Toni Newman - I Rise: The Transformation of Toni Newman

2011, English, Toni Newman,

"I Rise, is the true story of Toni Newman’s transformation from an effeminate, conflicted male to a proud, educated transsexual. You will follow Toni on her rise from a “sissy boy,” a scholarship student, a business professional, an escort, a drag queen, an NYC prostitute, an LA dominatrix, and finally, a transsexual attending law school in order to help her transsexual sisters in need.

Along Toni’s journey, you will see the highs and lows, as well as life-long quest for self-acceptance…. Toni is ex playgirl magazine model and male fitness model turned Transgender to lose it all. Toni graduated from Wake Forest University in 1985 with BA degree. 

In the late 90s, Toni was the CEO of MPI Productions, a producer of male/female fitness calendars, sold all over the United States and abroad. An outcast to society, Toni fell from grace landing on the streets of New York City. Living in a crack house, and eating from a trash can, Toni’s life had spiraled out of control. Fallen, but not beaten, Toni Newman decided to RISE. In the footsteps Ted Williams, Toni Newman is a true testament of determination."

In 2013, I interviewed Toni and asked her about her transition experiences: "I began around 28 and had no support whatsoever. My family rejected me completely and my gay friends at the time did not understand or support my decision. I basically was all alone when I started my transformation process. I remember feeling all alone but I knew in my heart and soul I had to do it to be happy.

For the first 6 months, I lived off my savings and hardly spoke to anyone from my background. I prayed a lot since I was from a Christian upbringing and background. I doubted my decision so many times but I knew deep within this was the only way for Toni Newman to be happy and real. After 6 months and running out of money and losing my apt I accepted I had to fight and hustle to exist."

Available via Amazon

and The Heroines of My Life