comfort, ease, and equity for every person.

Workshops Presented Through Trans* Lounge

Binder Basics

An Introduction to Proper Binding Technique

Binder Basics

An Introduction to Proper Binding Technique

Are you looking for your first binder? Do you have a binder and have experienced pain or injury from improper use? Trans* Lounge is here to help unravel some of the myths and misconceptions of binder use with our exciting new series of classes called Binder Basics. In this series, we combine both class and workshop aspects to help anyone who is curious about chest binding or already wears a binder. In part 1 of the series, Binder Basics – An Introduction to Proper Binding Technique, you will get an overview on different types of chest binding as well as methods that are NOT recommended. You will have a discussion on currently accepted best practices when binding.

Wearing a binder can alleviate dysphoria and dysmorphia, but you also want to make sure you are binding safely by addressing symptoms to look out for and when to see a healthcare professional. By the end of the class, you will have a better understanding of how to bind safely. As an extra bonus, during the class session; you will have an opportunity to get your exact measurements and take home a brand-new gc2b binder!

We HIGHLY RECOMMEND that once you get your binder and have time to try it out, you come back to join us for Binder Basics: Part II – Caring for Your Binder and YOU! This is a separate class held the following week that will teach you tips, a simple routine of drills and exercises to ensure a healthy relationship with your binder.

REQUIREMENTS: You will be using measuring tapes to get accurate measurements for your binder. We recommend wearing a thin shirt or something that will not interfere with getting those measurements. Changing areas will be provided.

INSTRUCTOR
Dr. Kindra Woo, DC is a chiropractor in Los Angeles. She currently practices out of EVERYBODY Gym. Within the LGBTQ+ community, Dr. Woo strives to bridge the gap between manual therapy providers and apprehensive patients and is passionate about bringing accessible chiropractic care where all bodies feel welcomed. Dr. Woo specializes in neuromusculoskeletal injuries and is a firm believer that education is the best way to reduce risk for injury.

In her practice, she sees patients that are post-op gender affirming top surgery that allows her experience to guide rehabilitation. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her partner and 2 cats.
Binder Basics; Part II

Caring for Your Binder and YOURSELF!

Binder Basics; Part II

Caring for Your Binder and YOURSELF!

The second part of our Binder Basics series is an interactive workshop that will teach you a simple daily routine of drills and exercises to perform with or without your binder to ensure healthy movements in your neck, back, shoulder, and ribs. It will cover breathing techniques, stretches and exercises that can all be done with body weight. You will utilize floor, wall, and door jamb space to ensure this binder basic mobility routine can be done anywhere, anytime.

Please note that you do NOT need to have taken our Binder Basics Part 1 to take part in this class. This class is great for anyone who already wears a binder!

REQUIREMENTS: Wear clothing that you feel comfortable exercising in. Water and a towel are recommended. Floor mats will be provided however you are welcome to bring your own.

INSTRUCTOR
Dr. Kindra Woo, DC is a chiropractor in Los Angeles. She currently practices out of EVERYBODY Gym. Within the LGBTQ+ community, Dr. Woo strives to bridge the gap between manual therapy providers and apprehensive patients and is passionate about bringing accessible chiropractic care where all bodies feel welcomed. Dr. Woo specializes in neuromusculoskeletal injuries and is a firm believer that education is the best way to reduce risk for injury.

In her practice, she sees patients that are post-op gender affirming top surgery that allows her experience to guide rehabilitation. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her partner and 2 cats.
Comic Cure

TRANS*form Your Pain into Comedy

Comic Cure

TRANS*form Your Pain into Comedy

As trans/GNC individuals, many of us have had to endure unspeakable pain and discrimination. It would be easy to let all of those horrible experiences define and dictate how we live our lives and move into our futures. But there is a way of processing all the difficult experiences we’ve had and come out laughing on the other side. This ultra-empowering 6-part lab will help you to take those difficult experiences and through laughter take ownership of them and never let them harm you again.

In this community-building, 6-8 week course, you will explore the curing properties of laughter as you revisit those dark experiences that have held you back and with the help of your instructor, a working comedian, transform those experiences and observations into a witty stand-up comedy routine that will share your story and connect with others. During each of the lab sessions, you will focus on various comedy techniques and joke writing structure that will help you to turn your observations into great comedy. And the climax for all that hard work and introspection is that you will have the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience at the world famous Comedy Store in Hollywood!

The best comics are those who expose and share a part of themselves with the audience. This lab will allow you to share with the world the strength it takes to not only be trans*, but to take those tragic experiences you’ve been dealt and show that NOTHING can keep you from being happy and free.

INSTRUCTOR

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Adam Barnhardt‘s comedy career began in New York City performing at The Comic Strip, Caroline’s, Stand Up NY, and Gotham, among others. Based in Los Angeles since 1994 Adam has worked steadily as a professional comedian, coach, actor and Comedy-Therapist. He has taught the Comic Cure class at the Los Angeles LGBT Center for over a decade and has performed stand up comedy internationally in London and all over the United States. You can see him regularly at The Comedy Store, The Improv, and The Laugh Factory in Hollywood.

Adam is one of the hosts of Cadillac Sundays, one of the longest running shows at The Comedy Store (since 1998).

COMEDY-THERAPY
Using humor to process real issues is what the most celebrated comedians have always done. By working in a group dynamic each comedians voice is firmly established with useful tools that help to highlight their point of view. Tools that they can use in their real life as well as in their comedy career. Through the process of “Clearing” on stage a comic’s material is rooted in what is true about where they are really coming from.
Defending You

Basics of Self-Defense

Defending You

Basics of Self-Defense

It’s an exciting time for the trans and GNC communities but with added visibility means we must always remain aware and vigilant. Being prepared for any and all situations is a must to today’s world, so Trans* Lounge is pleased to offer “Defending You – The Basics of Self-Defense” to show you ways to protect yourself without having to rely solely on physical strength.

In this exciting new workshop which mixes demonstration and participation, you will learn techniques to protect yourself from threats but also how to defuse potentially dangerous situations before they even occur. Being aware of your surroundings and confident in your abilities to defend yourself can not only bring you a new sense of calm but that piece of mind can also help you achieve a self-reliance you didn’t even know you had.

While this workshop will be draw heavily on martial arts techniques, this is not a martial arts class! All techniques and materials are taught with the intent of deescalating a situation and keeping you safe and out of harm’s way.
Embodied Relief

A Self-Massage Workshop

Embodied Relief

A Self-Massage Workshop

Want to learn how to reconnect with your body and contribute to your own healing? The Trans* Lounge, and non-binary licensed massage therapist Aunjel want to help you take hold of your healing journey through this new and exciting, guided self-massage workshop.

Self-massage is known to positively impact dissociative tendencies, increase self-compassion, reduce fatigue, and combat chronic pain. Sensations such as pain, are the body’s way of signaling that something isn’t quite right. When the body is advocating for itself in this way, who better to show up for it than you!

By granting your body the opportunity to share and feel heard, you will learn the skills and techniques needed to become both your best advocate and the healer. You will use self-massage techniques and a mindfulness approach to better know how to acknowledge sensation without judgment, safely reconnect with your body, and effectively combat pain.

This 90-minute workshop will provide all necessary tools you will need to soothe and heal yourself whenever needed. You do not need a background in massage and we welcome people of all levels of mobility. Come embody the relief you’ve been searching for.

CLASS REQUIREMENT: Participants should come in clothing in which they can easily stretch in.

