Interview with Duda Teo

Some artists don’t just create, they shatter norms, rebuild worlds, and redefine what is possible. Duda Teo is one of them. A transgender woman, a designer, an artist, and a thinker, she has turned her life into a bold artistic statement, one that challenges rigid structures and celebrates the beauty of transformation. From a small town in Santa Catarina to the forefront of Brazil’s artistic and intellectual scene, Duda’s journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and resistance.

 

Through art, she crafts her own existence, refusing to be boxed in by outdated notions of gender and identity. Her work isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s political, personal, and deeply connected to a long history of trans struggle. Whether illustrating, painting, or designing, Duda infuses her pieces with a radical sense of freedom. She is, in every way, an artist of defiance. In this conversation, we talk about her creative process, her influences, the price of authenticity, and, of course, the eternal quest for beauty.

Interview with Sarafina Maraschino

Sarafina Maraschino is a multifaceted individual whose journey encompasses military service, legal advocacy, musical innovation, and activism within the transgender community. Sarafina pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in History. She furthered her academic credentials by obtaining a Master of Jurisprudence in Indian Law from the University of Tulsa College of Law. Sarafina's commitment to public service is evident through her 20 years of federal service. She served six years in the U.S. Air Force, followed by fourteen years in the Office of Counsel for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, San Francisco District. In her role as the District’s Tribal Liaison, she developed partnerships between her agency and Indian tribes in Northern California, particularly in the Klamath Basin, focusing on ecosystem restoration, watershed assessment, and water infrastructure.

Interview with Alisa Sarmant

 

Alisa Sarmant is a Belarusian journalist, social activist, and political figure. In 2013, Alisa graduated from the Faculty of Journalism and Political Science at the University of Warsaw. From 2014 to 2016, she pursued doctoral studies at the University of Gdańsk, specializing in Political Science.

 

Alisa has been deeply involved in Belarus's political landscape since 2010, participating in the country’s major political campaigns. In 2019, she founded TG House, an initiative supporting transgender individuals. From 2020 to 2024, she served as the editor-in-chief of one of the leading Belarusian media outlets. In 2023, she was elected a member of the board of Trans*Coalition, one of the largest transgender organizations in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

 

Monika: Alisa, thank you so much for joining me today.

Alisa: Thank you for the invitation, I’m very pleased!

Interview with Joanna Cifredo

Joanna Cifredo is a trailblazing transgender human rights activist from Bayamón, Puerto Rico. Joanna’s work has spanned grassroots advocacy, public policy, and organizing transformational events like La Caminata Por La Equidad (The Walk for Equity). As the (former) Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Transgender Wellness Center, Joanna is a leading force in the fight for transgender rights in Puerto Rico.

 

As a beauty queen, she represented Puerto Rico at Miss International Trans in Panama and most recently at Miss Star International in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Joanna’s journey began as a young transgender teen in Central Florida advocating for her healthcare needs and has since led her to testify before the U.S. Congress at just 27 years old. Beyond her activism and leadership, Joanna’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and inspiration.

Interview with Helen Dale

Helen Dale, an RAF Brat, once dreamed of being a pilot but turned to PR, advertising, and marketing while keeping her transgender identity secret. In 1998, she transitioned, losing a job but becoming the first openly transgender employee at Greater Manchester Probation. She co-founded the UK’s pan-civil service trans support network, a:gender, and earned a Butler Trust Award for her advocacy. Now retired, Helen continued to educate students, offer counseling, and volunteer with Diversity Role Models. She’s also a prolific writer, exploring themes of identity and transformation.

 

Monika: Today I'm honored to speak with Helen Dale, a British trans advocate, educator, and writer who’s played a key role in advancing transgender awareness. Welcome, Helen!

Helen: Thanks Monika!

Interview with Charlie Craggs

If the transgender community had a fairy godmother with a perfectly manicured middle finger to transphobia, it would be Charlie Craggs. Activist, author, actress, and all-around badass, Charlie has spent the last decade proving that a fresh set of nails can do more than just make you look cute, as they can change minds, spark conversations, and fight bigotry one manicure at a time.

 

She started "Nail Transphobia" not just to spread awareness, but to give people the chance to meet a trans person in the most disarming way possible, while getting their nails done. Because let’s be real, it’s hard to hold onto prejudice when someone’s making your cuticles look fabulous.

 

But Charlie didn't stop at nail polish diplomacy. She rallied for a trans pride flag emoji (because let’s face it, we deserved better than copy-pasting the rainbow and a T). She wrote To My Trans Sisters, a book filled with wisdom from successful trans women. And when she wasn’t educating the masses, she was breaking into the world of sci-fi, becoming a Doctor Who companion because, of course, the trans agenda includes taking over time and space. 

