Trans Mermaids & Coming Out | Dreamsounds

[@DreamsoundsVideo]

I'm elated to finally share with y'all what's been happening over the past few months💗 Between the bureaucracy and having to leave a job because I'm trans, it's been an...interesting time. But now I can work more on videos and other gigs, so I'm excited to share more with you in the next few weeks! If you want to support the show, becoming a patron really helps me to keep making videos: www.patreon.com/dreamsounds If Patreon isn't accessible, even just watching or sharing my videos are great ways to help, so, thank you so much! I also want to shout out two people who made this possible: Judy Moore and Yuval Avrami. Judy's work is here and I highly recommend you check out her comics: instagram.com/ignatzhoch/ Yuval's wonderful book "Mermaids and Drag Queens" is in the works to be published in a journal, but if you want to read it, he said anyone who DMs him on Insta can get a free PDF: instagram.com/yuvalavrami/

[@searchingfororion]

1. I'm incredibly happy for you (especially having such an amazing friend group and supporting husband) 2. I know this may - *seem" - obvious (however I would rather take the extra time to ensure the comfort of another person than try to appear "correct"); Have you changed your preferred pronouns entirely? I just want to make sure when referring to you I do so correctly. (I didn't see a post or comment where you mentioned this.)

[@DreamsoundsVideo]

Hi! Yes, my pronouns are now she/her :) thanks for asking

[@kendramalm8811]

Yeah, am not surprised at hearing this- welcome to the T-side my dear!

[@searchingfororion]

@@DreamsoundsVideo SO HAPPY FOR YOU!!!! 💞🏳️‍🌈 Your voice (speaking and singing) sounds absolutely lovely, and I personally can't wait for new renditions of the covers 💞 honestly, I can't express how I personally feel that you've found your true self and are living her authentically. Ariel and mermaids was what led me to this channel oh so long ago, and now you *are* one. It just fills my heart with bliss to hear and see you fully *you* and happy.

[@sundalosketch4769]

Congrats on taking more steps towards finding yourself fellow trans! It's a pleasure to meet you, Marlene. Can't wait to see you continue to grow happily and authentically.

[@ccherry.berryy]

“I couldn’t recognize myself as trans before I met other trans people” fuck- that’s it. that’s the sentence that makes it all make sense, still not sure but it’s not like it’s because I know them, it’s because I understand them

[@ileolai]

Exactly. its like finding people who speak your language for the first time

[@goosie8207]

I’ve found trans redit has helped me communicate with others like me.

[@SylviaRustyFae]

Yea, my enby self didnt recognise such til i saw others bein visibly nonbinary

[@kendramalm8811]

That resonates with my experience as well, even though it happened over 20 years ago at the dawn of the internet.

[@LostReverist]

@@SylviaRustyFae YES!

[@theomccann8047]

I'm trans and disabled. I've been separated from the local community for almost 4 years due to various occupations, my disabilities, and the pandemic. I sang "Part of Your World" mostly as a joke throughout this time, but watching your channel made me realize it was more than that. I joined a local, very inclusive choir 3 weeks ago. I am trying out for their caberet Tuesday, and I'm singing "Part of Your World."

[@erikabloodaxe2581]

Also trans and disabled. Glad you’re getting out there. Best of luck. ❤️

[@theomccann8047]

@@erikabloodaxe2581 thank you! ❤️

[@redrooster3420]

I'm also trans and disabled, and I've been housebound for the last 8 years. Wishing you so much support, love, and care in everything you do. I'm glad you exist

[@theomccann8047]

@@redrooster3420 🥺

[@lalas181]

Just finished the video, and oh my stars Marlene sounds so much happier singing Part of Your World now. Before it sounded almost like a lament, but now? Just joy and excitement. Pure actualization.

[@tonymaurice4157]

Let's go Brandon 👍

[@SteveJubs]

Couldn’t agree more. So pretty 🧜‍♀️

[@mattymariah]

@@tonymaurice4157 seriously f*ck off. Get off this channel. You’re a clear bigot. Go away.

[@taydrabrookshire347]

@@tonymaurice4157 how original

[@tonymaurice4157]

@@taydrabrookshire347 "lying dog face pony soldier"-Joe Biden

[@lalas181]

I swear, if you were a Disney kid and at some point came out as trans, your favorite princess was either Ariel or Mulan. Mine was Ariel, so I speak from experience lol

[@prageruwu69]

smh how dare you call me out like this

[@MsGigglesluv]

My favorite princess was Mulan and Im autistic does that apply too

[@threadyprawn8944]

Well shit, no wonder Mulan was my favorite

[@just-eden]

Mine is Mulan, I identified as ftm for a long time, now Im on the masculine genderfluid/non binary path~

[@hieronymus1432]

Yep ftm mulan lover here.

