Interview with Deja Nicole Greenlaw

Deja Nicole Greenlaw is a woman of quiet courage and radiant strength, whose journey has inspired many and illuminated paths for others to follow. A passionate transgender activist, Deja’s story is not just about marching in Washington or testifying at state capitols, though she has done both, but about the power of showing up every day, authentically and unapologetically, in her workplace, her community, and her world. Coming out at the age of 50, Deja proved that it is never too late to choose yourself. In a time when many might feel that their dreams have passed them by, she stepped into her truth with grace and determination. From the factory floor to the Pride parades of Boston, from writing columns in The Rainbow Times to strumming her guitar for cheering crowds, she continues to be a visible and vibrant force of change. 

 

Deja lives by the belief that simply being out and present can be the most profound form of activism. Her presence challenges assumptions, breaks down prejudice, and fosters empathy in places where it is often needed most. Whether dealing with coworkers, healthcare providers, or neighbors, Deja brings a warm smile, a listening ear, and an unwavering sense of self. Today, she stands not only as a trans woman but as a storyteller, a musician, a writer, and a lover of life’s small joys, comfortable shoes, jazzy tops, and the peace that comes from living as one’s true self. Her life reminds us that authenticity is an act of bravery, and that every step taken toward self-love has the power to move the world. It is my joy and honor to introduce you to Deja Nicole Greenlaw.

Interview with Robyn-Jane

There are some women whose voices carry more than melody, they carry the echoes of struggle, resilience, and hard-earned joy. Robyn-Jane is one such woman. A soulful transgender artist, blues singer, blogger, and the vibrant frontwoman of the band that bears her name, she has lived her truth with disarming honesty and unwavering grace. Having undergone her gender reassignment surgery in the spring of last year, Robyn-Jane now stands fully in her light, creating music that speaks not only to heartbreak but to the deep well of strength within every woman who has ever been misunderstood, misjudged, or made to feel invisible. With a musical style she calls Cabaret Blues, Robyn-Jane weaves folk chanson, torch-song sensuality, and biting lyrical truths into every performance.

 

Her songs, both intimate and defiant, reflect a journey shaped by early trauma, schoolyard cruelty, and the long shadow of societal rejection, but also by art, sisterhood, and the saving grace of music. On her blog, Retrobassgirl, she writes with fearless vulnerability, offering readers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into her transition, her healing, and her power reclaimed. Robyn-Jane is not only a storyteller in sound, but a testament to the joy of becoming. From her working-class roots in Northern England to her place now as a beacon of inspiration within the transgender and wider LGBTQ+ community, she embodies the message that it is never too late to be who you are. In her music, her writing, and her life, Robyn-Jane challenges us to listen, not just with our ears, but with our hearts. It’s an honor to sit down with her for this conversation.

Interview with Jamie Roberts

In a world that often asks transgender women to fight simply to be seen, Jamie Roberts meets every challenge with both fierce intellect and unwavering grace. A graduate of the University of Georgia School of Law and a dedicated public defender in LaGrange, Jamie is not only a tireless advocate in the courtroom but also a guiding force in her community. She has served as Chair of the Board of Directors for Georgia Equality and as Treasurer for Atlanta Gender Explorations, roles through which she has shaped policy, mentored countless others, and reminded us that change begins with courage and connection. Her activism is deeply personal, rooted in the understanding that true justice must include safe shelter, affirming healthcare, and the dignity of self-determination for all transgender people. Jamie knows the cost of visibility: rejection, violence, loneliness, but she also knows its reward. 

 

Through every loss, she found her voice. Through every injustice, she crafted a roadmap for others to follow. Her story is one of resilience, hard-earned wisdom, and an unshakable belief in the power of solidarity. What makes Jamie especially remarkable is the tenderness with which she balances sharp political insight and profound emotional truth. She speaks candidly about dysphoria, internalized biases, the ache of lost friendships, and the long road toward self-acceptance. Yet through it all, there is a quiet fire in her words, a love of community, of justice, and ultimately, of herself. In this interview, Jamie reflects not only on policy and progress, but also on what it means to survive, to serve, and to love, starting with learning to love oneself. Let us now listen to Jamie, as she speaks with clarity, conviction, and a voice that deserves to be heard.

Interview with Stephanie Battaglino

Stephanie Battaglino is not just a trailblazer, she is a heart-forward force of change. With grace, resilience, and unapologetic authenticity, she has dedicated her life to opening doors for others, especially in the workplace, where transgender people often face silence, stigma, or worse. The first transgender person to transition at her Fortune 100 company, Stephanie turned personal vulnerability into systemic transformation, spearheading inclusive policy reforms, workplace transition guidelines, and employee resource groups that continue to uplift others long after her own journey began. Today, she is a nationally recognized speaker, corporate consultant, and advocate for transgender equality, leading her own company, Follow Your Heart, LLC, with the same empathy and vision that has defined her entire career.

 

Whether serving on the boards of the LGBT Community Center of New York or the Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund, Stephanie brings both heart and strategy to the fight for visibility and dignity. Beyond her titles and accolades, Stephanie is a deeply compassionate partner, mother, and friend. Her relationship with Mari, whom she lovingly calls the "yin to her yang," radiates warmth and serenity. Her devotion to her son, whom she supported with extraordinary sensitivity through her transition, speaks volumes about the quiet strength she carries. Stephanie’s story is one of hope, of finding one’s voice, sharing it boldly, and lifting others along the way. Through her writing, her blog Follow Your Heart, and her tireless activism, she reminds us that the power of living as your true self is not just personal, it’s transformational. And today, we are honored to listen.