Interview with Olivia Hill

Olivia Hill is a trailblazer: the first openly transgender person elected to the Metro Council At-Large in Tennessee, a U.S. Navy combat veteran, public speaker, author, and staunch advocate for equality. Her passions encompass LGBTQ+ rights, women's rights, and cycling. In her own words, "I get one life. I'm going to do everything I can to live that life in a way that does not prioritize making the wealthy more wealthy while..."

 

Monika: As a fellow transgender woman, I'm thrilled to have this candid chat with you, Olivia. Welcome to my blog!

Olivia: Hello Monika!

Monika: Olivia, first things first - I've got to ask: what's more challenging, navigating Nashville's political landscape or surviving a family dinner with differing political views? 

Olivia: Honestly, they’re equally challenging in different ways. In politics, progress often feels like trying to sprint in a three-foot-deep section of a pool—you can put in all the effort, but things will only move so fast. Family dinners with differing political views can be just as tough because, unlike in politics, where dialogue is expected, some family members can be completely closed off to discussion. That said, I’m an optimist, and I believe that, whether in politics or around the dinner table, meaningful conversations can make a difference.

Interview with Martina Sobková

Martina Sobková is a trailblazer in the world of beauty and fashion, proving that courage and authenticity are the true marks of elegance. At 36, this inspiring Czech model has made history as the first transgender woman from her country to compete in the prestigious Miss Trans Star International pageant in São Paulo, where she earned the title of Miss Evolution. 

 

Also, Martina is currently focused on growing her modeling career and is open to new opportunities, so if you’re looking for an aspiring model with beauty, resilience, and passion, she’s your girl! 

 

But her journey is about so much more than crowns and sashes. It's a testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and the power of representation. From navigating the challenges of transition to making her mark in the competitive world of modeling, Martina’s story is both deeply personal and universally inspiring. In addition to her success on the runway, she is also the newly appointed editor-in-chief of Bankovnictví magazine, proving that beauty and intelligence go hand in hand.

Interview with Jesse Patterson

Monika: Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Jesse Patterson, an American social media personality and proud transgender woman who fearlessly shares her transition journey online. You’ve mentioned that we could discuss anything, from politics to, well, panties! Let’s dive in and see where this conversation takes us. Hello, Jesse, and thank you for accepting my invitation!

Jesse: Howdy Monika! Nice to meet you. Happy to have this discussion with you today and yes, lol, I will talk about pretty much anything one can think of.

Monika: Could you share a bit about yourself? Who is Jesse Patterson beyond social media?

Jesse: I’m just a person flitting about trying to find happiness in this world like everyone else. I’m happily married to a wonderful woman, with children. I live in Texas, work in finance and have a couple of degrees in history and sociology. I read history, psychology, astronomy, and self-care books or work out when I can get the time. I also love photography.

Interview with Ashley Anna Parks

Monika: In today’s interview, I am excited to chat with the inspiring Ashley Anna Parks, an American transgender woman who transitioned at 65 and then embarked on a whole new career as an author. Through her company, Butterfly Discoveries, she has shared her unique perspective on life, love, and personal growth with the world.

In addition to her writing, Ashley worked as an assistant facilitator of transition support groups for two years with the LGBTQIA+ Center in Las Vegas, NV, where she supported others through their own journeys. Whether it’s her deeply personal memoir or her whimsical children’s coloring books, Ashley’s writing bridges generations and genders. Her work touches on themes of inclusion, connection, and transformation.

Interview with Vanessa Edwards Foster

If there were a Mount Rushmore for transgender activism, Vanessa Edwards Foster’s face would be chiseled into the stone, probably mid-speech, passionately lobbying a senator who just realized he’s woefully outmatched. A seasoned activist, a relentless advocate, and a veteran of the political trenches, Vanessa has spent decades fighting for transgender rights, knocking on doors (sometimes having them slammed in her face), and ensuring that the voices of Trans people aren’t just heard but taken seriously.

 

As the board chair of the National Transgender Advocacy Coalition (NTAC), Vanessa has been at the forefront of the movement, navigating the tangled web of Washington politics with a mix of tenacity, humor, and an unshakable sense of purpose. She’s lobbied the U.S. government more times than she can probably count, pressing for policy changes that affirm and protect transgender lives. And let’s not forget her pioneering leadership as the first transgender individual elected president of a chapter of the National Women’s Political Caucus (NWPC) in Harris County, Texas. If breaking barriers were an Olympic sport, Vanessa would be a gold medalist.

