Transvox

In this episode of Transvox, hosts Gillian and Jenny take a break from the gloom to talk about positive developments in the trans community.

Starting with a lighthearted discussion about tiaras and the new American Pope, the conversation spans a range of topics including the legacy of April Ashley, the advocacy of celebrities like Abigail Thorn, and recent legal victories for the trans community in the U.S.

The hosts also touch on the complexities of religious acceptance and the impact of public figures speaking out in support of trans rights. Throughout, they emphasize the...

In this episode of Transvox, Gillian and Jenny Harvey discuss a broad range of topical issues affecting the trans community and quickly dive into a packed agenda.

Key topics include the EHRC's interim guidance following a Supreme Court judgment, organizations' responses to it, and the implications for trans individuals in single-sex spaces.

They also discuss recent decisions by sports bodies to follow this guidance and touch upon supportive actions by unions like the BMA.

The hosts explore the concept of 'imperfect allies' and stress the importance of pragmatic strategies when faced with challenges...

In this episode of Transvox, host Gillian welcomes Abi Parkes from Beyond Reflections to discuss the upcoming Trans+ Research Conference.

Scheduled for May 15th at Bournemouth University, the conference has recently become free to attend thanks to a generous donation from Facial Team..

Abi and Gillian explore the motivations behind the conference, the importance of collaborative research in addressing health inequalities and rising awareness, and the exciting prospect of setting up a Trans Research Hub to facilitate ongoing data sharing and networking.

Attendees can expect a diverse range of presentations and workshops, with...

In this episode of Transvox, hosts Jenny and Gillian discuss the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding the Equality Act and its impact on trans rights in the UK. They detail the legal interpretation, which holds that 'sex' in the Equality Act refers to biological sex, allowing organisations to restrict certain facilities to biological sexes.

They critique the judgment, explore its implications for trans individuals, and advocate for a calm, measured response. They emphasise the need for the trans community to remain organised, proactive, and focused on long-term goals for true equity and liberation.

00:00 Introduction and W...

In this emergency episode of Transvox, recorded on April 16, 2025, host Gillian invites PR agent Aby Hawker to discuss a disturbing Supreme Court ruling that defines women's rights and health based on biology rather than gender.

The conversation explores the implications for the trans community, societal reactions, and potential strategies for advocacy and support. Gillian and Aby emphasize the need for a coordinated and reasoned response from trans advocates and allies, highlighting the importance of understanding, support, and proactive measures in light of the ruling.

00:00 Introduction and Emergency Episode Announcement

00:10 Supreme Court Ruling Overview

In this episode of Transvox, Gillian interviews Aby Hawker, a PR expert specialising in trans and non-binary inclusion. Aby discusses her extensive career in PR, how she transitioned to working with GenderGP, and eventually started her own agency, Transmission PR.

Their conversation covers the challenges of communicating and advocating for trans rights, the complexities of gender diversity, and the importance of positive representation in the media.

They also touch on the impact of misinformation and the need for a cohesive strategy within the community to counteract negative narratives.

00:00 Introduction

00:41 Aby's Background an...

In this episode of Transvox, Gillian and Jenny discuss why right-wing governments across the globe seem so fixated on opposing trans rights.

They explore various themes such as traditional values, religious beliefs, political strategies, and the complexities of social change. By examining the responses from AI search engines, they delve into the reasons behind this opposition and consider the broader implications for societal progress.

They also touch upon the nuanced positions within conservative and left-wing circles regarding trans issues, ultimately aiming to provide listeners with a deeper understanding of these contentious debates.

00:00 Introduction a...

In this episode of Transvox, hosts Gillian and Jenny explore the concept of allyship with a focus on the trans community.

They discuss the importance of moving from symbolic gestures of support to actionable, meaningful help. The conversation covers personal experiences, the roles of celebrities, and everyday situations where allyship is essential.

They also reflect on the complexities and challenges allies may face, particularly in professional settings, and stress the importance of education and broader support for marginalized communities.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:22 Discussing the Importance of Allies

01:43 Symbolic vs. Act...

In this episode of Transvox, hosts Gillian and Jenny address a listener's question about the concept of dog whistles related to anti-trans sentiments. They discuss the subtle and coded language used in politics and society that conveys discriminatory views without overtly hateful expressions.

Key topics include the encoded implications behind terms like 'women and girls' and 'sex matters', and the broader context of such language in championing anti-trans agendas. The hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing these dog whistles to protect the trans community and advocate for understanding and vigilance against veiled bigotry.

