Jari Jones was the first Black, trans model to be featured in a Calvin Klein ad. She’s a creative powerhouse who attributes a lot of her charisma and drive to her late grandfather Billy Jones, who was a famous model in the 1970s. Jari shares with Sam how she grew up going to ballroom-style parties and how transitioning allowed her to be herself in front of the camera. Plus, she tells Sam how she’s building her village, a community of queer folks who consider her to be a second mom.

Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.

Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows: lemonadamedia.com/sponsors

To follow along with a transcript, go to lemonadamedia.com/show/ shortly after the air date.

The Pink House Foundation is intended to provide support for people within the LGBTQIA+ community. The Pink House is about building a better, safer world for all of us. Follow us on Instagram @ThePinkHouse.

This series is sponsored by Hopelab. Hopelab envisions a future where young people live joyful and purposeful lives. Hopelab works to advance the mental health and well-being of young people through uncovering knowledge and evidence, investing in innovators, and funding youth-centered solutions. Learn more at http://hopelab.org

Illustrations by Chris Larson

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.