Gender: A Wider Lens

If you work in pediatric gender medicine and have concerns about the safety of practice, you are not alone. Contact the LGBT Courage Coalition for guidance and support (including finding legal counsel and connecting you with media contacts).Stella and Sasha welcome whistleblower, Tamara Pietzke for an important conversation highlighting the valuable role that clinicians who are able to speak openly play in revealing insights from ‘behind the gender affirming care curtain’.Tamara’s story highlights the challenges and ethical dilemmas involved in providing gender-affirming care to children and the difficulties whistleblowers are facing in speaking out against harmful practices and the lack of informed consent.Support Tamara PietzkeFor links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-161 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comTeenagers, particularly those on the autism spectrum, encounter unique challenges in navigating social expectations, understanding their own identity, and processing information. These challenges can be compounded by the influence of social media and mainstream narratives, which often perpetuate misconceptions.Yet, the capacity of teenagers for critical analysis and insightful reflections is frequently underestimated. It is crucial to promote open dialogue and the exploration of diverse viewpoints to empower teenagers to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their surroundings.In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Christina Buttons emphasizes the complexities teenagers encounter, especially those who are grappling with their identity amid societal pressures. She highlights several tools and approaches that she believes young people could benefit from in fostering intellectual curiosity.The Coddling of the American Mind is currently available for viewing exclusively on Substack.Watch our full length episode with Christina Buttons:To listen to our premium content in your favorite podcast app click here for Substack instructions on setting up a private feed.

This episode opens with an extended introduction exploring the recent release of The Cass Review - Final Report, as this is a massive development in the world of gender medicalization. The guest feature begins at the 00:10:30 timestamp, so please feel free to skip ahead if you’d like.Sasha and Stella welcome guest, Christina Buttons, for a special conversation covering everything from her personal experiences with autism, her troubled adolescence, and her work as an investigative journalist, to her awakening to gender issues and her extensive research efforts. The episode gets into the concept of stress perception and resilience, the intersection of autism and gender dysphoria, and the lack of informed consent in medical interventions for trans identified individuals.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-160 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comAs the medical establishment continues to extract valuable lessons in the aftermath of the opioid crisis, the medical use of cannabis has become legalized in many US states. But is it an appropriate substitute for opioids? With a lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of cannabis compared to traditional over-the-counter pain relievers (like Motrin), do we fully understand the impact that elevated THC levels can have in patients long term? The push for medical marijuana parallels the opioid crisis, with both instances involving the broad application of treatments without sufficient consideration of potential harms — sound familiar?“So you've created a whole new set of adverse effects that of course they didn't think of…it just got so broadly applied that now they've caught a giant mass of young people that are exposed to interventions that aren't appropriate or they're ignoring adverse effects”In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Carrie highlights concerns about the medicalization of ‘spiritual’ problems and the over reliance on medication as a solution.“My job isn't to practice medicine based on what message you want to hear, it's based on diagnosing your problem and treating it.”She also discusses her shift in focus towards gender-related issues, particularly after encountering cases of young individuals undergoing drastic medical interventions.Watch our full length episode with Dr. Carrie Mendoza:https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-159To listen to our premium content in your favorite podcast app click here for Substack instructions on setting up a private feed.

Sasha and Stella welcome Dr. Carrie Mendoza back to the show for her second appearance with the Wider Lens duo. Together, they dive into crucial topics surrounding medical practice, healthcare education, ethical healthcare standards and policy implementation in healthcare administration. Carrie’s insights draw from her experience with the opioid epidemic, highlighting the lessons learned about its origin, scale, and mitigation, shedding light on how these insights can inform our understanding of medicalizing radical gender ideology and preventing its harm.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-159 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comIdentity formation and development involves a multitude of factors at play. Historical events, societal norms, cultural movements, traditions, customs, language, ‘social norms’, cognitive process, emotional development, sexual development...These factors collectively influence not only an individual's personal sense of identity but also contribute to shaping broader societal perceptions of identity as well.The shaping of perceptions surrounding gender and identity is intricately linked to both the interpretations of psychological theories and the impact of societal responses. Seeking out diverse sources of information, critically evaluating that information, and being open to challenging one's own beliefs are crucial for achieving a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary issues within the LGBTQ+ community, the individual experience of identity development, and the societal responses to it.In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Malcolm Clark joins Sasha and Stella as they consider:* Psychological theories, such as the desire for sacrifice and humiliation, and how they may relate to transgender experiences, particularly in the context of sissy porn and autogynephilia.* The relationship between sexuality and gender identity, as well as the role of fantasy and desire in shaping one's understanding of their gender.* The desire for self-mutilation, particularly in religious contexts where individuals may perceive it as a form of sacrifice or redemption.* Societal responses to transgender individuals, including the role of activism, victimization narratives, and the influence of religious institutions like the Christian Church.Watch our full length episode with Malcolm Clark:To listen to our premium content in your favorite podcast app click here for Substack instructions on setting up a private feed.

