Hello! I’m Sandy Ernest Allen.
I’m a queer and trans journalist and author, based in The Catskills.
My writing and speaking tend to focus on gender and on mental health.
If you’re newer to me and my work, check out these Starter Packs of my published pieces, curated by topic.
Essays
& Features
I’ve written reported and personal pieces for numerous publications, including Esquire, Eater, Cosmopolitan, The Believer, and The Cut. See my full clips.
Audio
I’ve been a guest on many podcasts and radio shows, and have contributed my own reported audio stories to the likes of This American Life and 99% Invisible. I also co-created and hosted my own critically acclaimed independent podcast about mental health and pop culture called Mad Chat.
Book
My debut book is a radical and innovative work of nonfiction called A Kind of Mirraculas Paradise: A True Story about Schizophrenia (Scribner). It examines our mental health care system and its history — by telling the story of the life of my late Uncle Bob. Here’s the AKOMP website for much more.
Consulting, Speaking, etc.
I’m available for hire to speak, as well as to consult with fellow professionals whose work relates to mental health (learn more here). I also sometimes teach. See my Announcements page for my latest.
If you want to reach out about these things or anything else: Here’s how to contact me.