Follow Lyndsey's (They/Them) journey as they rekindle joy through theatre, navigate medical issues, and showcase their passion for embracing oneself. Read to see how they learned about their new body and how clothing helped them lean into androgyny.
Tell us about yourself, who is Lyndsey Frank?
I was born a funny little creature in San Diego in 1989. I always found joy in making others laugh until my dad passed when I was 12. I rekindled that joy at 18 when I found improv comedy at The National Comedy Theatre San Diego. After performing on their college team for three years I moved to Los Angeles to take classes at The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre and come out as queer in 2014. In 2022 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and my comedy community quite literally saved my life by starting a go fund me and hosting benefit improv shows. I made the decision to have aesthetic flat closure and received a lot of push back from friends, family, AND MEDICAL DOCTORS. I pushed for the flat closure and received my life saving surgery on 12/16/22. I came out as they/them in 2023. Being alive is what makes me hot, my genitals do not define me nor negate decisions I make in my life. Bye Bye Boobies. After surgery, to rule out radiation, we found out I was stage 4 by doing extra scans. I now spend my time and surround myself with only what energizes me and brings me joy: My partner, cat, comedy community, nature, animals, and family. I made a house team at UCB called a "Harold Team" shortly after the new diagnoses. It had been my dream for over a decade and I fought hard to live to be able to perform again and share my gifts. I am proud to be a queer, nonbinary performer at the most prestigious improv theatre in Los Angeles. Representation matters and I am proud to be on that stage representing the LGBTQIA in a time when our rights are most vulnerable.
When do you feel like your most authentic self?
I feel my most authentic self when I am on stage performing live comedy.
Existing as a queer person in the US is becoming increasingly more difficult. How do you remain positive in today's climate?
Existing as a queer person in the US is becoming increasingly more difficult. How do you remain positive in today's climate?
I fortunately live in a beautiful bubble with wonderful comedians in Los Angeles that are mindful when producing comedy shows. Inclusion and representation matters. There are so many amazing queer shows and performers to go see at UCB and I'm proud to be a part of this space. I hope it inspires many to make safe and inclusive spaces elsewhere.
What is most important to you when shopping for clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident?
I have a new body and I want the freedom to combine both feminine and masculine looks with comfortable and sustainable materials. It feels euphoric when I'm able to lean into androgyny.
What are your favorite products from Humankind?
The swim top and 5'' swim trunk are HEAVEN. The swim top is incredibly soft and sporty. It has great coverage and feels comfortable on my sensitive scars. The swim trunks have a great masculine fit with some colorful femme designs. Dream suit!