Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 1 Episode Title: TransLivesMatter N.O.W. Guest: Angelica Ross Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: "Society's messaging devaluing LGBTQ+ lives, especially Black trans people, perpetuates tragic cycles of oppression and suicide. We must dismantle these systems alongside the community, fostering spaces to heal so all humans can be truly valued." — Angelica Ross The fight for diversity, equality, and inclusion has raged across streets, schools, and workplaces. However, Angelica Ross, an Emmy-nominated actress and activist, took that fight further by bringing authentic transgender characters to life on groundbreaking shows like Pose and American Horror Story. Yet her multi-talented impact extends beyond Hollywood. Through her TransTech incubator and podcast N.O.W. (No Opportunity Wasted), Ross empowers marginalized LGBTQIA+ voices. In this episode, Ross opens up about her iconic "Candy" role, her reasons behind leaving Hollywood, and how Buddhism provided clarity amid turbulence - inspiring her advocacy work. She also shares her vision for political office and the transformative policies she aims to enact to help transgender people of color not just survive but thrive. Join us for this powerful yet refreshingly candid conversation with Angelica Ross, celebrating authenticity, resilience, and effecting change. 3 Exceptional Highlights: Pose showcased the unwavering courage of trans people who fight for authenticity, even when it means facing violence, discrimination, and rejection. Black trans women, despite their immense contributions to art, fashion, and social Despite the enormous contributions Black trans women make to art, fashion, and activism, they continue to face marginalization and exploitation. One should look inward for a deep sense of self-worth and choose moment-by-moment to overcome darker impulses and live authentically. Show Highlights: 01:44 - Angelica Ross discusses her role in "Pose" and its cultural significance for transgender women of color 04:04 - Her experience as an undervalued, marginalized Black transgender woman in Hollywood 10:24 - Behind-the-scenes look at Angelica's iconic "Candy" lipsync performance. 11:31 - How Angelica healed her relationship with her mother despite a rocky period 18:23 - Why Buddhism resonated strongly with Ross and why she wants to introduce it to others 27:28 - The vision of the No Opportunity Wasted Podcast as a larger cultural movement 31:39 - Decriminalizing sex work, addressing oppression, fighting for transgender rights 37:05 - Unique challenges faced by Black transgender women in tech industry 42:57 - What to expect from Angelica Ross's political run and campaign platform 47:43 - Overview of Angelica's upcoming exciting new projects and initiatives Important Links: Angelica Ross - https://missross.com/ N.O.W. No Opportunity Wasted Podcast - https://art19.com/shows/no-opportunity-wasted Episode Sponsor Links: www.whconsultingfirm.com Producer Links: WH Consulting Firm Diversity Matters Podcast Section Pod Kai Media Host Social Media Links: Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Subscribe to Diversity Matters Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher
