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Gender in Focus

TransFocus

What does it really take to create an inclusive world for trans and non-binary people? If you've ever wondered how to make meaningful changes - whether at work, in your community, at home, or beyond - you're in the right place. Hosted by Kai, President of TransFocus Consulting, Gender in Focus dives into the heart of inclusion, with real stories, expert advice and practical tips. Sometimes Kai will be joined by special guests, but each week, you can expect fresh perspectives, moments of reflection, and actionable takeaways to help you lead with kindness, confidence, and a whole lot of heart. Hey, maybe you’ll learn more about your own gender through different experiences. So, whether you're already on your inclusion journey or just getting started, tune in and discover how you can make change happen. Let's get started - change is just a conversation away.

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21 episodes
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Avg 31 min
English

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Monday · 41 min
A Trans Employee Came Out at Work - What Should HR Do Next?
A transgender employee just came out at work—what should HR do next? In this episode of Gender in Focus, El and Kai break down exactly what HR, managers, and DEI leaders need to know when an employee discloses their gender identity at work, and why "employee-led" doesn't mean hands-off. TransFocus consults organizations on building trans and non-binary inclusive workplaces, and in this episode Kai and El go deep on what workplace disclosure really looks like: what transgender and non-binary employees are weighing before they ever say a word, why so many feel like a burden just for asking for the basics, and what a proper trans inclusion toolkit actually needs to cover. In this episode, we cover: What "disclosure" means (and why we don't say "coming out" or "transitioning" at work) Why work is usually the last place transgender and non-binary people come out—and what that tells you about the risk they're taking What "employee-led" actually means, and how HR and managers get it wrong in both directions The practical stuff no one thinks about: pronouns, names, gender markers, time off, who tells the team, and how Why having zero policy in place is a legal risk, not a neutral stance What transgender and non-binary employees are legally entitled to ask for at work (workplace rights and accommodations) How to build (or get) a disclosure toolkit for your organization Get our free disclosure template: join the TransFocus newsletter and we'll send you our 10-12 page disclosure template—a ready-to-use HR guide covering exactly what to ask, what not to ask, and how to document a workplace disclosure process properly. 👉 https://www.transfocus.ca/freeresourcedownload Want a tailored trans inclusion toolkit for your organization? TransFocus works directly with organizations to build custom trans and non-binary inclusion toolkits and disclosure guidelines. 👉 www.transfocus.ca/organization Gender in Focus is a podcast from TransFocus, exploring gender diversity, transgender and non-binary experience, and how organizations and individuals can build genuinely inclusive workplaces and communities. New episodes weekly. Follow the show so you don't miss an episode, and if this one was useful, a rating and review helps other HR leaders and DEI professionals find it. Connect with us online: 🌐 Learn more about how we can support your workplace: www.transfocus.ca/organization 📸 Instagram: @transfocusconsulting 🎥 Watch our YouTube episodes here: www.youtube.com/@transfocusconsulting 📧 Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: www.podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com
August 17 · 33 min
"Have You Had 'The' Surgery?" - The Question Trans People Can't Escape
Why does almost every conversation about trans people eventually turn to surgery? In this episode of Gender in Focus, El and Kai Scott unpack the "have you had the surgery?" question — where it comes from, what it reveals about cis assumptions around gender and bodies, and why it's especially loaded at work. Kai breaks down why "the surgery" is never just one surgery, why genitals so often become the unspoken centre of the question, and why most trans people never undergo every — or even any — gender-affirming surgery. El and Kai also dig into the difference between a question that comes from genuine support and one that's really just about satisfying your own curiosity, using a powerful story about disability, dignity, and asking better questions. Then they bring it into the workplace specifically: how much (if anything) a trans employee should have to share about medical transition, what HR and managers actually need to know versus what they're just curious about, and how organizations can avoid treating trans and non-binary staff as a monolith. If you've ever wondered whether a question you're curious about is actually okay to ask — or if you're trans or non-binary and tired of fielding it — this episode is for you. If this episode was helpful, the best way to support the show is to follow it and leave us a rating and review — it makes a real difference in helping other people find these conversations. About Gender in Focus: Gender in Focus is a podcast from TransFocus, exploring gender diversity, trans and non-binary experiences, and how organizations and individuals can build genuinely inclusive workplaces and communities. New episodes weekly. Connect with us online: 🌐 Learn more about how we can support your workplace: www.transfocus.ca/organization 📸 Instagram: @transfocusconsulting 🎥 Watch our YouTube episodes here: www.youtube.com/@transfocusconsulting 📧 Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: www.podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com
