One on One with Ann Thomas

On this episode of #WeNeedToTalk Malynda chats with Founder of Transgender Talent, Hollywoods first talent management company that exclusively represents transgender and non-binary talent. Malynda and Ann talk about her journey to self discovery, what led her to start the agency, what needs to change in Hollywood and what stereotypes of the Transgender community she wants to change.

Transgender Talent was founded in 2015 offering a safe and encouraging environment that fosters the talent of transgender actors by providing all management services as well as emotional and psychological support and more to their clients as they navigate the critical industry of film and television. Starting with three clients and now boasting a roster of almost 50, Transgender Talent is the most well-known and well respected management firm for transgender performers in the industry. Ann Thomas is second generation transgender. She and her father came out to each other in the early aughts after Ann, while caring for her father who was dying of cancer, found women’s clothing in her father’s closet while cleaning up the home. That prompted a very deep and emotional conversation resulting in them both coming out to each other.  (We have wonderful video, as well as a one hour podcast about it in depth with Dr Drew.) Since founding Transgender Talent  LLC, Ann has been a focal point, north star and important voice for many transgender performers who have come seeking a career in the entertainment industry. She has been quoted in articles from CNN to Rolling Stone and more but has never had a profile on her journey and the great work she does every day for others. They have three employees and are quickly growing. The management company provides its talent with all the tools they need to get started in the business: to find an agent, get jobs, advise on medical issues, hormone treatments, passports and more. They help provide a space for these artists often at a very vulnerable point in their careers and give them the platform and opportunity to succeed. The company boasts a talent, voice over, music and production division committed to telling transgender stories.