[@johnmcdermott5811]

my wife!

[@DreamsoundsVideo]

❤️️

[@jameowi]

Two word Big heart

[@SpeedyakaLeah]

Aww

[@lycaptain]

:)

[@RockinItSince1963]

Congratulations to you both ❤️

[@hotchicken9703]

No you don’t understand, when the video cut and you revealed your new voice I started ugly crying. I love this channel so much and it feels so good to see you growing into yourself more fully. Your voice and videos are like a balm on my angry little queer heart, so this coming out video just hit me way harder than anything before it 😭 I love you and I’m so excited for you!

[@t_ylr]

Yes the transition (no pun intended) was such a nice touch

[@popado1121]

Hey Marlene, I don’t know if you remember me, but it is Adam from middle school in Brazil. Ive come out as gay recently and I have watched all of your videos. You are such an inspiration and you are so incredibly wonderful and talented. Thank you for your story and bravery.

[@lunaudbjrg5457]

Welcome, Marlene! It's so wonderful to meet you again! 💜 Do you know if you and John will be having a re-wedding, or taking new wedding pictures as Marlene and John? 💜

[@DreamsoundsVideo]

Thank you! We won't be having a re-wedding, but will be taking new photos this summer :)

[@SylviaRustyFae]

@@DreamsoundsVideo So, the equivalent of a renewal of vows but without the extra hubbub :P

[@pinkbunnyskyedoesthings7762]

She had the energy to be honest, that feminine touch if you will

[@jjju3]

10:40 this line literally made me gasp. I understood why ariel may be very relatable to trans people, but hadn't connected the dots of what she'd mean to you, _a trans singer._ what a good metaphor, i'm going to cry now.

[@SylviaRustyFae]

"To old friends with new names" is probs the most heartwarmin sentiment ive heard related to trans existence. Im rly glad that you, like myself, found your friends and the fam that cared about you fully and instantly welcomed and accepted this about you. Im sad to hear that you likewise dealt with transphobia in the workplace; i also had a job that was constantly allowin blatant transphobia and treatin me in the wrongest of ways... But i cudnt leave it sadly so it wasnt until i met my fiance (he/they) that i was able to get free of it, which was more just cuz of covid happenin and my workplace discriminatin against me and firin me instantly without notice when my leave of absence got rejected bcuz of a typographical error. >.> I likewise had no energy to fight them on that shit tho and instd redirected my energies towards betterin myself and lovin myself more and fightin bsck against shitty capitalism, as well as just the allocishetnormative monogamous white patriarchy >.>, and its horrid structures that exist to make marginalised groups. Im so much more freely me now than i was back then and im also currently able to just exist happily and without any worries as my fiance handles the bills and work and has a sizeable nest egg for us as well; bonus of luckin out and findin a sugar mommyfey i guess :P He treats me perf in every way and just loves to spoil me. It makes me so happy whenever i see others stars shinin and its the biggest reason i insist on bein even more public in my whole identity and visibly nonconforming as i am. Im naturally inclined to wantin a nonconformin gender look except on the rarest of days (yays for genderfluidity heh) so it does work out quite well tho that i want to be so visible as my appearance alrdy makes me a bit of a beacon. My fave part of workin at that transphobic walmart was when a kid or teen wud see me and i cud see their eyes light up bcuz i was the first time they ever saw someone in a beard and wearin super feminine clothing and just vibin at work. One particular moment will forever stick in my memory as a reminder to be truly me whenever i have the strength. I saw some kid around 11 or 12 who was with their siblings who were gettin dresses. The kid was handed one of the dresses to hold and gave it a look over as everyone walked off in a very clearly obvs way to me. That kid then glanced over at me and id kinda been starin but i gave a smile back as i busied myself to try to not look like a creep; but i still clearly saw the kid give a look of happy surprise, so i gave a slightly wider smile back and continued on with what i was doin as the kid walked off with family. I dont know where that kid is now roughly four yrs later, but i hope that theyre at least wearin what they rly wanna wear and bein what they wanna be. And i hope i helped them see that this was always allowed; no matter what some adults may say.

[@mehlover]

I never knew why mermaids were symbolic of trans people until now. And that's awesome to learn! I'm so happy for Marlene and always looking forward to your videos!

[@KitCabaret]

The moment your voice changed I felt myself tear up.. This was beautifully made, I'm so happy for you and grateful that you would share this journey with us 💖

[@lunatpr5594]

Same

[@Bloodskyangel]

Hearing you talk about your voice and listening again to your new voice when you sing, I have to say I can hear you. Like I can actually hear you. Sometimes in your earlier singing I can hear a slight something. I could never pin point it and I don’t know you at all personally, aside from a person on a screen, so I never thought of it much. But now, I can hear you. Good on you for finding more about yourself. We have our whole lives to find ourselves. Some people think that once queer people give themselves a label we can never change it or even question it. That’s simply not true and it’s not us lying. It’s us living as truthfully as we know it.