INSTRUCTOR
Aunjel Fullington (he/him) is a Black, non-binary licensed massage therapist based in Los Angeles, California. His private practice, Transformative Massage, provides bodywork and self-care education that is trauma-informed, body-positive, and accessible. Through Transformative Massage, individual healing becomes communal healing with a portion of all massages helping to sponsor bodywork for LGBTQI+ individuals who couldn’t otherwise afford it.

Aunjel has studied trauma-informed practices for over a decade and has received advanced bodywork training both domestically and internationally. A firm believer in the power of touch, Aunjel is committed to creating greater access to self-care through massage.
Express Yourself

The Language of Fashion & Creating Your Personal Style

Express Yourself

The Language of Fashion & Creating Your Personal Style

There is no one like you. You are unique and special and ready to show the world just how amazing you are, but in a world of ever-changing fashion trends, finding a style that just screams YOU or knowing what to wear to flatter your shape and boost your confidence can be quite a challenge.

In this exciting, interactive workshop, you will have the opportunity for one on one time with your instructor/stylist and get the answers you seek to present the perfect style that shows off who you truly are. You will learn about recent fashions trends, a little history of fashion throughout the ages and be able to sit down with an image consultant who will share style tips to live by, so you know how to look your best no matter what the occasion or what’s in style. You will take part in fun and eye-opening discussions on body shapes and silhouettes, cuts, color and fabrication of fashions and how to meld that with your personality to create a personal style that not only has a positive effect on your appearance, but also your soul. You know what they say… “When you look good, you feel good”.

Class Requirement: All we ask is that students come prepared with any questions or issues they might be having (nothing is off-limits) with their wardrobe or personal style. Students are also welcome to bring any of their favorite outfits to find some new and exciting ways to accentuate your wardrobe.

INSTRUCTOR

Allison Roth has a degree in fashion design from FIDM and lives in Los Angeles with her rescue Poodles, Rudie and Ellie. She has been a wardrobe stylist, makeup artist and image consultant and particularly enjoys artist development. Her mother taught her to love pretty things and to appreciate the stories behind them. She cut her teeth styling for her brother, David Lee Roth of the mighty Van Halen.

She is a pop culture devotee and social history enthusiast. She loves using her fashion expertise to bring out the very best in each of her clients and empower them to be proud of their personal style whatever it may be.

For more on Allison and her work, see allisonrothmakeup.com
Fitness for Us

Physical Health & Wellness for the Trans* Community

Fitness for Us

Physical Health & Wellness for the Trans* Community

The fitness industry often creates a daunting environment that makes it challenging for TGI/ENBY+ individuals to focus on our physical health and wellness. The Trans* Lounge has created a safe and judgment-free course tailored specifically for the TGI/ENBY+ community to help alleviate those challenges and motivate you to be your best in both mind and body.

In this engaging workshop, you will engage in supportive discussion and dynamic workouts aimed at providing the fitness direction needed to provide you with a new sense of confidence and positive body image. Your instructor will work with you to develop a plan where you can get your exercise and nutrition questions answered and the tools necessary to reach your fitness goals.

Discussions will include one on one assessments, goal setting, injury prevention, barriers to physical wellness and creating a healthy body image. Following the discussion, you will exercise as a group where you will get into basic movement theory. This includes dynamic stretching, a workout that includes a variety of different formats including stability and cardio work and static stretching.

This is an active participation class with some strenuous exercises included. Students may participate at their own pace but please be aware that you will move, sweat and work in this class. It is recommended that you wear comfortable work out appropriate clothing and shoes. You may also want to bring a towel.

INSTRUCTOR

Monk Rodriguez is a QTPOC fitness trainer certified with the National Academy of Sports Medicine(NASM). His concentration is on providing training that transforms both body and mind. As a trans* person, he understands the barriers to fitness training and is intent on providing a safe and comfortable place where the trans* community may overcome these obstacles. Monk has learned that a fit body better manages stress, brings enormous boosts in confidence and gives one the capability of making positive changes to their lives. He uses a combination of traditional fitness technique along with alternative, progressive exercise programs to keep the workouts fresh and fun. His goal is to foster a safe space for trans* folks of all fitness levels to discover, learn and prosper together.
Juggle for Wellness

A Juggling Workshop to Benefit Body & Mind
Juggle for Wellness

A Juggling Workshop to Benefit Body & Mind

Juggle for Wellness is a class focused on teaching the basics of 3 ball juggling to the LGBT+ community. It’s a fun portable workout that can be done alone or shared with friends. Our workshop is 90 minutes long and is set to fun upbeat music. We provide the juggling balls that you will use during the class, so all that you need to bring with you is yourself in clothes that you comfortable being active in.

The workshop begins with a brief summary about the benefits of juggling and the logistics of the 3 Ball Cascade. Then, we get everyone up and involved as we do a quick hands‐on introduction and warm up. As a group, we start with one ball, work up to two balls, then continue with 3 balls, giving one‐on‐one attention as needed. Once we establish a rhythm with our students and they are ready to move beyond the 3 Ball Cascade we will begin to teach other juggling patterns and tricks. Near the end of the class we will bring out other props for the class to use. Including: Juggling Scarves, Juggling Rings, Spinning Plates, Buugeng and Contact Juggling Balls.

Juggling has many benefits that include, but are not limited to:

Sharpens focus and concentration

Increases dexterity and coordination

It is a great cardiovascular workout and is one of the most relaxing forms of aerobic exercise

Helps fight anxiety and depression

It is a portable workout

It is Scientifically proven to increase both white and grey matter in your brain

Studies suggest that juggling helps prevent Alzheimer’s

Engages problem solving skills

Helps to relieve stress

Juggle for Wellness is a fun, fast paced workshop that is sure to bring you a few laughs, smiles, and wins! What typically begins with a group of quiet individuals will end with a lively group of people laughing, smiling, juggling, learning and growing.

INSTRUCTORS
Delia Danae Rawdon is an out and visible Transgender Woman living in Los Angeles. She works as an Actress and Performance Artist. Delia enjoys expansive scenic views, object manipulation and family days in the park. She is an Advocate for the LGBT community and continuously strives to break through the social constructs and barriers that society has put upon us.

Sarah Rawdon is a CIS gender woman living in Los Angeles. She works as a Project Manager for a Health Care IT firm and is on the Global Steering Committee for LGBT Employees within her Organization. She is a Queer Advocate that enjoys Vintage Fashion, performing Flow Arts and spending time with her family. She has been in a committed relationship with Delia since long before she transitioned, and they have three amazing children together. Their objective is to help other couples and families not only survive through transition but thrive long throughout transition.
Makeup Made Easy

Mastering the Basics

Makeup Made Easy

Mastering the Basics

In this new, in-depth introductory level class, you will learn all the fundamentals of makeup, so you can build both your competence & confidence! This 90-minute workshop is perfect for total beginners and those who feel they have way more questions than answers.

This workshop is a combination of presentation & live demonstration that will explain the essential makeup products you need to know AND how to apply them like a pro to enhance your individual beauty. The class will also include an opportunity to submit your specific questions to the instructor prior to the class; as well as a live Q & A at the end of the session, so you can get answers to your questions & solutions to your struggles.

INSTRUCTOR
Melissa Murdick (@makeupbymelissam) is a celebrity makeup artist whose versatile style has led her to work with some of your favorite faces. From Selena Gomez, to Kim Petras, Tamera Mowry and many many more.

Melissa is known for making individual beauty shine. Melissa’s work has been featured in V magazine, Flaunt, & Galore, as well as on countless music videos and ad campaigns.

Melissa also currently runs www.theprettyfix.com, a trans-friendly website dedicated to teaching wearable makeup, solving beauty dilemmas, and simplifying your approach to beauty.
Makeup Made Easy: Part II

An Advanced, Hands On makeup Workshop

Makeup Made Easy: Part II

An Advanced, Hands On makeup Workshop

Navigating all of the tips, tricks and hacks of makeup application can be a difficult and often frustrating endeavor. Books, magazines and on-line tutorials make application look so effortless, but who is there for you if you have questions or less than suitable results? That would be the Trans* Lounge! Our amazing celebrity makeup artist / instructor Melissa Murdick (Kim Petras, Selena Gomez) has developed, Makeup Made Easy; Part II – an Advanced, HANDS-ON Makeup Workshop. This exciting new class is a continuation of our Trans* Lounge beginner makeup workshop Makeup Made Easy – The Basics of Makeup. It is designed for those who have taken our Level I class or have a basic understanding of makeup application and want to expand their horizons through hands-on experimentation and personal attention to get answers to your most nagging questions.

In this hands-on, 90-minute workshop, you will bring in your own makeup and focus on Melissa’s techniques for your skin, eyes, brows and lips to present the perfect look. Your instructor is there for you with a wealth of knowledge to help you emphasize your best features and de-emphasize what you want to hide. Best of all, unlike magazines and on-line tutorials, you can have any of those pesky questions you might have answered on the spot!

REQUIREMENTS: Students must provide their own make-up basics. Basics include: foundation, concealer, powder, eyeliner, eyeshadow, eyebrow pencil, mascara, blush, lip liner, lipstick, the brushes/sponges you use, and a hair tie or clips to keep your hair back. Mirrors will be provided. Students will learn techniques by applying makeup to their own faces, so it is highly recommended that they arrive for class barefaced (clean face with no makeup). Please note that if you are uncomfortable with being barefaced in public, we ask that you arrive early to class, (we will provide make-up removing wipes), so you can take off your makeup upon arrival.

INSTRUCTOR
Melissa Murdick (she/her)(@makeupbymelissam) is a celebrity makeup artist whose versatile style has led her to work with some of your favorite
faces. From Selena Gomez, to Kim Petras, Tamera Mowry and many many more,

Melissa is known for making individual beauty shine. Melissa’s work has been featured in V magazine, Flaunt, & Galore, as well as on countless music videos and ad campaigns.

Melissa also currently runs theprettyfix.com, a trans-friendly website dedicated to teaching wearable makeup, solving beauty dilemmas, and simplifying your approach to beauty.
Making Sense of Your Dollars

Financial Literacy for TGI/ENBY+ Folx

Making Sense of Your Dollars

Financial Literacy for TGI/ENBY+ Folx

Living in Southern California, saving for surgeries, medications or the myriad of other expenses that our community must endure means that financial literacy for Trans/GNC/ENBY folks is more crucial than ever.

In this new, unique 2-part financial literacy workshop, you will learn the basics of budgeting, best practices to help you save your money, as well as how to invest that nest egg, if you so desire and how to financially prepare for retirement.

This workshop is designed to be interactive, so come with plenty of questions and a desire to make your money start working for you. The class is split into two 90-minute class sessions, but the unique part is that your second session won’t take place for SIX MONTHS. In the first workshop, you will explore ways to handle your money more efficiently and set, reasonable, attainable goals. Your second class will reconvene six months later to review your strategies and discuss as a group, the outcome of your financial goals.

Class requirement:

INSTRUCTOR
Kery Ramirez is a trans native Angelino who has a strong background in visual arts, organizing, and business. He has a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a minor in finance.

Kery loves to read anything related to finance and has successfully budgeted, saved, and invested his money. He wants to share his knowledge with his TGI/ENBY+ family.
Mindful Self-Care

A Meditation Workshop and Soundbath

Mindful Self-Care

A Meditation Workshop and Soundbath

On top of all the difficulties we face in our day-today lives, we can sometimes be our own worst enemy by forgetting to practice self-care. Join trans meditation teacher, Martin Vitorino of InsightLA and the Trans* Lounge as we take time to flip the script and help you to become a better friend to yourself, through indulging and nurturing your mind and heart. In this 90-minute workshop you’ll get to experience a sound bath and practice mindfulness meditations for your heart, body and soul. Come give yourself some care. You deserve it!

Meditation is an opportunity to be mindful of what is happening in the present moment and be kind to ourselves, regardless of how we might be thinking or feeling. It is also a way to explore offering ourselves tenderness and compassion.

In this restorative workshop there will be a lightly guided meditation, opportunities to share your experience of transition – both the challenges and the celebrations – in larger group discussion and/or in small groups, and a restorative and healing sound bath. You’ll have a chance to rest in the soothing sounds of a handpan performance by Krista Benson.

Regardless of where you are in your gender journey, this is a place to let go and just be!

INSTRUCTORS
Martin Vitorino, Ph.D. leads a meditation group for trans people called “Mindful Transitions” that focuses on self-compassion and community connection. He serves as Director of Programming at InsightLA, a mindfulness meditation organization. He is a volunteer organizer of heart-centered retreats for trans men and masculine-identified folks. His activism centers healing from shame and work that uproots systems of oppression such as white supremacy and patriarchy. He earned a Ph.D. in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies from Emory University.

Krista Benson Through melodies she plays on her Nirvana handpan, Krista Benson transposes sound resonance healing to bath listeners in ethereal energy. Tap into the power of deep relaxation and active listening to wash away stress and anxiety in a unique sound bath experience.
Out in Nature!

Explore Griffith Park & Wellness w/ the Unicorn Hikers

Out in Nature!

Explore Griffith Park & Wellness w/ the Unicorn Hikers

THIS GROUP IS CURRENTLY INACTIVE DUE TO COVID RESTRICTIONS.

No trail names or hiking experience necessary. Come get acquainted with six different hiking trails in Los Angeles’ infamous Griffith Park. Join amateur hiker Lenix Pecikonis, creator of Unicorn Hikers and the Trans* Lounge to get Out in Nature!

Think of this as a walking support group. Hikes include great conversations with other trans and non-binary people, beautiful views of Los Angeles, and will connect you with your mind, body, and spirit in a safe and affirming way. Each hike explores a unique trail in the park and will increase in difficulty to build your endurance and enthusiasm for the trails.

CLASS REQUIREMENTS:
This is an active participation class. You WILL be exerting energy. Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear conducive to hiking. It is also recommended to bring plenty of water!

*Please note that each hike will have a separate RSVP page and will be announced just like all other Trans* Lounge offerings.

INSTRUCTOR
Lenix Pecikonis (they/them) is a unicorn in training. By day, they’re a digital strategist for progressive candidates, but they’d much prefer to spend all their time outdoors. They are a lover of furry beasts, a happy house-husband, women’s basketball enthusiast, aspiring plant whisperer who will point out interesting nature things while out on the trails.

They’ve been hiking for over 20 years and have hiked through beautiful places in Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Colorado, California, Oregon, and Hawaii. Sometimes awkward in person, they can’t wait to meet other trans and ENBY nature lovers in the LA area.
Paint ‘N Party

An Afternoon of Creativity and Community

Paint ‘N Party

An Afternoon of Creativity and Community

Are you looking for a fun and “brunchy” way to spend a Saturday? Are you seeking new and creative ways to express the wonders of YOU? Why not join us for our first ever Trans* Lounge Paint Party! Come experience this exciting new workshop where you will enjoy snacks and refreshments in a safe and comfortable atmosphere as you tap into your creative energy.

Whether you are an accomplished artist or are picking up a brush for the very first time; don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through every step of the process. The most important thing to remember is that this is a fun and social event. This is not a lesson in the traditional sense, although you just might learn something about painting while having a great time with like-minded members of your community. The event is led by professional artist, Alexandra Kube, who will share tips and pointers along the way. And by the end of the workshop, you will be walk out the door with a ready to hang masterpiece created by YOU!

We will provide aprons but sleeves should be short or rolled up to prevent getting paint on them. We will also provide a canvas, an easel and all art supplies. All we ask is that once you have reserved your seat for our Paint Party, you make sure that you are at the class ON-TIME and ready to start painting.

This is an intimate event in that we’re only able to accommodate ten students per session, so don’t hesitate, register today and join us for an amazing afternoon of creativity and community.

INSTRUCTOR

“The colors and forms of familiar objects take possession of me and compel me to express it through my canvases…”

Alexandra Kube’s evocative artwork has won her many awards and recognition’s, attracting individual, corporate and community recognition alike.

Soon after graduating college with a degree in fine art, her artistic eye led her into the fields of graphic design, and illustration. Her creative skills later turned to animation for several major Hollywood studios, culminating in an Emmy Award in a 1995 Warner Bros. animation television series.

In recent years, Alexandra’s passion for the arts has culminated in her purest expressions yet by capturing the feeling of music and a bohemian lifestyle into a visual expression. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and events throughout the Los Angeles Area, including a commissioned mural for the City of Lancaster and then again for the City of Burbank. There have been private commissions across the country over the past several years. As a passionate and socially involved artist, Alexandra has been involved with helping to bring art into local communities. She also coaches painting in small groups when time allows.

Alexandra’s painting style is a variable blend of realism, abstract, illustration and surrealism, implementing a cubist delivery of vibrant colors that highlight form and a skewed perspective. She quotes her biggest painting influences as Van Gogh, Dali, Picasso, Mary Cassatt, and Georgia O’Keefe. Alexandra has explored a variety artistic phases over the course of several decades. Her collection ranges
from traditional landscapes and portraits to the current abstracted cubism.

Her most recent and popular paintings embody the spirit of musical instruments, butterflies and people whispering joy and movement quietly into every form. You can’t help but feel enveloped into the joyful essence of song, and also pulled into the intricate dance of recognizable details, inviting us to dwell in its lively rhythms for a while.

“Painting is my music. The songs I hear touch my heart, and I want you to hear
them too. Listen as I sing to you the stories that move through my color filled paintbrushes.”
Rock Your Body Danceshop

Using Movement to Rock Your Body and Your Life
Rock Your Body Danceshop

Using Movement to Rock Your Body and Your Life

For many in the trans* community, it might be difficult to imagine, but your body can be your ally in helping you unlock your dream life.

How does your body confidence reflect your overall confidence?

What is the connection between body image and living your dream life?

What are your most heartfelt desires for your life?

These are just some of the points that will be addressed in the Rock Your Body Danceshop, our fun, new workshop.

It’s easy to fall into ruts and roadblocks as we make our way through our personal journey. Moving your body can open your life in more ways than just getting a workout. When you open your body, you open your mind. And when you open your mind, solutions and insights to addressing body image and other confidence issues seem to flow much easier and can put you in full connection to your body, mind and soul in order to create the positive changes you so richly deserve.

The Rock Your Body Danceshop is a combination dance class and personal growth workshop. Growth is facilitated through group discussion, writing exercises and fun and grounded dance via Latin, African, ZUMBA and House styles. You will have the opportunity to engage in keeping-it-real bonding with your classmates while receiving support around your body image. And you’ll do it all in the spirit of fun, dance and community.

REQUIREMENTS
Workout/comfortable attire and dance/athletic shoes are required. Students should also bring water and a pen and paper for journaling purposes.

INSTRUCTOR
P. Valerie Dauphin is the Dancing Desire Coach, Founder of Feel Good Kick Ass and the author of the upcoming book, Feel Good Kick Ass Confidence: Using Your Body to Rock Your Life. Valerie helps you do the work you love in a body you love with people you love. She is a certified Dream Coach®, licensed ZUMBA Instructor, Certified Group Power Instructor and a OneTaste Coach in training.

Valerie created the Danceshops™, a series of interactive and transformational life coaching through dance workshops, designed to help those who find themselves stuck in a rut increase their confidence while working up a sweat in order to discover and take action on their dreams and desires. Valerie has worked with such organizations as the YWCA, Growing Educators, I Have A Dream Foundation and the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life.

For more info, visit feelgoodkickass.com.
Set & Maintain Boundaries

Using Values to Redefine Boundaries

Set & Maintain Boundaries

Using Values to Redefine Boundaries

Have you ever found yourself struggling to speak up for yourself or set a limit? Or wondering what is reasonable to ask of others? Even if your answer is no, there’s still a fair benefit in reevaluating or strengthening our boundaries.

Boundaries are agreements that can both give and take power. They can be visible or invisible, spoken or unspoken. Boundaries can be difficult and uncomfortable to set and maintain because we can feel like we are placing restrictions on others or on ourselves. However, doing so is necessary for our health and safety, the safety of others, and our ability to focus on or achieve other goals.

Join Trans* Lounge and your good friend Yams Rose (he/him) for this thoughtful new workshop where we will be discussing core values and how those can be used to help flesh out our boundaries, as well as how they can simplify the process of enforcing healthy boundaries.

There will be LOTS of great information shared in this space, so feel free to bring a pen and paper to take notes, or just bring yourself!

FACILITATOR
Kameryn “Yams” Rose (he/him) is a nonbinary and autistic artist and personal development coach who views life as a journey to learn, grow, and heal. He has 3 years of experience in therapeutic work and recently left that field to pursue a more flexible schedule in order to healthily attend to his own needs and others’, as well as
pursue his passion for art and music.

Yams spends most of his time researching new resources and finding new music to inspire his creativity. He aspires to be able to help dismantle for others the barriers he faced growing up.

And did you know Yams was a life coach? You can access his services or get more information at … http://yamsrose.com.
Social Media Branding

Building A Personal Brand & Creating Financial Opportunity
Social Media Branding

Building A Personal Brand & Creating Financial Opportunity

Social media is everywhere these days, but did you know that it could also be an opportunity for making money? You can learn how to harness the potential of social media to build a personal brand and audience, to amplify your voice and possibly make some money at the same time!

Join Trans* Lounge for this 45-minute online introductory presentation where you can learn the basic foundations on how to successfully begin your journey of developing and expanding your online personal brand. Topics include:

Defining your goals and brand persona

Collaborations & Partnerships

Strategy for identifying and pitching to appropriate brands

How to position yourself within Influencer platforms

How to increase your economic opportunities

Raising positive awareness and visibility for your Trans/GNC/ENBY Communities
Style Starts at the Top

Finding and Maintaining the Hair Style that's Right for You
Style Starts at the Top

Finding and Maintaining the Hair Style that's Right for You

As Trans/GNC/ENBY folx, many of us never got proper experience on how to style our hair the way that we’ve always wanted. Trans* Lounge and your instructor, Jessica-Jean de la Vega (she/they) remembers using a flat iron at 11 years old for the first time and basically burning her hair because there was no one to teach her the proper technique. Thankfully through the years of life and becoming a stylist; Jessica-Jean has learned how to properly care for her hair and now wants to share her knowledge with you.