August 10 · 28 min
Supporting Trans Employees Through Hostile News Cycles
Trans and non-binary employees are exhausted by non-stop anti-trans news cycles — and most workplace support falls flat because it's performative, not practical. In this episode of Gender in Focus, El and Kai unpack the real impact that constant anti-trans news, legislation, and court rulings (including the U.S. Supreme Court's Skrmetti decision) are having on trans and non-binary employees — and why so much of the standard advice for supporting them at work misses the mark. They dig into why "performative allyship" — Pride flags, one-off statements, quick reactions to every headline — often does more harm than good, and what actually makes trans and non-binary employees feel supported day to day. They also explore the hidden cost of hyper-visibility: why organizations shouldn't rely on their trans and non-binary employees to educate everyone else, defend policy decisions, or explain every headline — and what sustainable, everyday inclusion looks like instead. Whether you work in HR, DEI, or people leadership, this episode gives you practical, non-performative ways to support trans and non-binary staff through a hostile news cycle — including how to find the balance between over-responding to every issue and ignoring it altogether, how to recover from mistakes without falling into performative guilt, and what to actually prioritize this year to build real trans allyship and gender diversity in your workplace. Gender in Focus is a weekly podcast from TransFocus exploring trans and non-binary workplace inclusion, gender diversity, and what's happening in the world for trans people — for HR professionals, DEI practitioners, and anyone building a genuinely inclusive workplace. Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations! Connect with us online: 🌐 Learn more about how we can support your workplace: www.transfocus.ca/organization 📸 Instagram: @transfocusconsulting 🎥 Watch our YouTube episodes here: www.youtube.com/@transfocusconsulting 📧 Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: www.podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com
August 3 · 41 min
Trans Regret Rates: What the Research Actually Shows
Do trans people regret transitioning? The research says something very different from what most people assume about transition regret. In this episode, El and Kai break down the real data on transgender regret rates, gender-affirming care outcomes, and detransition statistics — including a meta-analysis of 27 studies across 14 countries and nearly 8,000 trans patients, which found a combined regret rate of just 1%, compared to 20% or more for other common medical procedures like bariatric surgery and LASIK. They unpack why regret after gender-affirming surgery happens on the rare occasions it does (hint: it's mostly not about gender identity), the pressure trans and non-binary people face to have "all the answers" before being taken seriously, and what loved ones can actually do if they're afraid someone they care about might regret transitioning. They close with practical guidance on responding to a loved one's gender journey — binary or non-binary — with curiosity instead of fear. In this episode: Why regret became the go-to fear around trans identities Transgender regret rates vs. other medical and surgical procedures What regret is actually about when it happens Detransition and detransitioner support — what the research says How to support a loved one exploring their gender identity A free allyship resource for working through "stuck" thoughts and bias Resources mentioned: 1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8099405/ 2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002961024002381 3. https://int.livhospital.com/most-regretted-surgery-the-shocking-top-5-list/ Stress-Free Allyship guide: https://www.transfocus.ca/s/Final-_-TransFocus-Resource-on-Stress-Free-Allyship-Resource.pdf About Gender in Focus: Gender in Focus is a podcast from TransFocus, exploring gender diversity, trans and non-binary experiences, and how organizations and individuals can build genuinely inclusive workplaces and communities. New episodes weekly. Connect with us online: 🌐 Learn more about how we can support your workplace: www.transfocus.ca/organization 📸 Instagram: @transfocusconsulting 🎥 Watch our YouTube episodes here: www.youtube.com/@transfocusconsulting 📧 Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: www.podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com
July 27 · 44 min
"You're Making Us Look Bad": Why Trans People Police Each Other
