Interview with Donna Rose

There are voices that not only tell their truth but echo the strength, vulnerability, and grace of an entire generation. Donna Rose is one such voice. A pioneering transgender advocate, author, athlete, and IT consultant, Donna has lived her truth with unapologetic authenticity since 1997. Her life has unfolded as both a quiet revolution and a visible stand for dignity, equality, and human connection. Through her powerful 2003 memoir Wrapped in Blue: A Journey of Discovery, Donna opened a window into the inner life of a woman determined to live freely in a world still catching up. Her story has since inspired countless others who, like her, had long searched for a mirror of their own experience. But Donna has never settled for mere visibility. She stepped into advocacy with passion, serving on the boards of the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, and the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and working tirelessly to ensure trans voices had a seat at the table.

 

In moments of disagreement, such as her principled resignation from HRC in 2007, she demonstrated the rare courage of standing by one's values. Beyond the podium and the boardroom, Donna is also an accomplished athlete. She competed in national wrestling championships and was honored at the Gay Games, proving once again that strength, emotional, intellectual, and physical, has always been her quiet hallmark. Yet what is perhaps most striking about Donna is not her résumé, but her heart. Whether advocating for trans youth, sharing hard-won lessons about love and transition, or reminding us that equality is still a dream we must fight for every day, she remains grounded in hope and deeply human insight. Today, I have the pleasure and honor of sitting down with this extraordinary woman to talk about the role of transgender women in American politics, culture, and society. Please meet Donna Rose. 

Interview with Dana Zircher

Dana Zircher is a woman of luminous contradictions, a quiet force in technology, a soul steeped in melody, a seeker of truth hidden between lines of code and chords of song. For over twenty years, she shaped the digital world as a software design engineer, leaving her fingerprint on icons like Lotus Notes, Microsoft Office, and Windows. But beyond the logic and architecture of code, Dana’s heart beat to a different rhythm, a lifelong devotion to music, performance, and the art of becoming. When she stepped into the world of Chris/tina, what began as a fleeting role became a kind of awakening. The show, a poignant exploration of trans identity in the Latinx community, offered Dana more than a script, it offered resonance. Her role, initially brief, blossomed into something enduring, as she brought both presence and perspective to the screen. Acting, for her, became a sacred form of truth-telling. It was not just performance, it was embodiment, testimony, and grace. 

 

In parallel with her creative path, Dana emerged as a voice for those whose truths are often silenced. She stood at podiums and in marble chambers, lending her story to the fight for transgender rights. At first, she approached these moments like scenes to be rehearsed, but over time, they became sacred acts of vulnerability. Inspired by pioneers like Professor Lynn Conway, Dana discovered that authenticity, when spoken aloud, can reshape the world. Beyond algorithms and activism, Dana chases the horizon on two wheels. A devoted motorcycle racer, she lives for the wind in her face and the surge of the engine beneath her. In her rookie season, she claimed a victory, and a broken patella. Yet even the fall was a kind of flight, a reminder that courage is not the absence of pain, but the choice to rise again. Dana’s journey is one of daring softness, of fierce elegance, and of becoming, always becoming, the truest version of herself. 

Interview with Amber Taylor

Amber Taylor is not just a musician, she is a force of nature. With a guitar in hand and poetry in her heart, she has carved out a space for herself in the world of alternative rock as the lead singer, guitarist, and creative engine behind The Sexual Side Effects, an Atlanta-based band known for its haunting psychedelia and bold, emotionally charged performances. A gifted songwriter, Amber’s music carries listeners through the lush terrain of heartbreak, yearning, and self-discovery, often layered with her signature blend of melancholy and majesty. Amber is also a proud transgender woman whose journey of authenticity has deeply influenced her art and presence on stage. Her transition didn’t just change her life, it redefined her music. She once quipped that she is the sexual side effect in her band’s name, a witty nod to her gender identity and a testament to her fierce ownership of self.

 

Underneath the bravado and post-punk edge lies a romantic soul, an “erotographomaniac” obsessed with love letters and lyrical beauty, whose songs dive into the darker, more complex waters of love’s many shades. From her deeply introspective writing sessions in Atlanta to the electric energy of her live shows, Amber creates art that resonates with honesty, vulnerability, and power. She dreams of touring Europe and continuing to touch hearts with her music, a mission she sees not just as artistic, but transformative. Through her visibility and voice, Amber also advocates for transgender understanding, not with slogans, but with sincerity, storytelling, and the timeless language of song. As you read this interview, prepare to meet a woman who is equal parts rebel and romantic, a warrior of words and sound, and a beautiful reminder that sometimes the truest revolution is simply to be yourself, loudly, lovingly, and without apology.

Interview with Virginia Stephenson

Virginia Stephenson is a radiant light in the world of spirituality, activism, and transgender empowerment. A devoted pastor, writer, and spiritual practitioner, she gracefully walks the line between ancient wisdom and modern advocacy. As Director of the Transgender Spiritual Council, she brings heart-centered leadership to communities across the United States, especially focusing on the sacred strength of transgender youth. Virginia is the co-author of Can Christians Be Saved: A Mystical Path to Oneness and Your Heart Is My Home, blending deeply personal reflections with profound spiritual insights. Her life’s work revolves around building bridges, between people, between faiths, and between the self and the divine. 

