Join us for an enlightening exploration of Herculine Barbin's remarkable life story. We delve into the compelling memoir of a 19th-century French intersex individual whose experiences continue to resonate with contemporary discussions about gender identity and societal norms. This episode navigates through Barbin's journey from their early life in a convent to their later years in Paris, examining the complex intersections of identity, society, and medical authority in 19th-century France. We'll...
May 12, 2025•26 min•Season 9Ep. 4
Join us for an illuminating exploration of Wendy Carlos, a groundbreaking electronic music pioneer and transgender trailblazer. In this episode, we delve into Carlos's remarkable journey from her early musical beginnings to her revolutionary work with the Moog Synthesizer, including creating the platinum-selling album "Switched-On Bach." We discuss her significant contributions to electronic music and her courageous decision to come out as transgender. This episode offers a powerful narrative ab...
May 05, 2025•24 min•Season 9Ep. 3
Join us for a compelling exploration of one of America's most remarkable hidden histories. In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Albert Cashier, an Irish soldier who served valiantly in the Union Army during the Civil War. Beyond the battlefield heroics and military achievements, this episode uncovers the deeper story of identity, courage, and authenticity in an era of rigid gender norms. This episode examines Cashier's journey from his early life, his distinguished military s...
Apr 28, 2025•26 min•Season 9Ep. 2
Join us for an exploration of photographer and transgender activist Loren Cameron's remarkable life and legacy. In this episode, we delve into Cameron's life, his groundbreaking work "Body Alchemy" and his revolutionary approach to trans representation in photography. We examine how Cameron's art challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations. This compelling episode provides insights into the intersection of art, identity, and activism, while honoring Cameron's lasting impac...
Apr 13, 2025•26 min•Season 9Ep. 1
Join us for an enlightening exploration of the International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV). In this episode, we delve into the history, significance, and evolution of this crucial day of recognition, from its grassroots beginnings in 2009 to its current global impact. Learn about TDOV founder Rachel Crandall-Crocker's vision, hear powerful voices from the transgender community, and understand the ongoing challenges and triumphs in the fight for transgender visibility and rights. ---------...
Apr 01, 2025•30 min•Season 8Ep. 6
Come learn more about Amelio Robles Ávila, a stunning transgender revolutionary who made history in Mexico during the tumultuous years of the Mexican Revolution. We explore the life of a man who defied gender expectations in early 20th-century Mexico. Discover how Amelio's privileged background, military prowess, and unwavering sense of identity helped him navigate the complex social landscape of his time. Learn about his successful integration into civilian life, including his legally recognize...
Mar 20, 2025•25 min•Season 8Ep. 5
Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Beverly Glenn-Copeland, a groundbreaking musician and transgender pioneer. From his early days as one of McGill University's first Black students to his 25-year career in children's television and the creation of the innovative album "Keyboard Fantasies," we'll trace Glenn-Copeland's path to becoming an inspiration for LGBTQ+ elders. This episode delves into his late-in-life transition, musical renaissance, and lasting impact on both the arts and t...
Feb 17, 2025•25 min•Season 8Ep. 4
Today, we uncover the remarkable story of Mother George, a Black trans woman who revolutionized midwifery in 19th-century Idaho. Learn how this pioneering figure delivered over 1,000 babies, broke racial barriers, and left an indelible mark on American healthcare history. Her achievements as a respected healthcare worker established a precedent for future generations of Black transgender medical practitioners, highlighting their essential contribution to community health. Mother George's narrati...
Feb 09, 2025•21 min•Season 8Ep. 3
Join us for an enlightening exploration of one of history's most fascinating examples of gender diversity - the Gallae/Galli, transgender priests of the ancient Mediterranean world. From their origins in Phrygia to their pivotal role in Roman society, discover how these remarkable individuals challenged traditional gender norms while serving as respected religious figures. ---------------------------------------------------------- @translessonplan @mariiiwrld Merch: https://trans-lesson-pla...
Jan 27, 2025•27 min•Season 8Ep. 2
Join us for an illuminating journey into the life of Jackie Shane, a groundbreaking soul singer who carved her own path through the 1960s music scene. This episode explores how Shane's unwavering authenticity and electrifying performances challenged societal norms and paved the way for transgender representation in popular music. From her early days in Nashville to her transformative years in Toronto's vibrant music scene, discover how Jackie Shane's powerful voice and fearless self-expression l...