Interview with Katie Anne Holton

There are people whose presence feels like sunlight, bold, warm, and radiant with honesty. Katie Anne Holton is one of them. A San Diego-based photo model, devoted educator, and outspoken transgender advocate, Katie stepped into the spotlight with grace and self-awareness, lending her image and voice to the groundbreaking Visible Bodies: Transgender Narratives Retold photography series. At fifty, she embraced modeling not only as an empowering personal milestone, but also as an act of visibility, for herself, for trans women, and for lesbian identity within the trans community. Her path has not been easy, yet it shines with courage, humor, and an unapologetic embrace of who she is.

 

Katie came out as a trans woman at 45, navigating transition with the support of San Diego’s vibrant queer community, two wonderful sons, and a heart open to love in all its beautiful forms. Whether speaking at colleges, kissing her beloved at Pride, or sharing the trials and triumphs of her polyamorous life, Katie invites us to witness a truth many still fear to name: that happiness, confidence, and love are transformative, and contagious. In this interview, Katie reflects on the power of storytelling, the complexity of “passing,” and the joys and challenges of raising children while redefining womanhood. She’s candid, witty, and wise. She’s a woman in full bloom. And she reminds us that sometimes, the most political act is simply being joyfully, visibly ourselves.

Interview with Christine Burns MBE

Christine Burns MBE is a trailblazing equalities specialist, beloved advocate, and pioneering voice in the fight for transgender rights in the United Kingdom. With a gentle but unwavering determination, Christine has spent decades shaping the landscape of legal protections and social acceptance for trans people. From her early years as a city IT consultant navigating the challenges of living stealth, to becoming vice president of the influential campaign group Press for Change, she has been at the heart of some of the UK’s most significant milestones in transgender equality. Christine’s extraordinary journey is beautifully chronicled in her memoir, Pressing Matters, where she tenderly recounts the long and often difficult path toward the Gender Recognition Act of 2004, an achievement that transformed countless lives by granting legal recognition to trans identities.

 

Her work has not only secured vital employment rights and healthcare access but has also humanized the fight for dignity and family recognition in law. Her life story is not only one of activism and legal triumph but also of profound courage, compassion, and hope. Christine’s wisdom and warmth shine through as she reflects on the importance of history, the strength found in community, and the ongoing struggle for true equality. She is a beloved mentor, a steadfast friend, and a beacon of hope for generations of trans people and allies. It is with great admiration and respect that we welcome Christine Burns MBE to share her insights and experiences in this heartfelt interview.

Interview with Juliet Jacques

It is with deep admiration that I welcome Juliet Jacques to this conversation, a woman whose writing is as luminous as her courage. Juliet is not only a pioneering British journalist, critic, and author, but also a gentle voice of intellect and introspection in the complex dialogue surrounding gender, identity, and representation. Known to many through her widely acclaimed Guardian series My Transgender Journey, Juliet became one of the UK's most visible transgender voices, not because she set out to be a role model, but because she wrote with unflinching honesty, grace, and vulnerability. Born in Redhill, Surrey, and raised in nearby Horley, Juliet studied History at the University of Manchester before pursuing Literature and Film at the University of Sussex, where she later completed a Ph.D. in Creative and Critical Writing. Her academic grounding in narrative and aesthetics gives her writing a rare depth, weaving post-war literary influences into memoir, journalism, and art criticism alike. Whether she is analyzing cinema, unpacking media bias, or reflecting on football with radical tenderness, Juliet does so with a clarity that reveals the emotional and political threads holding our stories together.

 

Juliet has never merely chronicled trans lives, she has challenged who gets to tell them and how. Her work has appeared in The Guardian, The New Statesman, and beyond, and she is also the creator and host of Suite (212) on Resonance FM, where she explores the intersections of art, politics, and community. Yet even with accolades such as being longlisted for the Orwell Prize and recognized on The Independent on Sunday Pink List, Juliet’s strength lies not in titles, but in her deep sincerity, humility, and sharp mind. Navigating both the public spotlight and private uncertainty, Juliet has not only written through transition, but transformed the landscape of trans representation in Britain. With her characteristic wit, intellectual poise, and understated resolve, she reminds us that to be a writer is not just to observe the world, but to offer it a gentler, more generous lens through which to be seen. Today, I have the honor of speaking to Juliet about literature, activism, resilience, and the poetic contradictions of being fully human.

Interview with Kelly Ellis

It is with deep admiration that I welcome Kelly Ellis, lawyer, advocate, and political trailblazer from New Zealand, for a conversation that reveals both her formidable intellect and her tender heart. Kelly is more than a professional advocate; she is a woman who has weathered the storms of prejudice, isolation, and media scrutiny with grace and integrity. From her tireless work defending the rights of transgender prisoners to her role in founding TransAdvocates, a lifeline for the marginalized, Kelly has shaped a legacy rooted in justice and kindness. A proud New Zealander, Kelly’s political vision is anchored not only in transgender visibility but in a broader commitment to social equity, education, and dignity for all. Her legal work has not only changed lives, it has saved them.

 

Yet despite her many accomplishments, she remains a deeply private person, choosing purpose over spotlight, and sincerity over showmanship. Whether she is walking her beloved dog Bruce along the coast or navigating the complex world of politics, Kelly brings a quiet strength and a steadfast belief in a better future. In this interview, Kelly opens up about her path, from childhood dreams of belonging to the challenges of being an out transgender woman in public service. Her story is one of resilience, gentleness, and power. She reminds us that authenticity is not a political stance but a daily act of courage, and that every voice raised for justice adds to a chorus that can move the world.