“You’re making us look bad.” It’s a phrase some trans and non-binary people have heard. Not from critics, but from other trans people who worry that being too visible, too different, or too outspoken will make acceptance harder for everyone. In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai and El explore the fear that sits underneath comments like “tone it down,” “don’t rock the boat,” and “you’re asking for too much.” Why do conversations about pronouns, non-binary identities, gender expression, and visibility sometimes create tension within the trans and non-binary community itself? Together, we unpack how fear of backlash can turn inward, why trans and non-binary people are not a monolith, and what happens when people feel pressured to make themselves smaller in order to be accepted. We also explore what organizations, allies, and community members can learn from the wide range of experiences and perspectives that exist across the trans and non-binary community. Whether you’re trans, non-binary, questioning, an ally, or simply interested in understanding today’s conversations around gender identity, pronouns, inclusion, and belonging, this episode offers a thoughtful look at one of the most complex and misunderstood dynamics within the trans community. Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations! Connect with us online: 🌐 Learn more about how we can support your workplace: www.transfocus.ca/organization 📸 Instagram: @transfocusconsulting 🎥 Watch our YouTube episodes here: www.youtube.com/@transfocusconsulting 📧 Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: www.podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com Join us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and Facebook. SEO Keywords: Trans community, Non-binary identities, Gender identity, Pronouns, Gender expression, Trans inclusion, Trans acceptance, Trans allyship, Non-binary people, Gender diversity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, Workplace inclusion, Respectability politics, Social acceptance, Allyship, Trans rights.
July 20 · 38 min
The Problem With Trans People's Old Photos Nobody Talks About
Photos are supposed to preserve memories. But what happens when a photo captures a time in your life that feels complicated to look back on? For many trans and non-binary people, photos from before coming out or transitioning can bring up a wide range of reactions. Some people find them painful or uncomfortable. Some keep them private. Others find them funny, nostalgic, or even enjoy sharing before-and-after photos. In this episode of Gender in Focus, El and Kai explore the often-overlooked topic of old photos of trans people and why there is no single “right” way for trans and non-binary people to feel about them. What should you do if you accidentally find a photo of someone from before they transitioned? Should you mention it? Ignore it? Ask about it? El and Kai unpack these questions while exploring why trans and non-binary people can have very different relationships with old photos, ranging from discomfort and privacy to humour, nostalgia, and celebration. They also discuss how social media features like Facebook Memories can unexpectedly bring past images back into view, why asking to see photos from before someone’s transition may not be as harmless as it seems, and how friends, family members, partners, coworkers, and workplaces can navigate old photos with more thoughtfulness and care. Whether you’re a trans person reflecting on your own relationship with photos from before transition or someone who wants to better support the trans and non-binary people in your life, this episode offers practical insights into a topic that many people have never stopped to consider. In this episode: Why trans and non-binary people can have very different reactions to old photos Photos from before transition and coming out What to do if you find an old photo of a trans or non-binary person Facebook Memories, social media, and unexpected reminders of the past Before-and-after photos and transition journeys Comments and “compliments” that can miss the mark Family photo albums, photos on display, and shared memories Workplace photos, staff directories, websites, and ID badges How to navigate old photos without making assumptions Gender in Focus is a podcast from TransFocus Consulting exploring gender, allyship, inclusion, and the everyday experiences of trans and non-binary people. Connect with us online: 🌐 Website: www.TransFocus.ca ✉️ Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: www.podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/ Join us on social media: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | Facebook
July 13 · 53 min
Why Inclusive Workplaces Still Exclude Non-Binary People (And How to Fix It)
Many organizations are working hard to become more inclusive of trans and non-binary people. But even in workplaces with supportive leaders, inclusive policies, and good intentions, non-binary employees can still end up being overlooked. In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai and El explore what happens when workplace systems are built around the assumption that everyone is either a man or a woman. From gender data collection and workplace washrooms to employee programs, surveys, and everyday interactions, they unpack the hidden ways non-binary people can be excluded even in organizations that genuinely want to do the right thing. They discuss: • Why non-binary identities are often misunderstood as a “third gender” rather than a diverse range of experiences • Why workplace washrooms, gender data collection, employee