Jessica-Jean is here to teach you the foundations of styling. In this new and exciting 90-minute online workshop, you will learn styling basics that will make it easier for you to achieve the style that you want. Everyone has a different hair type, and in this class, we will break it down so you can come away with the optimal combinations of product and technique for you to achieve the hair you want.

Jessica-Jean will also answer your queries as to how to get your hair where and when you want it. Straight hair with shine and no frizz? Beachy effortless waves that last? We got you covered! And don’t worry, you will also learn tips and techniques for managing synthetic hair.

In this class, you will learn about…

Hair products

Styling tools such as brushes, flat irons, curling irons/wands

Which products and tools are appropriate for your hair type and desired style

Managing hair health

Join Jessica-Jean and Trans* Lounge for this lively demo and discussion about hair styling basics.

INSTRUCTOR

Jessica-Jean de la Vega (she/they) is a QTPOC who identifies as Non-Binary femme of center. Jessica-Jean has a background as a freelance hair and makeup artist, Queer Educator, Artist, Social Media and marketing consultant for ProjectQ Salon and Expanding Identities Development, and the creator of Sad Girl, a zine that’s launching in July, 2020.

You can find her on Instagram @mxjessicajean
The Cuddle Sanctuary

Using the Power of Human Touch for Health & Wellness

The Cuddle Sanctuary

Using the Power of Human Touch for Health & Wellness

As we navigate our own personal journey, it can often be intimidating for many Trans & GNC individuals to find and/or feel worthy of human contact. The Cuddle Sanctuary is a guided social experience where you affirm healthy boundaries and cultivate that necessary tender human touch.

This fun and interactive workshop includes a welcome circle, easy relaxation activities and communication exercises designed to empower and bring a sense of calm and wellness to our often hectic lives. The workshop culminates with a voluntary “Cuddle Lab”. Touch is ALWAYS consensual and NEVER a requirement to participate. All cuddling and touching is purely non-sexual and presented for therapeutic purposes only.

By the end of this workshop, you may experience an increased sense of well-being and belonging, a boost in compassion and playfulness, a decreased blood pressure and a better night’s sleep. Healthy, human touch also improves your immune system! The Cuddle Sanctuary is a great place to meet new friends, connect with partners and pals in a soulful new way and be part of a warm and huggable tribe; all in a safe and nonjudgmental space.

REQUIREMENTS:
What to Wear
Dress in clothes that are conducive to snuggling. Soft, cozy pajamas, cotton t-shirts, sweatpants, leggings are all welcome. Tank tops and shorts are a-okay for the warmer weather. Feel free to change clothes when you arrive. Hygiene is important at cuddles – be squeaky clean and minty fresh – it’s easier to get close that way! (Note: come free of perfumes, colognes and cigarette smoke. Some have sensitive noses – thanks!)

Intoxicants
Please arrive and remain sober throughout the event. You may find yourself getting a natural high on oxytocin – often called the “hug hormone.”

Getting Up and Down:
The class space will be covered with cushions on the floor and most of our exercises are on those cushions. If you are concerned about your ability to get up and down from the floor to a standing position, please contact us to discuss accommodation.

Guidelines
– There’s no touch ever required.
– You can change your mind at any time.
– Respect the boundaries of others.
– Touch Stays Rated G (and stay dressed).
– Ask and Wait: If you want to touch someone, ask. Then wait for their answer.
– Respect the confidentiality of others.

INSTRUCTOR
Fei Wyatt first discovered cuddling as part of a wellness practice and when she did, it felt like she was coming home. She is now a leading expert in the field of professional cuddling and works to spread compassion and unconditional love through therapeutic touch.

As Chief People Officer at Cuddle Sanctuary, Fei empowers others through spaces that invite consent, embodiment, vulnerability, connection and exploration. Her work has been featured on 60-second Docs, Good Day LA, KCET, Fusion TV, Comedy Central, Rolling Stone and Buzzfeed.
Trans Discourses

Exploring Trans Bodies, Experiences, and Psychology
Trans Discourses

Exploring Trans Bodies, Experiences, and Psychology

Where do today’s representations of trans people come from? How have gender variant people been represented by historians, physicians, feminists, and critical theorists? How should we interpret different gender variant people prior to and after the advent of terms like “transvestite,” “transsexual,” or “transgender?” What do we make of the various written representations of gender variant people?

Trans* Lounge is excited to present this 3-part summer mini-series that explores TGI/ENBY+ history that provides surveys of discourse on trans bodies, experiences, and psychology by different experts throughout the last few centuries.

These classes will explore trends in how the concept of a “trans-” or gender variant person, has been constructed, often without their input. Historical interpretations will be explored through lecture, opposing viewpoints and discussion.

PART ONE: MEDICAL & SEXOLOGICAL LITERATURE:
These classes will focus on medical literature, including early sexology, psychiatry, and differing ideas on the classification of gender diagnoses from the late-nineteenth century up to the late-1980s. It is important to note that medical and sexological history is an integral part of understanding where the concept of “trans-” came from.

PART TWO: HISTORICAL INTERPRETATIONS OF GENDER VARIANCE:
This second class will be on the historiography of gender variance, with an overview of the different ways historians and activists have interpreted gender variance through the ages. Students will be encouraged to form their own opinions about what historical interpretations suit the preservation of historic memory best, especially in the case of gender variant people.

PART THREE: FEMINISM, CRITICAL THEORY, & TRANS RESPONSE:
This final class will be on radical feminist literature and postmodern critical theory, as well as a look at how trans writers responded to both the former and the latter. These are considered some of the most provocative, thoughtful, even enraging texts depending on which ideological camp someone is from.

INSTRUCTOR

Arkaz Vardanyan (he/she) is a genderqueer employed in the Los Angeles Community College District, tutoring students on their writing assignments while studying History and Queer Studies at CSU Northridge. His passion for history intersects with his facilitation experience as he has organized and led workshops for college students. He collaborates on and oversees experimental changes in educational programming within his department. Arkaz strives to bring interactive learning strategies to classrooms and workshops and make diverse populations both aware of their histories and empower them with the tools to use that knowledge.

As a member of the Trans Lounge, Arkaz aspires not only to bring new experiences to others, but also to learn from the people he meets.
Trans* Professionalism

Improve Your Chances of Landing the Right Job
Trans* Professionalism

Improve Your Chances of Landing the Right Job

The world of the trans/GNC professional, regardless of your industry, is constantly shifting and changing. Learning to assess the culture of the company you want to work for is one of the most important components to succeeding in the workplace. For trans/GNC people, entering a new work environment can be intimidating, so assessing the culture of the company and/or industry you want to work in is just one of the many important steps necessary to building a successful career.

In addition to learning how to effectively and fairly access potential employers, this course will arm you with the tools you need to:

Identify the job/career of your dreams

Determine the steps necessary to securing a
new job

Develop new skills that will help you to more
effectively apply for employment

Develop a powerful resume

Deconstruct the interview process

This course will also teach you how to address work-place harassment, should it occur, and how you can become an advocate for an inclusive workplace. In short, this fun and interactive workshop will help tackle the complex workplace dynamics in a safe and empathetic space.

REQUIREMENTS
Students should bring a notebook and pen to take notes. If you have a resume that you want to have updated, feel free to bring that along with you.

INSTRUCTOR
Drian Juarez serves as the Program Manager for the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Transgender Economic Empowerment Project (TEEP). Building a solid foundation for TEEP, Juarez established cross-organizational/cross-functional teams to assist in the mission of developing employment and business opportunities for the Los Angeles trans/GNC community. Under her direction, TEEP has worked with over one thousand trans/GNC people by assisting with basic housing and helping transgender and gender non-conforming people move from the street economy to assisting with more complex job skills like resume writing and job searches. She also works as a consultant on trans/GNC issues in the workplace and assists in developing programs for communities endeavoring to help trans/GNC people get back to work.