Interview with Audrey Mbugua Ithibu

In the heart of Kenya, where tradition and modernity often collide, Audrey Mbugua Ithibu stands as one of the most compelling voices of courage and transformation on the African continent. A transgender activist, a scientist by training, and a determined advocate for dignity and justice, Audrey has become a symbol of what it means to live truthfully, fight relentlessly, and rise gracefully against all odds. A graduate of Maseno University in Medical Biotechnology and now pursuing studies in Computer Programming and Advanced Databases, Audrey brings a rare blend of intellect and tenacity to her activism. As the founding force behind Transgender Education and Advocacy (TEA), she has dedicated herself to rewriting the narrative for transgender people in Kenya, demanding legal recognition, humane healthcare, and societal understanding where there was once only silence, stigma, or scorn. 

 

Audrey's legal battles have not only shaken the foundations of discriminatory state practices but have also ignited national and regional conversations about identity, autonomy, and inclusion. Despite enduring systemic rejection, religious prejudice, and personal heartbreak, she remains resilient, her strength tempered by moments of painful honesty and a clear, compassionate vision for her community. There is an undeniable femininity in her fight, quietly fierce, emotionally intelligent, and unshakably nurturing. She speaks not only for herself but for every young trans girl walking the tightrope of survival and selfhood in Africa. Audrey has turned her past mistakes into wisdom, her scars into fuel, and her solitude into leadership. Today, it is my honor and joy to welcome Audrey Mbugua Ithibu to this conversation. Her story is not just a tale of transition, but a testament to how one woman’s refusal to be erased became a lifeline for many others.

 

Monika: Audrey Mbugua Ithibu is not only a trailblazing transgender activist from Kenya, but also a brilliant mind in the fields of science and technology. She holds a degree in Medical Biotechnology from Maseno University, is currently pursuing studies in Computer Programming, and is a Postgraduate Student in Advanced Databases at a Kenyan university. A Secular Humanist and fearless advocate for trans rights, Audrey has become a beacon of hope and a role model for countless trans sisters across Africa. Audrey, it’s such a joy to have you here today. Hello!

Audrey: Hello, my dear Monika. It's such a joy to speak with a sister from across the continent.

 

Who Am I? (YouTube)

 

Monika: For many years, you have been deeply involved in transgender education and advocacy in Kenya. Could you share with us what the main goals and agenda of Transgender Kenya are?

Audrey: First, recognition of our chosen names and correct gender on our academic and identification documents. Second, we want access to medical services related to gender reassignment in a respectful and sensitive environment. Third, an end to discrimination and other harmful practices, procedures, and attitudes within government departments that prevent transgender people from enjoying their rights and fundamental freedoms. Fourth, we use the media and other platforms to educate Kenyans about Gender Identity Disorders and transsexualism, and to promote understanding of how transgender people can be accepted in society and families. Fifth, we work to eradicate harmful terminologies and practices by human rights organizations.

For example, we are sensitizing society about the negative consequences of lumping transgender people into the gay and lesbian community. While we respect the rights of gays and lesbians, we do not accept the practice of combining transsexuals with gays and lesbians and labeling us all as the gay community.

Monika: Your legal struggle is one of the most significant battles in the history of the Kenyan transgender community. When government recognition of your gender identity was denied, you took your fight to court. Has there been any favorable ruling from the courts so far?

Audrey: Actually, there are two ongoing cases. The first is to have Kenya's National Examination Council change my name and gender markers on my certificates. I have officially changed my name from Andrew Mbugua (my slave name) to Audrey Mbugua. The case is ongoing, but there was a complication because the Kenya Christian Lawyers Fellowship wanted to join the case to oppose it, fearing "it might open doors for homosexuality and lesbianism." Thankfully, the Christian lawyers' body later withdrew. The second case concerns the government’s refusal to register our organization, Transgender Education and Advocacy (TEA), without giving any explanation.

 

In court (YouTube)

Monika: Some articles have portrayed your battle as that of a transgender atheist fighting against the stereotypes of a predominantly Christian society and country. How accurate do you think this portrayal is?

Audrey: I don’t think it represents the entire spectrum of the conflict between transgender people and some confused groups. There are millions of Kenyan Christians who respect me and the entire transgender struggle. However, there is a minority that believes their particular faith gives them the power to interfere with the right of transsexuals to access justice. There is no single "Kenyan Christian society," though there are Christians in Kenya. Furthermore, I have had people helping transgender people in the name of God’s love. I don’t argue with them much since I enjoy mentally discarding their negativity in a corner of my mind.

Monika: Do you see transgender rights as the new frontier in the broader struggle for human rights?

Audrey: Yes. We have managed to break barriers and limits that no one thought transgender people could overcome on their own. It wasn’t just about human rights but also a desire to prove ourselves capable and to do the best we could. We were able to redefine the meaning of 'courage.' Additionally, the case exposed the State’s ignorance... they didn’t know who or what they were dealing with. But I usually remind State officials that we are not enemies, and some of us have come to respect one another. Through these cases, they’ve learned a lot; they can now differentiate between transgender people and gay or lesbian individuals. However, some have realized that the only way to hurt me is to use male pronouns. So, some do it deliberately... it’s like war games. You win some, you lose some. But I have developed a thicker skin, and no amount of insults can take me down. I am bulletproof.

Monika: What is your perspective on how transgender stories and characters have been portrayed in Kenyan media so far?

Audrey: Ninety percent have been very balanced. But there are some so-called liberals who confused the public by mixing gay rights with our cases. We had an intelligent conversation with them, and they stopped. There were cyber haters and bullies who vented their frustrations by calling me names, something you’d expect from primary school children. But such people only make me more determined.

One on one with Audrey Mbugua (YouTube)

Monika: What is your assessment of the current legal and social situation for transgender women in Kenya?