 

Through rituals inspired by ancient myths like “The Descent of Inanna,” Virginia creates spaces of healing and transformation where pain gives way to power and love. Since her transition in 2001, Virginia has remained a beacon of courage and compassion. Her path hasn’t always been easy, losing a job, facing fears, and navigating a world that often misunderstands, but her journey has become a sacred testament to resilience, authenticity, and love. With her gentle wisdom and open heart, she reminds us all that spiritual awakening is not about perfection, but about embracing who we truly are. It is my honour to bring you this intimate conversation with a woman whose life is her ministry and whose message is simple yet revolutionary: Love is all there is.

Interview with Shawna Virago

Some women are born to sing their stories. Others carve them into the world with every step they take, every lyric they write, every truth they dare to speak aloud. Shawna Virago does all three, fearlessly, fiercely, and with the kind of grace that doesn’t ask for permission. She is not just a musician or a writer. She is a living melody, a rebel-hearted bard whose voice has echoed through decades of resistance, tenderness, and unyielding authenticity. Emerging in the early 1990s as one of the first openly transgender women to tour across the United States, Shawna brought her guitar and her truth to stages where few like her had stood before. Her presence was revolutionary, not because she sought to be a symbol, but because she insisted on being herself, in high heels and leather, with punk riffs and velvet lyrics, against a backdrop that rarely welcomed difference. She transformed every stage into a sanctuary of survival and defiance. Her song Objectified became an anthem, her album Heaven Sent Delinquent a testimony, and her very life a ballad of resistance and resilience.

 

As the Artistic Director of the San Francisco Transgender Film Festival, Shawna curates stories that breathe, scream, seduce, and heal. Under her vision, the festival has become more than a screening, it is a gathering of souls who dare to imagine and create beyond the binary, beyond erasure. She uplifts voices not only with care, but with a deep knowing born of her own path: a road often walked alone, in high-heeled boots, beneath a sky both dangerous and full of stars. Shawna’s music speaks of outlaws and femmes, of heartbreak and revolution, weaving Americana with an outlaw spirit. Hers is a sound that carries the dust of protest, the perfume of desire, the scratch of vinyl, and the hush of midnight reflection. She sings for the girls who survived, for the ones who are still learning how, and for those who don’t yet know the power they hold inside their names. In her presence, the past is never forgotten, it becomes poetry. And the future? It hums quietly in the background of her songs, waiting to be rewritten. It is my deepest honour and pleasure to speak with Shawna Virago, songstress, storyteller, cultural warrior, and woman of incandescent grace, about her life, her art, her love, and the many ways she continues to dance defiantly through the noise of the world.

Interview with Morgan M Page

To encounter Morgan M Page is to step into the vivid current of a life lived unapologetically, artfully, and on fire with purpose. She is a Canadian transfeminist activist, artist, writer, filmmaker, and priestess of Santería, each of these roles not standing alone, but woven together like silk threads into a brilliant tapestry of resistance, care, and creation. For over a decade, Morgan has been a force within North America’s trans and queer cultural movements. With deep roots in community work, she has lent her voice to some of the most urgent struggles of our time: the decriminalization of sex work, HIV justice, equitable access to health care, and the affirmation of trans lives in every domain of public and private existence. She speaks not only through advocacy, but through art, her performances and video installations have illuminated galleries and festivals across Canada, Asia, and Australia, always centering the raw, tender truths of trans experience. Morgan’s work pulses with grief, beauty, and defiance. Whether in a short film about mourning or a live performance where slurs are hurled at her body for an hour in an unflinching confrontation with societal violence, she transforms personal pain into collective meaning. Her art is both a mirror and a lighthouse, reflecting our fractured world while guiding us toward something more just, more compassionate, more real.

 

As the founder and curator of Trans Women’s Arts Toronto (TWAT/fest), the first festival of its kind in Canada, Morgan has created a sanctuary for trans women’s voices to bloom and be heard. Her dream is not merely to be included in existing spaces, but to reshape them entirely, to make art galleries, bookstores, lecture halls, and stages places where trans women’s creativity is not the exception, but the expectation. In conversation, she is luminous: thoughtful, direct, and unsparing in her belief that we must do more, dream bolder, and never settle for scraps of representation. Whether writing essays or building characters in her upcoming novel, Morgan insists on a world where trans women are not just subjects of stories but authors of them, fierce, funny, flawed, and full of life. It is my profound pleasure and honor to share this interview with a woman who doesn’t just make history, she archives it, critiques it, mourns its failures, and then dances defiantly in its margins. Meet Morgan M Page: a witness, a maker, a warrior in eyeliner.

Interview with Nicole TS

Nicole TS is a vibrant and inspiring video blogger who has been documenting her transition on YouTube. Through her channel, she shares not only her personal journey but also words of encouragement and support for others in the transgender community. Nicole’s story is one of resilience, passion, and breaking barriers, not just in her transition but also in her professional and athletic pursuits. Born in the Philippines, Nicole moved to the UK in 2010 with dreams of building a new life. With a background as a registered nurse, she has been working toward gaining her professional credentials to practice in the UK. Outside of her career aspirations, she is an accomplished badminton player, competing at the county level in Dorset. In fact, she holds the distinction of being only the second transgender woman to be officially allowed to compete as a female player under England’s governing sports body. Nicole’s openness about her transition and her willingness to share both the joys and struggles of her journey have made her a beloved figure among her followers. Her YouTube videos, which started as a simple way to document her transformation, have since evolved into a source of inspiration for many.

