The Protocol

Scott Leibowitz, a former pediatric gender clinic director in Ohio, shares his insights on the legislative changes affecting transgender youth care. He discusses the emotional turmoil faced by families caught between political decisions and their children’s health needs. The conversation delves into the implications of the SAFE Act, the struggles of those who have detransitioned, and the ethical challenges healthcare professionals encounter. Through personal stories, the complexities of navigating trans rights and identity in today's political climate are illuminated.

Hilary Cass, chair of the independent review into services for gender-questioning youth, and Marcy Bowers, a renowned surgeon in trans medicine, tackle the complex landscape of youth gender care. They reveal the weaknesses in existing research and discuss the ethical ramifications of current treatment protocols. The duo emphasizes the necessity for robust clinical evidence as trans youth seek care in a politically charged environment. Their candid insights challenge prevailing narratives and stress the importance of nuanced, personalized approaches in trans healthcare.

Jamie Reid, a former case manager at the Washington University Transgender Center, shares her journey as a whistleblower who raised alarms about pediatric gender care. She reveals alarming treatment practices and the emotional toll on families facing tough decisions. The conversation dives into ethical dilemmas surrounding gender-affirming care, questioning established protocols and advocating for comprehensive support beyond medical interventions. Reid also highlights the rising tensions in public opinion and legal battles concerning transgender healthcare for youth.

Laura Edwards-Leeper, a clinical psychologist who established the first youth gender clinic in the U.S., and Joe Olson-Kennedy, a physician advocating for gender-affirming care, delve into the evolution of treatment for transgender youth. They discuss the adaptation of the Dutch model to U.S. contexts, the increasing demand for care, and the rise of non-binary identities. Their insights touch on the complexities of assessing gender identity, the importance of trust in self-identification, and the need for thoughtful, child-led approaches in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Explore the groundbreaking Dutch Protocol for treating youth with gender dysphoria. Hear personal stories highlighting the benefits of early intervention and the complexities faced by families. Delve into the stark differences between the Dutch and American approaches to gender care. Discover how personalized evaluations and psychological support play crucial roles in navigating gender identity during childhood. Gain insights into the impact of timely access to treatment and the evolving landscape of transgender health care.

Dive into a compelling exploration of youth gender medicine rooted in The Netherlands. Discover the emotional challenges faced during puberty for transgender individuals and the critical role of puberty blockers. Engage with the heated debates surrounding transgender rights in the U.S., especially with upcoming Supreme Court decisions. Through personal narratives, hear about the transformative journeys of those advocating for early medical interventions and the importance of supportive healthcare in navigating gender transition.

The podcast dives into the complex landscape of transgender rights and healthcare, exploring the rise of bans on medical treatments for transgender minors across the U.S. It examines the political battles surrounding youth gender medicine and sheds light on personal stories that illustrate the real-world consequences of legislation. The discussion also highlights the vital role of journalism in advocating for trans rights as misinformation circulates, making for a compelling look at a pressing social issue.