Audrey: It is really bad. The system has trapped transgender women. Human rights groups’ work is detrimental because it objectifies us as sex objects and lumps trans women into the gay label. Additionally, some donors fund projects that undermine our rights and integration, and any criticism is labeled as homophobia. The government is unresponsive to the needs of transgender people, and some families are hostile because we “embarrass” them with our gender change. Sexual exploitation is common, especially for poor and economically disadvantaged trans women, who are the most vulnerable to exploitation and violence. Worst of all, these factors have seriously compromised our confidence and self-esteem. But there is hope for change, though change never comes with flowers.

Monika: How would you compare the situation in Kenya with that of other African countries?

Audrey: I have great pity for transgender people across Africa, and I hope donors will focus on relevant transgender projects that offer real solutions to transform our lives. The decriminalization of homosexuality will not alleviate the suffering of transgender people. I’m not saying it isn’t important for other minorities, but it does not provide a solution for transgender individuals. 

Monika: Is the Kenyan health system currently equipped to provide comprehensive services to transgender people?

Audrey: They do offer some services, such as diagnosis, psychotherapy, hormone therapy, and castration. However, significant gaps remain. We need gender reassignment surgery, affordable services, a respectful environment, and clear policies. The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board began developing National Guidelines for the Management of Gender Identity Disorders, but the process stalled last year after we submitted our contributions. Still, we are confident that our doctors are capable of providing all these procedures.

Audrey Mbugua case challenged (YouTube)

Monika: When you began your transition, did you have any transgender role models to look up to or follow?

Audrey: Yes... Prof. Lynn Conway in the USA. We used to email one another once in a while. But, I was there alone. The saddest part of this was that I made mistakes. There was a time I was promiscuous, I’m not embarrassed to admit I made mistakes, I just felt like self-destructing and I went ahead and did it. Also, I used to drink and smoke a lot. But I quit that immoral life... if I couldn’t have a role model, then I could be someone else’s role model. I owe that to the younger transgender community. And I guess we trans community have failed; we do not do a great job of taking care of our younger trans community. As a result, they end up being preyed on by wolves and lose their lives due to HIV/AIDS, suicides, and violence.
Monika: What was the hardest part about coming out as transgender?

Audrey: Fear, ridicule, and errors in judgment. When I felt lonely, unloved, and just wanted to fit in, I made mistakes. Looking back, I see a confused and bitter girl... I think I could have handled some issues differently. The only thing I’m proud of is that I rediscovered myself before I made the mistake of deferring my university studies... though I should have earned better grades. I wasted time and effort thinking about nonsense, like needing someone to love me, or someone to validate me as a woman, but I came to my senses and realized I am special and don’t need anyone else’s love to be a woman.

Monika: Aside from personal struggles, what challenges did you face from society?

Audrey: Another challenge is societal stereotypes, even among so-called liberals and many human rights organizations, including some gay and lesbian groups. Some of these people are the most bigoted you will ever meet. Once they realize you are transgender, they cut you off and demand that you shrink into a corner and be f*ed by men in the a. They look at a trans woman and think our role is to be used as sex toys by men.

My Quest for Acceptance (YouTube)

Monika: Do you see yourself as politically active, and have you taken part in any lobbying or advocacy efforts?

Audrey: I do engage in politics, but more on the periphery. I’m usually wary of most Kenyans when it comes to politics because many confirm to me they have nothing between their ears the moment they start talking about “other tribes.” That’s why, every time they go to a polling station, they say things like, “Oh, this person is from my tribe, so I’ll vote for them,” or “This candidate is rich, so I’ll vote for them,” or even worse, “Oh, this guy has a temper... he’s the right person to protect us from other tribes.”

Monika: Have you ever considered stepping more directly into politics yourself?

Audrey: Yes, I’m actually thinking of forming a political party called the Party of Common Sense (POCS). I believe what Kenya, and Africa, desperately needs is common sense, because we are slowly destroying the fundamental pillars of our societies. I think transgender women can make a real difference in politics. We represent the cream of society when it comes to intelligence and compassion. And most importantly, we’ve had to develop deep tenacity and an exceptional work ethic to survive the harsh realities of our existence.
Monika: How has your experience with love shaped your personal journey?

Audrey: Wow... that is one area I hate to love. My love life before my transition was wanting, I was awkward. It was hard to connect with girls. There was this girl I loved, but it was difficult to talk to her because I would go completely blank. My heart would beat so hard, she even told my cousin (they were best friends).

Monika: And how did your relationship with love evolve after transitioning? 

Audrey: When I started my transition, I made the mistake of conforming to the social expectation that a woman should date a man. I gave it a shot, but it was nonsense. I went back to dating women... but in 2013, I took an oath of chastity to protect the integrity of my body. At times it’s hard to say no, but it has been manageable. There are women I meet and I’m like wow. I fall in love easily, but I’ve come to understand that love often comes with sharp edges. Still, I consider myself heterosexual, straight in a special way. I’m not lesbian, gay, and neither am I bisexual.

Maumbile Si Hoja (YouTube)

Monika: Many transgender women choose to write memoirs as a way to share their stories and inspire others. Have you ever considered writing your own? 

Audrey: Yes... in fact, my sister was really encouraging me to do it. It's a bit early to dismiss it, but I have yet to muster enough courage to dig around in that graveyard in my mind. There are things I did that I am ashamed of, e.g. the issue of promiscuity and hopping from one bar to another like a teenager. But, if the memoir bug catches me, then I will have no option but to write it.

Monika: What are you currently focusing your energy and activism on?

Audrey: No... I want to focus on name and gender recognition and, of course, the economic empowerment of transgender women in Kenya.

There is a lot of poverty and misery. Hundreds of little humiliations among transgender people because most of us are poor, illiterate, and cannot afford rent or food. It hurts to know that most transgender people in Kenya have to be used sexually to get US$2 for a meal, and they’re at it again for money for lodging. It hurts, and at times I end up crying alone in the house. Only fools can romanticize poverty... sleeping under a tree in the park is not fun.

