Austen Hartke is a transgender Christian man who wrote the book Transforming: the Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians. The book is a gift to the trans Christian community, as well as to parents, church leaders, and the church in general. While the church and politicians debate and degrade transgender people's existence, they are trying to live lives without loneliness, isolation, and self-hatred. Austen's book does an incredible job of sharing the stories of real life trans and non-binary people who grew up in the church. He frames the conversation Biblically and theologically and shares his own story. We're excited to share Austen's voice and perspective, and to do something that far too few people are doing today--actually listening to the perspective and story of trans people who are trying to love themselves and love Jesus. The resources Austen mentions in the interview are: Transmission Ministry CollectiveTransfaith: A Transgender Pastoral Resource - Christina Beardsley & Chris DowdThe beverage we sample in the episode is Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye from our friends at Story Hill BKC. The beverage tasting is at 2:20. To skip to the main segment, go to 5:50. Content note: this episode contains discussion of suicide that may not be suitable for younger listeners. We need your help. If you value what we're doing and want us to continue, please consider supporting us through our 2022 end of year giving campaign. The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount. If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Tweet us at @PPWBPodcast, @robertkwhitaker, and @RandyKnie Follow & message us on Facebook & Instagram Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at [email protected] Cheers!