Juarez, who is a current member of the West Hollywood Transgender Advisory Board, has developed a coalition of grass-roots organizations to help meet the specific needs of the trans/GNC community. She has collaborated with homeless shelters to provide housing and basic living needs, coordinated with non-profits and schools to offer basic job training and has taught over 500 employers in law enforcement, government entities and businesses on the unique issues faced by the trans/GNC community.

Format: Single Session Workshop
Pre-enrollment: Required
Enrollment Fee: Free
Scheduling: Presenters Availability
Presenter: Drian Juarez
TrueVoice (ENBY Edition)

Using Musical Technique to Attain Your True Vocal Range

TrueVoice (ENBY Edition)

Using Musical Technique to Attain Your True Vocal Range

Your voice is your power! And that power need not be stifled by social pressures toward binary categorization. Regardless of gender expression, cultivating a voice that expresses your identity with support and sustainability – without apology or compromise – is within your reach. Join vocal coach Ryland Shelton for an in-depth, two-day workshop on range expansion, resonance exploration, consistency and sustainability that will put you in touch with the sources of your voice’s power and possibility, and the tools to use them on a daily basis.

TrueVoice is a vocal development program, designed specifically for individuals in the trans/GNC/ENBY community, that utilizes vocal music technique to safely and conscientiously develop aspects of your given instrument to achieve the voice that aligns with your self-identified gender.

This amazing program; which began as a 6-part lab has been streamlined and condensed into a 2-part, intensive weekend workshop. The class begins with a simple statement of goals. Simply masculinizing or feminizing the voice is not our primary interest; our goal together is to unlock the voice that is yours, that you hear when you think of yourself. From there, we use musical instruction technique to safely stretch the boundaries of clients’ vocal ranges. By using the unique connection our brains have with music as opposed to the connection they have with speech, entirely new possibilities with regard to using the voice open up.

Although we do use music technique in this work, this is not a performance class. This course is designed to supplement and build on top of speech therapy work that clients have taken on. Our goal is to discover new possibilities and to lay the groundwork for creating new habits that support an everyday speaking voice that is unapologetic, confident, expressive, and 100% you. Our goal is to find your true voice.

NOTE: There is a lot of information offered in this class, so we encourage you to take notes to get the most out of this class. You can use pad & paper, voice memo apps, etc. Whatever is most comfortable for you!

INSTRUCTOR
Ryland Shelton is a vocal coach who works with pop artists, singer-songwriters, stage performers and actors, both in private session and on set for movie musicals and television shows. Most recently, his work on the major motion picture “Crazy For The Boys” (summer 2018) kept him in rehearsal and recording studios in LA and on set in Savannah, Georgia for the majority of 2017. He is also an actor, recording artist, and dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ community.

His newest program in vocal development, TrueVoice, is a vocal expression curriculum designed specifically for members of the trans/GNC/ENBY community. Ryland studied vocal performance at New York University.

TrueVoice Vocal Development began in 2017 by vocal coach Ryland Shelton as a way to help a friend find her voice. After a conversation between Ryland and his friend, Sonja, about barriers holding her back from using her voice as a trans woman, Ryland decided to experiment with his knowledge of vocal technique and resonance to work with Sonja and strengthen a voice that felt representative of her identity and gender, while still authentically coming from her instrument. The success of their work together inspired Ryland to create group workshops around his newfound technique.

The first group workshop of TrueVoice Vocal Development took place at Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center in April 2018. Since then, TrueVoice has continued to expand its work for the trans* community to include trans-feminine, trans-masculine and non-binary focused programs, Master Classes for return participants to more finely tune skills learned, as well as curriculum designed for youth and for leaders & allies.

To date, TrueVoice has conducted more than 20 group workshops and speaking events, amounting to hundreds of participants, at venues including Trans* Lounge, One Iowa, CenterLink National Conference of LGBT Centers, Models of Pride Youth Conference, and more. For news, press coverage, client testimonials and more, please visit: https://www.truevoicevocaldevelopment.com/.
TrueVoice (Trans Femme)

Using Musical Technique to Attain Your True Vocal Range

TrueVoice (Trans Femme)

Using Musical Technique to Attain Your True Vocal Range

Free and cultivate your feminine voice, without strain or affectation! The organic possibilities for your voice – beyond the hormonal or social constraints that have been put upon it to this point – are truly amazing and can be accessed at any point in your transition. Join vocal coach Ryland Shelton for an in-depth, two day workshop on range expansion, resonance exploration, consistency and sustainability toward a voice that more completely expresses your feminine identity.

TrueVoice is a vocal development program, designed specifically for individuals in the trans/GNC/ENBY community, that utilizes vocal music technique to safely and conscientiously develop aspects of your given instrument to achieve the voice that aligns with your self-identified gender.

This amazing program; which began as a 6-part lab has been streamlined and condensed into a 2-part, intensive weekend workshop. The class begins with a simple statement of goals. Simply masculinizing or feminizing the voice is not our primary interest; our goal together is to unlock the voice that is yours, that you hear when you think of yourself. From there, we use musical instruction technique to safely stretch the boundaries of clients’ vocal ranges. By using the unique connection our brains have with music as opposed to the connection they have with speech, entirely new possibilities with regard to using the voice open up.

Although we do use music technique in this work, this is not a performance class. This course is designed to supplement and build on top of speech therapy work that clients have taken on. Our goal is to discover new possibilities and to lay the groundwork for creating new habits that support an everyday speaking voice that is unapologetic, confident, expressive, and 100% you. Our goal is to find your true voice.

NOTE: There is a lot of information offered in this class, so we encourage you to take notes to get the most out of this class. You can use pad & paper, voice memo apps, etc. Whatever is most comfortable for you!

INSTRUCTOR
Ryland Shelton is a vocal coach who works with pop artists, singer-songwriters, stage performers and actors, both in private session and on set for movie musicals and television shows. Most recently, his work on the major motion picture “Crazy For The Boys” (summer 2018) kept him in rehearsal and recording studios in LA and on set in Savannah, Georgia for the majority of 2017. He is also an actor, recording artist, and dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ community.

His newest program in vocal development, TrueVoice, is a vocal expression curriculum designed specifically for members of the trans/GNC/ENBY community. Ryland studied vocal performance at New York University.

TrueVoice Vocal Development began in 2017 by vocal coach Ryland Shelton as a way to help a friend find her voice. After a conversation between Ryland and his friend, Sonja, about barriers holding her back from using her voice as a trans woman, Ryland decided to experiment with his knowledge of vocal technique and resonance to work with Sonja and strengthen a voice that felt representative of her identity and gender, while still authentically coming from her instrument. The success of their work together inspired Ryland to create group workshops around his newfound technique.

The first group workshop of TrueVoice Vocal Development took place at Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center in April 2018. Since then, TrueVoice has continued to expand its work for the trans* community to include trans-feminine, trans-masculine and non-binary focused programs, Master Classes for return participants to more finely tune skills learned, as well as curriculum designed for youth and for leaders & allies.

To date, TrueVoice has conducted more than 20 group workshops and speaking events, amounting to hundreds of participants, at venues including Trans* Lounge, One Iowa, CenterLink National Conference of LGBT Centers, Models of Pride Youth Conference, and more. For news, press coverage, client testimonials and more, please visit: https://www.truevoicevocaldevelopment.com/.
TrueVoice (Trans Masc.)

