Danielle May Laidley was known by a different name for the first 53 years of her life. We are so proud that this episode is a contributing factor to her reclaiming her narrative as a transgender woman.

An extremely talented AFL footballer, Danielle would go on to become a highly respected coach, always keeping within arm’s reach the version of herself which felt most authentic.

In first part of this chat, we are introduced to phase 1 of her life: the footballer, the husband and the coach and with an addictive personality that caused her to become tough, fierce and obsessed with footy.

Danielle discusses with Hugh, Ryan, and Josh the strict compartmentalisation of the different parts of her life during her AFL career, and the terrifying risks she took to satisfy the cravings to be her authentic self.

In the second half, Danielle recounts how it felt to be publicly outed, her own voice removed as the media crafted their own narrative about her identity.

A story of courage, resilience and love, Danielle vulnerably shares with Hugh, Ryan and Josh how she united her two worlds, and found the strength to live authentically for herself, and become a role model for others.