programs, and other everyday systems can create barriers for non-binary employees • Why many non-binary people feel invisible in workplaces that were never designed with them in mind • The impact of constantly navigating assumptions about gender, appearance, and identity • Why many non-binary employees choose not to raise concerns, even when barriers exist • The difference between cultural barriers and structural barriers in workplace inclusion • How organizations can move beyond good intentions and create systems that work for a wider range of experiences • The unique strengths, perspectives, and problem-solving approaches non-binary people bring to teams and workplaces They also explore a bigger question: What if non-binary inclusion isn’t just about supporting non-binary people? What if it helps organizations build workplaces that are more flexible, responsive, and effective for everyone? Whether you work in human resources, EDI, leadership, operations, education, healthcare, or are simply interested in workplace inclusion, this episode challenges some of the most common assumptions about gender at work and offers practical ways to build workplaces where more people can thrive. Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations! Connect with us online: 🌐 Website: www.TransFocus.ca ✉️ Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/ Join us on social media: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | Facebook Workplace Inclusion, Non-Binary Identity, Gender Diversity in Business, HR Best Practices, EDI Strategy, Inclusive Leadership, Trans and Non-Binary Support, Gender-inclusive workplace policies.
July 6 · 22 min
It's Not Just Trans People Who Hate Public Bathrooms
Let’s be honest: public washrooms are a space that a lot of us, whether trans or not, deeply dislike. Between the giant gaps around stall doors, the total lack of auditory privacy, and the strange amount of eye contact it’s somehow possible to make while peeing, it often feels like public bathroom design completely ignores how uncomfortable the experience actually is for the people using them. This week, El and Kai dive into the one room we all seem to collectively hate. They unpack the history behind modern public washroom design, why so many bathrooms prioritize cost and maintenance over privacy and comfort, and how conversations around trans-inclusive washrooms are starting to reshape the way people think about public spaces more broadly. They discuss: • Why so many bathroom stalls have those huge gaps, and why they became standard in the first place • How a lack of visual and auditory privacy can turn an awkward experience into something genuinely stressful for trans and non-binary people • The emotional labour, safety calculations, and health risks that can come with navigating public washrooms • Why some people avoid public bathrooms altogether • Practical ways organizations can improve privacy and comfort without needing a massive renovation budget • Why better washroom design benefits far more people than many realize Whether you work in design, run an organization, or you’re simply someone who has ever hung a coat over a stall gap for a tiny bit of privacy, this episode explores what happens when we start designing public spaces around actual human experience instead of just efficiency. Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations! Connect with us online: 🌐 Website: www.TransFocus.ca ✉️ Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/ Join us on social media: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | Facebook
June 22 · 24 min
Most Organizations Collect Gender Data for No Reason
Why does your organization ask for gender on so many forms, surveys, and employee systems? For many workplaces, the honest answer is surprisingly simple: “Because we’ve always done it that way.” In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai and El unpack the hidden assumptions, workplace risks, and ethical questions surrounding gender data collection. From human resources systems and onboarding forms to healthcare benefits and workplace engagement surveys, they explore what can go wrong when organizations collect gender information without a clear purpose - or start using that data to make assumptions about pronouns, identities, or legal records. They discuss: • Why many organizations struggle to explain why they collect gender data • How workplace systems quietly repurpose gender information behind the scenes • Why mandatory gender questions can create anxiety and mistrust among trans and non-binary people • The common ways organizations accidentally misuse gender data • When gender data collection actually is useful, including pay equity and representation tracking • Why voluntary disclosure and transparency matter • How organizations can audit forms, surveys, HR systems, and employee records more responsibly Whether you work in human resources, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), compliance, healthcare, education, operations, or workplace leadership, this episode offers a practical look at how employee data collection impacts real people - and why small form fields can have much bigger consequences than organizations realize. 