Today, I have the pleasure of introducing a remarkable woman whose voice has resonated across borders and screens, Hannah Warg, a Swedish transgender vlogger and adult content creator. Best known for her groundbreaking YouTube series Ask a Transsexual, Hannah has become a powerful and candid voice in the transgender community, answering everything from heartfelt questions about transitioning to the occasionally eyebrow-raising curiosities of the internet. Since her first vlog episode aired on July 8, 2010, Hannah has produced nearly 200 videos, amassing millions of views and thousands of subscribers, all drawn to her wit, wisdom, and refreshingly no-nonsense approach.
Beyond YouTube, she has shared her story through national Swedish media and has courageously spoken out against the country’s former sterilization laws for trans people, helping put a human face to an often misunderstood issue. With a blend of activism, honesty, and just the right amount of sass, Hannah has helped many transgender people find clarity on their journeys, while challenging outdated norms with every word. Whether she’s in a casual dress or a sexy outfit, she’s unapologetically herself, and that’s exactly why people keep listening.
Monika: Hello, Hanna! Thank you so much for sharing your story and your thoughts with me today.
Hanna: Hello, Monika! I'm really happy to be here and excited for our conversation.
Monika: On July 8, 2010, you recorded the very first episode of your YouTube vlog series, “Ask a Transsexual.” Since then, you've created 195 videos, gathered over 5.8 million views, and gained more than 15,000 subscribers (as of January 5, 2014). That’s a fantastic result! What inspired you to start the channel in the first place?
Hanna: I wasn't really aware I had so many subscribers and views, but yes, that is amazing and I'm very happy people enjoy what I do! It's touching to know that my videos have reached and helped so many people over the years.
Monika: Who is your average viewer or the most common type of person reaching out to you with questions?
Hanna: I put them in two categories: males attracted to transsexuals, usually asking questions of a sexual nature, and the other category is transgender people who want help in one way or another, usually to make up their mind or to get practical advice on how to transition. I try to answer everyone with empathy, no matter their reason for writing.
Hanna: I wasn't really aware I had so many subscribers and views, but yes, that is amazing and I'm very happy people enjoy what I do! It's touching to know that my videos have reached and helped so many people over the years.
Monika: Who is your average viewer or the most common type of person reaching out to you with questions?
Hanna: I put them in two categories: males attracted to transsexuals, usually asking questions of a sexual nature, and the other category is transgender people who want help in one way or another, usually to make up their mind or to get practical advice on how to transition. I try to answer everyone with empathy, no matter their reason for writing.
Monika: You’ve answered many questions about transitioning, hormones, surgeries, and sex, but what’s the strangest or most unexpected question you've ever received?
Hanna: Oh, I don't know if there was any single question that was really odd. Sometimes people have weird misconceptions about what transsexualism is or how hormones work.
Hanna: Oh, I don't know if there was any single question that was really odd. Sometimes people have weird misconceptions about what transsexualism is or how hormones work.
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| In a casual dress. |
I was once asked if there was a way you could keep the testicles inside the vagina after surgery, and I had to explain that they would be useless since they need to be outside of the body in a lower temperature, which is the very reason they drop down into the scrotum in the first place.
Monika: When you began your transition, did you have any transgender role models, either from Sweden or elsewhere, that you could look up to or follow?
Hanna: No, not really. Which was one of the reasons I found myself participating in a documentary on Swedish television, as well as writing in national newspapers about the former sterilization laws, requiring transsexuals to be sterilized in order to change our legal gender. I wanted people to have a face related to the concept of transsexualism, to learn that we are just as most people are, in most ways. And I received a lot of positive comments on my participation. It felt important to become the kind of role model I never had.
Monika: How would you describe the current situation of transgender women in Swedish society, especially in terms of rights, visibility, and everyday challenges?
Hanna: From a societal point of view, we are probably better off than transgender people in most of the world. We have protection from discrimination by law, although we are still the most harassed and assaulted group in the LGBT community. The main issues and lack of acceptance are usually in personal relationships, family not accepting us, and similar. There's progress, yes, but there's still a long way to go before full social acceptance becomes the norm.
