Before we dive into our lovely chat, let me introduce you to the fabulous Amanda Nicole Watson. She’s a 46-year-old transgender woman from California’s Central Valley who somehow manages to juggle a career in healthcare, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and a healthy sense of humor, all while still looking effortlessly cool (plain Jane, she says… we say understated chic). Amanda’s story is anything but boring. She served in the U.S. Navy, worked in mental health, and now dedicates her energy to making the healthcare world more inclusive for everyone, especially transgender folks who’ve spent too long being misunderstood or overlooked. She’s the kind of woman who speaks out, shows up, and stands tall, even if she’s just trying to get through another staff meeting. She started her transition in her thirties, but she knew from the age of five that she was a girl, only the world around her needed a few decades to catch up.
With the help of a few guardian angels in the San Diego LGBTQ+ scene (and a wonderfully supportive family), she found her way toward living authentically, and hasn’t looked back since. Well, except for the occasional fashion misstep. But who hasn’t? Amanda has been a keynote speaker, an award-winner, and yes, she’s even done some political lobbying (imagine her in a suit, making change and probably making a few people sweat). She’s got her eye on completing her Bachelor’s degree, having gender-affirming surgery with the legendary Dr. Bowers, and, who knows, maybe falling in love with a man who can appreciate a strong woman with a soft heart and a sarcastic streak. She's the kind of woman you instantly want to have coffee with, or wine, let’s be honest, and I was so thrilled to sit down with her for this interview. So let’s dive in!