Using Musical Technique to Attain Your True Vocal Range

TrueVoice (Trans Masc.)

Using Musical Technique to Attain Your True Vocal Range

Embrace and develop your masculine voice without needlessly limiting your range and expressiveness! Whether or not you are engaging in hormone therapy (or whether you have in the past or plan to in the future), accessing the true sources of power and resonance in your voice with this work is education that will provide vocal foundation throughout your transition. Join vocal coach Ryland Shelton for an in-depth, two day workshop on grounding and strengthening a voice that expresses your masculine identity sustainably and consistently.

TrueVoice is a vocal development program, designed specifically for individuals in the trans/GNC/ENBY community, that utilizes vocal music technique to safely and conscientiously develop aspects of your given instrument to achieve the voice that aligns with your self-identified gender.

This amazing program; which began as a 6-part lab has been streamlined and condensed into a 2-part, intensive weekend workshop. The class begins with a simple statement of goals. Simply masculinizing or feminizing the voice is not our primary interest; our goal together is to unlock the voice that is yours, that you hear when you think of yourself. From there, we use musical instruction technique to safely stretch the boundaries of clients’ vocal ranges. By using the unique connection our brains have with music as opposed to the connection they have with speech, entirely new possibilities with regard to using the voice open up.

Although we do use music technique in this work, this is not a performance class. This course is designed to supplement and build on top of speech therapy work that clients have taken on. Our goal is to discover new possibilities and to lay the groundwork for creating new habits that support an everyday speaking voice that is unapologetic, confident, expressive, and 100% you. Our goal is to find your true voice.

NOTE: There is a lot of information offered in this class, so we encourage you to take notes to get the most out of this class. You can use pad & paper, voice memo apps, etc. Whatever is most comfortable for you!

INSTRUCTOR
Ryland Shelton is a vocal coach who works with pop artists, singer-songwriters, stage performers and actors, both in private session and on set for movie musicals and television shows. Most recently, his work on the major motion picture “Crazy For The Boys” (summer 2018) kept him in rehearsal and recording studios in LA and on set in Savannah, Georgia for the majority of 2017. He is also an actor, recording artist, and dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ community.

His newest program in vocal development, TrueVoice, is a vocal expression curriculum designed specifically for members of the trans/GNC/ENBY community. Ryland studied vocal performance at New York University.

TrueVoice Vocal Development began in 2017 by vocal coach Ryland Shelton as a way to help a friend find her voice. After a conversation between Ryland and his friend, Sonja, about barriers holding her back from using her voice as a trans woman, Ryland decided to experiment with his knowledge of vocal technique and resonance to work with Sonja and strengthen a voice that felt representative of her identity and gender, while still authentically coming from her instrument. The success of their work together inspired Ryland to create group workshops around his newfound technique.

The first group workshop of TrueVoice Vocal Development took place at Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center in April 2018. Since then, TrueVoice has continued to expand its work for the trans* community to include trans-feminine, trans-masculine and non-binary focused programs, Master Classes for return participants to more finely tune skills learned, as well as curriculum designed for youth and for leaders & allies.

To date, TrueVoice has conducted more than 20 group workshops and speaking events, amounting to hundreds of participants, at venues including Trans* Lounge, One Iowa, CenterLink National Conference of LGBT Centers, Models of Pride Youth Conference, and more. For news, press coverage, client testimonials and more, please visit: https://www.truevoicevocaldevelopment.com/.
TrueVoice (ZOOM Edition)

Using Musical Technique to Find Your TRUE Vocal Range

TrueVoice (ZOOM Edition)

Using Musical Technique to Find Your TRUE Vocal Range

Your voice is your power! And that power need not be stifled by social pressures toward binary categorization. Regardless of gender expression, cultivating a voice that expresses your identity with support and sustainability – without apology or compromise – is within your reach!

Join vocal coach Ryland Shelton for a workshop presentation on the basics and tools of TrueVoice, for all your vocal goals, whether they are feminine, masculine, or non-binary. The workshop will cover range expansion, resonance exploration, consistency and sustainability that will put you in touch with the sources of your voice’s power and possibility, and the tools to use them on a daily basis. TrueVoice can be used whatever your vocal goals are, you can participate in the group presentation!

In this 90-minute online workshop, you will learn how to unlock the voice that is yours – the voice that you want the world to hear, and that you hear when you think of yourself. From there, you will safely stretch the boundaries of participants’ vocal ranges using musical technique, and conscientiously develop aspects of your given instrument to achieve the voice that aligns with your self-identified gender. By using the unique connection our brains have with music as opposed to the connection they have with speech, entirely new possibilities for using the voice open up. Although we do use music technique in this work, this is not a performance class.

The goal is to discover new possibilities and to lay the groundwork for creating new habits that support an everyday speaking voice that is unapologetic, confident, expressive, and 100% you. Ryland will provide some tools and exercises that you can use to continue your own work on your voice. We’re here to find your TrueVoice!

NOTE: There is a lot of information offered in this class, so we encourage you to take notes to get the most out of this class. You can use pad & paper, voice memo apps, etc. Whatever is most comfortable for you!

INSTRUCTOR
Ryland Shelton (he/him) is a Los Angeles-based vocal coach who specializes and excels in training the performer in sustainable vocal practice while maintaining and highlighting their individuality. Trained in vocal performance at NYU, his innovative & intuitive technique and his consistently successful results with entertainers have given him a reputation as one of Hollywood’s strongest coaching resources.

TrueVoice, his ground-breaking vocal development program empowering the trans* community with authentic speaking voices via the unique relationship the brain has with musical technique, is one of his proudest achievements. Since its founding in 2017, Ryland has presented TrueVoice in trans-feminine, trans-masculine and non-binary group workshops for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility organizations around the country, and has worked with private clientele across the North American continent.

TrueVoice Vocal Development began in 2017 by vocal coach Ryland Shelton as a way to help a friend find her voice. After a conversation between Ryland and his friend, Sonja, about barriers holding her back from using her voice as a trans woman, Ryland decided to experiment with his knowledge of vocal technique and resonance to work with Sonja and strengthen a voice that felt representative of her identity and gender, while still authentically coming from her instrument. The success of their work together inspired Ryland to create group workshops around his newfound technique.

The first group workshop of TrueVoice Vocal Development took place at Trans* Lounge at the Los Angeles LGBT Center in April 2018. Since then, TrueVoice has continued to expand its work for the trans* community to include trans-feminine, trans-masculine and non-binary focused programs, Master Classes for return participants to more finely tune skills learned, as well as curriculum designed for youth and for leaders & allies.

To date, TrueVoice has conducted more than 20 group workshops and speaking events, amounting to hundreds of participants, at venues including Trans* Lounge, One Iowa, CenterLink National Conference of LGBT Centers, Models of Pride Youth Conference, and more. For news, press coverage, client testimonials and more, please visit: https://www.truevoicevocaldevelopment.com/.
Unicorn Book Club

A Monthly Group Focused on Trans, ENBY & Queer Writers
Unicorn Book Club

A Monthly Group Focused on Trans, ENBY & Queer Writers

Even if the shape of our physical worlds have shifted in this upside down time, there is still ample opportunity to expand our minds and dialogue with the world! Join the Trans* Lounge and Lenix Pecikonis, creator of Unicorn Hikers and Unicorn Games, as we take some time to curl up with a good book, poem, or something else thought-provoking with your gender expansive family!