Interview with Taylore

Taylore, also known as moonfire1777 on YouTube, is a video blogger who has been courageously documenting her transition online, sharing her personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs with thousands of viewers. Through her channel, she has offered valuable insight into the journey of transitioning while also balancing her academic and professional aspirations. Beyond her presence on YouTube, Taylore is a passionate educator in training. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, with minors in Mathematics and Language Arts, and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree through a Transition to Teaching program.

 

Her ultimate goal is to become a high school mathematics teacher, shaping young minds while bringing inclusivity and awareness into the education system. Taylore began her transition in 2008 and underwent Sexual Reassignment Surgery (SRS) in 2009, making her one of the younger trans women to fully embark on this path. Her journey has been marked by resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. She has faced the struggles of coming out, navigating relationships, and dealing with discrimination, yet she has emerged stronger and more determined to carve out a fulfilling life for herself. With a love for fashion, a drive to create change in education, and a dream of traveling the world, Taylore is an inspiring figure for many.

Interview with Jacquie Grant ONZM

Before we begin, let me introduce a woman whose life reads like a tapestry woven from courage, compassion, and quiet revolution. Jacquie Grant ONZM is a beloved New Zealand figure, part local legend, part national treasure. Born in 1944 in Victoria, Australia, Jacquie found herself navigating the world on her own by the age of 13, after leaving home and seeking shelter and survival in Sydney’s Kings Cross. As a young transgender woman, she later crossed the Tasman Sea in search of safety and belonging, settling in Aotearoa, where she would make her most enduring mark. Jacquie’s life in New Zealand blossomed into a journey of tireless community service. She served two terms on the Grey District Council, became chair of Enterprise Hokitika, and played vital roles on the Human Rights Review Tribunal and the West Coast’s Benefit Review Committee. 

 

She also helped found the Chrissy Witoko Memorial Trust, honouring another trans icon. But Jacquie’s heart may shine brightest in the quietest of her acts: she has fostered over 75 young people, offering love and stability to those in need. She also opened Hokitika’s Sock World, a whimsical museum housing more than 100 antique knitting machines, including one from 1803, a tribute to craft, history, and resilience. Twice honoured by the New Zealand government, first as a Member and later as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Jacquie has never shied away from standing up against hate, even when targeted herself. Her grace in the face of adversity, and her generosity of spirit, continue to inspire across generations. Today, I have the honour of speaking with this remarkable woman, whose strength and softness have helped shape a kinder world. Welcome, Jacquie.

Interview with Kelly Summers

Kelly Summers is a radiant voice from the far reaches of Alaska, a woman whose transition story shines with strength, grace, and sincerity. At 51, she has walked a long, courageous path, transitioning later in life and documenting every meaningful step on YouTube to encourage others who may be standing at the threshold of their own truth. What makes Kelly’s story especially compelling is the balance she strikes between resilience and tenderness, privacy and visibility. Her calm honesty and deep compassion resonate throughout her work, offering hope to those who might fear it’s too late to live authentically. Originally from California, Kelly now lives with her wife in Alaska, where the winter coats are heavy, but the warmth she brings to her community is unmistakable. She and her partner married in Seattle in 2013, a beautiful act of love during a time when their home state did not yet recognize same-sex marriages. Kelly is not only a video blogger but also a spirited participant in her local Pride community, channeling her lived experience into support, education, and inspiration. Having undergone hormone replacement therapy, facial feminization surgery, and breast augmentation, Kelly speaks with joy about the powerful emotional and physical changes she's experienced, describing estrogen as the key that finally allowed her to feel awake, whole, and at peace. 

 

Her memories of childhood prayers and quiet yearning in the 1960s are heartrending, but they are matched by her current happiness, which radiates through every word she shares. With a style she affectionately calls "rocker/biker chic," a fondness for leather, and a playful humor about Alaskan fashion, Kelly brings a refreshing honesty to topics as wide-ranging as politics, beauty pageants, insurance struggles, and high heels. She believes in living authentically, even if that means confronting fear head-on, something she encourages all transgender women to do with the support of a good gender therapist and a community that cares. Kelly’s story reminds us that transition is not only about changing one's body, but about reclaiming one’s spirit. As she continues to save for her final surgery, she dreams of waking up one day with nothing left to fund but her own happiness. And if you ask her today whether she’s a happy woman, her answer is beautifully simple: yes, she is. In the following conversation, Kelly shares her personal reflections on love, transition, fear, beauty, and joy, all with the openness and warmth of a woman who has found her true self and is not afraid to live out loud.