00:00 Introduction and G...

In this episode of Transvox, Gillian and Jenny discuss various European countries and their progressive policies toward trans rights, healthcare, and protections.

Highlighting nations like Iceland, Malta, Spain, and Portugal, they explore how these places compare to the UK and others in terms of legislation, daily experiences, and societal attitudes toward the trans community. The discussion also covers the decline of trans rights in some European countries and the influence of international politics on trans healthcare and rights.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:23 Trans Rights in Europe: An Overview

01:16 Top Destinations for Trans Rig...

In this episode of Transvox, Gillian chats to Chadwan Al Yaghchi, an ENT consultant and laryngologist specializing in gender-affirming voice surgery. The discussion delves into various surgical procedures aimed at voice modification for trans individuals, such as the 'trach shave' and different techniques to alter vocal pitch.

Chadwan explains the intricacies of these surgeries, post-operative care, and the psychological support needed for patients. They also discuss the effectiveness of voice training versus surgery, the risks involved, and the crucial criteria for selecting a surgeon.

Chadwan highlights the importance of personalized treatment plans and the satisfaction...

In this episode of Transvox, Gillian talks to Marianne Oakes, a renowned figure in the trans community, to discuss her journey, including her transition and career evolution.

From starting as an apprentice carpenter to owning her own business, Marianne shares insights into her experiences in the building trade, the challenges faced while transitioning, and the decisions leading her to become a counselor.

She elaborates on her work with GenderGP and her current role with Anne.Health, a transgender healthcare organization. The conversation also touches on the entrepreneurial spirit within the trans community, the importance of...

This week, Gillian talks to Jamison Green and they discuss his personal journey as a transgender individual, including his experiences with transitioning, advocacy work, and professional life in the United States. Discussions also touched on the current political climate and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly transgender people, in various aspects of society. The conversation concluded with a mention of Jamison's upcoming book on the history of transgender medicine in the United States.

Subjects included:

Trans Community Environment in US

Jamison highlighted the progressive nature of the West Coast...

In this episode of Transvox, we're joined by Chloe from Sapphic Bison.

Chloe is here to discuss a variety of topics centred around trans healthcare, particularly blood testing. Learn about Chloe's work with Sapphic Bison, a UK-based blood testing nonprofit, and the unique challenges trans individuals face in accessing healthcare.

Discover their innovative approach to providing affordable and trans-specific blood tests, and delve into Chloe's experience working in reproductive healthcare. Join us as we unpack the essential aspects of blood testing, hormone monitoring, and the mission to improve trans healthcare services.

00:00 Introduction and G...

In this episode of Transvox, Jenny and Gillian dive into a nuanced discussion about the challenging week for the transgender community amidst increasing anti-trans rhetoric. They cover a range of issues, from the intersection of far-right and anti-trans agendas to recent news about sports restrictions and legislative moves in the United States.

They touch upon notable figures like Wes Streeting and his controversial stance, media influence on public perception of transgender people, and strategic approaches for the trans community to counter these challenges. The episode blends serious commentary with light-hearted moments, focusing on the importance of community...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the history and progress of the LGBT+ community, including the significance of LGBT History Month and the challenges faced by the community over the years. They also discussed the unworkability of certain laws and policies,and the current state of society

Subjects include:

Yo...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the effectiveness and potential drawbacks of therapies including non-directive counselling, particularly for individuals with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, PTSD, and gender identity issues. They emphasise the importance of agency, self-care, and understanding different therapeutic approaches in mental health support, including the need for practical guidance and support for trans individuals. The conversation also touched on the challenges faced by trans individuals and their families, the importance of being proactive in one's own treatment, and the potential benefits and risks of various therapies.

Subjects include:

This week, Gillian talks to Drew Dalton, the CEO of Report Out, a global human rights organisation for gender and sexual minorities, discussing the organisation's growth and research on human rights abuses experienced by LGBTQI+ communities globally. The conversation also covers geopolitical factors influencing attitudes towards homosexuality and gender identity, the correlation between climate change and social policy, and the launch of Drew's new course on global LGBTQ+ dangers and rights.

Report Out started five years ago with Drew as the founder and seven volunteers, and has since grown to around 100 volunteers across 40 countries. Report Out documents...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the changes in social media platforms, particularly at Meta, and their potential impact on free speech and censorship. They also explored the challenges faced by the trans community on these platforms and the potential solutions, such as moderated Facebook groups and other platforms like Discord.