Jan 19, 2025•31 min•Season 8Ep. 1
Join us for a special year-end episode as we celebrate the incredible growth and milestones of Trans* Lesson Plan in 2024! Listen as we reflect on the podcast's journey from its inception in 2020 to its remarkable revival and success this year. Hear about our exciting plans for 2025, and join us in celebrating the power of preserving and sharing trans history. ---------------------------------------------------------- @translessonplan @mariiiwrld Join today: www.patreon.com/translessonplan Merch...
Dec 31, 2024•19 min•Season 7Ep. 6
Join us for an inspiring exploration of Dr. Ben Barres's remarkable journey as a pioneering neuroscientist and transgender advocate. In this episode, we delve into how Dr. Barres broke barriers in academia while making groundbreaking contributions to brain science. We discover how his unique perspective on gender in science shaped his advocacy for equality in academia. Learn about his influential research, mentorship legacy, and tireless work promoting diversity in scientific fields. -----------...
Dec 23, 2024•22 min•Season 7Ep. 5
Join us for an inspiring journey through fashion history as we explore the groundbreaking story of Tracey "Africa" Norman, the first African-American trans model to achieve mainstream success in the 1970s. From her meteoric rise in the fashion industry to her historic Clairol campaigns, we delve into Norman's remarkable journey of resilience, authenticity, and triumph. In this 20-ish minute episode, we'll explore her breakthrough moments, the challenges she faced in a groundbreaking career, her ...
Dec 08, 2024•22 min•Season 7Ep. 4
In this episode of the Trans* Lesson Plan Podcast, we will be honoring the lives lost to anti-trans violence in the year (2024). We'll also delve into the history and significance of Transgender Day of Remembrance. We discuss the current state of violence against transgender individuals, presenting sobering statistics from 2024 and explaining how these cases are tracked and reported. The episode also covers the impact of TDOR on transgender history and activism, and concludes with a call to acti...
Nov 20, 2024•20 min•Season 7Ep. 4
In this enlightening episode of the Trans* Lesson Plan Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary life of Michael Dillon, a pioneering figure in transgender history. Michael became the first known transgender man to undergo phalloplasty, setting the stage for modern gender-affirming surgeries. From his groundbreaking medical procedures to his spiritual journey as a Buddhist monk, Michael's story is one of courage, resilience, and relentless pursuit of authenticity. Join us as we explore how this r...
Nov 18, 2024•27 min•Season 7Ep. 3
Link to Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/shop/translessonplan This special announcement unveils our carefully curated list of must-read books on transgender history. Discover why we've created our list with Bookshop.org to bring you this collection and learn how your literary journey can support both independent bookstores and the amplification of trans authors and allies. Whether you're a seasoned reader of trans literature or just beginning to explore the subject, this list offers valuable insig...
Nov 13, 2024•2 min•Season 7Ep. 3
In this episode of the Trans Lesson Plan Podcast, we explore the fascinating history of Casa Susanna, a hidden sanctuary in the Catskill Mountains of New York during the 1950s and 60s. Discover how this cozy retreat became a pivotal safe haven for transgender women and cross-dressing men in an era of intense societal pressure and discrimination. Join us as we uncover the story of Susanna Valenti and the diverse community that found solace and self-expression at Casa Susanna. --------------------...
Nov 10, 2024•31 min•Season 7Ep. 2
In this captivating episode of the Trans Lesson Plan Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary life of Roberta Cowell, a pioneering figure in transgender history. From her daring exploits as a World War II Spitfire pilot to becoming one of the first individuals in Britain to undergo gender-affirming surgery, Cowell's journey is a testament to courage, resilience, and authenticity. Join us as we explore Cowell's early life, her wartime experiences, and the challenges she faced in her post-war tran...
Oct 07, 2024•22 min•Season 7Ep. 1
Discover the extraordinary life of William Dorsey Swann, the first known self-proclaimed drag queen and a pioneering LGBTQ+ activist. In this captivating episode of the Trans Lesson Plan Podcast, we journey back to the late 19th century to explore Swann's remarkable story - from his birth into slavery to his role in shaping the foundations of modern drag culture and LGBTQ+ rights. Learn about Swann's legendary drag balls in Washington D.C., which provided a sanctuary for gender expression in an ...
Sep 09, 2024•24 min•Season 6Ep. 6
In this eye-opening episode of the Trans Lesson Plan Podcast, we delve into the remarkable story of Vanguard, a groundbreaking organization that emerged in 1960s San Francisco. Discover how this group of homeless gay youth became pioneers in LGBTQ+ rights and laid crucial groundwork for transgender activism. From their innovative "street sweep" protests to their unapologetic celebration of non-normative identities, Vanguard challenged societal norms and fought for the most marginalized members o...