Interview with Jade Porchett

Radiant, resilient, and wrapped in elegance, Jade Porchett is more than a pageant queen, she’s a woman whose courage shimmers far beyond the stage lights. Living in Jonesboro, Arkansas with her two beloved cats and her best friend, Jade juggles multiple passions with effortless grace: she is a YouTube vlogger, a showgirl, and a visual merchandiser for Hallmark and Proactiv. Through her vibrant video diaries, she has opened a window into her transition, offering warmth, guidance, and fierce honesty to anyone searching for the strength to be themselves. Jade’s journey is deeply rooted in both heartbreak and hope. After the tragic loss of her mother in 2012, she began embracing her truth with newfound urgency, stepping into her transition and finding purpose in visibility.

 

Whether she’s dazzling in heels on the stage or curled up editing videos late at night, Jade carries a mission: to educate, uplift, and remind others, especially young transgender women, that they are never alone. Her story is one of overcoming adversity with sparkle and spirit. Raised in poverty and nurtured by a loving, open-minded grandmother, Jade knew from a very early age that she was different. From cheering in high school to claiming multiple beauty titles in Memphis’s vibrant pageant scene, she has transformed pain into poise and struggle into stardom. With a heart full of ambition and eyes set on national titles, modeling dreams, and true love, Jade’s future shines as boldly as her favorite red lipstick. It’s a true honor to introduce this candid and inspiring conversation with Jade, a woman who lives out loud, walks in stilettos with purpose, and shows us all what it means to pursue happiness on your own radiant terms.

Interview with Eden Lane

Eden Lane is an award-winning American journalist, producer, and arts and culture reporter for Colorado Public Radio. She holds a groundbreaking place in broadcast history as the first openly transgender person in mainstream television journalism in the United States. But Eden’s story is not just one of firsts, it’s a testament to quiet strength, resilience, and grace under pressure. Raised in southeast Michigan, Eden's early love for storytelling and performance led her to New York, where she studied in college and immersed herself in the worlds of theater and dance. This artistic spirit later found a new home in journalism, where she built a respected career by giving others the spotlight. For more than a decade, she produced and hosted programs for PBS12, including the LGBTQ magazine Colorado OUTSpoken and the acclaimed In Focus with Eden Lane, a weekly interview series celebrating the voices of artists, writers, performers, and visionaries in Colorado’s cultural scene.

 

In 2008, Eden became the first openly transgender journalist to cover a major U.S. political event for PBS, when she reported on the Democratic National Convention. Her visibility, though never her initial goal, made her a role model to many in the LGBTQ community. Even when her transgender history was weaponized by others in politics and the media, Eden stayed focused on her work, refusing to let the noise derail her mission: to tell human stories with integrity, depth, and empathy. Balancing a demanding career with life as a wife, mother, and homemaker, Eden has always embraced her many roles with humility. She has also anchored national news segments and continues to use her platform to explore the intersections of identity, art, and social change. Whether she is interviewing emerging artists or producing a documentary on trans representation in media, Eden Lane leads with quiet courage and unshakable dignity. Today, Eden lives in Colorado with her loving husband and daughter. She remains deeply committed to creating space for underrepresented voices, while also proving that you can live a meaningful, ordinary, beautiful life, even while making history.

Interview with ParquitaBonita

There’s a soft strength that radiates from ParquitaBonita, one born of resilience, vulnerability, and the joy of finally living as one’s truest self. At just 23, she has already become a beacon of light for many in the transgender community through her heartfelt YouTube channel, where she documents her transition journey with honesty, humor, and grace. Known to friends and followers by her chosen name, ParquitaBonita, and born Parkersatinka, she combines a deep love of music, fashion, and advocacy to create a space that uplifts and informs. Her videos don’t just track changes in hormone levels or offer makeup tutorials, they tell a story of a young woman navigating a world that hasn’t always been kind, yet choosing every day to face it with courage. After the loss of both parents in 2010, ParquitaBonita found her own voice and purpose through helping others, channeling grief into growth and compassion. 

 

Whether counseling queer youth, building an inclusive burlesque troupe, or simply sharing her “before and after” pictures, she does it all with a fierce commitment to authenticity. Her feminine childhood was filled with dresses and Barbies, supported by parents who never forced her to hide. But her transition, like many, still came with pain, school bullying, systemic discrimination, and the heartbreak of not being able to share her full self with the people who raised her. And yet, here she is, thriving. Hormone therapy has brought her a long-awaited peace with her reflection. Activism gives her a reason to keep fighting. And fashion, in all its bold colors and cropped silhouettes, allows her to celebrate her beauty every day. In this conversation, ParquitaBonita opens up about everything from trans role models and political frustration to her dreams of motherhood, gender-affirming surgeries, and what love means to her. Through it all, she reminds us that visibility isn't just about being seen, it's about being known, wholly and unapologetically.

Interview with TreasureThaDiva

At just 21 years old, TreasureThaDiva has already emerged as a vibrant force of light, authenticity, and resilience in the transgender community. A YouTuber, model, drag performer, and unapologetic Diva, Treasure uses her many gifts to inspire, educate, and uplift. Whether she’s dazzling on stage or speaking candidly to the camera, every moment she shares is an act of love, for herself and for the countless others who find courage in her story. Raised in a small Texas town by a single mother, Treasure knew from an early age that she was different, and that her truth was beautiful. From asking for Barbies to discovering the complexities of gender in a society quick to judge, her childhood was filled with both quiet pain and unstoppable spirit. Middle school brought hiding and homeschooling, but it also gave her space to grow into herself. By 16, she had already begun her transition; by 18, she started hormones. And though the physical changes were subtle, the emotional transformation was profound. For the first time, she felt calm, connected, whole. Through her YouTube channel, Treasure shares the joys, challenges, and wisdom of her transition, not for validation, but for visibility. 