Interview with Melissa Reames

Monika: Some people are natural-born leaders, while others grow into leadership through experience and self-discovery. Melissa Reames, an inspiring transgender woman, mentor, public speaker, and General Manager at National Vision Inc., embodies both. Her journey is one of resilience, transformation, and a deep commitment to helping others navigate their own paths. From overcoming shyness to confidently addressing audiences, and from self-doubt to self-acceptance, Melissa has carved out a space where she can uplift and empower. Today, she shares her experiences, insights, and the lessons she has learned along the way. Hello Melissa!

Melissa: Thank you, for having me here.

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself?

Melissa: I am a 54-year-old transgender woman. I’m married to the most beautiful trans gal, Scarlet! We will be celebrating our year anniversary in April. That is a story in itself. I have a son who just turned 16. His mother, my ex (before transitioning) is a big ally and friend. I’ve been in the optical field all my life. A summer job turned into a career that I love. I began to medically transition four years ago. I’ve been out fully for 3.5 years. Although the world is a little dark politically, I have never been so invigorated or happy since coming out as myself. I love sharing my story and mentoring.

Interview with Tashnuva Anan Shishir

Breaking barriers and rewriting history, Tashnuva Anan Shishir has become a powerful voice for transgender rights in Bangladesh and beyond. As a model, actress, activist, and news anchor, she has shattered societal norms, proving that representation is not just necessary - it is transformative. On March 8, 2021, she made headlines as Bangladesh’s first openly transgender news anchor, delivering the news on International Women’s Day - a symbolic moment for visibility and change.

 

Her journey has not stopped there. From gracing the runway at New York City Fashion Week to being elected as the first Bangladeshi member of the ILGA World board, Shishir continues to advocate for equality, breaking new ground with every step. Her work in the arts, media, and activism has positioned her as an inspiration not only in South Asia but around the world.

Interview with Ada Arencibia

Monika: Few voices in transgender and LGBTQ+ advocacy resonate as powerfully as Ada Arencibia. As the host of Out of the Closet, Into the World, she has created a platform where authenticity is celebrated, empowering listeners to embrace their truth. Born in Cuba, Ada's journey has taken her across borders and personal evolutions. After moving to the U.S., she navigated cultural shifts, bullying, and self-discovery. Coming out first as gay and later as a transgender woman, she has faced rejection and adversity but emerged as a fearless advocate.

Ada openly shares the realities of the transgender experience, from mental health to relationships, offering insight and hope. Her honesty about her own struggles makes her a guiding light for others seeking their path. Today, I have the privilege of exploring Ada’s journey, advocacy, and the lessons she has learned along the way. Let’s step Out of the Closet, Into the World with Ada Arencibia. Welcome to my blog, Ada!

Interview with Mia F. Yamamoto

Monika: Some people break barriers; others shatter them entirely. Mia F. Yamamoto is firmly in the latter category. A distinguished criminal defense attorney, civil rights activist, and fearless advocate for justice, she has spent decades fighting for fairness in the legal system. Born in the Poston War Relocation Center during World War II, Mia’s journey, from co-founding the Asian Pacific Islander Law Student Association at UCLA to receiving prestigious awards like the Harvey Milk Legacy Award and the Liberty Award by Lambda Legal, is nothing short of inspiring. Beyond her legal accomplishments, Mia is a proud transgender woman who has dedicated her life to uplifting marginalized communities. She has served on California’s Judicial Council Task Forces and has been recognized by numerous organizations for her unwavering commitment to equality. Today, I have the honor of speaking with Mia about her life, career, and activism. Hello Mia!

Mia: Hello Monika! Thanks for having me!

Interview with Gabriela Augusto

Monika: Gabriela, it's such a pleasure to sit down with you today. As a fellow transgender woman and activist, I have long admired your incredible journey and the impactful work you've accomplished. I’m nowhere near your level, but I’m so excited to learn from you and share your story with my audience!

But before we dive in, let me properly introduce you.

You are an extraordinary woman who has broken barriers and set new standards for transgender visibility and leadership in Brazil and beyond. You made history as the first transgender person to be recognized in Forbes Brazil’s Under 30 list, and your impact has only grown from there. Bloomberg Línea named you one of the 50 Women of Impact in Latin America, and Billboard recognized you in their Over 30 list.

You founded Transcendemos Consultoria, a company that helps businesses create truly diverse and inclusive environments. Your work has touched major organizations like Natura, Kraft-Heinz, and Dasa, and it’s not just limited to Brazil - you’re making a difference across Latin America. On top of that, you’ve been a speaker at major events, including ones organized by UN Women and ILO, and you even teach at top institutions like FAAP and Fundação Dom Cabral.