[@ded_bunnyzxx]

Im transmasculine, but this story really gave me hope. Thank you for sharing your story, it really is inspiring to see trans people happy. I love your name, and your content has been a comfort for a little while now, even though I dont really comment. I wish you well on your journey 🏳️‍⚧️

[@ColdDaveball]

I love the name Marlene! Following into the footsteps of another iconic queer woman in Germany! Really happy for you ❤

[@CreepyOldCrypts]

It's so nice to meet you Marlene. As a merman performer, I couldn't be happier to have you as part of our world. You are a true inspiration. -Delphis

[@lureed]

I've loved singing my whole life. When I took a bath as a kid and my hair would float in the water around me, I would imagine myself as Ariel and sing Part of Your World. I was in choir all throughout middle school and high school and was very proud of the fact that I could sing both alto and soprano parts depending on what was needed. When I first decided to transition my mother said her biggest worry was that I'd lose my voice, and as it turned out, her fears were valid. I stopped doing choir after I left high school and my voice had been steadily declining since then. Testosterone was the nail in the coffin. My voice has dropped and my range has changed so completely that I can't even sing tenor anymore. Nobody has praised my singing voice in years, and yet, I'd take shaky Johnny Cash karaoke any day over standing on that pew in an ugly dress and lip gloss and feeling like the show was never over, even after the stage lights had long since left my eyes. I hope I'll find my singing voice again someday, but even if I don't, the sacrifice was so worth it for the relief of finally feeling at home in my own body.

[@AuraOfANobody]

You know, it's funny, the whole "I couldn't recognize myself as trans before I met other trans people" thing. I identified as various shades of nb throughout most of high school and into my college years... until a friend of mine realized he was a trans man a couple years ago. And now I'm a trans guy too. Funny how that works, huh? Happy for you, Marlene! 💙💗🤍💗💙

[@erikabloodaxe2581]

Dude, that’s awesome ❤️

[@celebrityguest.9530]

i can really relate with that experience, it took having trans classmates in high school for me to realize i was trans, and i'm STILL working on addressing the imposter syndrome lmao. it's awesome that that worked out for you :)

[@Aster_Risk]

"Old friends with new names." That part absolutely got me. My oldest friend came out as trans about four years ago, and it always feels good to see other people doing the same. I just want everyone to get as close to happiness and fulfillment as possible. I'm a cis woman and my main obsession is mermaids. I have always loved that mermaids are magical, powerful yet vulnerable and still feminine without it having to be about genitalia. Being defined by body parts as a cis woman has always bothered me. It's beautiful to have that common ground with trans people.

[@magicalgirllaurie]

Marlene your experience with a Disney song sounds so similar to me, except replace Part of Your World with Let it Go. Not long after I figured out I wanted to be a girl I was sitting at home crying listening to that song. It all hit at once why that song had hit me so hard since I first heard it. I’m incredibly proud of you for coming out and being yourself. - Laurentia.

[@twigp6168]

This was such a lovely essay, and beautifully worded. As a trans woman in the early steps of my journey, this hit like a a heart shaped brick directly to the face. I can't express how important it is that stories and lived experiences like this are shared. Particularly for the younger generations that are just starting to find their way in this world. Thank you so much, and may every tomorrow hold nothing but joy and wonderment for you and all of our trans and non-binary siblings.

[@DarkadeTV]

When you talked about your voice it was very relatable and personal to me. I've always felt comfortable with my voice even before transitioning or voice training, but even then I always felt like it was MY voice and not something to be shared, I used to find it very upsetting to talk to strangers, not because it was uncomfortable, but because there was this question floating in my head: Why would I share my voice to them? Now after therapy I realize talking, my voice, is something I actually never felt I could use to express myself, so If wasn't able to use it for me, why would I ever use it for somebody else? Voices are are extremely personal and I want to say I hear your voice

[@ccherry.berryy]

This is making me think even harder about something I’ve thought about for the last few days, I don’t think I’m cis either.. Edit: I’m not, I’m definitely not. Idk which label but cis is not one of them🩵🩷🤍🩵🩷

[@hellohello-ic4dh]

its that simple. the rest unfolds whenever you want it to, on your terms. :) welcome proud of you i love you

[@ManubibiWalsh]

Yeah, same, I’ve been questioning my gender for a few months now.

[@sycastells1212]

When you're ready to know, you'll know. I'm really glad you're going through that process! It is such a precious thing, to get to know yourself.

