To Be Seen: Nikki Smith

Nikki Smith likes to say that she is a climber, photographer, and writer who just happens to be transgender. Professor Brené Brown inadvertently changed Nikki's course when she wrote about midlife, "it's time to show up and be seen." It was the inspiration Nikki needed to step into herself, and it's since served as a reminder of what she wants to do for others.

We say "step into" because Nikki has always been Nikki, and she's carried a curious, creative, empathetic spirit with her throughout her life.

This conversation with Nikki Smith was made in partnership with Mountain Hardwear. If you're in the San Francisco area, climb with Nikki and the Mountain Hardwear team at Touchstone Climbing Gym Saturday, June 29th 7-10pm.

Woman featured in this episode: Nikki Smith

Hosted by Gale Straub

Sponsored by Mountain Hardwear

Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group

In this episode, you'll hear

All the different parts of Nikki's identity that make up who she is
Her creative roots in photography, climbing, writing, and cooking
Why so much of Nikki's work is grounded in connection to others
What drew her to climbing and why it became an unhealthy coping mechanism
Why 'realization' vs 'transition' is the word Nikki would choose in coming out as trans
How a quote from Brené Brown inspired Nikki to "show up and be seen"
How her story isn't entirely her own, and why she'll keep sharing it as long as it's beneficial for others
Nikki's latest creative goals

Resources

Nikki's professional Instagram: @pullphoto
Nikki's photography portfolio & writing
Nikki's Guidebooks
Brené Brown
Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Resources for Transgender People in Crisis
Flash Foxy Women's Climbing Festival
Touchstone Climbing Gym Pride Activities
She Explores episode landing page

Sponsor Websites and Resources

Mountain Hardwear
Register for Pride Touchstone Climbing Night on Saturday June 29th

Non-profits and Organizations Mentioned at the End of the Episode:

Out There Adventures
LGBTQ Outdoor Summit
Unlikely Hikers
The Venture Out Project
Queer Nature
Queer Mountaineers (Podcast)

Music is by Kai Engel, Lee Rosevere, and Josh Woodward using a creative commons attributions license.

Learn more at She-Explores.com