98. Trans to Detrans: A Graphic Novel Journey from Self-Hate to Self-Compassion, with Nicolas Blooms

In this episode, I sit down with Nicholas Blooms, a detransitioner, artist, and creator of a unique graphic novel. Nicholas shares his profound journey of detransitioning, delving into the spiritual and emotional aspects of reclaiming his sense of self and finding a sustainable, embodied way of living. I explain my current model of how gender dysphoria changes over time along the spectrum between ego-syntonic and ego-dystonic — a key piece of psychological insight missing from the current culture wars over the treatment of gender-distressed youth — and we compare my hypothesis with Nicolas’ lived experience.Together, we explore the transformative powers of mentorship, mindfulness, and self-acceptance, touching on the deep wounds of childhood and the impact of societal pressures on identity. But what led Nicholas to create a detransition graphic novel, unlike anything seen before? How did a chance encounter with a mentor spark a journey of healing and self-discovery? And what role did gender ideology play in Nicholas's struggle with self-hatred and body dysmorphia? Tune in to uncover the answers and join us on a heartfelt exploration of resilience, growth, and the power of embracing one's true self.Nicolas Blooms is a Detransitioner, Gender Shaman, and ArtSoulogist. He is full of fruity passion to create ways for people to spark the deeper magical wisdom within their hearts. While training as a life coach to guide Detransitioners and gender confused individuals, he also co-creates a children’s book series, You Can’t Steal My Smile, with his friend Kim O, a Relational Soul Coach (from episode 80!), to empower children to root in their inner resilience. Witness his liberating journey to self-love and remembering his Soul by soaking in his graphic novel: Trans to Detrans: A Soul Solution. It’s totally possible to heal gender dysphoria and any other mental dis-ease!Find Nicolas Blooms: linktr.ee/nicolasbloomsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolasbloomsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@NicolasBloomsBooks mentioned in this episode:Trans to Detrans: A Soul Solution by Nicolas Blooms Saguaro Soul children's book series - Nicolas Blooms and Kim OI Want Prickles Too! Roe the Rabbit Lost His Happy HopAll books mentioned on this podcast can be found in my bookshop or by following the Amazon affiliate links. Thank you for purchases that support the show.00:00 Start[00:01:41] Detransition graphic novel creation.[00:06:16] Mentorship and spirituality.[00:10:50] Mentorship and self-transformation.[00:13:36] Rejecting masculinity and identity.[00:19:30] Gender identity exploration.[00:22:39] War with self-image.[00:25:27] Gender transition and family support.[00:31:25] Emotional expression and self-identity.[00:35:26] Cultural challenges and self-identity.[00:39:26] Overcoming childhood bullying trauma.[00:44:20] Battle with body image.[00:46:48] The power of hope.[00:51:54] Gender euphoria and emotional instability.[00:54:48] Gender dysphoria and self-expression.[01:02:06] Inner conflict and self-discovery.[01:06:18] Gender ideology as a virus.[01:07:01] Healing within family systems.[01:12:48] Ego dystonic and ego syntonic.[01:14:33] Gender dysphoria progression.[01:19:21] Overcoming gender dysphoria.[01:23:14] Stories of victory and resolution. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★