There is such a wonderful expansion of content from Trans/GNC/ENBY authors and artists making its way in the world today. This new and exciting 90-minute group is a great space to get familiar with some amazing new literature and then share what it meant to you with your community!

In each meeting we will all listen to an audio clip of a selected piece (essay, short story or poem) together as a group and then discuss it together. All you need to bring is a curious mind!

Unicorn Book Club List

Sunday, July 26: Let’s listen to “Baby Tiger” by JY Yang followed by a discussion

Sunday, August 30: Let’s listen to Poet Danez Smith sharing their work Don’t Call Us Dead followed by a discussion. (CW: talks about racism, killing of Black bodies, and Danez uses the N-word)

Sunday, September 27: Let’s listen to poet Raquel Salas Rivera reads for 4 their poems in English and Spanish (approx 18 minutes) followed by a discussion

Sunday, October 11: Let’s listen to Fliers of Gyby Ursula K. Lequin read by Levar Burton followed with a discussion (The only one not by a Trans/GNC/ENBY author/poet, but is super-impactful!)

Sunday, November 22: Let’s listen to Vivek Shraya reads from their book She of the Mountains followed by a discussion. (CW: The introduction misgenders the author; was filmed in 2015, maybe before Vivek began using she/they pronouns)

FACILITATOR
Lenix Pecikonis (they/them) is a unicorn in training. By day, they’re a digital strategist for progressive candidates, but they’d much prefer to spend all their time outdoors. They are a lover of furry beasts, a happy house-husband, women’s basketball enthusiast, aspiring plant whisperer who will point out interesting nature things while out on the trails.

They’ve been hiking for over 20 years and have hiked through beautiful places in Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Colorado, California, Oregon, and Hawaii. Sometimes awkward in person, they can’t wait to meet other trans and ENBY nature lovers in the LA area.

Format: Storytime & Discussion via ZOOM
Pre-enrollment: Not Required
Enrollment fee: Free
Scheduling: Sunday Evenings Monthly (July 26, August 30, September 27, October 11, November 22)
You. Are. Worthy.

Reclaiming Your Inner Power with Oracle Cards

You. Are. Worthy.

Reclaiming Your Inner Power with Oracle Cards

All beings are worthy of love. YOU are included in that statement.

When we are faced with challenges in life, our minds can go to self-doubt. We think that the situation is challenging because we aren’t smart enough, fast enough, cunning enough. We believe we’re not enough, that there is something wrong with us. The truth is life is ever changing and that is what contributes the difficulties of life, not our abilities (or lack thereof). Please know that these feelings are normal but they are not true. What is true is you are enough, you are worthy, you are love.”

In this interesting new workshop, you will tap into your true sense of worth and your inner power (empowerment) as you ask the cards for guidance, support and clarity.

Your instructor will not only teach you the basics of oracle card reading and understanding what the cards mean, but there will be reading demonstrations for you to take part in. During your reading demos; you may ask the cards for clarity and guidance regarding anything you maybe struggling with in your life.

By the end of this class, you will have a better understanding of how to read oracle cards and the basic steps that go into a reading. With this knowledge, you will be able to start exploring the practice at home, by giving yourself and loved one insightful readings.

INSTRUCTOR

Monique Beltrán (Pronoun: Monique) is an L.A based QTPOC Oracle card reader. Monique was drawn to the beautiful and gentle practice of oracle card readings five years ago. Monique believes that you are worthy of love and wants to support you in remembering this truth.

Monique is a certified community counselor and loves holding healing space with others, where their truths can be heard.
Your Life As A Sitcom

Intro to Comedy Writing for TV

Your Life As A Sitcom

Intro to Comedy Writing for TV

Have you ever thought your life was like Everybody Loves Raymond, The Simpsons or even The Office? We know we have and now Trans* Lounge and writer, comedian and Trans* Lounge member Erica Cambra want to give you the opportunity to turn those thoughts into an actual made for TV story and tell us how you see Your Life As A Sitcom.

Your skill level as a writer is not important in this interactive, 8-WEEK class. You will learn the simple rules of formatting a television screenplay and be able to tell your story in a fun and compelling way. The important thing is to take a step back from your life so you can gain a perspective the empowers you and teaches you. This class is about heart. You will be able to create your own fantastic world of sci-fi, noir, a workplace story or a family story or anything you can imagine. Put yourself in your imaginary world and give voice to your journey as a TGI/ENBY+ person or whatever your heart tells you. The main idea is to have fun!

Together we will write a short version of a full sitcom that you can build on later if you want to, after all, we ARE in Hollywood and we all have our story to tell. This is a call to growth, vulnerability and fun. You will see the humor in other people’s lives and hopefully give yourself a chuckle at your own. Humor can disarm what seems unsurmountable. Giving voice to your inner life can set you free.

“It’s good to be able to laugh at yourself and the problems you face in life. Sense of humor can save you”
– Margaret Cho, Comedian

INSTRUCTOR

Erica Cambra (she/her) toured her one-woman show across the country in theatres, colleges, comedy clubs and schools. She brought her skills to film, television, video and commercials and won the General Mills, Yoplait Mime Search where she represented the company as the “Spokesperson” in festivals, hospital audiences and special television appearances. She played in comedy clubs across the country from The Comedy Works in Denver to the Funnybone in Ohio, the Atlantic Arts comedy scene in Florida and The Comedy Store in L.A.

After 25 years of performing, Erica decided to take her passion for writing and physical comedy to a new medium. She acquired her Masters degree in Screenwriting for television then received a certificate from UCLA in The Professional Writing for Television Program.

Her hope is to share her passion for telling stories through television script writing with her transgender community so all of us can appreciate our unique transgender journey writing, Your Life As a Sitcom. Sometimes the best healing comes from comedy.
YouTube and YOU!

Starting and Maintaining Your Own YouTube Channel
YouTube and YOU!

Starting and Maintaining Your Own YouTube Channel

Are you looking to get your message out to the masses? Have you wanted to bringing your trans*/GNC experience to YouTube but not sure how to begin? This new and interactive workshop; taught by a trans* woman and YouTube expert, aims to simplify the many aspects of the platform so that regardless of your tech-savviness, you can impact and inspire your community and the world. To build up your YouTube know-how, the following topics will be covered in this workshop…

Getting Started: Let’s get the little details out of the way by showing you how to create and manage your YouTube channel so you can start enjoying the more advanced features of YouTube right away.

Phonin’ it In (and other budget tips): You don’t need fancy gear to get started! Learn how you can use your phone to film, edit and upload video content.

Tips on Content Creation: Learn what works (and doesn’t work) when you want to draw viewers into your channel and how you can leverage YouTube Analytics to better understand your audience.

Getting Help: What happens if you get stuck? We’ll cover how to get help from YouTube.

Staying Safe on YouTube: Learn what moderation features are available to build safe, empathetic conversations while mitigating potentially negative behavior, as well as general tips to ensure your privacy.

This may seem like a bit to cover and there will be lots of technical information but this 2 – 3 hour, hands-on workshop is presented in a way that all levels of computer users can understand. Join us for this amazing opportunity to arm yourself with all the tools you need to make your presence felt WORLD-WIDE!

INSTRUCTOR

Brooke Dengler has spent the last five years of her career at YouTube as the head of an internal production agency currently based in YouTube Space LA. Her knowledge of creating data-driven short-form educational content can be seen in the YouTube Help channel, the largest EDU channel on the platform with nearly five million subscribers.

Brooke is eager to share her expertise with the trans community so anyone getting started with YouTube can better leverage its tools to create safe and collaborative environments.