🛠️ Take Action: Audit Your Organization's Forms The simple recommendation is: if you don't have a use for it, don't collect it. Take the first step toward ethical data practices by downloading the free 10-page Gender Data Uses Template highlighted by Kai in this episode. Use this operational tool to run a clean inventory of your data collection points, map out downstream system access, and activate your data in ways that are safe, powerful and beneficial. 👉 [Download the Free Gender Data Uses Template Here] 🔍 Key Episode Topics & Search Terms Workplace gender data collection, diversity equity and inclusion metrics, ethical data practices HR, transgender workplace privacy, designing inclusive surveys, corporate compliance, demographic data tracking. Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations! Connect with us online: 🌐 Website: www.TransFocus.ca ✉️ Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/ Join us on social media: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | Facebook
June 8 · 31 min
Why Your All-Gender Bathroom Isn't Working
Thinking about making your office washrooms more inclusive? Slapping an “all-gender” sign on an existing door might seem like a quick, low-cost fix, but it almost always backfires. In this episode of Gender in Focus, El and resident "washroom king" Kai Scott to pull back the curtain on the design and corporate strategy required to build a successful all-gender multi-stall facility. From knocking down load-bearing walls to navigating deep-seated workplace tensions, we break down why simple sign changes fail and how to design a space that actually works for everyone. What We Discuss in This Episode: How to navigate limited footprints, existing plumbing, and structural limitations - e.g. load-bearing walls. Why converting only one gendered washroom into an all-gender space while keeping the other one gender-specific (e.g., keeping the women's room but converting the men's, or vice versa) triggers organizational friction and resentment. How to conduct a physical washroom inventory by counting actual fixtures (i.e., toilets and urinals) to see if your facilities are falling behind corporate inclusion benchmarks. The benefits of transparent information sessions that explain the "why" behind the changes, lower internal anxiety, and highlight how all-gender facilities benefit families, care aides, and employees with mobility devices. Resources Mentioned: Clayton Community Center All-Gender Bathroom Video Tour: https://youtu.be/x7Hjh7Ao9fA?si=wBXsAXg3uV3n0K2C Book a Washroom Strategy Session with TransFocus: https://www.transfocus.ca/organization Download the Free Washroom Inventory Tool: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1L2tcgCJoG0xYX0ssQfFIMfKHyZbtyJvA/edit?gid=1956903258#gid=1956903258 Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations!
June 1 · 26 min
You Can't Tell Someone's Gender From Their Pronouns
Most people automatically assume they know someone’s gender the moment they hear their pronouns. But pronouns and gender identity are not always the same thing — and that mental shortcut can create a surprising amount of confusion, pressure, and harm. In this episode, El and Kai unpack one of the most misunderstood conversations around pronouns and gender diversity. Together, they explore why people often try to “reverse engineer” someone’s gender from their pronouns, where that assumption comes from, and why separating pronouns from gender identity actually makes respectful communication much simpler. 🔍 In this episode, we unpack: Why pronouns and gender identity are not interchangeable The “autopilot” thinking that leads people to make assumptions about strangers Why some people use pronouns that others may not expect The exhausting reality of daily misgendering for many non-binary people How workplace systems accidentally create bad data and reinforce incorrect assumptions Why titles like Mr., Mrs., Ms., and Mx. can create unexpected issues in HR systems How organizations unintentionally create extra pressure for trans and non-binary staff Why respectful communication is often much simpler than people think Kai also shares data from TransPulse Canada showing how frequently non-binary people experience incorrect assumptions about their gender in everyday life. 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS • Master Inclusive Communication: Want to build a confident, inclusive workplace culture? Explore the TransFocus On-Demand DEI Courses for actionable training on mistake recovery, navigating microaggressions, and respectful team interactions: https://transfocusacademy.thinkific.com/courses/gender-diversity-basics-course?th__ug=3f3cab1f&th__c=websitepromo • The Data Source: Check out the community research and metrics collected by TransPulse Canada mentioned by Kai in today's episode: https://transpulsecanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/WPATH-2022_Impact-of-Misgendering-on-Non-Binary-Peoples-Health-and-Wellbeing-in-Canada.pdf Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to hit Follow on Spotify, Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and leave us a 5-star review to help more allies find these vital conversations! Connect with us online: 🌐 Website: www.TransFocus.ca ✉️ Email: podcast@transfocus.ca ➡️ Have feedback for us? Fill in this short survey: https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/ Join us on social media: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | Facebook
May 25 · 36 min
Why Are There Tampons in the Men's Bathroom?