Subjects include:

You can submit questions to gillian@transvox.co.uk

#transgender, #gendergp, #transgenderhealth<...

This week, we look back at some of the recordings from 2024 which we think are noteworthy or where there is value for the community.

Subjects include:

Thanks to all our guests and I look forward to further inspiring and wonderful guests in 2025.

You can submit questions to gillian@transvox.co.uk

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the challenges faced by the trans community, the need for a strategic approach to lobbying for change, and the importance of maintaining a positive image of trans individuals in media. They also debated the issue of self-identification and the rights of trans individuals, the potential for trans individuals to gain more influence through corporate power, and the need for trans individuals to be more involved in politics. The conversation ended with a discussion on the importance of strategic planning and lobbying in politics, the failings of unfettered capitalism, and the need for better...

This week, Gillian and Jenny have decided in the midst of all the gloom of recent news (and the weather) to have a more ‘light-hearted’ episode.

Subjects include:

Happy Christmas and/or Happy holidays to all our list...

This week, Gillian meets Katie Munday and Dr Virginia Quinney to round out and conclude their discussions around the Trans Plus Experiences of Cancer Screening Services project, focusing on improving healthcare accessibility for trans individuals, particularly in cancer services. They also explored the challenges faced by trans and non-binary individuals in healthcare settings, the importance of communication and understanding, and the potential impact of compassion fatigue on healthcare professionals.

Subjects included:

This week, Gillian meets Dr Helen Webberley, one of the icons of trans+ healthcare to discuss the complexities of gender identity, the importance of understanding and embracing diversity, and the need for better education and training for doctors in trans+ healthcare. They address the challenges faced by the NHS, particularly in relation to transgender healthcare, and the potential for digital technology to improve all healthcare. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the importance of understanding and accepting non-binary individuals.

Subjects include:

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the news from the USA and the treatment of Sarah McBride. The conversation gets a little feisty at times, but it shows that trans+ people can have different views but still remain able to cooperate and move forward together.

They discuss the situation in the US regarding the election of Sarah Mcbride, the first trans Congressperson from Delaware, and the subsequent attempts by Republicans to pass rules banning her from using women's facilities in Congress and on federal property. They agreed that this was a problematic issue, not just for trans...

Gillian and Jenny discussed their shared love for the TV show Strictly Come Dancing, reminiscing about past contestants and the show's evolution over time.

They also discussed the inclusion of people with disabilities in dance shows, the balance between professional dancers and those with less experience, and their experiences with social media platforms.

Additionally, they shared their experiences attending dance performances including a meeting between Jenny and Anton Du Beke....the glamour...!

Hope you enjoy and find this useful.

You can donate to support the work on the podcast or to...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the fall-out from the US elections, Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR) and Trans Awareness Week. Discussions covered the need for strategic activism, increased visibility and representation, and the importance of engaging with power structures to effect change.

They both highlighted the significant amount of money spent on anti-trans ads, which they felt was a dangerous level of resources being directed against a small percentage of the population. Gillian. expresses concern that this rhetoric could lead to a rollback of trans rights, while Jenny believes the economy was the main factor driving...

This week, Gillian meets regular guest, Joseph Harwood, and they discuss Joseph's involvement in the British Beauty Week campaign and his advocacy for the trans community in the beauty industry. They also discussed the challenges faced by trans individuals in the industry, including underestimation, lack of respect, and exploitation.

Joseph shared his efforts to gather data for a census to present to the government, focusing on the experiences of older trans individuals. He expressed his frustration about being undervalued in his industry due to his gender identity. He shared his experiences of being perceived as an influencer...

This week, Jenny and Gillian discuss the potential impact of the upcoming American election on the trans community and the broader political landscape, expressing concern about the threat posed by Trump and his allies to American democracy and global stability.

They agreed that the Republican Party has been using the issue of trans rights as a wedge between the two parties, while the Democratic Party has been relatively quiet on the subject. Jenny argues that the Democrats should make a positive case for trans rights, rather than avoiding the issue, while Gillian suggested that the Democrats' strategy...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the significance of Halloween and National Coming Out Day, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, and the challenges faced by non-binary individuals in expressing their gender identity. They also explored the evolution of language and terminology, the role of online communities, and the importance of giving recognition to those doing something different.

