Gender: A Wider Lens

“Chestfeeding”. A controversial term recently adopted from inside the critical social justice movement as inclusive language for discussing breastfeeding. But is it biologically plausible for men to induce lactation? Is it even milk? Is it safe? Natural mammalian lactation possesses evolutionary significance beyond basic sustenance and often provides broader biological functions in human developme...

Evolutionary biology, gender dynamics, societal norms, chemicals, technology…there is no denying the intricate interplay between biological, psychological, technological and cultural factors in shaping human behavior and identity. Sasha and Stella welcome guest, Heather Heying to the show for a grounding conversation exploring the complexity of human behavior, the inevitability of making mistakes,...

In the past decade, it seems a cultural shift toward individualism has created a reluctance among friend groups to share personal struggles, often reserving them for therapy instead. It is important to acknowledge that there exists a delicate paradox in promoting the value of friendships as a source of support while also recognizing that not all issues can be effectively managed solely through pee...

This episode covers a lot of ground, emphasizing the complexities of therapy, the necessity for critical examination of conventional wisdom, and the importance of nurturing authentic relationships both inside the family and social circles (but more specifically, outside of the clinical setting). For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at  https://www.widerlensp...

In many regions, institutional mandates and professional standards that prioritize affirming a child's gender identity without considering alternative approaches or potential risks, are requiring therapists to adhere to gender-affirming care protocols, regardless of any personal reservations and/or evidence based recommendations for anything other than affirmation and medicalization. My loyalty is...

If you work in pediatric gender medicine and have concerns about the safety of practice, you are not alone. Contact the LGBT Courage Coalition for guidance and support (including finding legal counsel and connecting you with media contacts). Stella and Sasha welcome whistleblower, Tamara Pietzke for an important conversation highlighting the valuable role that clinicians who are able to speak open...

Teenagers, particularly those on the autism spectrum, encounter unique challenges in navigating social expectations, understanding their own identity, and processing information. These challenges can be compounded by the influence of social media and mainstream narratives, which often perpetuate misconceptions. Yet, the capacity of teenagers for critical analysis and insightful reflections is freq...

This episode opens with an extended introduction exploring the recent release of The Cass Review - Final Report, as this is a massive development in the world of gender medicalization. The guest feature begins at the 00:10:30 timestamp, so please feel free to skip ahead if you’d like. Sasha and Stella welcome guest, Christina Buttons, for a special conversation covering everything from her persona...

As the medical establishment continues to extract valuable lessons in the aftermath of the opioid crisis, the medical use of cannabis has become legalized in many US states. But is it an appropriate substitute for opioids? With a lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of cannabis compared to traditional over-the-counter pain relievers (like Motrin), do we fully understand the impact t...

Sasha and Stella welcome Dr. Carrie Mendoza back to the show for her second appearance with the Wider Lens duo. Together, they dive into crucial topics surrounding medical practice, healthcare education, ethical healthcare standards and policy implementation in healthcare administration. Carrie’s insights draw from her experience with the opioid epidemic, highlighting the lessons learned about its...

Identity formation and development involves a multitude of factors at play. Historical events, societal norms, cultural movements, traditions, customs, language, ‘social norms’, cognitive process, emotional development, sexual development...These factors collectively influence not only an individual's personal sense of identity but also contribute to shaping broader societal perceptions of identit...

In this episode, Sasha and Stella welcome Malcolm Clark for a really interesting conversation exploring various facets of historical ideas and identities around gender, homosexuality, and the evolution of identity activism. This discussion navigates the intricate and contentious terrain of understanding gender non-conformity and identity expression across history.  For links and resources relevant...

From bionic enhancements to extreme body modifications, the lines are blurry between identity theory and queer theory. There is a complex interplay of incentives, ideological beliefs, optimized physical and mental wellness, and functionality within society - all reliant on quality medical care and support, but at whose financial expense? And what is the purpose of medicine (particularly where it i...