[@raineavon]

Good luck, then, dear. You know yourself better than anyone else; it may take a while, but you’ll figure it out in due time. Don’t rush yourself

[@khunt5336]

The part where she talks about not being able to look at her own face really hit me in the gut. Like I have felt that so much it's just expected for me, that feeling of seeing your own reflection in your day to day life but thinking _it's just not me,_ and I never connected that with my vague feelings of gender nonconformity. I always thought that if I was any kind of trans or nb that I wouldn't need to transition, thinking of it almost _as if it were a choice..._ I definitely have to do some thinking after this 😬 And I'm going to watch the Little Mermaid while I do it dammit

[@hieronymus1432]

lmao when I heard your voice at the start of the video I was like "damn dreamsounds has a fem voice" and then the voice switch happened and my mind was blown! Congrats on your coming out :)

[@sofivazquez1271]

Such an amazing, intelligent woman finally sees herself, your covers always make me cry but hearing "part of your world" made me feel so much joy. Welcome home, sister.

[@darkjaden-fe]

First of all, I absolutely love how over the course of this video your voice seems to sound more and more confident. I hope that continues because your voice deserves to be heard the way you hear it. Second, this video really sort of connected something in my brain with how identity helps us understand who we are. I've been writing a book where the main character feels sort of lost and doesn't really know who he is, but I was having trouble trying to find a way to tie that in with the subplot of him discovering that he's bisexual, and I think this video sort of helped me bridge the gap in that department. At the very least, I'm a step further to figuring it out. So thanks for that! Haha. I'm really happy for you and am glad you're discovering who you are and how to express that authentically. Love your videos, Marlene, keep it up. ❤️

[@clara1291]

Your voice is so beautiful! And it feels really meaningful that it's one you made for yourself with hard work. I lost my singing voice due to chronic health issues, and I'm almost as scared of having to relearn how to sing as I am of never singing again, so hearing you in this video with your new voice was very comforting to me.

[@eryanez8337]

I'm at my internship doing work but I want to cry of joy and the shivers I'm getting whenever I hear Part of Your World. This is beautiful, you are beautiful! For most time this channel has been in existence, you have helped me get through my own identity and transition...even in an academic sense, with the sources you've provided for my papers at uni. Here I've found a home. Thank you for always being you and being here. Lots of love from Mexico, Marlene.

[@PhoenixofStarlight]

Not being able to recognize yourself in the mirror, I relate hard to that one. That one and losing, needing to relearn your voice. I sang before I started HRT and it was a massive barrier to me transitioning. I still have a long way to go on finding my new voice.... I'm often reminded that it's not there yet. But I've started being able to see myself in the mirror, and that's a step in the right direction. Congratulations on this better, deeper understanding of yourself

[@pap64]

I haven't even finished the video and I am close to tearing up at hearing your one and TRUE voice telling your story. In a world that seems to caught up with culture wars to the point they will put LGBTQIA people in danger, coming out as trans and revealing the true beauty of your heart and soul is one of bravery and courage. May your journey inspire others to be brave in the face of adversity and darkness, being the light that shines bright!

[@Valo216]

Before I transitioned there were plenty of nights where I would cry listening to this song trying to find the courage to come out. Now I’m bawling my eyes out watching this video. So happy for you 💜

[@kropotkinnie]

this is probably the most beautiful transition video i've seen. also, your singing voice is freaking gorgeous. you've done such a great job.

[@goosie8207]

That’s great for you. Congratulations Marlene, I wish you all the best. In addition I really appreciate you sharing your journey, there were parts I can relate to. In particular funding my new voice and the longing to be part of society as me ‘part of that world’

[@dovefilms]

Mermaids have always been something I connected to as an expression of queer identity, gender specifically, so this video really did resonate in some aspects. Really, I think I almost started tearing up at some parts. It's really just nice-I've been following your channel for a long time, and I'm really just happy to see that you're able to find yourself and express that here.

[@aZombieGoast]

literally had what i call a "part of your world" moment talking to another transmasc dude when i was still an egg, as some call it, and hearing him talk about his life and seeing how he looked and how happy he was literally set the song playing in my mind. this was my first conscious acknowledgement that i needed to change something too... i rewatched this film a few nights ago for the first time in nearly 2 decades and the trans reading of it is so damn real. thanks so much for your videos and i am so happy for and proud of you, i only recently started my transition as well and while some things have been hard and really scary, its a leap of faith and one that is well worth it at the end of the day. for anyone else in the comments still struggling and/or questioning, patience is key but so is listening to your heart. wishing all the best

[@JovialEclipse]

I'm so proud of you! Seems a lot of people are coming out recently! I came out as NB earlier this year!

[@slystone4892]

Your singing voice is beautiful, welcome to the world Marlene. A wonderful insightful video.

[@Trashley652]

When your new voice hit I was *SHOOK.* I've only just started the video but I'm so happy for you!