Why are there menstrual products in men’s bathrooms - and why is it sparking backlash? In this episode of Gender in Focus, we unpack one of the most surprising inclusion debates showing up in workplaces, schools and public spaces. As organizations begin introducing free menstrual products in all washrooms, including men’s and all-gender washrooms, many are discovering that what seemed like a simple wellbeing initiative can quickly become complex. We explore why menstrual products in men’s washrooms can trigger strong reactions, what this reveals about assumptions around gender and biology, and how these decisions can affect trans men, non-binary people and even cisgender men in ways that are not always obvious. From gender dysphoria (the intense distress or discomfort someone may feel when their body, social role, or how others perceive them does not align with their gender identity) and washroom safety to disposal logistics, period poverty and workplace culture, this conversation looks at what thoughtful implementation can actually look like in real environments. We also discuss why copying approaches from women’s bathrooms does not always work, and how organizations can respond in ways that reduce harm, build inclusion and avoid unintentionally creating new barriers to participation. If you have been wondering how inclusive washroom policies work in practice, why menstrual products at work can become controversial, or how to support trans inclusion in everyday infrastructure decisions, this episode offers practical insight you can actually use. Download our FREE resource here: https://www.transfocus.ca/s/Providing-Free-Menstrual-Products-in-Washrooms.pdf Topics include: Menstrual products in men’s washrooms Tampons and pads in public and workplace bathrooms Trans men and menstruation Gender dysphoria and washroom safety Period poverty and access to free products Inclusive and gender neutral washroom design Workplace backlash and cultural readiness Disposal logistics and practical implementation Supporting trans and non-binary inclusion in everyday systems
S2 · E18
May 18 · 32 min
Trans People Aren't 'Born in the Wrong Body'
People often get this wrong about being trans. A lot of people have heard the phrase “born in the wrong body.” It’s one of the most common ways trans experiences are explained — in media, online, and everyday conversations. But how accurate is it? In this episode of Gender in Focus, we unpack where that idea comes from, why it’s so widely used, and why it doesn’t reflect the reality for many trans and non-binary people. We explore: * Why the “born in the wrong body” narrative became so dominant * How media and culture have shaped common misunderstandings about trans people * What trans experiences actually look like in real life * The difference between social, medical, and personal aspects of transition * Why not all trans people pursue medical transition — and why that matters * How ideas about “the right body” are shaped by societal expectations * A more accurate way to understand what it means to be trans and how gender identity actually works This episode is for anyone trying to better understand trans and non-binary experiences, whether you’re new to the topic or looking to challenge what you’ve previously heard. If you’ve ever searched: What does it mean to be transgender? Are trans people really “born in the wrong body”? Do all trans people want surgery or medical transition? How does gender identity actually work? This conversation is a grounded, real-world starting point. 🎧 Listen now to rethink one of the most widely accepted — and most misunderstood — ideas about being trans.
S2 · E17
May 11 · 30 min
You're Thinking About Transitioning All Wrong!
What does it mean to transition - and do all trans people medically transition? When people hear the word “transitioning,” most immediately think of surgery, hormones, or medical care. But that’s only one part of the picture. In this episode of Gender in Focus, we look at what transitioning actually means for trans and non-binary people - and why the way it’s commonly understood doesn’t quite reflect everyone's reality and needs. We focus on one of three types of transition, namely social transition, including changes to name, pronouns, appearance, and how someone moves through the world — and why these shifts are often dismissed as “less real” or “less serious.” Along the way, we also unpack that: * Transitioning isn’t about “becoming” someone or something new * The difference between social, medical, and legal transition * Why not all trans people medically transition — and why that doesn’t make their identity any less valid * How social transition can be a process of exploration, alignment, and self-understanding * Why people may express their gender differently depending on context, safety, and environment * What support can actually look like in workplaces We also look at how everyday experiences — like changing one's name, trying a new style, or entering a new phase of life — can make social transition easier to understand. If you’ve ever searched: * What does it mean to transition? * Do all trans people medically transition? * What is social transition? * Why do trans people change their name or pronouns? This episode offers a clear, grounded way to understand the answers — without assumptions. ⸻ 🎙️ Gender in Focus is a podcast by TransFocus exploring the systems, structures, and everyday realities shaping trans and non-binary experiences.
