For many cisgender people who are working to become advocates for others, there can be a learning curve when it comes to using new pronouns for non-binary individuals.One common hurdle for many people is that we are often surrounded by people who look like us. So when we have the opportunity to meet someone outside of our life’s experiences, and we can meet in a safe place to learn from each other, it’s a moment that we can come to treasure greatly in helping us to expand my worldviews. That is why Mary and David were so happy to invite Silen Wellington the to podcast.Silen Wellington is a member of the LGBTQ+ community and is striving to make the world a better place as the Alliance for Suicide Prevetion’s LGBTQ+ Youth Outreach Coordinator. Silen believes every young person needs a space to explore who they are and be witnessed for their unique gifts.*******Silen’s background is in psychology and music composition, and they are passionate about mental health, advocacy, and community building. Outside of work, they enjoy world-building through performance art, harvesting stories, continual transformation, and unhinged-unfettered-unapologetic dance. Silen’s superpower is creating spaces where people feel safe to come closer to their authentic selves.silenwellington.comallianceforsuicideprevention.orgmypronouns.org/what-and-why*******The Third Place Podcast is a weekly podcast that invites listeners into the hard conversations that we have a tendency to avoid.We “go there” on things such as…How anger is beautifulHow to find presence amidst chaosHow to have difficult conversationsHow to be an allyHow to live with griefThe Third Place is a safe place where curiosity is encouraged, differences are welcomed, and empathy is embraced through healthy dialogue.We've forgotten how to talk to each other… Life has become polarized and dualistic - you’re either with me or against me. To embrace the complex human experience is to see the world through other’s eyes. The Third Place podcast helps with the disconnect. This looks like less conflict and tension and more like a peaceful existence with others. The Third Place podcast restores the art of dialogue.For additional resources and if you're interested in supporting the work of The Third Place Podcast, check out our Patreon page.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-third-place/donations