[@104jettydog]

So happy for you!! I’ve discovered in the last year that I was a trans man and not nonbinary. But Ariel and Mulan were always my fav Disney princesses and really spoke to me and so did that quote about not knowing you could be trans until you spoke with other trans people

[@mtran1593]

im so happy for you, congrats Marlene!!!

[@Val.Stanton]

It made me so happy to see this! Your channel is one of my favourites - putting your story in conversation with Disney history makes for such unique videos and is inspiring to me in my own writing. Thank you for sharing this chapter of your story with us, Marlene!

[@umimo]

Lovely video! I'm so happy for your coming out 💜 Been watching your videos for a while now, and as a nonbinary singer who has struggled a lot finding my own voice, I gotta be honest that, whenever I listened to you singing in your videos before, it always gave this very sad melancholic feeling, you know? Like there was something trapping your voice, not letting it fully come out, and now there's this brightness, power and so much life and it's truly beautiful to hear 🌈✨

[@thystldown]

Congratulations Marlene, I'm so happy for you!

[@Blaineworld]

I love intros where the past version of a person introduces a present version of themself. They’re so cool.

[@marcusgraham2129]

This video made my day, I've been watching you for almost 3 years and I'm so happy that Ariel was a vehicle for you to find your truest self! It honestly makes this channel so much better, being able to see you blossom has been heartwarming. The correlation between mermaids and trans people never crossed my mind either, it's such a beautiful image :)

[@Brunoxsa]

Thank you for the video, Marlene! It was very powerful and inspirational! Hearing the stories about you and other creators coming out as trans always makes think about my childhood. When growing up in a conservative religious family, I had to struggle with my internalized biphobia and pretend to not feel attraction for another guys. I see myself as a cis male, but sometimes I stop to think if it was not forced over me. If the current knowledge and visibility of trans people would make me to consider different options in life. And that is why these stories are so important! The next generations will hear about that, question themselves, and some of them will come to the conclusion they are trans early! It is also another reason why we all must fight for trans (and queer) rights and acceptance right now!

[@eyeless.spider]

I haven't quite finished it yet, but I have to commend the fact that this is probably the first youtube video to make me genuinely shed tears. I know the feeling all too well of looking in the mirror and seeing someone else, hearing someone else when i talk, seeing another person in pictures of myself. I didn't want to be that girl I used to be anymore, and I found comfort in movies like the little mermaid and Mulan, because even if unintentional, I saw my experience in them. I had no idea who I was, and I never had any other trans guys to talk to. At first, coming out to my friends didn't feel like a weight being lifted off, just as you said, but more confusion and stress. All I could tell myself was that I was just confused and I wasn't who I thought I was, and it took so much to finally see myself as myself. Marlene is a beautiful name, and I'm so happy that someone I've been following for a while has found themselves after going through the same thing i did. I wish you the best, thank you for this video. - Alpine

[@FantasmaNaranja]

i've actually sang along your covers before when doing voice practice im glad you've found your voice like you helped me find mine

[@prageruwu69]

hell yeah so happy for you!!! and yeah, as a trans guy ive always loved part of your world. its such a queer song.

[@mirandamier7133]

YEAH GIRL YEAH! Another one to make me cry, I'm so happy for you!

[@adrianghandtchi1562]

Marlene, i’m so happy for you. There is this lovely quote from Lucille Ball: “It's a helluva start, being able to recognize what makes you happy.” This is who you are and it brings you joy knowing that this is who you are. Thank you for allowing us to continue being part of your world. Big hugs dear.

[@sampeacaml9307]

Well, Marlene, (extends my hand for you to shake) It's a pleasure to meet you. :-) And...I just want to tell you that you will be okay. I am not trans, but...I, too came of the closet, about a year ago. I am, I think, a late bloomer lesbian. So, I kinda relate to you...I feel lost, yet more like myself with this new knowledge about myself. I hope you will feel more at ease on your journey in the days to come. Welcome, Marlene.

[@medinahoward1312]

I am literally crying. This must have been so cathartic to make. Im sending my love

[@dcjokerhs]

To be honest? Hearing you in this video? It was like wiping the droplets and built-up emotions finally get swept away to see the beautiful garden sat beyond. You start singing, and I started tearing up because you voice was the verbal equivalent to a crystal fountain and the emotions were the worn but loving sculpture shaping the water. Then we reach the end and you speak of how it took hearing others in the community to finally find the reflection you longed for, to tilt the mirror amongst the many crooked angles it had been to finally see your own reflection full on, and that hits me so hard, because it is so beautiful, and I Am In Awe. So happy to hear and see the beauty that you have finally found beyond the glass!! I love it!! XD

[@tessfairfield6435]

This was a very heart warming and beautiful video. I really resonate with your transition story. I understand what you mean about your voice. I enjoy public speaking and debated trying vocal training, but decided that I'm used to my voice and don't want to change it for others.

