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Today, in the On Purpose podcast, Jay sits down with actress and LGBT advocate, Laverne Cox. Laverne’s groundbreaking performance on "Orange Is the New Black" made her the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award. In addition to her acting career, Laverne Cox has been involved in various advocacy and awareness campaigns, making her a significant figure in the ongoing struggle for transgender and LGBTQ+ rights. Her work has contributed to greater visibility and acceptance of transgender individuals in the entertainment industry and society at large.

In this episode, Laverne and Jay dive deep into transgender rights, media representation challenges, and how empathy can make a big difference in our divided world. They also discuss how fake news and false information on the internet can be a problem and why learning how to spot them is crucial. 

Laverne also shares personal experiences and insights that shed light on the struggles and triumphs of the transgender community. She also talked about the need for structural change, greater investment in education, and the role of love and empathy in promoting understanding and healing. 

In this interview, you'll learn:

• The power of personal stories in changing perceptions and fostering empathy
• The struggles and rights of transgender individuals in society
• Ways to challenge and correct misconceptions about transgender individuals
• The importance of uncomfortable conversations and understanding why having difficult discussions is essential for growth and progress.

Remember that understanding and empathy can bridge even the widest divides, and it's through collective efforts that we can work toward a more inclusive and compassionate world. 

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:10 Childhood Memories That Define Who Laverne Is Today
• 10:51 Reparenting Her Inner Child
• 18:27 Why Is Denial Unhealthy?
• 25:05 Try To Let Go Of All Your Thoughts
• 27:43 The Fear and Freedom of Growing Older in Hollywood
• 31:13 Unlearning Transphobia and White Supremacy
• 46:06 Fight for Trans Rights and Mental Wellness
• 59:03 Bridging the Divide Through Thoughtful Conversations

Episode Resources:

• Laverne Cox | Instagram | 
• Laverne Cox | X 
• Laverne Cox | Facebook
• Laverne Cox | TikTok