Interview with Victoria Kolakowski

Monika: Victoria Kolakowski is a true pioneer in the legal world. Since 2011, she’s served as a judge on the Alameda County Superior Court, making history as the first openly transgender person to hold a trial court judgeship of general jurisdiction in the United States. But she didn’t just break barriers, she crushed them, probably while wearing fabulous heels. After coming out as transgender, she had to sue just to take the bar exam in Louisiana, but that didn’t stop her from pursuing her passion for law. Her impressive journey includes degrees in science, engineering, law, and divinity, as well as major roles advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. On top of that, she’s been an ordained minister and a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, serving as the president of the International Association of LGBT Judges.

Victoria, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today. As a fellow transgender woman, I truly admire your groundbreaking work and the impact you've had on the legal field and beyond. Welcome to my blog, Vicky!

Vicky: I’m excited to finally answer all of your questions!

Interview with Emilia Rüttinger

Monika: Today, I have the privilege of speaking with the inspiring Emilia Marina Rüttinger, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Specialist at MEAG, the asset manager for Münchener Rück. Emilia's career has been shaped by her unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive environments.

Before joining MEAG in 2007 as the Head of the Credit Team, she worked at Union Investment, where she led the Non-Financial Credit Team. In 2022, she transitioned into her current role as a DEI specialist at MEAG, bringing her expertise and passion for equity and inclusion to the forefront. But Emilia’s journey is more than just professional, it is deeply personal. She has navigated the complexities of gender identity with resilience and grace, shaping not only her career but also her life.

As a fellow transgender woman, I’m especially excited to hear about her personal journey to womanhood, the challenges she has overcome, and the freedom she now enjoys by living as her true self. Emilia, thank you so much for being here today!

Emilia: Thank you, Monika, for the kind invitation!

Interview with Jennifer Marie

Monika: Today, I have the absolute pleasure of speaking with an incredible advocate, leader, and inspiration in the transgender community - Jennifer Marie. With over a decade of success in sports marketing and financial services, Jenn was known for her ability to foster meaningful business partnerships. But her true passion has always been about connection - both in the corporate world and in community service, where she continues to serve as a dedicated board member for two non-profits.

 

In 2024, Jenn took her commitment to empowerment to the next level by founding Jennspire, a coaching service designed to uplift and guide transgender individuals and their families toward authentic joy and fulfillment. She is also the author of Ask Me Anything: My Transparent Transition Story (2024), a deeply personal and enlightening biography.

Interview with Maria Minakowska

Monika: Maria Jadwiga Minakowska is a historian, genealogist, and philosopher known for her groundbreaking work in Polish genealogy. She earned a PhD in classical philosophy from Jagiellonian University. Her biggest achievement is the "Great Genealogy by Minakowski," a massive database tracing the connections of nearly a million people. 

Her passion for history and ancestry has helped countless individuals discover their roots, and in recognition of her work, she received the Decoration of Honor Meritorious for Polish Culture in 2016. In 2024, Maria publicly embraced her identity as a transgender woman. In this interview, we are going to touch upon her fascinating career, personal journey toward womanhood, and the importance of knowing where we come from. Hello Maria!

Maria: Hello, it’s my pleasure to talk to you. I decided to make everything public regarding my professional career and my private life, especially my transition. It’s like writing memoirs, both for future and present generations, so I will happily share with you as much as possible.

Interview with Antonia Monopoli

Monika: Antonia Monopoli is my special guest today. She is a transgender activist, writer, YouTube video creator, and Italian stage actress. For years, she has been in charge of the Trans Desk at the Ala Association, an Italian organization that focuses on health protection, social inclusion, anti-discrimination, and cooperation both nationally and internationally. She is the author of “La Forza di Antonia: Storia di una persona transgender.” Hi Antonia! Thank you for accepting my invitation.

Antonia: Thank you for choosing me for this interview. It's an honor and a pleasure to be interviewed by you.

Monika: Many of us, myself included, live the lives of wives, mothers, and daughters, trying to forget our past. You decided to be an advocate for transgender rights and express our positive image in society. Have you ever felt tempted to hide your past and be just a woman, rather than a transgender woman?

Antonia: I think I hid myself for too long, and at a certain point in my life, exactly in 2002, I decided not to hide anymore. I chose to live my life in the light, not in the shadows, facing whatever life threw at me and trying to be an example for other transgender people. I hope I succeeded.