[@scouttyra]

That last line, "I'm so glad to be here". It resonated so very deeply with me, as someone who has (and still sometimes do) had to fight against thoughts telling me I want to end myself. Thank you.

[@nicolec3506]

I’m not a musician or trans so I cannot imagine the stresses of either-but when you switched to your new voice I was just overwhelmed with feeling. I can’t imagine the work you already put in to your singing voice throughout your life. To have to do that again to have your voice fit who you want to be must have been so daunting. As a singer your voice is almost doubly important and I can imagine how scared you were that this would harm your ability to express yourself through your art. The second you spoke and sung in your new voice though I just heard it, heard YOU, the way you really are. I recognized the youness in it, and that’s really beautiful. Thanks for sharing I’m so happy you’re here💜

[@Ebrill_Owen]

I’m part Swiss on my mom’s side and “Marlene” is a popular name in German speaking countries. I’m sure you know it means “star of the sea.” When you said that’s what your name was, I choked up and started crying. I’m a non-binary lesbian myself and have identified heavily with mermaids my entire life. As an adult I actually practice sea-based witchcraft which I make the most of in my sleepy little seaside town. In many ways my craft has helped me realize my own true identity. As a life long mermaid-loving non-binary lesbian, this video means so much to me. I have constantly been told that the two identities I hold so dear to me contradict each other, that I can’t be non-binary and a lesbian…but we mermaids are who we are. Thank you for helping me realize that about myself. This was such a beautiful video!! Ariel has always been my favorite Disney princess and now I fully know why.

[@TeonMcLean]

i'm am so happy you found who you truly are. i've been thinking a lot about self-actualisation recently and i've come to realise that it''s more of a process than a step. so i am both learning from and excited for you as you begin this journey. you have my UNCONDITIONAL support!

[@candicraveingcloude2822]

I remember finding this channel a while ago. It was interesting to me seeing a person engaging in a special interest in a way that connected to LGBTQ+ people. People visiting a media in what is usually seen as a conservative brand, as something related to queerness, felt special to me. Idk why, but it just did. People seeing themselves in characters and movies is very important, and I'm glad you help express this. Seeing you now in how far you came, and hearing your new voice, was almost like a pleasant surprise. It took a few seconds to process, but it clicked and made me feel a sense of contentment. You now sound somewhat more like yourself because you are finding or have found the right words for it currently. I'm proud of you for that. Edit: grammar and typos

[@magichobo6844]

I'm a transdude and also non-binary (he/they) and I've been watching your videos for about a year I think. I always come here for queer history and comfort and finding out you were nonbinary a few months in made me feel so happy and validated. Like, an older person who is an enby? They're like one part of me? Hell yah! Now, watching this and seeing you come out brings that joy all over again. Seeing you discover yourself as trans, the other half of me feeling validated. So my time here has been spend being completely validated in my identity. It's nice to meet you, Marlene!!!

[@BatSnakegirl]

I don't remember where I found it, but I did see someone comparing Howard Ashman's Little Mermaid to Hans Christian Anderson's, calling it a "response", especially for their differences in time and society. Basically saying "people like us do deserve joy and reward for our uphill struggle", against Anderson's despair. It's so exciting that you're out...especially with the timing after I quoted you on a project (album cover design - I decided to go with film soundtrack) around the release of this video.

[@stray_editori]

Holy shit I'm always so blown away by how people's voices change or... how they're still able to maintain their previous way of talking and then it "switches" and I'm just... Speechless. It's really beautiful. Another epic essayist joins the women, congratulations on your journey to find yourself and may it be as good as possible going forward! "old friends with new names" IM SOBBING

[@Levyathyn]

That intro setup was the most stone cold badass thing I've heard in a long time. I'm new to the channel, and apologies for not being able to support you through the years, but I have to say I'm glad I found this video. True power move, and a very arresting watch that felt very good to spend my time on with you. I'm happy for you.

[@acsaudiodramas]

This was such a moving statement, that I had to cry throughout the video. I might not understand much about the process you and others went through, since I'm a straight woman, but it is beautiful that we have stories like The Little Mermaid, that can help everyone to understand the experience and feelings, pain and scorn on such a journey better.

[@mjangelvortex]

I think the word you might be looking for is cis. Straight is your sexuality and that's different than your gender identity.

[@acsaudiodramas]

@@mjangelvortex yeah! Thanks! My vocabulary was overwhelmed. ☺

[@20000dino]

I too first came out as gay at 15, and have always had questions about my gender since a very young age. Only as of recently have these questions resurfaced, and I've been constantly reinventing myself. I've recently started adopting a very gender non-confirming style, and, a few days ago, for the first time, worn a cropped sweater showing my belly. It was hard (lots of staring and even laughing at me), but also magical. I'm so often anxious that I cannot settle for a specific gender identity, and that I'm losing time - believing that it's too late for such a change (turning 22 next month, and considering how early everyone figures themselves out nowadays), and that I might compromise my ability to find someone who loves me. That is why "it's always the right time to be born" is such a powerful, comforting statement. I've been watching you for years, and, funnily enough, this comes as no surprise, to me. I'm beyond happy for you, Marlene, and your story makes me believe that I too, one day, will be part of that world - in whatever way I identify.

