Old Politicians, Old Laws, and the Same Old Attacks on Bodily Freedom w/ Sophia Kilmer

Sophia Kilmer — civil rights lawyer, founder of Defend Trans Rights, and host of her own podcast, Sophie Talks — and I decided to collaborate on the intersection between trans rights and abortion rights for this episode! She’s actually the one who had the great idea to blend our platforms, because as we both know, the right-wing uses the same tired playbook to attack both trans and reproductive rights — control the body, control the narrative, control the power.

We chatted about recent Supreme Court decisions, including the Scrimmety ruling that basically legislates identity, and unpacked how Democrats keep managing to show up to a five-alarm fire with a spray bottle. We also got into heavier topics like American exceptionalism, the legacy of sundown towns, and how Senate malapportionment keeps the country hostage to minority rule.

And yes, it got a little spicy when we talked about elderly politicians refusing to pass the torch. But don’t worry, we’re still friends. ;-)

It’s a conversation about autonomy, hypocrisy, and the urgent need for collective action — whether that means fighting in court, in the streets, or at the ballot box. If you care about freedom, equality, and the right to exist as yourself, this episode’s for you!

Key Takeaways

• The right-wing uses the same tactics to attack both trans and abortion rights.

• The Scrimmety decision represents a dangerous precedent for legislating identity.

• The Democratic Party talks a good game but often fails to act decisively.

• Gender roles are being weaponized to control both women and trans people.

• American exceptionalism hides deep-rooted indoctrination and inequality.

• Ageism and entrenched leadership block progress — it’s time for fresh voices.

• Trans rights and reproductive rights are inseparable in the broader fight for human rights.

• Activism, education, and solidarity are our best tools for protecting autonomy.

Sophia's website: sophiazoekilmer.com Find me @theabortionfluencer on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Substack.