 

Her mission is clear: to help young trans people feel less alone and to educate trans-attracted men, challenging stereotypes with elegance and wit. Her videos, often sprinkled with glamour and honesty, have empowered viewers to embrace their identities without shame. Inspired by pioneers like Calpernia Addams, Diamond Stylz, and Erica Andrews, Treasure carries the torch of those who came before her, Latina icons who showed her that it was not only possible to survive, but to thrive. Today, she gives back through charity drag performances, community mentoring, and bold political belief: that trans women belong in every room where decisions are made. She is proud of being a transgender woman, not just of becoming a woman, but of the power, grace, and uniqueness that transness brings. Fashion is her joy, femininity is her freedom, and fear has no place in her heart. Her message to those afraid to begin their journey? “Once you conquer fear, you can conquer anything.” TreasureThaDiva stands as a reminder that being yourself is not only enough, it’s revolutionary. And she’s just getting started.

Interview with Isley Reust

Isley Reust is a woman whose life is shaped by rhythm, resilience, and radiant authenticity. Born in Germany, she is a gifted guitarist, video blogger, and photographer, an artist in every sense of the word. As a member of the band Spectacular Spectacular, Isley pours her soul into music that is as diverse and compelling as the journey that brought her here. But beyond the studio and stage lights, Isley shines as a beacon of hope and visibility within the transgender community. From a young age, Isley knew she was different. Navigating childhood in a small town without the language or support to express her identity, she carried a quiet knowing in her heart that she was meant to be a girl. The road ahead was anything but easy. Her teenage years were shadowed by depression, addiction, and disconnection. But through these trials, Isley found the strength to embrace who she truly was, breaking free from pain to begin living authentically. 

 

Her transition wasn’t just a personal metamorphosis, it was also a gift to others. Through heartfelt YouTube videos, Isley invited the world to witness her story. In doing so, she inspired countless people to feel less alone, more empowered, and more understood. Her openness challenged stereotypes, softened hearts, and created community. What sets Isley apart is her unwavering vulnerability. She doesn’t sugarcoat the hardship, nor does she let it define her. Whether she's opening up about gender dysphoria or celebrating small joys like feeling the wind in her hair post-transition, her honesty connects deeply with those still searching for their own voice. She turns survival into song, and struggle into strength. Today, Isley is thriving. She is proud of how far she’s come, how hormone therapy has affirmed her body and spirit, how music and art have become lifelines, and how she now walks through life with joy, confidence, and femininity. Whether she’s performing with her band, appearing on Glee, or dreaming of a quiet home in the German Alps with a family of her own, Isley continues to show us the power of living one’s truth.

 

Monika: Isley, I’m so excited to have you with us today! We’ll be diving into your personal journey, your creative career, your activism, and everything in between. Welcome!

Isley: Hi Monika! Thank you so much for having me, I'm really looking forward to our conversation.

Monika: Let’s start with a little introduction. How would you describe yourself to someone meeting you for the first time?

Isley: I'm German. I play guitar in a new band called Spectacular Spectacular. We’ve almost finished recording our debut record. I do photography on the side, and I'm also an active video blogger.

 

Traveling.

 

Monika: What motivated you to document and share your transition journey on YouTube, and what impact did you hope it would have on others?

Isley: I wanted to help and inspire others and let them know it's okay to be yourself, and that once you do take that step, you'll be that much happier and you'll love yourself for who you really are. I'm not going to say it's an easy road, but it's definitely worth the struggle in the end.

I felt that sharing my story could create a sense of community for those who might feel alone in their journey. By being open about my experiences, I hoped to show others that they are not alone and that support is available. I also wanted to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about transgender people through my content. Seeing the positive impact of my videos on others has been incredibly rewarding and motivates me to keep sharing. Ultimately, my goal is to empower others to embrace their true selves and foster a more accepting world. The connections I’ve made through this platform have also helped me grow and heal in unexpected ways.

Monika: How would you describe your current stage in your transition journey?

Isley: Isley: Hmmm, that's a hard question. I feel pretty far into my transition now, and I'm extremely happy with the way my life is at and headed. I've made significant progress and have embraced my identity fully. Each milestone has brought me closer to living authentically, and I've gained confidence in myself along the way. It's been a transformative experience, both personally and emotionally. I’m excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead as I continue to grow and evolve.

Monika: How do you feel about the changes you’ve experienced through hormone therapy? Has the process aligned with what you hoped for physically and emotionally?

Isley: I'm extremely happy with my results. Hormone therapy really worked in my favor. It's really weird to see pre-transition photos, I feel like that person never even existed, or that it was a lifetime ago or a bad dream. It’s amazing how much more comfortable and confident I feel in my own skin now.

Monika: Looking back, what was your early sense of gender like? At what point did you start to understand that your identity didn’t align with being a boy?