[@samantharobins9709]

Thank you so much for sharing. I was moved to tears multiple times watching this video. I have loved supporting this channel from the start and am so honored to not only find camaraderie in appreciating the music of Disney but also the privilege of getting to know such a brilliant creator. I like Marlene a lot.

[@angry_strawberry2733]

Well comgratulations on comming out again Marlane! These video's always hit close to home and I appreciate them a lot

[@meldoesntwanttotellyouthei7012]

So happy for you, Marlene! I can somewhat relate to this story. As a kid, I loved Mulan and Moana, and I ended up as non-binary. Reflection hits different now. “Who is that girl I see, when will my reflection show who I am inside.” Same with How Far I’ll Go “I wish I could be the perfect daughter, but I come back to the water, no matter how hard I try” “everybody on this island has a role on this island, so maybe I can roll with mine”

[@princembat]

watching this channel has always been such a nice experience for me, im glad it can start being nice for you too, congrats on finding yourself and letting it be known :]!

[@hello2judas807]

Long time fan of the channel, and honestly I find this so relatable. I’ve been questioning my gender for the past 9 months and it’s so confusing but I can’t just write it off as a phase anymore. Honestly, seeing so many of the creators I like come out as trans is so wonderful

[@E-shinobi]

From one trans woman to another, I'm so happy for you and proud of you. This life is not easy, but my world has color and beauty in it like never before. I'm so glad you get to have that too

[@lowzibojine]

Your segment about the first time you shaved all over and saw yourself is a perfect mirror for my realisation I might be trans too. I lived as non-binary for 3 years while I found myself. But one event at uni for pride we did a drag night, I got dragged up and the moment I made the facial hair and bound my chest I knew that was me. Even though the world constantly hated me and made my life difficult, I'm more happy and free than I have ever been. It's so exciting to continue to grow into the man I am. Also your voice is beautiful and so are you, Marlene 💗 Brilliant video on your trans experience

[@prophetessoftroy]

So happy to get to meet you, Marlene. I am so glad you are here.

[@Stereo6400]

I started sobbing as soon as you started singing, your new voice is so soft and beautiful, and you describe the trans experience so well and beautifully. You are not alone and the slow change in mentality and the slow disappearance of the cognitive dissonance and dysphoria and slow reconnection to yourself and your soul and voice is all part of the trans experience 100%. To old friends with new names.

[@kaleidoscopekingdom9272]

The smile on my face was completely unavoidable. This brought me so much joy, your happiness is life affirming. You are embodying the happily ever after and I'm so happy for it.

[@afoolishfopdoodle3284]

You're "new" voice is so beautiful

[@one-onessadhalf3393]

Watching this video as a trans boy in a warm bathtub in low light playing with my swimmy turtle is just such a vibe. This video is just so… comforting. It’s nothing short of lovely. I’m so happy that you’ve found yourself. Big love 💙💖🤍💖💙

[@mattbw09]

I watch your channel during my cardio sessions, and repeat some of the earlier ones that are so beautiful, eloquent, and probing. I just discovered this one and I am so excited to watch and listen. Before even watching, I wanted to report how much I love and support you. I’ll come back and comment again after I watch and share what I already know… your story is valid and beautiful. Thank you for sharing and being part of my world… not even sorry for the pun lol

[@hank_430]

I’ll echo that sentiment, here’s to old friends with new names! I’m so happy that you found your legs and reclaimed your voice. I know the trans experience has different milestone for my trans femmes than it does for trans masc but many of the points you mentioned paralleled my own journey as well. I think that’s why the mermaid (or merman) has become symbolic for the trans experience and though we don’t do it for love of a prince but for the love of our future selves. ♥️🧜🏻‍♂️

[@NottJoeyOfficial]

It's very interesting to see the different messages people get out of stories I watched all the time as a child that I would have never thought of. I'm a cis man, but it's really cool to me to see how many people took very positive messages out of these stories that really helped them in life. It's great that you've found yourself and can be more comfortable being yourself! I just discovered a lot of the videos on this channel recently, and it's very interesting. I love the videos on queer topics in Disney quite a bit, especially since Disney would be the last I'd expect to ever have any type of these themes in their media. Thanks for all the great videos, and I hope to keep watching the types of messages that can be taken away from these beloved classics!

[@CouncilofGeeks]

Welcome to the club! We’re happy to have you.

