Taboo Science Nonbinary 101: Beyond the Binary
Nov 13, 2025
Dr. M. Matsuno, an assistant professor specializing in non-binary research, and Newt Schottelkotte, an audio engineer and sensitivity reader, explore the complexities of non-binary identities. They discuss how the term transcends the binary of man and woman and share personal journeys of self-identification. The duo also dives into the challenges surrounding pronouns, the nuances of hormone use, and the impact of societal expectations. With insights into resilience and community, this conversation offers a compelling view on navigating gender identity.
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Non-Binary Is Its Own Category
- Non-binary isn't simply a third box or the middle of a spectrum; it's making a gender from scratch that may borrow elements from male or female.
- Dr. M. Matsuno explains non-binary covers many identities like agender, bigender, demigender, and genderfluid.
Finding Identity Through Online Communities
- Newt discovered non-binary identity on Tumblr and gradually changed pronouns from she, they to they as it felt right.
- They waited to come out until college and used Instagram to lock in their decision before telling family.
Transition Is Highly Individualized
- Non-binary people take many different medical or social transition paths, tailored to what feels congruent to them.
- Options include top surgery, microdosing hormones, or no medical steps at all depending on individual goals.