Defending Transgender Identity | Amethysta Herrick, PhD | Lean to the Left Podcast

In Defending Transgender Identity on the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Amethysta Herrick, PhD, a transgender woman, scientist, and advocate, to discuss the growing wave of discriminatory legislation targeting transgender individuals.
Ami shares her remarkable story—from childhood struggles and suicide attempts to building a successful career as a scientist and executive, and ultimately transitioning to live authentically. She dives deep into the importance of identity, resilience, and the human experience, and discusses how Trump-era policies devastated the transgender community.
Ami also shares her mission with Purple Paw Clan, an organization dedicated to defending transgender rights and supporting those on their journey toward self-discovery and acceptance.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation to explore:The personal and societal challenges of gender identityThe impact of anti-transgender legislationThe importance of advocacy and educationThe story behind Purple Paw Clan and Team Water
💜 Support the cause: https://purplepawclan.comDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help amplify voices that need to be heard.#TransRights #LeanToTheLeftPodcast #PurplePawClan
CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:10 Discriminatory Legislation Against Transgender People00:56 Introducing Amethysta Herrick, PhD01:56 Amethysta's Early Life and Academic Journey03:46 Transitioning and Professional Life05:03 Family Life and Personal Struggles05:54 Exploring Gender Identity and Transition07:28 Writing and Advocacy13:51 Impact of Trump's Policies on Transgender Community18:22 Conservative Upbringing and Personal Struggles19:06 Trump's Executive Orders and Gender Affirming Care19:43 Corporate Responses to Anti-DEI Policies20:07 First Amendment and Hate Speech22:10 The Story Behind Purple Paw Clan27:30 Team Water Initiative28:47 Conclusion and Contact Information