Podcast Summary: "I’m a Transgender Colonel. Trump Wants Me Out."

The Opinions by The New York Times Opinion delves into the personal and professional challenges faced by Colonel Bri Fram, one of the highest-ranking transgender service members in the U.S. military, amidst the Trump administration's policies targeting transgender individuals in the armed forces. Released on March 10, 2025, this episode provides an in-depth exploration of the intersection between transgender rights and military service, highlighting Colonel Fram's resilience and the broader implications of governmental policies.

1. Introduction

The episode opens with Sarah Wildman, an editor and writer at The New York Times Opinion, setting the stage for a critical discussion on the Trump administration's stance on transgender individuals in the military.

2. Trump's Policy on Transgender Rights

Sarah Wildman outlines the administration's actions:

"[Donald Trump] doubled down on his promise." [00:15]

A decisive move was made when Donald Trump declared:

"As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female." [00:31]

Further reinforcing this stance, Trump added:

"Our country will be woke no longer." [00:52]

These policies included the removal of "transgender" and "queer" from the LGBTQ acronym on government websites and a reinstated ban on transgender service members.

3. The Department of Defense Memo

Wildman discusses a pivotal memo released by the Department of Defense:

"It orders branches of the military to start identifying the thousands of troops diagnosed or being treated for gender dysphoria within 30 days for removal from military service." [00:57]

She notes the swift legal challenges that followed, yet emphasizes the rapid implementation timeline affecting individual service members.

4. Introduction to Colonel Bri Fram

The focus shifts to Colonel Bri Fram of the U.S. Space Force, who shares her personal journey and the impact of the administration's policies.

Joining the Military

Colonel Fram recounts her motivation to serve:

"I wanted to defend the opportunities and the freedoms that men like both my grandfathers fought for..." [03:15]

She highlights the significance of September 11, 2001, in shaping her decision to join the military over pursuing a career with NASA or as an astronautical engineer.

5. The 2016 Ban Lift and Its Aftermath

Wildman references the lifting of the transgender military ban in June 2016, a moment that coincided with increased transgender visibility in American culture.

Colonel Fram reflects on witnessing the announcement:

"I had to heal the way I answer that question because when people stop me, how are you?" [02:12]

She describes the initial surge of support from her colleagues:

"One by one, my colleagues walked over to me, shook my hand and said it's an honor to serve with you." [05:09]

This period was marked by enhanced unit cohesion and better leadership dynamics, as Fram emphasizes the strength derived from authenticity.

6. Reinstatement of the Ban and Its Implications

Wildman transitions to the reinstatement of the ban under Trump.

Colonel Fram explains the gravity of the new policy:

"This policy not only says no one new can come in, no one new can come out as trans, but all of you who are currently serving are no longer compatible with military service and are going to be administratively discharged." [07:00]

She critiques the lack of evidence supporting the administration's claims of transgender individuals failing to meet military standards.

7. Navigating the Separation Process

The discussion delves into the Department of Defense's memo, which mandates a 30-day period for identifying transgender service members for potential separation.

Colonel Fram shares her determination:

"Until I am dragged away, I'm gonna do my job to the utmost of my ability." [08:31]

She expresses unwavering commitment to her mission despite the looming threat of discharge.

8. Support Within the Military

Highlighting the camaraderie within the armed forces, Colonel Fram speaks about the overwhelming support from her peers:

"The support I have received is immeasurable..." [09:03]

She underscores the positive reception of transgender troops, attributing it to longstanding mutual respect and teamwork.

9. Personal Struggles and Family Impact

Wildman shifts focus to Colonel Fram's personal life, addressing the fears and challenges at home.

Colonel Fram candidly discusses:

"My wife certainly worries about where our future is going to be..." [10:02]

She touches on receiving death threats and the emotional toll of seeing her children worry about her, emphasizing the personal sacrifices made in service.

10. The Department of Defense's Waiver Policy

The conversation addresses the memo's provision for waivers allowing some transgender service members to remain.

Colonel Fram criticizes the feasibility of these waivers:

"There is zero way for a current service member who is out as trans or has taken any steps to transition to meet the threshold that the waiver asks you to meet." [11:13]

She argues that the stringent criteria effectively nullify any chance for transgender individuals to retain their positions.

11. Authenticity and Leadership

Challenging the administration's narrative, Colonel Fram posits that authenticity enhances leadership.

"Being out as a trans person is the best path to leadership." [12:44]

She elaborates on how embracing vulnerability fosters stronger connections and more effective team dynamics within the military.

12. Reflections and Resilience

Wildman invites Colonel Fram to reflect on her journey and offer advice to her younger self.

Colonel Fram expresses gratitude for her life's trajectory:

"I am living a life I would never have imagined in so many ways..." [14:23]

She emphasizes the importance of resilience and hopes for future generations to continue the fight for acceptance and change.

13. Lowest Moments and Overcoming Adversity

Delving into personal hardships, Colonel Fram shares her battle with a rare form of abdominal cancer:

"One of the things that brought me lowest was just a few years ago when I was diagnosed with a rare form of abdom cancer." [16:12]

She discusses the physical and emotional challenges of the diagnosis and treatment, underscoring her determination to continue serving despite these obstacles.

14. Advice to Trans Individuals in the Military

Addressing transgender service members who may not yet be out, Colonel Fram offers guidance:

"It is an incredibly difficult position to be in... But he was adamant that he would keep fighting and keep trying to get in until he was in his 30s." [17:58]

She encourages resilience, persistence, and the belief that societal and institutional changes will eventually pave the way for acceptance and inclusion.

15. Conclusion

Sarah Wildman wraps up the conversation by expressing gratitude to Colonel Fram for sharing her story and insights.

Colonel Fram responds:

"It has been my pleasure to join." [19:38]

The episode concludes by highlighting the ongoing struggles and the unwavering spirit of transgender service members striving to serve their country authentically.

Key Takeaways

• Policy Shifts: The Trump administration's reversal on transgender military service has profound impacts on service members' careers and personal lives.

• Personal Resilience: Colonel Bri Fram exemplifies resilience in the face of discriminatory policies, personal health battles, and societal challenges.

• Leadership Through Authenticity: Embracing one's true identity can enhance leadership qualities and foster stronger military cohesion.

• Hope for the Future: Despite current adversities, there remains optimism that future generations will achieve greater acceptance and equality for transgender individuals in the military.

Notable Quotes

• Donald Trump [00:31]: "As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female."

• Colonel Bri Fram [02:27]: "I have to say something like, that's a really complicated question, or I am far from okay right now..."

• Colonel Bri Fram [12:44]: "Being out as a trans person is the best path to leadership."

• Colonel Bri Fram [17:58]: "It is about resilience, it is about persistence, it is about demanding change because I am confident we are going to get there someday and he's going to be able to serve."

This episode of The Opinions offers a poignant glimpse into the challenges faced by transgender service members, underscored by Colonel Bri Fram's unwavering dedication and the broader implications of governmental policies on individual lives and military integrity.