Jake Graf had to write his own role in life—and then turned that same determination into films, activism, and a family story the world rarely gets to see. From growing up under Section 28 in Britain to becoming a trans filmmaker, actor, and advocate, this conversation explores visibility, survival, and the courage to live authentically.

Jake joins Bryan and Jon Ruiz to talk about knowing he was a boy from an early age, searching for representation, and finding hope after meeting another trans man. He reflects on transitioning at 28, building a life and family with his wife Hannah, and why it’s never too late to start living as yourself.

Jake also shares how he made his short film XY on a tiny budget—and how hearing from trans viewers around the world showed him the power of seeing yourself represented on screen. He discusses acting in Colette alongside Keira Knightley, the ongoing need for trans male representation in film and television, and what fatherhood has taught him.The conversation balances difficult realities with joy, honesty, and laughter, including a quickfire round to close.

Jake Graf is a British director, actor, and activist. Find him on YouTube at youtube.com/user/Jakerson55 and on Instagram at @jake_graf5

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and guest overview

01:02 Jake's childhood in London and early signs of creativity

02:06 Growing up under Section 28 and its effects on LGBTQ+ youth

03:04 Jake's realization of being a boy and early self-expression

04:57 Reflecting on the last decade: joy, love, and challenges

07:52 The rise and regression of trans visibility in media

08:39 Advice for trans people starting their journey later in life

13:14 Creating the short film XY and its significance

19:10 Authentic trans representation in film: working on Colette

23:30 The current state of trans representation in media

23:53 Parenthood and lessons learned from raising children

31:49 Finding joy in quiet victories and hope for the future

Jake Graf, Jake Graf interview, trans visibility, transgender representation, trans filmmaker, trans director, queer cinema, LGBTQ stories, LGBTQ podcast, queer family, trans fatherhood, trans activism, trans stories, XY short film, Colette film, chosen family, Out Loud and Laughing, LGBTQ representation

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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9