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Episode 53: Gender Affirming Grooming and Community Care with Uncle Nat
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In this episode of Head South Radio, we welcome Uncle Nat (they/them), a trailblazer in creating inclusive spaces within the beauty industry. Growing up in San Jose, CA, in the late '70s, Uncle Nat has been navigating life as a fat, trans, and multiply disabled person.Their journey has spanned across various terrains, from electrolysis for PCOS-related hirsutism to navigating beauty norms in pageants, plus-size modeling, theater, and music. Their salon, Uncle Nat's, was born from their lived experiences and the need for an accessible, affirming environment for those marginalized in traditional beauty settings.
Our conversation begins with a discussion on intimacy and self-connection. From there, we take a deep dive into the concept of community care within the beauty industry, exploring how personal experiences with body hair have shaped self-image and the way we engage with beauty services. Uncle Nat shares their philosophy on the importance of reassurance, compliments, and touch as fundamental expressions of love and care in the service industry.
We also explore the transformative journey of reclaiming body autonomy, the significance of gender-affirming care, and the radical act of fat glorification, all while remaining deeply aware of trauma and disability. Uncle Nat provides insight into the day-to-day operations of their space, highlighting their innovative approach to inclusivity, from implementing sliding scale programs to removing gender from service menus. This episode offers a rich conversation on how to reinvent the beauty industry to be more inclusive and accessible for all.
We hope you enjoy this episode, and as always, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a review and rating on your podcast platform of choice.
