Joe Rogan, one of the most influential podcasters in the world, has repeatedly used his platform to promote harmful ideas about transgender people. While some of his commentary may appear casual or comedic, the cumulative effect of his words perpetuates misinformation and stigmatizes a community already facing high levels of discrimination.
Rogan has publicly misgendered prominent trans figures, including Caitlyn Jenner, suggesting that her transition is more performative than authentic. He has hosted guests like Abigail Shrier, whose controversial book Irreversible Damage promotes the debunked theory of “rapid-onset gender dysphoria,” framing trans youth as victims of social contagion rather than individuals with valid experiences of gender dysphoria. By amplifying these perspectives without critical challenge, Rogan normalizes skepticism and hostility toward trans identities.
Sports have also been a recurring theme in Rogan’s rhetoric. His comments on transgender athletes such as Fallon Fox and Lia Thomas frame their participation as inherently unfair, emphasizing biological differences in a way that dismisses the reality of trans athletes’ lived experiences and the inclusive policies many organizations employ. These remarks reinforce the false narrative that trans people are threats to cisgender norms rather than competitors on equal footing.
Beyond interviews, Rogan’s own material often veers into transphobic humor. His Netflix special Burn the Boats included jokes that mocked transgender people, contributing to a culture that trivializes their existence and struggles. Even seemingly absurd claims, like the debunked “litter box in schools” rumor, have been repeated by Rogan, giving them credibility in the eyes of his massive audience.
The impact of such commentary is not hypothetical. Public figures with massive reach have a measurable influence on social attitudes, and when misinformation is normalized on platforms like The Joe Rogan Experience, it can fuel legislation that restricts trans rights, embolden harassment, and create hostile environments in schools and workplaces.
Holding influencers accountable is not about silencing opinions… it’s about recognizing the power that comes with a platform and the real-world consequences of amplifying harmful narratives. For Rogan, casual dismissal or mockery of trans experiences contributes to a broader pattern of marginalization, one that demands critical scrutiny rather than passive consumption.