So far, our organization has been able to sponsor four transgender people to attend schools to learn skills for a legitimate source of livelihood. It’s hard to convince donors that this is a legitimate problem that needs to be addressed.

Monika: What advice would you offer to transgender women who are struggling with gender dysphoria?

Audrey: First, they need to accept themselves. There is nothing to be ashamed of... mental disorders are part of the human race. Second, I would encourage them to seek assistance from a mental health care provider. Don’t listen to these groups that keep arguing about (de)pathologization of gender dysphoria or gender identity disorders. Third, seek help from your family and avoid negative peers, people who encourage errors, rudeness, and stupidity. Fourth, get an education... and if possible, lots of education, and have confidence. 

If you feel you don’t have any faith or energy to hold on, then ask for some from your God or from your source of motivation and encouragement. Finally, if you have fallen into immoral behavior, then change and forgive yourself. Everyone deserves a second and third chance. Even a fourth chance. And assist another person with gender dysphoria. Don’t be ashamed to be seen with or walking with a fellow trans person. If she can’t “blend” and people keep staring, then learn to ignore the stares. It is easier than we think.

Monika: Audrey, thank you so much for sharing your story with such honesty and strength.

Audrey: Thank you for having me. Well done, and many thanks.

All the photos: courtesy of Audrey Mbugua Ithibu.

© 2014 - Monika Kowalska

  

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Interview with Roz Kaveney

To speak with Roz Kaveney is to enter a world where intellect meets tenderness, where radical thought is laced with poetry, and where identity is never a limitation but a prism through which light refracts in surprising and beautiful ways. A Londoner with a fierce mind and a romantic heart, Roz has long stood at the crossroads of activism, literature, and cultural critique. Her life’s work is as expansive as it is intimate, spanning novels, poems, political campaigns, and the many quiet acts of community care that too often go unsung. Known as a founding member of Feminists Against Censorship, a former deputy chair of Liberty, and deputy editor of the magazine META, Roz helped shape the discourse around trans rights and feminist free speech in ways that continue to echo today. She is also a core member of the Midnight Rose collective and the author of Rhapsody of Blood, a lush and visionary fantasy series, and the piercing poetry collections Dialectic of the Flesh and What If What’s Imagined Were All True.

 

Yet Roz is more than her accolades. She is a woman who came to poetry in her sixties after years of silence, who navigated transition with honesty and defiance during some of the most difficult decades to do so, and who credits her strength to community, to love, and to the many unnamed trans people who made art out of survival. She resists the idea that being a trans artist comes with a duty to be exemplary, preferring instead a raw sincerity that honors complexity, contradiction, and truth. Roz is often described as “somewhat disliked by various silly people”, a phrase that might as well be a badge of courage. In her work and her words, she invites us to challenge lazy assumptions, to hold space for grief and joy alike, and to remember that the canon must not be discarded, but transformed. Her life is a mosaic of bravery, sharp wit, and deep care, and it is my great pleasure to share this conversation with her.

Interview with Alana Nicole Sholar

There are people who move through the world with a kind of quiet gravity, their stories unfolding not with loud declarations but with a steady, unwavering truth. Alana Nicole Sholar is one of those rare voices, soft-spoken, yet impossible to ignore. Born and raised in Kentucky, she grew up in a deeply religious, working-class environment that made it difficult to speak her truth, let alone live it. But she persisted. With time, reflection, and an inner strength forged through years of self-discovery, Alana emerged as an author, activist, and advocate, not just for herself, but for countless others navigating the complex terrain of gender identity. In 2012, Alana published her groundbreaking memoir, Hung in the Middle: A Journey of Gender Discovery, which explores her life growing up as a transgender person assigned male at birth. 

 

The book resonates with warmth, candor, and the kind of wisdom that can only come from lived experience. It became more than just a personal testimony, it became a beacon of understanding for readers who may have felt alone in their own transitions or who simply wanted to better understand someone else's. Beyond the page, Alana is a vibrant presence. Whether she’s speaking at LGBTQ+ events, engaging with readers, or sharing tender moments with her loving partner, Bobbie Thompson, she brings a sense of calm authenticity that invites others to feel safe, seen, and validated. Together, the two have become known for their openness, compassion, and unwavering support for the transgender community. Alana reminds us that our journeys don’t have to be rushed or linear. That it’s okay to take your time, to question, to pause, to begin again. That visibility can be an act of love, and survival. Today, I have the honor of speaking with Alana about her story, her advocacy, and the lessons she continues to learn and share along the way.

Interview with Marisa Richmond

It is with heartfelt admiration that I introduce today’s guest, Dr. Marisa Richmond, a pioneering figure whose grace, strength, and intellect have long lit the path for so many in the transgender community. A trailblazer in American politics and a historian by vocation, Marisa embodies the spirit of service, advocacy, and unapologetic authenticity. Her name is synonymous with trans rights progress in Tennessee and far beyond. As a former lobbyist for the Tennessee Transgender Political Coalition, and a member of the Boards of Directors for both the National Center for Transgender Equality and the Trans Advocacy Network, Marisa has used her voice to amplify the needs of our community at the highest levels of government. She has helped craft inclusive platforms within the Democratic Party and has served with distinction on the Davidson County Democratic Executive Committee in her beloved Nashville, Tennessee.

