Author Ben Greene discusses a joy-centered approach to trans lives and parenting

May 4, 2026 - 16:43

Ben Greene, a trans man, speaker, and author of "My Child Is Trans, Now What?," wants to change how people talk about raising trans kids. His approach is simple but often overlooked: lead with joy, humor, and humanity instead of fear or crisis. Greene travels the country speaking with families, and he has found that too much of the public conversation focuses on struggle. He believes that narrative leaves out the full, vibrant reality of trans children and their parents.

Greene describes his work as "joy-centered" storytelling. He wrote his book not just to offer practical advice, but to show that supporting a trans child can be a source of connection and even laughter. In his talks, he shares what he has learned from hundreds of families. The key, he says, is to stop treating a child's identity as a problem to be solved. Instead, parents can focus on what makes their kid happy, confident, and loved.

By shifting the focus to joy, Greene hopes to give families permission to breathe. He argues that parents do not need to be perfect or have all the answers. They just need to show up with an open heart. His message is gaining traction as more parents look for resources that affirm their children without losing sight of everyday life. For Greene, the goal is simple: let trans kids be kids, and let their families enjoy the ride.