Tony Ferraiolo Host

Tony Ferraiolo

Tony Ferraiolo is internationally known as a compassionate and empowering Life Coach who has earned his reputation as a thought-provoking and motivational speaker and trainer. Since 2005, Tony has worked with individuals, groups, and educational institutions to reach thousands of people worldwide. In 2008, he was the founder of multiple support groups for transgender and nonbinary youth and their families. The work Tony does has allowed him to see firsthand how children’s lives are transformed from hopelessness to hopefulness through the process of simply affirming their gender, and he has witnessed firsthand the positive impact that this has on them and their families. He is the subject of the award-winning documentary A Self-Made Man and the author of the book series Artistic Expressions of Transgender Youth and his memoir “Finding My Way Out of the Darkness” How I Found Self-Love & Acceptance. He is the co-founder of the Jim Collins Foundation where he held the position of president of the board for ten years. Tony's advocacy work is done through his position as the Director of Youth and Family Programming at Health Care Advocates International out of Stratford CT.

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Appears in 9 Episodes

Prideful Connections Ep 9: Faith Without Fear: Embracing Authenticity
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Prideful Connections Ep 9: Faith Without Fear: Embracing Authenticity

In this episode of Prideful Connections, we sit down with Rev. A. Reilly Paige (they/them), a minister dedicated to creating spaces where everyone—especially LGBTQ+ individuals—can encounter the Divine without fear or judgment. Growing up in a conservative church in the Midwest, Reilly has made it their mission to be the pastor they once needed. Now serving as Associate Minister at First Congregational Church in Guilford, they are passionate about full inclusion, radical love, and the power of community. Join us as we talk about faith, authenticity, and what it means to truly belong. 
Prideful Connections Ep. 8: From Big Macs to Big Impact: A Journey from Business to Advocacy
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Prideful Connections Ep. 8: From Big Macs to Big Impact: A Journey from Business to Advocacy

In this episode of Prideful Connections, we welcome Pattie McKnight, the Executive Director of Health Care Advocates International—one of our podcast’s proud sponsors. Pattie’s journey is anything but ordinary. After 35 years as a McDonald’s Owner/Operator, she shifted her focus to advocacy work, first through Ronald McDonald House Charities and later through her leadership at HCAI. Since 2017, she has been at the forefront of providing healthcare access and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Join us as we discuss her transition from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership, her passion for inclusive healthcare, and why she believes in fighting for a healthier future for all.
Prideful Connections Ep 7: Lights, Camera, Advocacy: Storytelling for Change
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Prideful Connections Ep 7: Lights, Camera, Advocacy: Storytelling for Change

In this episode of Prideful Connections, we are honored to welcome Emmy®-nominated filmmaker, bestselling author, and LGBTQ+ advocate Fiona Dawson. A proud bisexual, cisgender, immigrant woman, Fiona has dedicated her career to using media as a tool for equity and inclusion. From her groundbreaking New York Times op-doc Transgender, at War and in Love to her award-winning documentary TransMilitary, she has amplified the voices of marginalized communities and reshaped public perception. Join us as we dive into her journey—from working in corporate social responsibility to creating powerful personal storytelling through Free Lion Productions. Fiona shares insights on the impact of representation, the evolution of LGBTQIA+ media, and how we can all be part of advancing understanding through storytelling.
Prideful Connections – Ep 6: Living Out Loud: A Youth’s Journey with Cameron Celotto
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Prideful Connections – Ep 6: Living Out Loud: A Youth’s Journey with Cameron Celotto

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussions about self-harm and suicidal ideation. Please listen with care. If you need support, consider reaching out to a crisis resource in your area.In this powerful episode of Prideful Connections, we sit down with Cameron Celotto, a transgender youth who has faced immense challenges on his journey to living authentically. Through resilience and courage, Cameron has transformed his struggles into advocacy, using his voice to uplift and represent those in the community who cannot always be visible.Join hosts Tony Ferraiolo and Sarah Celotto as they explore Cameron’s story—his battles, his triumphs, and his unwavering commitment to making the world a more accepting place for transgender youth. His journey is one of hope, strength, and the power of living out loud.Tune in for an inspiring conversation that reminds us all why visibility and community matter.alex-inc.orghcaillc.com
Episode 05: Clare McCarthy: From Latin To Liberation: A Journey Of Advocacy
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Episode 05: Clare McCarthy: From Latin To Liberation: A Journey Of Advocacy

In this episode of Prideful Connections, we sit down with Clare McCarthy, a lifelong educator, advocate, and host of Transqat the Podcast. With 33 years of experience as a Latin teacher, Clare now dedicates her work to combating misinformation about transgender issues through her podcast. We’ll explore her journey from teaching to advocacy, the power of storytelling in education, and how humor, research, and lived experience shape her approach. Tune in for an insightful conversation on creati...
Episode 03: Mallory Sanchez: Advocating For Equality
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Episode 03: Mallory Sanchez: Advocating For Equality

Mallory Sanchez on Advocating for LGBTQ+ Youth – In this episode of Prideful Connections, Tony Ferraiolo and Sarah Celotto sit down with Mallory Sanchez, a dedicated attorney fighting to ensure all children—especially LGBTQ+ youth—receive the support and resources they need in schools. Mallory shares her journey into law, the challenges LGBTQ+ students face, and how families can advocate for their rights. This insightful conversation is a must-listen for anyone committed to creating safer, mo...
Episode 2: Behind the Mic: Meet host Sarah Celotto
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Episode 2: Behind the Mic: Meet host Sarah Celotto

In this heartfelt episode, co-host Sarah Celotto, a mother and advocate for transgender youth, shares her personal journey of supporting her transgender child. She discusses the challenges, triumphs, and emotional decisions of parenting a transgender youth, offering a powerful perspective on love, acceptance, and advocacy. This episode provides valuable insight for parents, allies, and anyone interested in the transgender experience, highlighting the universal bonds of family and the power of...