Monika: I always thought of Sweden as one of the most democratic countries that upholds the rights of all its citizens. But I was shocked to discover that, until the end of 2012, Swedish transgender women were required to undergo sterilization to legally change their gender. How do you reflect on this part of Swedish history?
Hanna: Yes, it's part of a not-so-proud tradition in Sweden that began with Carl von Linné categorizing people into races in the 1700s, the founding of the racial biological institute in 1922, which inspired Hitler's ideas, and the forced sterilization of several unwanted minorities, most of which was banned in the 70s. However, this last law wasn't reformed until 2012. It is, of course, disgraceful. There is currently an ongoing lawsuit to claim damages for people who were forced to undergo sterilization. It’s crucial that we acknowledge and confront this history, so we can prevent anything similar from happening again.
Monika: Do you think transgender rights could represent a new frontier in the broader human rights movement, or is it more about applying universal principles of equality to all groups?
Hanna: I'd like to discuss basic principles rather than the rights of groups. I want the same principles to apply to everyone. I don't want laws that single out people, but simply the same human rights to apply equally. It shouldn't be a matter of belonging to a group that happens to be politically correct to focus on at the moment. We should all have our human rights protected. If you can just get that principle to apply equally, we know what to do, no matter ethnicity, sexuality, age, gender, or other. At the end of the day, it’s about treating everyone as equals, regardless of who they are.
Monika: You’ve mentioned that you have a general disdain for the political process, but do you think transgender women. or people from marginalized groups, can bring about meaningful change in politics?
Hanna: I have a general disdain for the political process, but I love to discuss ideas. I think we should all find what we do best and enjoy it, no matter who we are or where we are in life. I was forced to consider the fundamentals of my life because I couldn't stand being who I am. But the same questions I confronted apply to most people. We can all find ourselves in a situation where we question why we are where we are, what we really care about, if we made the right decisions, and what really matters in the end.
Monika: When you began your transition, did you have any transgender role models, either from Sweden or elsewhere, that you could look up to or follow?
Hanna: No, not really. Which was one of the reasons I found myself participating in a documentary on Swedish television, as well as writing in national newspapers about the former sterilization laws, requiring transsexuals to be sterilized in order to change our legal gender. I wanted people to have a face related to the concept of transsexualism, to learn that we are just as most people are, in most ways. And I received a lot of positive comments on my participation. It felt important to become the kind of role model I never had.
Monika: How would you describe the current situation of transgender women in Swedish society, especially in terms of rights, visibility, and everyday challenges?
Hanna: From a societal point of view, we are probably better off than transgender people in most of the world. We have protection from discrimination by law, although we are still the most harassed and assaulted group in the LGBT community. The main issues and lack of acceptance are usually in personal relationships, family not accepting us, and similar. There's progress, yes, but there's still a long way to go before full social acceptance becomes the norm.
Monika: I always thought of Sweden as one of the most democratic countries that upholds the rights of all its citizens. But I was shocked to discover that, until the end of 2012, Swedish transgender women were required to undergo sterilization to legally change their gender. How do you reflect on this part of Swedish history?
Hanna: Yes, it's part of a not-so-proud tradition in Sweden that began with Carl von Linné categorizing people into races in the 1700s, the founding of the racial biological institute in 1922, which inspired Hitler's ideas, and the forced sterilization of several unwanted minorities, most of which was banned in the 70s. However, this last law wasn't reformed until 2012. It is, of course, disgraceful. There is currently an ongoing lawsuit to claim damages for people who were forced to undergo sterilization. It’s crucial that we acknowledge and confront this history, so we can prevent anything similar from happening again.
Monika: Do you think transgender rights could represent a new frontier in the broader human rights movement, or is it more about applying universal principles of equality to all groups?
Hanna: I'd like to discuss basic principles rather than the rights of groups. I want the same principles to apply to everyone. I don't want laws that single out people, but simply the same human rights to apply equally. It shouldn't be a matter of belonging to a group that happens to be politically correct to focus on at the moment. We should all have our human rights protected. If you can just get that principle to apply equally, we know what to do, no matter ethnicity, sexuality, age, gender, or other. At the end of the day, it’s about treating everyone as equals, regardless of who they are.