 

Beyond her political work, Marisa’s heart lies in mentorship and education. A passionate historian, she treasures the classroom and the power of stories to shape the future. She has witnessed firsthand the slow but steady unfolding of trans inclusion across federal, state, and local landscapes, and has been a crucial force in that unfolding. And yet, she is quick to remind us that her activism is not a career, but a calling, driven by love and a profound sense of responsibility to future generations. In our conversation, Marisa reflects on landmark victories, persistent challenges, and her dream of a world where every young trans person can see themselves not just surviving, but thriving. With a gentle fierceness and an unwavering belief in justice, she invites us to remember our shared history, and to keep writing it, together. It is my deepest honor to share this moment with her.

Interview with Jasmine Eastall

In the heart of a quiet valley near Wellington, surrounded by the gentle hum of nature and the soft purring of her newly adopted kitten Desire, lives a woman whose strength shines through her gentleness, Jasmine Sapphire Eastall. A proud New Zealander, transsexual advocate, and community builder, Jasmine’s story is one of courage, rediscovery, and fierce compassion. From her early journey through Europe, where unexpected friendships helped her uncover the truth of who she was, to returning home to face family, heartbreak, and healing, Jasmine has never stopped growing into herself. She speaks with warmth, humility, and a sparkle of dry humor, always more interested in lifting others than promoting her own name.

 

Yet her quiet impact has rippled through New Zealand's transgender community: from hosting events at Wellington’s Outgames to speaking out about the country's flawed gender-affirming healthcare system, and from creating safer online spaces for trans women to finding love that embraces her fully as she is. In this interview, Jasmine reminds us that womanhood isn't about perfection, it’s about presence, pride, and the grace to move through life on your own terms. Behind the party girl, as she says, is just an ordinary girl. But to those who listen closely, Jasmine’s story is anything but ordinary, it’s a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the joy of finally being seen.

Interview with Alexandra Billings

Meet Alexandra Billings, an enchanting soul whose journey through life and art has been nothing short of luminous. Born in 1962 in Schaumburg, Illinois, Alexandra was raised in a rich tapestry of musicality and academia: her father, the musical director for the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera, and her mother part of a line of devoted educators. From the tender age of five, she stepped onto stage, driven by the spellbinding world of theater that would come to define her. In the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene of early 1980s Chicago, Alexandra blossomed as “Shanté,” captivating audiences at the iconic Baton Show Lounge and under glittering stage lights. She claimed titles in beauty pageants, Miss Wisconsin, Miss Chicago, and more, while refining her craft in drag performance. Yet her artistic legacy was deeper: she wove her truth into the solo, autobiographical piece Before I Disappear, sharing her experiences with resilience, addiction recovery, and love in a powerful one-woman show that charmed audiences from Chicago to Boston, Los Angeles, and New York. 

 

On screen, Alexandra etched history in 2005 by portraying Donna in Romy and Michelle: In the Beginning, becoming one of the first transgender actresses to play an openly trans character on television. Her career soared with guest roles on ER, Grey’s Anatomy, Eli Stone, and Karen Sisco, all before her beloved portrayal of Davina in the groundbreaking 2014 Amazon series Transparent. But Alexandra is far more than a performer. A devoted activist and teacher, she has been living with HIV since 1985 and has dedicated decades to AIDS advocacy, LGBTQ youth outreach, and the power of storytelling as healing. Inducted into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame in 2005, she has shared her voice and her message across classrooms and communities, inspiring many with courage and grace. Alexandra earned an MFA from California State University, Long Beach, where she later began teaching, and begun her academic journey at USC’s School of Dramatic Arts. Throughout her life and work, she’s been a beacon of authenticity and transformation, turning vulnerability into art and brightness into breakthrough. This preface barely scratches the surface of Alexandra’s essence: she is radiant, resilient, and resolutely feminine, a living testament to the beauty of embracing one's full, dazzling truth.

Interview with Sherilyn Connelly

Sherilyn Connelly is a San Francisco-based transgender writer, film critic, and cultural commentator. She is the author of Malediction and Pee Play, an excerpt from her memoir Bottomfeeder, and her writing has been featured in the acclaimed anthology The Collection: Short Fiction from the Transgender Vanguard (Topside Press). Sherilyn’s stories, including The Last Dog and Pony Show and Sherilyn’s Skool for Girlz, explore identity, emotion, and pop culture with incisive wit and deeply personal insight. In addition to her literary work, she writes about film and television for Medialoper and the Gawker Media blog io9, and serves as the head film critic for SF Weekly. Her critical writing has also appeared in The Village Voice.

 

A lifelong lover of libraries, she is pursuing a Master of Library and Information Science with the goal of becoming an archivist. Sherilyn began her gender transition at age 25 and has written candidly about her journey and the cultural challenges trans women face, both in media portrayals and real life. Fiercely independent and refreshingly self-aware, she describes her political action as simply being herself, “largely without compromise.” Sherilyn continues to write, critique, and archive, driven by curiosity, resilience, and a dry sense of humor she never leaves at home.

Interview with Adèle Anderson

Adèle Anderson (born 14 June 1952) is an English singer, actress, and lyricist best known as one third of the acclaimed cabaret trio Fascinating Aïda, which she joined in 1984, just a year after its formation. Her wit, distinctive contralto voice, and sharp lyrical sensibility have made her a beloved fixture of British musical theatre and cabaret for decades. Before finding fame, Anderson earned a degree in drama from Birmingham University, where she began her professional journey in theatre while still living publicly as a man. After graduation, she worked as a civil servant and a secretary, all the while preparing for a major personal transformation. Eventually, she reinvented herself as a jazz singer and performer, carving out a unique place in British cultural life. With Fascinating Aïda, Anderson earned a 1995 Laurence Olivier Award nomination for Best Entertainment. She frequently collaborates with fellow group member Dillie Keane to write many of the group’s satirical and poignant songs. The pair also co-wrote material for several hit musicals, including The Challenge and The Ten Commandments, both staged by Mercury Workshop, of which Anderson was a member.