S2 · E18
May 5 · 24 min
Think You Need a Trans Inclusion Policy? It's More Complicated Than You Think
Do you need a trans inclusion policy at work? Or could it actually create more problems than it solves? When organizations look to support trans and non-binary employees, one of the first questions that comes up is: Should we create a trans inclusion policy? In this episode of Gender in Focus, we break down how to approach trans inclusion in the workplace — and why creating a standalone trans inclusion policy isn’t always the best solution. While policies can play an important role, they can also lead to unintended consequences, confusion, or even backlash if they’re introduced in the wrong way or at the wrong time. We explore how to decide whether you actually need a trans inclusion policy, how to avoid common mistakes, and what to do instead. We talk about: When a trans inclusion policy is useful — and when it isn’t Why some workplace trans policies backfire How to support trans and non-binary employees without creating unnecessary complexity How to embed gender identity and inclusion into existing policies (like anti-discrimination and privacy) The difference between policies, guidelines and toolkits — and when to use each What’s changing in Canada and the U.S. — and how legal and cultural shifts are shaping workplace decisions Whether you’re in HR, leadership, or responsible for workplace policies, this episode will help you make more informed, practical decisions about trans inclusion — beyond surface-level solutions. Find out more about how you can work with us here: https://www.transfocus.ca/organization
S2 · E20
April 27 · 29 min
You've Heard of He/She/They… But Some People Don't Use Pronouns At All!
Some people don’t use pronouns at all. No he. No she. No they. So what does that actually mean - and how are you supposed to talk? In this episode, we break down what it means when someone uses no pronouns, why some trans and non-binary people ask for this, and how to refer to someone without using pronouns in real life. For many people, this is something they haven’t come across before. It can take a bit of getting used to, especially when we’re used to relying on pronouns in everyday language. We talk about: * what “no pronouns” means * why someone might not use pronouns at all * how to refer to someone with no pronouns in conversation and in writing * how to talk without pronouns (without sounding repetitive or awkward) * what to do when you mess up * how to respond when people say this is “too much” This isn’t about getting everything perfect. It’s about understanding what’s going on, and having a place to start.
S2 · E15
April 20 · 28 min
Why Trans Employees Keep Getting Asked to Work for Free
Many trans employees end up doing inclusion work on top of their actual job - helping fix workplace problems they never signed up to solve. In this episode of Gender in Focus, we explore why trans and non-binary people can find themselves carrying significant amounts of unpaid diversity and inclusion labour in the workplace. From noticing barriers in everyday systems to helping shape policy decisions and educate colleagues, this work often happens quietly and without formal recognition. We talk about how this pressure is sometimes misunderstood as enthusiasm or willingness to help, when it can come from urgency, concern that others will face the same challenges, or simply a lack of alternative support. Over time, these dynamics can contribute to burnout, tokenization, and difficult expectations to represent the needs of an entire community. We also explore what more thoughtful approaches can look like in practice. How can organizations respond when issues are raised without placing the responsibility for solving them on the people most affected? What role can consent, compensation, advisory structures, and strategic decision-making play in creating more sustainable inclusion work? If you are trying to understand how to better support trans and non-binary employees or improve inclusion at work, this conversation offers practical insight into the hidden labour that often drives change behind the scenes. 🌐 Learn more about our work: https://www.transfocus.ca Topics include: What invisible and emotional labour can look like for trans and non-binary employees Why trans and non-binary people are often expected to educate colleagues about gender diversity Tokenization and the pressure to represent an entire community How everyday workplace systems can quietly create barriers Why inclusion work can become exhausting for trans employees The limits of lived experience and the role of organizational expertise How teams can respond more thoughtfully and sustainably Consent, compensation, and advisory roles in inclusion work Strategic decision-making around workplace inclusion
S2 · E14