Guest, Sascha Bailey, reflects on his journey as a model, art curator, and pioneer in the NFT (Non-Fungible Tokens) art scene. A captivating account of the intersection where art, tech, and culture collide with personal identity. Sascha differentiates between emotional and functional motives for transitioning, discussing transmaxxing, incentives, and societal trends. Offering listeners a blend of...

There is no question, given the recommendations outlined in WPATH’s SOC-8 , that WPATH is in fact recommending extraordinary medical procedures resulting in extreme body modifications. Some of the most unusual cases, promoting individually customized procedures that are meant to create body types that don't exist in nature. So why doesn't WPATH just rebrand as a sexual cosmetic surgery group? Why...

Sasha and Stella welcome Mia Hughes to the show for a chilling conversation covering WPATH's evolution from a medical organization to an activist-driven group, societal implications of medical scandals across history, and the delicate distinctions within individual experiences of gender dysphoria. For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlens...

This is a fun one folks! “This is so much more interesting than biological sex being real!” - Sasha When considering personality, behavior, and social traits, there are some whom embrace the concept of ‘cognitive creationists’, implying that human behavior is solely shaped by socialization rather than biological factors, completely neglecting the profound impact of our mammalian heritage on our co...

Gender, sex, intersex conditions, hormonal interventions, sexual signaling, behavioral differences…this episode covers them all. Sasha and Stella welcome evolutionary biologist, Dr. Colin Wright for a long overdue discussion going deep into the intersection of biology, psychology, and social factors in shaping our understanding of sex and gender. This is a refreshing conversation exploring insight...

Sasha and Stella ask Scarlet, “What would you have needed when you started to experiment with this idea of being transgender?” “Proper medical care would be nice” Quality therapy is essential, advocating for nuanced discussions on gender and, especially during adolescence, body image issues. A supportive environment, exposure to positive role models, and awareness around online abuse, is crucial....

Sasha and Stella share a profound and moving conversation with Scarlet, a young person who just wants “my story to add to the conversation around the impacts of transitioning as a youth - physically, mentally, and socially - both positives and negatives.” A crucial Detransition Awareness Day exploration of the nuances of self-discovery in a gender-affirming landscape. For links and resources relev...

Given the recent release of the WPATH Files, the question of medical ethics in pediatric gender healthcare is undeniable. Stories like Laura's shed light on significant gaps in processes promoted as "life-saving" care. The infiltration of activism in medical fields is increasingly evident, emerging through whistleblower accounts, anecdotal experiences, growing numbers of detransitioners, legal act...

With Stella on break this week, a solo Sasha welcomes guest Laura Becker who offers insightful and endearing reflections about the misdirected creativity of ROGD girls being channeled into queer theory ideas. She shares some intimate details of her personal story including the impact of chronic abuse on her mental health, her journey on testosterone, her radical double mastectomy, and her decision...

After the release of her book "Material Girls: Why Reality Matters for Feminism" in 2021, while she was a Professor of Philosophy at Sussex University, Dr. Kathleen Stock found herself being targeted by a group of activists. She faced harassment and protests including placing provocative stickers and posters throughout the campus with transphobic allegations against Stock, despite her book's thoug...

Looking for support as a parent of a gender-questioning youth or young adult? Attend a Wider Lens Parent Retreat in 2025! Registration is now open. Visit https://widerlens.events/parent-retreat-2025 to learn more and secure your spot. Sasha and Stella welcome Dr. Kathleen Stock. Explore the complexities of identity, the nuances of “inclusive” language, societal expectations, and the balance betwee...

The significance of technological and scientific advancements in medicine is unquestionable. However, it prompts a critical examination of the appropriate limits when conducting experiments to uncover treatments leading to optimal outcomes. Experimentation necessarily entails risks, and achieving medical progress often involves interventions with potential dangers and unknown outcomes. Striking th...