Isley: I had the earliest memories of knowing I was different, female, at age 4. Once puberty hit, I knew something was really wrong with me and felt deep inside that I was female. I felt very alone and suppressed. I grew up in a small town, so I really had nobody I could talk to about how I was feeling. My sister knew about how I felt from a very young age. Even though I didn’t have the words for it back then, I always had a strong sense that I wasn’t living as my true self.

 

Isley's Story: True Trans (YouTube)

 

Monika: Many transgender girls face significant challenges during their school or university years, often dealing with discrimination and social pressures. Did you have a similar experience during that time in your life?

Isley: I was depressed most of high school and dropped out. I started using crystal meth, cocaine, ecstasy, drinking, and even tried heroin. I overdosed and caught a lung infection as well. Yeah, it was just a bad time. At 18, I started experimenting with my sexuality and tried dating guys as a gay man, but it just felt wrong. Soon after, I decided to accept who I was and be the woman I was meant to be. That decision marked a turning point in my life, and I began to seek out healthier ways to cope with my feelings. I realized that embracing my true self was the key to finding happiness and fulfillment. Looking back, I understand that those difficult years were part of my journey toward self-discovery and growth.
Monika: Are there any transgender role models who have inspired you on your journey?

Isley: I would say I really think Laverne Cox is such an amazing woman. I also think Jenna Talackova is such a beautiful woman. I'm friends with her on Instagram, and I love seeing her photos. She even liked some of my pics, lol. I thought that was pretty awesome. Laura Jane Grace is an acquaintance of mine, and she told me that my videos, along with others, really inspired her and helped her come out. Lana Wachowski is such an amazing and talented director, hands down the most talented lady for sure. She seems so genuine and has a beautiful, creative heart. Having these role models reminds me how powerful visibility and authenticity can be for the entire community.

Monika: What was the most difficult part of coming out to your family, and how did you navigate that experience?

Isley: For me, the hardest thing was just coming out and telling my family. I've been very lucky and fortunate with the rest of my transition. It took a lot of courage to have that conversation, and I was unsure how they would react. The fear of rejection or misunderstanding weighed heavily on me. Once I did share my truth, it was a huge relief, and I was grateful for their support. However, I know that not everyone has the same experience, and that’s why I want to encourage others to be brave in their journeys. Being honest with myself was the first step toward living authentically and finding peace.

Photo shoot in Los Angeles.

Monika: How do you view the current climate for transgender women in your country, and what changes would you like to see moving forward?

Isley: I still hear a lot of hate crimes and discrimination, which breaks my heart, but I think that the USA is making steps and moving forward to become more accepting of the trans community. There are more conversations happening around transgender rights, and visibility is increasing in media and politics. However, there’s still a long way to go in terms of ensuring safety and equality for everyone. It’s crucial that we continue advocating for change and supporting one another. I remain hopeful that as awareness grows, more people will embrace diversity and foster a culture of acceptance. We need stronger protections and education to combat ignorance and hate at every level of society.

Monika: We’re witnessing more transgender women gaining visibility and recognition across various fields, from Lana Wachowski in filmmaking to Jenna Talackova in modeling, Kate Bornstein in academia, Laura Jane Grace in music, and Candis Cayne in acting. Have you observed a similar rise in transgender representation and acceptance in your country?

Isley: I do indeed! It’s inspiring to see more transgender women being celebrated for their talents and contributions across various fields. This visibility helps to break down stereotypes and fosters greater acceptance in society. As more people come forward and share their stories, it creates a ripple effect that encourages others to embrace their identities. I believe that this trend is not only empowering for the transgender community but also enriches our cultural landscape as a whole. Increased representation in mainstream media is crucial for normalizing trans experiences and promoting empathy among the wider public.

Just resting.

Monika: Are you currently involved in any political activism or advocacy efforts? From your perspective, how important is it for transgender women to engage in politics and influence change?

Isley: I'm not very active in politics right now, but I would like to participate more in the future. I think transgender women can make a difference and have already made huge leaps forward. It's essential for our voices to be heard in the political arena, as representation matters. By sharing our experiences and advocating for our rights, we can influence policies and create a more inclusive society. I believe that as more transgender individuals step into political roles, we will see positive changes that benefit not just our community but everyone. Increased political involvement also helps challenge misconceptions and fosters greater understanding among lawmakers and the public alike.

Monika: How important is fashion to you, and what styles or types of outfits do you usually enjoy wearing? Do you have favorite designers, colors, or trends that influence your personal style?

Isley: I'm really big into fashion. I love floral dresses, vintage dresses, and jackets. I own a million pairs of shoes, lol. I actually have a really bad shopping problem. Fashion is a great way for me to express my personality and creativity every day.

Monika: What is your perspective on transgender beauty pageants, and do you think they help or hinder the visibility and acceptance of trans women in society?

Isley: I don't really think much of them. To me, "transgender" is just a word; it's not what makes you who you are. I believe trans women should be able to compete in beauty pageants alongside cis women and just call it a day. We are women, and our identities should be respected as such. Instead of segregating competitions, we should focus on celebrating all forms of beauty and individuality. It's important to challenge the traditional norms of beauty and inclusivity in these spaces, allowing for a broader representation of women. Ultimately, true acceptance comes from unity rather than separation.