They discuss the significance of Halloween and National Coming Out Day, both of which occur in October. They noted that Halloween parties and events can serve as a platform for people, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, to experiment with...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss the recent news about Mermaids, a charity that supports trans children. They agreed that while there were issues with the charity's management, the actual work they do was not criticised. They also discussed the implications of the Charity Commission's findings on Mermaids and other charities working in similar areas. Jenny expressed concern about the influence of the Cass Review, which she believes has flaws, on the work of charities like Mermaids. Both agreed that the work of Mermaids is vital and should not be hindered by the criticisms. They also discussed the potential...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss their recent holiday experiences, including a cruise holiday and the appeal of cruises for the LGBT+ community. They also talked about the importance of work-life balance, the trend of people living on cruise ships, and their packing habits and fashion choices. Lastly, they reminisced about the Love Boat and discuss the possibility of taking a cruise, recording episodes onboard - contact us if you would like to join us…!

Hope you enjoy and find this useful.

You can donate to support the work on the podcast or...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss a number of listener questions including the Tory leadership race, anti-trans sentiment, and the Labour Party's stance on trans rights. They also discuss a question about evolving friendships and attending a college reunion.

They also discuss the increasing use of the term "transgender" as a slur and its implications in American politics. They note that anti-trans sentiment has become a rallying point, with some people accusing others of being transgender as a form of insult. They also touched on the politics behind the deconstruction of language and the use of slurs.<...

This week, Gillian talks to Edward Whelan and discuss transition-related surgeries for trans individuals, including his book "Gender Confirmation Surgery" published by Jessica Kingsley which covers transition-related surgery.

They discuss the physical and social effects of testosterone treatment for trans masc people and Ed shares his personal experience with the physical changes he experienced, including increased hair growth and a deeper voice, as well as the eventual hair loss on his head. They also discussed the social impact of perceived gender, with Ed noting that he was often deferred to for answers or considered first in certain...

This week, Gillian talks to Dr.Virginia Quiney (she/her) and Katie Monday (they/they) who discuss their involvement in a project aimed at improving cancer screening for the trans community within the NHS, with phase two expected to start in April. They also discuss the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in providing care to trans individuals, the importance of establishing a rapport with each patient, and the need for better understanding and empathy from healthcare professionals.

The pair expressed optimism about the project's future, with more developments expected to come later. They discuss the relationship between...

This week, Gillian talks to Kate Jupp and Amanda Durrant who provided an update on the "Whatever It Takes" project, a collaboration aimed at reducing health care inequalities for cancer outcomes by partnering with healthcare providers. They discussed the project's progress, including the recruitment of trans community researchers and the successful engagement of the trans community and healthcare professionals in discussions about improving healthcare access. The team also highlighted the importance of understanding and addressing the experiences and needs of both groups, with a focus on building relationships and developing networks.

They emphasised the importance of understanding...

This week, Gillian and Jenny share a couple of announcements about events taking place soon.

The first is an Open Mic evening being held in Southampton on September 26th to celebrate a range of Queer talent - come along and strut your stuff…! The evening will also host the first annual celebration of the Paul Draycott award for Trans+ and Allies of Significance.

It’s not too late to nominate anyone, just go to the Beyond Reflections website to buy a ticket or make a nomination. The winners of the awards will be live streamed in c...

This week, Gillian and Jenny respond to a listener question and discuss finding one's style in fashion, with Jenny sharing her struggles and Gillian suggesting observing others and trying out different styles. They also talk about the challenges of finding appropriate and comfortable clothing for formal events, the evolution of fashion, and the importance of self-expression and comfort in fashion choices.

They discuss the challenges of finding appropriate and comfortable clothing for formal events. Jenny shares her struggles with finding outfits that flattered her figure and her reliance on friends and sales associates for fashion advice. They...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discuss concerns about the editorial direction of Pink News and the media's coverage of the LGBTIQ+ community, including issues with inaccurate reporting and sensationalism. They also discussed the inadequacies of gender identity services for adults and the need for a more patient-centered approach, as well as the challenges faced by trans individuals seeking medical support for their transition. Lastly, they touched on legal issues affecting trans people, including a court ruling in Ohio and proposed policies in UK schools, and the recent protests by trans youth against the UK government's proposed changes to gender...

This week, Gillian and Jenny discussed various topics including the decline of traditional banks, the case of a trans woman named Tickle, and the ongoing controversy surrounding women-only spaces. They also touch on the mixed news regarding transgender rights in the US, the potential impact of a court ruling in Australia, and the support for trans people within the current government. Lastly, they share their enthusiasm for the upcoming Paralympics.

They discuss the case of a trans woman named Tickle, who was removed from the Giggle for Girls platform in Australia after being identified as a trans...