TransLash Podcast with Imara Jones

What does it mean to write yourself into the world when the world tries to write you out of it?  First, Imara honors the late Andrea Gibson with a special trans joy segment. Then in an intimate conversation, Imara sits down with poet and multidisciplinary artist Golden to explore the power of trans poetry as a vehicle for kinship building and identity formation. Together, they dig into how Golden’s work weaves together themes of family, legacy, and justice through both words and photography. Golden also reflects on poetry as a practice of mapping the past and future and what role it can play in understanding anti-trans and anti-Black violence.Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guest on social media: Golden: Instagram (@goldenthem_)TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.The Translash team includes Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway, Hillary Esquina, and Morgan Astbury. Lucy Little did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At a time when trans stories are under attack and disinformation is spreading fast, the role of trans journalists has never been more vital. In this episode, Imara speaks with Tre’vell Anderson about their new role as co-executive director of the Trans Journalists Association (TJA). Tre’vell reflects on the idea of “activist journalism,” the ways mainstream outlets are failing to accurately report on trans issues, and why hiring gender expansive journalists is so important at this moment. They also share their vision for the future and how TJA is building power and support for reporters across the industry.Read “Trans Voices in America” on TransLash Wire here: https://translash.org/wire/trans-voices-of-america/ Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Kaylee Lindenmuth: Facebook (KayleeLindenmuth)Tre’vell Anderson: Instagram (@rayzhon)TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.The Translash team includes Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway, Hillary Esquina, and Morgan Astbury. Lucy Little did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite political attacks and threats to our safety, trans people are still living full, complex and beautiful lives in the United States.In this special episode, Imara introduces TransLash Wire, our new written platform dedicated to original journalism centering trans perspectives from corners of the country that are often overlooked. To celebrate the launch of this new initiative, Imara has a meaningful conversation with Morgan Peterson, a youth support worker in Sioux Falls, who shares how trans kids are surviving and thriving in South Dakota. Then, our host sits down with Wilson and Miss B Haven for a colorful and moving conversation about what life is like for this T4T couple in Durham, North Carolina. Read “Trans Voices in America” on TransLash Wire here: https://translash.org/wire/trans-voices-of-america/ Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Lewis Raven Wallace: Instagram (@lewispants) Bluesky (‪@lewispants.bsky.social‬)South Dakota Transformation Project: Instagram (@sdtransformproj) TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Lucy Little did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As attacks on our community continue to escalate, trans-led organizations are facing a double crisis: rising needs and shrinking resources. In this episode, Imara examines the state of funding for queer and trans issues with two insightful interviews. First, Alexander Lee from Funders for LGBTQ  breaks down who’s getting funded – and who’s not – in the current philanthropic landscape. After that, Marin Watts from the Trans Justice Funding Project gives insight into how grassroots trans organizers are continuing to do life-saving work with minimal support. He also makes the case for using community-led, charitable trust systems and explains how this model can help move more money faster than traditional institutional philanthropy. Subscribe to The Mess: Imara’s Guide to Our Political Hellscape on Apple Podcasts.Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Valentine Vandal: Instagram (@valentine.vandal)Alexander Lee: Bluesky (@lgbtfunders.bsky.social)Marin Watts: Instagram (@transjusticeFP) X (@transjusticeFP) TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Lucy Little did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Supreme Court has upheld a Tennessee law barring gender-affirming care for minors. This is a devastating blow to trans kids and adults across the country, especially in the 25 states that currently have bans on gender affirming care for young people. To unpack the Court’s decision, Imara spoke with award-winning journalist and “Law Dork” writer Chris Geidner in a conversation TransLash Media livestreamed on YouTube. Chris explains the conservative Justices’ reasoning around the question of sex-based discrimination and the implications of this landmark case. Watch the livestream of the conversation here. Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Chris Geinder: Instagram (@chrisgeidner) Bluesky (‪@chrisgeidner.bsky.social‬) X (@chrisgeidner) TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. AJ Jaramz did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the military ban takes effect, thousands of trans service members have been purged from the forces based solely on their identity. In this episode, Imara speaks with two former officers who have been at the frontlines of this fight. First, Bree Fram shares what it was like to come out and serve as one of the highest ranking, openly trans people in the military. She explains the state of the legal challenges to the ban and why the harm has already been done regardless of the final ruling. Then, Sam Rodriguez shares their journey to becoming a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps as a non-binary person. Bree Fram and Sam Rodriguez were interviewed in their personal capacities. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense or the United States military. Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Early Brunner: Instagram (@recoverydemystified)Bree Fram: Instagram (@bree.fram) TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Lucy Little did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to parent outside the boundaries of motherhood or fatherhood? As part of our ongoing Families series, Imara sits down with artist and educator Johnny Blazes to explore the joys and challenges of raising a child as a non-binary parent. Johnny shares their journey of losing their first-born child, being misgendered by other parents, and learning to pick their battles as a gender non-conforming caregiver. They also discuss the origin story of “Non-Binary Parents Day” and how the holiday has taken on a life of its own. Subscribe to The Mess: Imara’s Guide to Our Political Hellscape on Apple Podcasts.Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Kah Yangni: (@kahyangni)Johnny Blazes: Instagram (@johnny.blazes) TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Lucy Little did the sound editing and engineering for this episode.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With sweeping cuts to Medicaid under debate in Congress, access to lifesaving healthcare for millions is on the line. In this episode, Imara explores the potential consequences of Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill” with Congresswoman Sarah McBride and labor organizer Ai-jen Poo. Rep. McBride explains how these proposed changes would put millions of people at risk of losing access to healthcare, including a disproportionate number of trans people. Then Ai-jen Poo, president of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, highlights the broader impact on low-income families, caregivers, and communities of color. Subscribe to The Mess: Imara’s Guide to Our Political Hellscape on Apple Podcasts.Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media: Rep. Sarah McBride: Instagram (@congresswomansarahmcbride) and Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/mcbride.house.gov)Ai-jen Poo: Instagram (@aijenp) and X (@aijenpoo) TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Xander Adams is our Senior Sound Engineer and a contributing producer.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amid relentless political attacks, rest is not a luxury for trans people—it’s a necessary act of survival. In this episode, Imara explores how our communities can cultivate wellness, restoration, and resilience in the face of burnout and grief. She’s joined by yoga instructor Avery Kalapa who shares their advice for reducing anxiety and finding peace within ourselves through movement. Then, organizer and spiritual worker Adaku Utah discusses the politics of rest, the relationship between somatics and liberation work, and the importance of staying rooted in your own needs during times of upheaval. Subscribe to The Mess: Imara’s Guide to Our Political Hellscape on Apple Podcasts.Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media:Avery Kalapa: Instagram (@yoga_with_avery) and Bluesky (@yogawithavery.bsky.social)Adaku Utah: Instagram (@soularbliss)TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Xander Adams is our Senior Sound Engineer and a contributing producer.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marsha P. Johnson helped change the world—and now, she’s getting the biography she deserves. This week, Imara sits down with author and artist Tourmaline to talk about her groundbreaking new book, Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson. Tourmaline shares what it took to piece together Marsha’s story, from her early life in Times Square to her radical visions of freedom, spirituality, and care. She also unpacks Marsha’s expansive political imagination, her collaborations with groups like the Black Panthers, and why telling the full truth about her legacy matters more than ever in the face of right-wing historical revisionism. Send your trans joy recommendations to translash_podcast @ translash [dot] org Follow TransLash Media @translashmedia on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, X, and Facebook.Follow Imara Jones on Instagram (@Imara_jones_), Threads (@imara_jones_), Bluesky (@imarajones.bsky.social), X (@ImaraJones)Follow our guests on social media:Caro de Robertis: Instagram (@caro_derobertis)Tourmaline: Instagram (@tourmaliiine)TransLash Podcast is produced by TransLash Media.Translash Team: Imara Jones, Oliver-Ash Kleine, Aubrey Calaway. Xander Adams is our Senior Sound Engineer and a contributing producer.Morgan Astbury is our Social Media Coordinator. Hillary Esquina is our Director of Digital Media and Social. Theme music composed by Ben Draghi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.