On this episode, AJ, Athena, and Caroline meet Rosalyn Sandri as they explore her powerful journey from high school English teacher to nationally recognized advocate for trans visibility. Rosalyn shares the roots of her story—from her early years in Philadelphia to her adolescence in Texas—highlighting the formative experiences in Catholic school, theater, and queer community that helped her understand herself in a world that often tried to define her differently.

The conversation turns toward Rosalyn’s time as an educator, her love of teaching detective fiction, and the moment she decided to live more openly and transition publicly while still in the classroom. She speaks candidly about grief, mental health, and the role that self-expression—through poetry, makeup, and online content—played in her survival. When far-right media targeted her TikTok videos, Rosalyn faced an onslaught of hate that forced her to resign.

The episode closes with a heartfelt conversation about recovery, resistance, and what it means to keep showing up in a world that punishes truth-telling. Rosalyn reflects on how AI, art, and community can all play a role in healing and visibility. With warmth and honesty, she reminds listeners that embracing who you are is not just an act of self-care, but a radical offering to others navigating similar paths.

“Rosie Sandri (she/her) is a transgender educator, content creator, and advocate for inclusive classrooms and authentic visibility. A former high school English teacher at Red Oak High School in Texas, Rosie began publicly sharing her transition journey on TikTok (@rosie.sandri), where her reflections on gender euphoria, language, and teaching resonated widely. Her honest storytelling garnered national attention, both in celebration and backlash, after far-right outlets targeted her content. In the face of harassment and threats, Rosie made the difficult decision to resign for her safety and the wellbeing of her students. Despite this, Rosie continues to lead with grace and resilience, using her platform to uplift trans joy, challenge injustice, and speak truth to power. Outside her advocacy work, Rosie is a poet at heart who finds solace under trees, thrives in the pit at punk shows, and delights in late-night horror films. Her story is a testament to courage, creativity, and the enduring power of self-definition.”

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About the Podcast

The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 69 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work—on their own terms.

“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus, covered by Boy Bowser

The Trans Narrative was created, and produced by Caroline Penny, powered by Spotify for podcasters

If you’d like to reach out, or be apart of the show contact us at

“transnarrativepodcast@gmail.com”

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