In this episode, Sasha and Stella welcome Malcolm Clark for a really interesting conversation exploring various facets of historical ideas and identities around gender, homosexuality, and the evolution of identity activism. This discussion navigates the intricate and contentious terrain of understanding gender non-conformity and identity expression across history. For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-158 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comFrom bionic enhancements to extreme body modifications, the lines are blurry between identity theory and queer theory. There is a complex interplay of incentives, ideological beliefs, optimized physical and mental wellness, and functionality within society - all reliant on quality medical care and support, but at whose financial expense?And what is the purpose of medicine (particularly where it intersects with technological advancements)? Is medical care primarily about restoring health or is it also for fulfilling consumer preferences? There are many questions to be raised about the philosophical underpinnings behind medicine and personal/body autonomy."I don't think people are going to be getting the toaster [body] attachment because they feel like a toaster. I think they'll be getting it because they want to toast toast."In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Sascha Bailey joins hosts Sasha and Stella as they contemplate the evolving role of medicine, exploring critical inquiry into the ethical and ideological landscapes shaping modern healthcare practices.Watch our full length episode with Sascha Bailey: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-157To listen to our premium content in your favorite podcast app click here for Substack instructions on setting up a private feed.

Guest, Sascha Bailey, reflects on his journey as a model, art curator, and pioneer in the NFT (Non-Fungible Tokens) art scene. A captivating account of the intersection where art, tech, and culture collide with personal identity. Sascha differentiates between emotional and functional motives for transitioning, discussing transmaxxing, incentives, and societal trends. Offering listeners a blend of unexpected insights, even challenging hosts, Sasha and Stella, to step outside their familiar gender-centric framework.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-157 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comThere is no question, given the recommendations outlined in WPATH’s SOC-8, that WPATH is in fact recommending extraordinary medical procedures resulting in extreme body modifications. Some of the most unusual cases, promoting individually customized procedures that are meant to create body types that don't exist in nature. So why doesn't WPATH just rebrand as a sexual cosmetic surgery group? Why do they say that these extreme body modifications are medically necessary and life -saving?In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Mia Hughes shares her insights into the above. As well as her criticisms of WPATH’s lack of accountability and diversionary tactics in response to the WPATH Files Report and leaked files.Full WPATH FilesShellenberger’s thread with clips from panel discussion video Leaked Files From Influential Transgender Medicine Group Cause Uproar, Could Imperil Liberal Efforts To Undo State Bans on Gender-Transition Treatments for Children The damning new report on the World Professional Association for Transgender Health ‘is going to really bite them,’ says a former WPATH leader. ‘I’ve tried to steer them. I gave up.’, Benjamin Ryan’s article from The New York SunGenspect presents, The Bigger Picture LisbonWatch our full length episode with Mia Hughes:To listen to our premium content in your favorite podcast app click here for Substack instructions on setting up a private feed.

Sasha and Stella welcome Mia Hughes to the show for a chilling conversation covering WPATH's evolution from a medical organization to an activist-driven group, societal implications of medical scandals across history, and the delicate distinctions within individual experiences of gender dysphoria.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-156Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comThis is a fun one folks!“This is so much more interesting than biological sex being real!” - SashaWhen considering personality, behavior, and social traits, there are some whom embrace the concept of ‘cognitive creationists’, implying that human behavior is solely shaped by socialization rather than biological factors, completely neglecting the profound…