Monika: In what ways are you currently involved with your local LGBTQ+ community, and how do you envision deepening that involvement moving forward?

Isley: I'm trying to become more involved. Building connections with others has been really rewarding, and I believe that fostering a strong sense of community is essential for our collective growth. I'm excited to see how I can contribute and advocate for our rights together with others. Being part of this community gives me strength and inspires me to keep pushing for positive change.

Recording in Los Angeles.

Monika: What guidance would you offer to transgender women who hesitate to begin their transition early because they fear discrimination or negativity?

Isley: Just always be yourself, and it will get better. Transition isn’t a walk in the park, but if you stay positive and keep your head up, you’ll be so much happier in the end. Surround yourself with supportive friends and communities who understand your journey. Remember that your happiness and authenticity are worth the challenges you may face. It’s okay to take your time and move at your own pace; everyone’s journey is unique. Trust that each step you take brings you closer to living your truth. Most importantly, never let fear stop you from embracing who you truly are.

Monika: What are your current goals, and where do you see yourself personally and professionally in the next five to seven years?

Isley: I see myself touring and making music, living in Germany, married with kids. I want a house near the Alps in the forest, where I can take pictures and raise a beautiful, healthy family. I’m also excited to grow creatively and explore new opportunities in both my music and personal life.

Monika: Would you say that you are a happy woman now?

Isley: I've always been a woman! Embracing that truth has brought me so much joy and confidence in every part of my life.

Monika: Isley, it’s been a pleasure interviewing you. Thank you so much!

END OF PART 1

Part 2

 

All the photos: courtesy of Isley Reust.

© 2014 - Monika Kowalska

Some documentaries with Isley Reust:

Interview with Rose Venkatesan

When we speak of courage, we often picture warriors with swords. But some of the fiercest battles are fought not on battlefields, but in homes, television studios, quiet hospital rooms, and inside the soul. Rose Venkatesan has fought on all these fronts, and emerged not only as a survivor, but as a trailblazer who continues to challenge norms, shift narratives, and light the path for others. Born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Rose is known to many as India’s first transgender talk show host. But limiting her story to this one first would be an injustice to her kaleidoscopic life. She is also a filmmaker, radio personality, political voice, corporate trainer, and passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and sexual freedom. Her strength is as bold as her femininity is soft. And her honesty, even when it reveals pain, is never bitter, only illuminating. From a young age, Rose knew she was a girl, though the world demanded she play a boy’s part. What followed were years of emotional isolation, family rejection, and deeply traumatic experiences, including violence, imprisonment within her own home, and a suicide attempt. But Rose’s story is not one of tragedy. It is one of transformation. Her transition, completed with surgery in Thailand in 2010, marked not an end, but the beginning of her stepping fully into herself, unapologetically. She first captured the nation’s attention through her talk show Ippadikku Rose (Yours truly, Rose), where she brought taboo subjects into the living rooms of conservative India with elegance, intellect, and charm.

 

She later hosted Idhu Rose Neram (This is Rose Time), ventured into radio, and took bold steps toward politics, announcing a platform that centered sexual freedom and marginalized voices. In recent years, her artistic heart has found refuge and release in filmmaking. Her debut film Cricket Scandal brings transgender and queer love stories to Indian cinema, not as caricatures or jokes, but as fully human, central narratives. Rose is currently based in Chennai, where she balances artistic dreams with practical realities, working in corporate training and organic farming, all while continuing to speak out against discrimination. Her life stands as both a mirror and a rebellion, reflecting the injustices many face while refusing to accept them as fixed truths. In a country where transgender people are still so often reduced to stereotypes, erased from media, or used for comic relief, Rose Venkatesan insists on being seen, in all her complexity. She is beautiful, articulate, resilient, tender, bold, and unrelentingly herself. She is a rose, not just in name, but in essence, soft petals and hidden thorns alike. Today, I have the immense joy and honor of speaking with her, a woman whose voice has stirred both admiration and controversy, whose existence is a form of resistance, and whose legacy, I believe, is still only beginning to unfold.

Interview with Kerri Cecil

To meet Kerri Cecil is to meet a woman who has walked through fire and chosen, time and again, to rise, camera in hand, heart wide open. Born in Southern California but raised in the conservative heart of rural Minnesota, Kerri’s journey has been shaped by both trauma and transformation. Today, she is not only a transgender activist and student at Los Angeles City College, but also a passionate filmmaker whose stories are steeped in survival, sisterhood, and a relentless belief in the power of love. Kerri’s debut short film, The Journey (2013), is more than a cinematic work, it is a reclamation of pain, a tribute to resilience, and a message to every transgender person who has ever been told they are unworthy. Her camera lens captures not only the darkness many of us know too well, homelessness, rejection, addiction, but also the light that emerges through community, hope, and artistic expression. 