Monika: You’ve mentioned that you have a general disdain for the political process, but do you think transgender women. or people from marginalized groups, can bring about meaningful change in politics?
Hanna: I have a general disdain for the political process, but I love to discuss ideas. I think we should all find what we do best and enjoy it, no matter who we are or where we are in life. I was forced to consider the fundamentals of my life because I couldn't stand being who I am. But the same questions I confronted apply to most people. We can all find ourselves in a situation where we question why we are where we are, what we really care about, if we made the right decisions, and what really matters in the end.
We all need to find our place in the world, and it can be just as hard for a straight, cis-person, who can easily conform but still may not feel right about themselves. We should all question norms. We should all make sure that we do what we do because we want to. Not because others made us think we wanted it. Kids, marriage, career. You can only find peace in life if you are truly honest with yourself. And you only live once. You owe yourself that honesty. Politics aside, true change often begins with personal honesty and self-reflection, which can ripple out into larger societal shifts.
Monika: In addition, you’ve shared that you make adult content. From your experience, who tends to be the typical viewer of transgender adult films?
Hanna: I don't know if I qualify as an adult actress. I make amateur videos of sexual content with my girlfriend, having fun, sharing excitement and the experience with others. I honestly do not know much about the people who subscribe to my website. My experience from back when I mainly did live cam shows is that the customer is just about anyone, although 99% male. Any age, income bracket, or ethnicity. They all just happen to be attracted to females with a little something extra... ;) It's all about the chemistry and connection, and that transcends any one particular category.
Monika: In addition, you’ve shared that you make adult content. From your experience, who tends to be the typical viewer of transgender adult films?
Hanna: I don't know if I qualify as an adult actress. I make amateur videos of sexual content with my girlfriend, having fun, sharing excitement and the experience with others. I honestly do not know much about the people who subscribe to my website. My experience from back when I mainly did live cam shows is that the customer is just about anyone, although 99% male. Any age, income bracket, or ethnicity. They all just happen to be attracted to females with a little something extra... ;) It's all about the chemistry and connection, and that transcends any one particular category.
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| In a sexy outfit. |
Monika: Some transgender activists argue that transgender adult films contribute to a negative image of the entire transgender community. What would be your response to this perspective?
Hanna: Well, I refuse to be held accountable for anything other than my own actions as an individual. I am responsible for the image of transsexuals no more than I am responsible for the image of Swedes, Europeans, or people who enjoy eating popcorn. Grouping people by arbitrary features and demanding they take responsibility for what others in that arbitrary group do is obviously silly. Collectivism is just another form of racism. Some transsexuals do porn. Some girls do porn. A lot of guys wish they did. More people should. It’s just sex. There's only a negative image if you think sex is a fundamentally bad thing. I don't. At the end of the day, people should be free to express themselves however they choose, without being judged by others.
Monika: Could you share with me the role that love plays in your life?
Hanna: Love is what gives my life meaning! I need to share my experiences, have a point, goals, struggle, and share the best and the worst, and the most beautiful way of doing that, to me, is in a loving relationship. It’s the foundation that makes everything else worthwhile, giving me a sense of connection and purpose.
Monika: What are your thoughts on fashion? Do you have a particular style or favorite outfits? Are there any specific designs, colors, or trends that you like or dislike?
Hanna: Nah, I think fashion is stupid. It’s just pleading to our insecurity as individuals need to belong in the group. There's nothing wrong with wanting to show who you are by what you wear, we all do. And if you think that the most important thing to tell people about you is that you’d rather be judged by what some designer thinks looks good – a person you never met and whose opinions shouldn't matter at all to you – than by what you yourself like, then by all means, spend your money on expensive brands.
