Ts Madison and Gigi Gorgeous Open Up About Passport Gender Markers and the "Trans Umbrella" on ‘Outlaws’ Podcast

This week’s episode of “Outlaws with Ts Madison,” a podcast known for its fearless approach to LGBTQ+ topics, featured a powerful discussion between host Ts Madison and her guest, renowned transgender advocate and influencer Gigi Gorgeous. Together, they addressed two pressing issues facing transgender people globally: the bureaucratic challenges of passport gender markers and the evolving definition of the “trans umbrella”—a term used to describe the spectrum of gender identities encompassed by the transgender experience .

During the episode, Ts Madison and Gigi Gorgeous shared their personal journeys navigating the passport system—a process that requires individuals to align their gender markers with their legal identity documents. Gigi recounted her own experience traveling internationally, highlighting the anxiety and vulnerability that can arise when her gender presentation does not match the documentation presented to border officials. She spoke about a particularly harrowing incident in Dubai, where she was detained due to discrepancies between her appearance and her passport information—a story she has previously shared on social media and podcast platforms .

Ts Madison echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the bureaucratic hurdles many transgender people face when seeking to update their passport gender markers. The conversation touched on the varying requirements by country, with some governments demanding medical documentation, lengthy waiting periods, or even proof of surgical transition. Both Madison and Gorgeous underscored that such requirements not only invade personal privacy but can also exclude nonbinary and gender nonconforming individuals whose identities may not fit traditional binary categories.

“It's not just a matter of paperwork,” Madison noted. “It’s about dignity, safety, and the right to move through the world without fear.” .

The discussion then transitioned to the “trans umbrella,” a term meant to encompass a broad and inclusive range of gender identities, including transgender, nonbinary, genderqueer, and gender nonconforming people. Madison and Gorgeous acknowledged that while the umbrella is intended to foster solidarity, it can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and tensions within the community regarding visibility and representation.

Gigi Gorgeous explained, “For a long time, I felt like I didn’t know where I fit. The ‘trans umbrella’ is supposed to make us feel safe and united, but sometimes it feels like our differences are just as important as what we share.” .

Madison, reflecting on her own role as an advocate, stressed the importance of recognizing the diversity within the community. She argued that media representation often centers on binary transgender narratives, leaving nonbinary and genderfluid voices marginalized. Both hosts called for a broader understanding of the “trans umbrella,” one that respects individual experiences while celebrating common goals for equality and inclusion .

Throughout the episode, Madison and Gorgeous amplified the voices of listeners and community members who have faced discrimination and bureaucratic challenges. They read messages from fans who described being denied entry at borders, harassed during security checks, or subjected to invasive questioning by officials. The podcast highlighted the mental health toll these experiences can take, as well as the resilience demonstrated by transgender travelers and activists who continue to fight for change .

Madison and Gorgeous concluded the episode by urging listeners to support ongoing advocacy efforts for more inclusive passport policies. They highlighted recent policy changes in several countries, including the United States, which now allows passport applicants to select the gender marker “X” for nonbinary individuals—a move celebrated by the LGBTQ+ community but still far from universal.

“We’re not just fighting for paperwork,” Madison said. “We’re fighting for respect, recognition, and the freedom to be ourselves wherever we go.” .

The episode closed with a call to action for listeners to share their stories, support local and global advocacy organizations, and continue pushing for change that benefits all members of the trans umbrella. Both Madison and Gorgeous affirmed their commitment to amplifying diverse voices and promoting visibility for the entire spectrum of gender identities.