1563: Understanding Transgender Identity and Workplace Inclusion with Wendy Cole

Friday, April 10, 2026

From childhood repression and medical gatekeeping to living authentically and educating others, Wendy Cole has walked the transgender journey in a way few have and she’s turned that lived experience into a powerful force for change. As a gender diversity consultant, speaker, and co‑host of the podcast Demystifying the Transgender Journey, Wendy helps organizations, communities, and leaders understand what it really means to be born transgender and how to create environments where everyone can belong.

In this episode, you’ll hear how early rejection and threats of institutionalization shaped Wendy’s life, what finally made transition possible in her 60s, and why she believes gender is “between the ears, not the legs.” You’ll learn how clear, compassionate education can replace fear with understanding, why focusing on the “60% in the middle” creates the biggest social impact, and how organizations can better support transgender and LGBTQ+ employees, customers, and community members.

Quotes:

“Gender is between the ears, not the legs your body is just the costume, not the character.” – Wendy Cole

“I didn’t transition to become someone else; I transitioned so the world could finally see who I’ve always been.” – Wendy Cole

“The most radical act a transgender person can take isn’t changing their body; it’s refusing to be ashamed of who they are.” – Wendy Cole

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