Gender, sex, intersex conditions, hormonal interventions, sexual signaling, behavioral differences…this episode covers them all. Sasha and Stella welcome evolutionary biologist, Dr. Colin Wright for a long overdue discussion going deep into the intersection of biology, psychology, and social factors in shaping our understanding of sex and gender. This is a refreshing conversation exploring insights into the evolving discourse surrounding trans identities, the distinction between sex and gender, the principles of scientific inquiry, behavioral development, sexual orientation, and societal perceptions. There is no denying that Colin's expertise and clarity of thought contribute to a nuanced discussion on these complex topics.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-155 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comSasha and Stella ask Scarlet, “What would you have needed when you started to experiment with this idea of being transgender?”“Proper medical care would be nice”Quality therapy is essential, advocating for nuanced discussions on gender and, especially during adolescence, body image issues. A supportive environment, exposure to positive role models, and awareness around online abuse, is crucial.In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Scarlet urges professionals to recognize that decisions regarding medical transition profoundly affect all aspects of life, emphasizing challenges with medical care, romantic relationships, and societal perceptions. He advocates for a holistic approach, underscoring the complexity of navigating diverse experiences with gender identity, warning against hasty medical decisions. Rather than just focusing on ‘gender’, address the physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of a person's well-being recognizing the interconnectedness of various factors that contribute to a person's health, considering them all in diagnosis, treatment, and support.Watch our full length episode with Scarlet:To listen to our premium content in your favorite podcast app click here for Substack instructions on setting up a private feed.

Sasha and Stella share a profound and moving conversation with Scarlet, a young person who just wants “my story to add to the conversation around the impacts of transitioning as a youth - physically, mentally, and socially - both positives and negatives.” A crucial Detransition Awareness Day exploration of the nuances of self-discovery in a gender-affirming landscape. For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-154 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/  Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/  Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show  Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit: Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching   Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coaching To learn more about our sponsors, visit: Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA) Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comGiven the recent release of the WPATH Files, the question of medical ethics in pediatric gender healthcare is undeniable. Stories like Laura's shed light on significant gaps in processes promoted as "life-saving" care. The infiltration of activism in medical fields is increasingly evident, emerging through whistleblower accounts, anecdotal experiences, …

With Stella on break this week, a solo Sasha welcomes guest Laura Becker who offers insightful and endearing reflections about the misdirected creativity of ROGD girls being channeled into queer theory ideas. She shares some intimate details of her personal story including the impact of chronic abuse on her mental health, her journey on testosterone, her radical double mastectomy, and her decision to detransition.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-153 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comAfter the release of her book "Material Girls: Why Reality Matters for Feminism" in 2021, while she was a Professor of Philosophy at Sussex University, Dr. Kathleen Stock found herself being targeted by a group of activists. She faced harassment and protests including placing provocative stickers and posters throughout the campus with transphobic allegations against Stock, despite her book's thoughtful exploration of trans identification. The hostility towards Stock, which gained public attention, escalated, isolating her from her colleagues and ultimately resulted with her losing her job. Stock's experiences shed light on the broader issues surrounding academic freedom, social isolation, and the challenges of navigating contentious topics in educational institutions.In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Dr. Kathleen Stock reflects on her experiences, highlighting the lack of support from colleagues and the university. The conversation delves into the aftermath of her departure from Sussex, exploring its impact and how Stock coped with challenges, including the role of public support, family, and her transition to a new career in writing.Watch our full length episode with Dr. Kathleen Stock: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-152

Sasha and Stella welcome Dr. Kathleen Stock. Explore the complexities of identity, the nuances of “inclusive” language, societal expectations, and the balance between fiction and truth. Uncover the implicit importance honest, empathetic discussions rooted in truthful language for fostering self-discovery and acceptance.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-152 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They’re Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/ Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/ Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspodFor more information about Sasha’s & Stella’s parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching  Stella O’Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coachingTo learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)Genspect at https://genspect.org/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.widerlenspod.comThe significance of technological and scientific advancements in medicine is unquestionable. However, it prompts a critical examination of the appropriate limits when conducting experiments to uncover treatments leading to optimal outcomes. Experimentation necessarily entails risks, and achieving medical progress often involves interventions with potential dangers and unknown outcomes. Striking the right balance between advancing medical knowledge through experimental procedures and the imperative to safeguard patient health is a complex challenge. Ethical considerations must guide the pursuit of innovation to ensure that progress is achieved responsibly and with due regard for the well-being of patients.In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Dr. Eithan Haim draws a compelling distinction between the therapeutic justification underpinning effective life-saving medical treatments which may exhibit high mortality rates during their experimental phases. He cites the Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) as a prime example of this. In his analysis, he contrasts these kinds of successful interventions with historical medical practices like bloodletting and lobotomies, which proved unsuccessful in addressing psychological issues through physiological solutions. He highlights parallels to in gender medicine, expressing reservations about the potential consequences of misguided medical interventions.Watch our full length episode with Dr. Eithan Haim: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-151