 

Anderson's solo and ensemble stage credits are extensive and diverse, with performances in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Follies, Into the Woods, Sunset Boulevard, Closer to Heaven, Nine, Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens, and Plan 9 from Outer Space – The Musical, among many others. She directed pantomimes, performed internationally, and collaborated with pianist Warren Wills on jazz/cabaret shows in London and abroad, including the Hong Kong Fringe Festival. Her film and television work includes roles in Lady Jane, Company Business, Hotel Babylon, Fish, New Tricks, and The Romanoffs. She also made a cameo and served as a consultant for the film Different for Girls. Outside of performance, Anderson is a passionate humanist. She is a patron of Humanists UK and later trained as a humanist celebrant, specializing in non-religious weddings. In 2010, she joined 54 other public figures in signing an open letter opposing Pope Benedict XVI’s state visit to the UK.

Interview with Tamara Adrián

Tamara Adrián stands as a pioneering force in the fight for transgender rights in Latin America, embodying resilience, intelligence, and unwavering dignity. A distinguished lawyer, honored professor, and devoted activist, she has used her voice to challenge the silence, her mind to challenge injustice, and her heart to envision a world where dignity is not conditional. From the university halls of Venezuela to the global stage of human rights, Tamara’s journey weaves together academic excellence, political courage, and a deeply personal pursuit of authenticity. Despite years of legal limbo in her own country, where her petition for gender recognition has been continually deferred, Tamara has remained unwavering. Her determination is not rooted in anger but in love, love for justice, for visibility, and for a new generation of trans youth who dare to dream. 

 

As a trans woman and a lesbian, she speaks openly of the transformative power of love, the strength found in knowledge, and the quiet revolution that begins when we accept ourselves fully. Tamara has stood at the crossroads of history more than once, as a candidate for Venezuela’s highest constitutional court, as a pioneer in politics, and as the subject of a feature film about her life. And yet, with all her accolades, it is her encouragement to young trans people to believe in their worth, to pursue education, and to fight for inclusion that defines her most deeply. “In order to change the world,” she says, “you must first change yourself.” In this intimate conversation, Tamara shares not only her extraordinary career but the emotional truths behind her public life, her fears, her femininity, her style, her activism, and above all, her hope. Let us now listen to a woman who has become, for so many, the voice they never had and the future they now believe in.

Interview with Jula Böge

Jula Böge is a German transgender author and activist known for her contributions to discussions on gender identity and transgender experiences. Born in 1960, she has actively engaged in writing and speaking about transgender issues over the past decade. In 2009, Böge published her book "Ich bin (k)ein Mann: Als Transgender glücklich leben" ("I am (not) a man: Living happily as transgender"), which explores the challenges and self-discovery involved in living as a transgender individual. She also maintains a personal website, julaonline.de, where she shares articles and resources related to transgender topics. Beyond her writing, Böge has participated as a speaker at Christopher Street Day (CSD) events across Germany and other European countries, contributing to the visibility and acceptance of transgender individuals. Her advocacy emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and challenges societal norms regarding gender expression. Through her literary work and public engagements, Jula Böge has played a significant role in fostering understanding and dialogue about transgender issues in German-speaking communities.

Interview with Chelle Padraigin

There’s something deeply comforting about meeting a woman who, in her own words, lives an “extraordinarily average life”, especially when that woman happens to be Chelle Padraigin, a quietly fierce trailblazer whose story is anything but ordinary. Chelle is many things: a Georgia-based hardware store owner with a degree in electrical engineering, a church pianist, a columnist, a loving spouse, and the dedicated President of a Habitat for Humanity chapter. She’s also the author of Finally Chelle: The Musings of an Average Transsexual Woman, a book born from her desire to demystify the transgender experience with warmth, wit, and unvarnished honesty. What makes Chelle’s life so captivating isn’t any single title she holds, but the grace with which she weaves them all together.

 

Whether she’s hammering nails for a new home, sharing recipes with neighbors, writing political commentary, or simply smiling at strangers on the street, Chelle embodies a kind of soft strength that refuses to seek the spotlight, even as it quietly lights the way. Her activism doesn’t shout, it shows up, helps out, and makes soup when someone’s sick. In our conversation, Chelle reflects on the joys and heartaches of transitioning, the courage it took to reconcile two parallel lives, and the tender love story she shares with her wife. She speaks candidly about beauty, resilience, fashion, and the radical act of being ordinary in a world that still sees transgender people as extraordinary for existing. Chelle is not trying to change the world by force, unless she has to. Instead, she nudges it forward, one person, one smile, and one honest word at a time. She is, simply and profoundly, Chelle. And that’s more than enough.

Interview with Joy Ladin

There are lives that unfold quietly, and there are lives that insist on transformation, on truth, even when it trembles. Joy Ladin’s life has been both. A poet of rare clarity and spiritual depth, she became the first openly transgender professor at an Orthodox Jewish institution, teaching literature and life at Yeshiva University’s Stern College for Women. Born in Rochester, New York, into a home where Jewish tradition brushed gently against the secular, Joy always felt herself reaching beyond what was visible. As a child, she intuitively knew her girlhood, though the world called her by another name. Language became her refuge, and poetry, her mirror, reflecting back the questions she could not yet ask aloud. 

 

She studied at Sarah Lawrence, earned her MFA in poetry, and completed a Ph.D. at Princeton, each step carrying her closer to the self she had always been. By the time she came out in 2007, her voice was already unmistakable, lyrical, learned, luminous. Even as she faced institutional exile, she returned, not in silence, but in song. Through books like Transmigrations, Coming to Life, and her memoir Through the Door of Life, Joy wrote her way across thresholds, between genders, between faith and doubt, between estrangement and belonging. In her hands, poetry becomes a liturgy for the in-between, a testament to the sacred power of becoming. 