April 13 · 23 min
14. Why More Companies Should Be Hiring Trans Leaders
Many organizations are still trying to understand trans and non-binary people in the workplace and how to support them while building more inclusive leadership. Conversations about inclusion at work often focus on policies, barriers or how to avoid getting things wrong. Yet trans leadership talent is rarely part of the conversation. In this episode of Gender in Focus, we explore why more companies should be hiring trans and non-binary leaders and what workplaces can gain when they recognize this often overlooked talent pool. We discuss how lived experience can shape leadership styles, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and approaches to supporting diverse teams. We also unpack the striking tension that many trans professionals have high levels of education while facing significantly higher unemployment, and what this reveals about untapped leadership potential. If you are interested in diversity hiring, inclusive leadership, workplace culture, or understanding trans inclusion beyond surface-level awareness, this episode offers practical insight into how a strengths-based approach can change how organisations recognise talent, develop leaders, and build stronger teams. 🎧 Listen now to explore how recognizing trans leadership can support innovation, retention, and more resilient workplace cultures. Topics include: Trans and non-binary people in leadership roles Hiring and supporting trans and non-binary employees Trans inclusion in the workplace Developing trans talent and inclusive leadership pipelines Why highly educated trans professionals face higher unemployment Innovation and problem-solving shaped by lived experience Moving from deficit thinking to strengths-based DEI Building inclusive workplace culture and psychological safety The business and cultural impact of diverse leadership Pride at Work's THRIVE programme: http://prideatwork.ca/programs/thrive/
S2 · E13
April 6 · 27 min
13. Stop Using Fill-In-The-Blank Gender Options!
How do you ask about gender on surveys and forms without creating new problems? Fill-in-the-blank gender options often feel like the most inclusive solution. But when organizations try to analyze responses or turn demographic data into action, the reality can be much more complicated. In this episode of Gender in Focus, we look at what really happens when teams start collecting gender data. We explore why gender questions with fill-in-the-blank are desired by trans and non-binary communities because it feels affirming to have the space to fully describe oneself, especially after being mislabeled for so long. However, this approach may inadvertently make it harder to spot patterns in discrimination, inclusion and employee experience. We talk through common mistakes in survey design, what organizations need to think about before adding a gender question on a form, and how organizations can balance self-identification with the need for usable insights. You will also hear why being clear about how gender data will be used can increase trust and participation. If you are designing inclusive forms, running equity, diversity, and inclusion surveys, analyzing demographic data, or trying to understand how different gender groups experience your organization, this conversation offers practical insights grounded in real-world experience. Topics include: gender data collection, inclusive survey design, non-binary options on forms, demographic questionnaires, EDI surveys, analyzing inclusion data, and building trust when asking personal questions.
S2 · E12
March 31 · 23 min
Why Is Misgendering Such a Big Deal?
Misgendering is often thought of as a simple mistake - a brief moment that can be corrected and moved past. But for many trans and non-binary people, misgendering can happen repeatedly in everyday interactions. Over time, these moments can shape how safe it feels to speak up, participate, or navigate workplaces and social spaces. In this episode, we explore what misgendering actually means, why it can feel like such a big deal even when it is unintentional, and how assumptions about gender identity and pronoun use are formed. We also look at why frequency matters, and what helps individuals and organizations build confidence in using more inclusive language. If you have ever wondered why misgendering matters, felt unsure about getting pronouns right at work or in social situations, or wanted to better understand gender identity in practice, this conversation offers clear insight and practical ways forward. Topics include: misgendering meaning, pronouns and pronoun mistakes, pronouns at work, gender assumptions, gender identity, trans and non-binary inclusion, inclusive language, allyship and inclusive workplaces.

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