Interview with Rachel Peacock

Monika: Hey everyone, welcome to today’s interview! I’m so excited to be joined by an amazing guest, Rachel Peacock. Rachel is a gamer, YouTuber, veteran, and anime enthusiast, and she’s also a fellow transgender woman who’s been on an incredible journey. Today, we’re having a laid-back chat where Rachel will be sharing her story, talking about her passions, her experiences, and what it’s been like navigating life as a trans woman. Rachel, I’m so glad you’re here with me today!

Rachel: Thank you for having me! I’m happy to speak with you.

Monika: So Rachel, let’s start by hearing a bit about your journey. You’ve got such a fascinating background with gaming, your military experience, and being involved in so many cool things. Gaming has such a huge following, and for many people, it’s a form of self-expression. How did you first get into gaming?

Rachel: That’s a fair observation, I can definitely see it as a form of self-expression for some! Personally I’ve always been into gaming for about as long as I can remember, starting with a dusty old NES when I was 3 or so. My family would sometimes play with me and I enjoyed the puzzles, music, and stories. It’s a safe hobby that keeps you out of trouble. Also with the invention of online gaming, all your closest friends are a button push away! I moved a lot through my life but was able to keep close. Some people look down on gaming like you have no social life, but I could argue the opposite.

Interview with Farah Rustom

Monika: Thank you, Dr. Farah Rustom, for joining me today. Your life is an incredible testament to resilience, artistry, and the power of self-expression. From your pioneering work in Western classical music to your remarkable journey as a transgender woman, you’ve touched many lives and made a lasting impact. I admire you greatly, not only for your professional achievements but also for your courage and trailblazing path in the transgender community. As a fellow transgender woman, I deeply respect how you’ve paved the way for others like me, and I’m honored to be able to speak with you today. You are also the author of Becoming Farah: A Life in Bombay, 1943 to 1986, a biographical book published in 2023, where you share deeply personal reflections on your journey, your childhood in Bombay, and your transition. It’s a moving and powerful portrayal of your life and experiences. Thank you so much for accepting my invitation!

Farah: Hello Monika! Thank you for having me.

Interview with Björk

Monika: Hello Björk! I’m so excited to be talking to you today. It's like catching up with an old friend over coffee, but we're making it official and letting everyone in on our conversation. For those who don't know you, Björk is not just a super-talented hairdresser from Iceland, she's also an amazing social media creator who’s always sharing her hairdressing art, her journey, and some seriously powerful moments with the world. From glam transformations to the real struggles, she’s always honest, always bold, and always herself. So let’s talk about you - the woman behind the Instagram posts and fabulous hairstyles.

Björk: Thank you, dear Monika, for inviting me to take part in this interview. Yes, I’m a hairdresser, and I’m fortunate to be able to do what I love, where my true talent lies. Hair has always been my passion, and I also really enjoy socializing with people. For that, I am truly grateful.

Interview with Erica Vogel

Monika: Today, I’m thrilled to be speaking with Erica Vogel, a courageous and insightful transgender woman who has navigated both personal and professional challenges with resilience and authenticity. Erica has over twenty years of experience in design and product management, spanning startups to Fortune 25 companies. She holds a master’s in Business Leadership and Management, as well as a DEI certification. Beyond her career, Erica is a queer wife, parent, and a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. She has served on national leadership teams for corporate LGBTQIA employee resource groups and as a board member for a transgender-focused tech nonprofit. A passionate public speaker, Erica regularly addresses transgender issues in workplaces across the U.S. and she is the author of Advice from Your Trans Aunty (2024), a book that is full of heartfelt advice for those navigating the transgender and nonbinary experience. Hello Erica!

Erica: Hello! Thank you so much for inviting me to speak with you.

Interview with Lisa Myyah

Monika: Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Lisa Myyah, an American woman who has been courageously sharing her transition journey on social media. Through her candid posts, Lisa has documented the highs and lows of her experience, offering both inspiration and insight to others who may be navigating similar paths. From her early struggles with self-acceptance to fully embracing her authentic self, Lisa’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and self-discovery. I am excited to learn more about her journey and the impact of her online presence. Lisa, welcome! Thank you for accepting my invitation.

Lisa: Hi Monika, thank you so much for the platform to share my story and for what you do. It’s pretty inspiring that you choose to chronicle so many transwomen and their stories. 

Monika: Could you say a few words about yourself? 

Lisa: Of course. My path to transition was not quite a linear path, and it was one filled with a lot of doubt. I had crossdressed on and off in secret and for years before I even thought to transition. I think my earliest memory of wearing women’s clothing was when I was 12. I didn’t even really know why I did it, but I remember going into my mom’s bedroom and sneaking her clothes, going into the bathroom so that I wouldn’t be caught if she came home from work. I was definitely filled with a lot of shame.