[@littl3d0ll68]

Somehow this channel always finds a way to make me feel emotional lol, especially when anything The Little Mermaid related comes up since that’s always been my favorite Disney movie and princess. I’m super happy for you Marlene, I wish you nothing but the best 💖

[@beckwells25]

I'm thrilled that you are getting the assistance and love that you deserve as you navigate your way through this time of discovery for you. You have my prayers for your safe transition and a happier life moving forward. Thank you for all you have done for us in your videos, I appreciate you. Keep it up Marlene!

[@veronicaaristeguieta3072]

I’ve been feeling the same way over the past few months as well having for about the last 2 years identified privately as some kind of nonbinary before coming to college, meeting other trans people and realizing I am a trans woman, still trying to figure out the beurocracy of transition though

[@robinhahnsopran]

Hi Marlene! I ugly cried throughout most of this video. I'm just so happy for you and for the joy you radiate when you sing this piece! Thank you ✨

[@cristinaacosta8938]

I am so late to this video, but when I tell you that I started crying when I heard your voice shift. I don't specifically know why, but it made me so emotional to suddenly realize where the video was headed. I'm so proud of you and I hope you keep exploring and discovering yourself even more with time, both the little and the big stuff. All the love, hope you are doing fantastic 😊

[@DebrathePaleoista]

I'm 49 seconds in, crying and clapping and making my family concerned 🥰👏 I shared the video with them, and we're all so happy for you 💞. Great video. I have two trans kids, and we live in a state that has passed anti-trans bills. It's hard. I'm proud of them, and I'm proud of you.

[@b3nnefits]

I fucking love your voice, you worked so hard for it and it sounds beautiful, comfortable and comforting.

[@randomrose6398]

AAAAAAAA!!! It’s so exciting to meet you as you, Marlene!!! I’ve loved your videos since I first saw them a couple years back, and it’s so exciting to see (well, hear) you as ✨you✨. You sound happier. 💖

[@aidanelizabeth]

Congratulations! I’m so happy for you!!!!! Wishing you well in the rest of your journey ❤️❤️❤️

[@MA-iu5hu]

I'm late to this but I'm so happy for you! And also have to acknowledge and congratulate the work that goes into both the self discovery and the transition itself. Like others have said, it's palpable how much more comfortable you sound singing in your new voice

[@camilaGMW]

Welcome, Marlene! Thanks for sharing your journey. 💛

[@ghostreyn]

Having been brought up in a very transphobic place and realizing later that i am trans, its been a lot to navigate. I have been told to go back to college but for me right now doing that and transitioning has been far too difficult. I have been slowly figuring out if i am a trans man or non-binary (which is what i am identifying as now) and i even have a couple of possible masculine names picked out. my depression has made things far more difficult and the stress of trying to do college at the same time is so hard that it hurts. I don't have a many friends and have lost many since leaving my former religion due to my changing beliefs. I am so glad you shared this and this reminded me that i can take the steps i need to that are right for me.

[@deatharsenal6311]

I have felt very similar, the only thing is: I don't have the resources or support group to begin my transition. I have no clue where to start or how. I loved every minute of this video, and it has inspired me to begin working on my voice once again. Thank you so much for this.

[@parcalover]

I was lucky, i came out at 13 years old, my family (mostly and confused) accepted me. Hearing you saying how it was so difficult, how much you had to push thru yourself and others to transition made me cry. I simply can’t describe how much i love your content, it helps me deal with my queerness. I identify with Ariel too, but in a different way (as naturally as being a trans man) in the sense of being young and wanting to see the human world, not as the world saw me, but who i was in reality. But I’m going on too long, i don’t know you but I’m proud of you, as I’m proud of every trans person finding themselves just a little later in their lives.

[@averyeml]

I’m so excited for you! I know that feeling of “I didn’t know I was _______ until I met someone who was already” even though for me it was being asexual instead of being trans. It is interesting how something so fundamental to our being can hide completely until we’re literally faced with it in a way never before. Can’t wait to see more from Marlene! I also am so glad (and a little jealous) that your husband is so supportive and wonderful and I hope y’all continue to have a wonderful life. PS- I have adored all of your videos but now that you’re out and using your own, real voice, the difference in confidence and clarity is stunning. It feels like you’re finally here and I love it.

[@kaiyodei]

it happens to therianthrope and other alter humans as well.

[@matiassanchez1362]

This is soo heartwarming. I'm not one of your followers/subscribers, but hearing you talk about this made me happy. I wish you nothing but the best sister!

[@danaeckert6824]

Congratulations! I'm so glad you've found who you are. As a cis het white lady, I will never have the experience you've gone through, so I'm grateful that you feel comfortable enough to share your experience with others. Thank you for your openness.

[@kaiyodei]

you'll find something. maybe you are alterhuman and need help bringing it to the surface