Interview with Drew-Ashlyn Cunningham

There are women who embody strength, and then there are those who redefine it altogether. Drew-Ashlyn Cunningham is one of those rare women who do both, with grace, grit, and glamour. First introduced to audiences as a radiant and articulate participant on Channel 4’s groundbreaking reality documentary My Transsexual Summer, Drew-Ashlyn quickly became a beloved figure, not just for her striking beauty, but for her vulnerability, authenticity, and fearless heart. Since then, Drew-Ashlyn has grown into herself in the most beautiful of ways. A celebrated make-up artist, model, and YouTuber, she’s carved out a space in the public eye that is uniquely hers, honest, stylish, and powerfully feminine. She has weathered life’s early storms with remarkable resilience, moving beyond pain, street harassment, and personal struggle to find her voice, and use it to uplift others.

 

In this interview, we meet a woman who has evolved from shy blonde into a confident, punk-glam powerhouse; who speaks candidly about gender dysphoria, self-love, fashion, beauty, and her passion for wrestling. Drew-Ashlyn is not just a story of transition, she is a story of triumph, transformation, and tenderness. Whether she’s applying the perfect lip, stepping into the wrestling ring, or reflecting on love and identity, she reminds us all that true beauty begins when we choose to be ourselves, unapologetically. It’s my joy and honor to present this conversation with Drew-Ashlyn Cunningham, a woman who continues to inspire with every word, every wink, and every courageous step forward. 

Interview with Vanessa Victoria

Vanessa Victoria is a vibrant Puerto Rican transgender woman whose journey shines as a beacon of resilience and empowerment. A passionate activist, model, and entertainer, Vanessa gracefully weaves her love for fashion and advocacy into every step she takes. With a heart dedicated to uplifting transgender women of color, she serves as an Ambassador and Executive Board member of The Transgender Women of Colour Collective, championing sisterhood, healing, and strength within her community. Balancing a meaningful career at the Research Foundation of the City University of New York, where she empowers transgender women through education and support, with her flourishing modeling career, Vanessa embraces her identity with radiant confidence. Her runway debut in 2006 marked the beginning of a fearless journey into fashion, inspired by icons like Victoria Beckham, yet uniquely her own.

 

Vanessa’s artistry extends beyond the catwalk into the theater, where she recently graced the stage in In My Skin?, a groundbreaking play crafted and performed by transgender women, blending stories of truth and fiction to capture their shared experiences. Her voice resonates not only on stage and in front of the camera but also in the halls of activism, where she fights tirelessly against discrimination and violence toward transgender women. Through love, courage, and unyielding determination, Vanessa Victoria embodies the beauty of living authentically, inspiring others to believe in themselves and embrace their true selves. This interview invites you into her world, a place of hope, strength, and endless possibility.

Interview with Tracee McDaniel

In a world where transgender women are still too often misrepresented, misunderstood, or simply unheard, Tracee McDaniel stands as a luminous exception, equal parts visionary, advocate, and survivor. With a heart rooted in service and a voice shaped by truth, Tracee has devoted her life to creating space for dignity, justice, and transformation. As the founder and CEO of the Juxtaposed Center for Transformation, Inc., Tracee has become a cornerstone of support for transgender and gender non-conforming people in Atlanta and beyond. Her activism isn’t performative, it’s deeply lived. She has lobbied Congress in Washington, served on municipal working groups, and worked tirelessly to shift public narratives from caricature to compassion.

 

Born and raised in South Carolina without positive role models to guide her, Tracee’s journey has been one of courage against the odds. Her memoir, Transitions: Memoirs of a Transsexual Woman, is not just a story, it’s a roadmap for resilience. It reflects a woman who never chose the easy path, but always chose the authentic one. Away from boardrooms and community strategy sessions, Tracee finds power in love, celebrating nearly two decades with her spouse, and finds freedom in self-expression, whether in a comfy tee and jeans or as her dazzling alter-ego, Destiny, the semi-retired Mistress of Illusions. To speak with Tracee is to meet someone who has not only weathered society’s harshest storms but emerged with elegance, humor, and the unshakable belief that transformation, on every level, is possible. She is a living reminder that femininity can be fierce, fashion can be political, and advocacy, at its best, begins in the heart.

Interview with Samantha Valentine

With unmistakable poise and heartfelt candor, Samantha Valentine steps into the spotlight not only as a model and actress but as a fierce advocate for visibility, compassion, and justice. A British transgender woman whose journey radiates both elegance and resilience, Samantha brings her unique warmth to everything she touches, from the glitter of Manchester Pride, where she promoted trans rights with TEAM TG and a certain iconic car named KITT, to the quieter, deeper work of building support groups and challenging systemic prejudice. Her story is not only one of personal transformation but also of public courage. Having weathered both applause and transphobic mockery, most painfully during a moment on the set of Emmerdale, Samantha has never allowed cruelty to eclipse her dignity. Instead, she channels her energy into activism, peer support, and shaping a more inclusive media landscape.

 

Whether modeling at 46 or working to create safe spaces for other transgender people, she embodies grace under pressure and the belief that every voice matters. Samantha’s admiration for trans trailblazers like Caroline Cossey, her passion for vintage fashion, her cat Purdey, and her dream of one day being held by a man who truly understands her, these intimate glimpses of her life make her not only relatable but deeply lovable. In her own words, she has "legs to die for" and a life to live for, and she does so with flair, honesty, and a touch of 1950s retro glam. It is an honor to sit down with this remarkable woman, whose strength shines through every seamed stocking and every candid sentence.