Sep 02, 2024•21 min•Season 6Ep. 5
In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Dr. Harry Benjamin, a pioneering figure in transgender healthcare. Discover how his groundbreaking work in the mid-20th century transformed medical practice and laid the foundation for modern transgender care. From his early influences in Berlin to his impactful career in the United States, Dr. Benjamin's compassionate approach and advocacy for transgender rights have left an indelible mark on history. Join us as we explore his contributions,...
Aug 26, 2024•20 min•Season 6Ep. 4
Join us for a delightful episode as we explore the inspiring life of Reed Erickson, a pioneer in transgender history. Discover how Erickson's journey from personal transformation to philanthropic leadership paved the way for significant advancements in transgender healthcare and rights. Through the Erickson Educational Foundation, he supported initiatives that transformed the medical landscape for transgender individuals, establishing the first standards of care and backing groundbreaking resear...
Aug 20, 2024•19 min•Season 6Ep. 3
In this episode, we explore the incredible history and impact of FTM International, Inc. Founded in 1986 by pioneering transgender activist Lou Sullivan, FTM International, Inc. has been a cornerstone of support and advocacy for transgender men. We'll delve into the organization's founding, its early years of providing essential resources, and its ongoing efforts in advocacy, education, and community building. Discover how FTM International, Inc. has shaped transgender history and continues to i...
Aug 11, 2024•20 min•Season 6Ep. 2
Big announcement! 🎉 Your favorite podcast, the Trans* Lesson Plan, is making its way to Patreon! This presents an amazing opportunity for our dedicated listeners to engage with us on a deeper level and access a host of exclusive content. As our Patreon member, you will not only have early access to episodes, but also private episodes that won’t be released on any other platform. But that's not all! You will also get exclusive discounts on our merchandise, invitations for virtual history session...
Jul 14, 2024•1 min
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Discord server for the Trans Lesson Plan Podcast! Join us as we dive into the exciting features and opportunities our Discord community offers. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, our Discord community is the perfect place to connect with like-minded individuals, share your thoughts, and deepen your understanding of transgender history and experiences. Don't miss this opportunity on being a part of this vibrant and in...
Jul 12, 2024•1 min
In this episode of the Trans Lesson Plan Podcast, host Mari dives into the life and legacy of Billy Tipton, a talented jazz musician whose story has profoundly impacted transgender history. Born Dorothy Lucille Tipton, Billy navigated the challenges of a male-dominated industry and lived most of his life as a man, keeping his assigned gender at birth a secret until after his death. Join us as we explore Billy's musical success, the discovery of his secret, and his enduring impact on the transgen...
Jul 08, 2024•21 min•Season 6Ep. 1
In this episode, we delve into the inspiring history of the High Risk Project Society (HRPS), a transformative organization that advocated for transgender rights and provided essential resources for the marginalized transgender community in Vancouver. We discuss the challenges HRPS faced, their remarkable contributions, and the enduring legacy they left behind. This episode illuminates the importance of intersectionality in activism and the need for targeted support for marginalized communities....
Jun 30, 2024•21 min•Season 5Ep. 6
Dive into the intriguing life of Emperor Elagabalus, a figure that redefined gender norms in ancient Rome. In this episode, we explore the complexities of her reign, her unconventional gender behavior, and her profound impact on our understanding of Roman history and the fluidity of gender identities. ---------------------------------------------------- @translessonplan @mariiiwrld
Jun 16, 2024•21 min•Season 5Ep. 5
In this episode, we transport you back to mid-20th century Chicago to explore the vibrant and resilient community of Queer Bronzeville. From lively nightclubs to influential drag balls, discover how this unique haven thrived amidst systemic racism and homophobia. Hear the untold story of Lucy Hicks Anderson, a celebrated Black trans woman, and delve into the incredible impact Queer Bronzeville had on transgender history. ---------------------------------------------------- @translessonplan @mari...
Jun 16, 2024•17 min•Season 5Ep. 4
Welcome to this enlightening episode where we're journeying back to the late 19th century! We're going to explore the captivating story of Cercle Hermaphroditos, which is arguably the first known organization for the advocacy of transgender rights in the United States. Together, we'll dig into the society's mission, tackle the hurdles they faced, and celebrate their lasting impact on transgender history. Their bravery, resilience, and defiance against towering odds carved a path for future gener...
Jun 02, 2024•19 min•Season 5Ep. 3