 

Through documentaries like Transformed: Surviving the Darkside of Hollywood and upcoming thrillers like Wifi Killer, Kerri has created space for transgender voices in an industry that too often silences them. She is outspoken in her critique of Hollywood’s misrepresentations, yet equally committed to change, organizing protests, attending leadership summits, and mentoring others along the way. Her life partner, a loving man who sees her full brilliance, reminds her daily of what love can heal. Whether she’s standing on the steps of City Hall, collaborating with fellow trans artists, or simply wearing jeans and a cute top with quiet pride, Kerri leads with heart. Her activism is deeply personal, her artistry fiercely political, and her voice one we need in both film and the fight for justice. It is with immense respect and admiration that I welcome Kerri to this space. Her story, like her films, is a powerful reminder that even in the face of rejection, love always has the final word.

Interview with Debra Soshoux

Some women blossom in silence, their beauty unfurling like a night-blooming flower, unseen by the world until one brave moment of moonlight reveals everything. Debra Soshoux is such a woman. An elegant force of resilience and reflection, Debra’s journey has traced a path through art, activism, and the fragile truth of becoming oneself. Known to many through Beautiful Daughters, the groundbreaking documentary that captured the first all-transgender performance of The Vagina Monologues, and through LOGO’s TransAmerican Love Story, Debra is much more than the roles and credits that line her résumé. She is a witness to transformation, not only her own, but of a culture slowly learning to listen to the voices it once tried to silence. In her, there is wit and wonder, heartbreak and healing.

 

From overcoming stage fright to performing alongside Jane Fonda, from early moments of self-doubt to the unapologetic embrace of her womanhood, Debra’s life has been a series of quiet revolutions. Her reflections echo with hard-earned wisdom: that womanhood is not gifted but claimed, that visibility is vulnerability, and that love, both for others and for oneself, demands the deepest courage. She speaks with the grace of someone who has walked through fire but never burned. A lawyer by training, a storyteller by instinct, and a romantic at heart, Debra lives not just with authenticity, but with artistry. In this conversation, we are invited not just to know her story, but to feel its rhythm, to witness the music in her voice, and the poetry in her truth. It is my honor to introduce you to Debra Soshoux. 

Interview with Hannah Warg

Hanna is a Swedish transgender woman who became a pioneering voice on YouTube with her vlog series Ask a Transsexual, launched in 2010. Over the years, her candid, informative, and often humorous videos reached millions, offering support and clarity on topics ranging from hormone therapy to sexuality. While her channel drew a diverse audience, she primarily connected with transgender individuals seeking guidance and cisgender men with questions, some sincere, some less so. Lacking transgender role models in her early years, Hanna became one herself. She participated in national documentaries and spoke out in major newspapers against Sweden’s now-defunct sterilization law, which required trans people to undergo irreversible surgery to change their legal gender. Her activism challenged deeply rooted norms and emphasized the need for universal human rights, applied equally and without exception. Hanna is known for her sharp wit and critical take on societal structures, whether discussing fashion, beauty pageants, or politics. She views political engagement through a personal lens, believing true change starts with honest self-reflection.

 

Beyond activism, Hanna has explored adult content creation with her girlfriend, embracing sexuality as a natural, joyful part of life rather than a source of stigma. Though her life is full of creativity and ambition, Hanna also values simplicity and comfort. Currently studying to become a web developer, she’s working on new projects aimed at creating positive social impact. Writing a book is on her radar, if she can ever find the time in her packed schedule. Above all, Hanna lives by a philosophy of individual freedom, critical thinking, and emotional honesty. Her story is one of courage, curiosity, and a relentless drive to live authentically, and help others do the same. In recent years, Hanna has also turned her attention toward mentorship and community-building, offering support to younger transgender people navigating their own transitions. Whether through private conversations or public talks, she strives to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to ask hard questions without fear. Her presence continues to resonate, especially with those who see themselves reflected in her boldness and refusal to compromise her identity.

Interview with Michelle Enfield

There are voices that rise gently but powerfully, like wind through canyon walls, unmistakable in their strength, rooted in heritage, and shaped by a journey of resilience and love. Michelle Enfield is one such voice. Born in Lukachukai, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation, Michelle walks between worlds, traditional and contemporary, personal and political, with the grace of a storyteller and the tenacity of a trailblazer. Now based in Los Angeles, she is a proud transgender woman, a seasoned HIV counselor, a mental health advocate, and a fierce protector of two-spirit and Native voices in public health. Her work, especially through the Red Circle Project and the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health, centers the unique and often overlooked experiences of Native American LGBTQ+ individuals, bringing light where silence once lived. Michelle’s advocacy is not just professional, it’s deeply personal. She’s been shaped by grief, hope, ancestral memory, and a thirst for truth.

 

Her reflections on growing up among nádleeh in Navajo culture, her unapologetic embrace of feminine identity, and her journey toward self-love offer us a glimpse into a life lived boldly and beautifully, despite the many challenges. Winner of the 2012 Alexis Rivera Trailblazer Award, Michelle has walked the halls of political power and the streets of her community with equal compassion. Whether she's organizing a pow wow, counseling someone during an HIV test, or navigating love with humor and vulnerability, Michelle embodies the kind of authenticity that inspires action and connection. In this conversation, Michelle reminds us that being transgender is not just about identity, it’s about intention. It’s about honoring your truth, daring to lead with both heart and mind, and showing up not only in spaces that expect you, but especially in those that don’t. It’s my privilege to introduce Michelle Enfield, a woman whose story is both a protest and a poem.