Hanna: Well, I refuse to be held accountable for anything other than my own actions as an individual. I am responsible for the image of transsexuals no more than I am responsible for the image of Swedes, Europeans, or people who enjoy eating popcorn. Grouping people by arbitrary features and demanding they take responsibility for what others in that arbitrary group do is obviously silly. Collectivism is just another form of racism. Some transsexuals do porn. Some girls do porn. A lot of guys wish they did. More people should. It’s just sex. There's only a negative image if you think sex is a fundamentally bad thing. I don't. At the end of the day, people should be free to express themselves however they choose, without being judged by others.
Monika: Could you share with me the role that love plays in your life?
Hanna: Love is what gives my life meaning! I need to share my experiences, have a point, goals, struggle, and share the best and the worst, and the most beautiful way of doing that, to me, is in a loving relationship. It’s the foundation that makes everything else worthwhile, giving me a sense of connection and purpose.
Monika: What are your thoughts on fashion? Do you have a particular style or favorite outfits? Are there any specific designs, colors, or trends that you like or dislike?
Hanna: Nah, I think fashion is stupid. It’s just pleading to our insecurity as individuals need to belong in the group. There's nothing wrong with wanting to show who you are by what you wear, we all do. And if you think that the most important thing to tell people about you is that you’d rather be judged by what some designer thinks looks good – a person you never met and whose opinions shouldn't matter at all to you – than by what you yourself like, then by all means, spend your money on expensive brands.
But I think it's rather sad, and I never could relate to it. At home, I usually wear sweaters and a hoodie. I just wanna be comfortable. I love to dress up and really look my best, but I'm not bothered with it when I'm just being at home, walking the dogs, and studying. I had a period when I couldn't leave the house without makeup, but not so much anymore. I feel more secure about myself now. I guess I don't have so much to prove, to myself or others. I think self-expression is key, and I value comfort and authenticity over trends.
Monika: What's your perspective on transgender beauty pageants? Do you think they offer a positive space for trans women, or are there aspects of them that you find problematic?
Hanna: Yes. It’s on my to-do list. That and a thousand other projects! Honestly, I can't find enough hours to finish most of the things I start, and I'm always eager to launch new amazing projects. I struggle to actually finish and maintain something, though, and writing a book is a project that really demands some discipline. I don't like doing things half-assed, so if I am ever to write a book, I wanna do it well. And I don't know if a book about my life could fill more than 50 pages... But one day, I might just surprise myself and tackle it, you never know!
© 2014 - Monika Kowalska
Monika: What's your perspective on transgender beauty pageants? Do you think they offer a positive space for trans women, or are there aspects of them that you find problematic?
Hanna: Given my answers to the previous questions, you can probably guess! ;) But no, I never really understood it. I mean, I love seeing beautiful people, but I think the whole idea of being put on display is kind of degrading. And when they try to make it about ideas and values, it’s just making it worse.
If it’s about beauty, be proud and don't deny it. Go all in and do it 110%! I'm not judging anyone who wants to do it. If you enjoy it, go for it! I don't like karaoke either, but that doesn't mean others can't or shouldn't enjoy it. In the end, it's all about individual choice and self-expression.
Monika: Many transgender women write memoirs, sharing their experiences. Have you ever considered writing your own book, or is it something you might do in the future? Hanna: Yes. It’s on my to-do list. That and a thousand other projects! Honestly, I can't find enough hours to finish most of the things I start, and I'm always eager to launch new amazing projects. I struggle to actually finish and maintain something, though, and writing a book is a project that really demands some discipline. I don't like doing things half-assed, so if I am ever to write a book, I wanna do it well. And I don't know if a book about my life could fill more than 50 pages... But one day, I might just surprise myself and tackle it, you never know!
Monika: Are you currently working on any exciting new projects or focusing on something specific?
Hanna: I'm trying to focus on my studies. I've planned to finish my exam and be a fully-fledged web developer by the summer! I have several projects coming up, but I’d rather not disclose any details before we're closer to finishing it. It’s a social thing, though, I can tell you that much. I'm really excited about it, and I think it’s going to make a big impact!
Monika: Hanna, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences with me in this interview!
Hanna: Thank you so much for having me! It’s been a pleasure talking to you.
All the photos: courtesy of Hannah Warg.