Peaked

Róisín Michaux
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A podcast about gender identity ideology, women's rights, and free speech in the EU. peaked.substack.com

  1. Jun 2

    The Fired TERF Movement

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode The Fired TERF Movement Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Alexa Faucher     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín Michaux speaks with Alexa, a former chief of staff to a Communist mayor in the Paris suburbs who says she lost her political role following her public feminist and gender-critical views online. The conversation explores ideological conformity within left-wing political culture, institutional responses to gender-critical speech, tensions between feminism and gender identity ideology, and the psychological experience of becoming socially and professionally ostracized as a "TERF." Drawing from experiences in French municipal politics, feminism, psychiatry, Covid-era social compliance, and online political culture, the discussion examines broader themes including class politics, secularism, postmodernism, collective rights versus individual identity, institutional capture, social conformity, and the cultural influence of American identity politics on Europe. Alexa also reflects on French republican secularism, anti-racism politics, feminism, social welfare, and the contradictions she sees within contemporary left-wing movements around religion, sex-based rights, and gender ideology.     Key Topics Discussed Alexa Faucher's dismissal from Chevilly-Larue  Jérôme Martin's online denunciation campaign  French public-sector contracts and "devoir de réserve"  "Fired TERFs" and institutional retaliation  Helen Joyce and UK legal developments  Covid-era conformity and institutional obedience  Didier Raoult and anti-establishment scientific dissent  Finland's reassessment of youth gender medicine  Keira Bell and the Tavistock case  French secular feminism and laïcité  Planning Familial and "men can get pregnant" activism  Marguerite Stern, Dora Moutot, and French feminist fracture  Identity politics vs materialist feminism  "Women with penises" and compelled language  Surrogacy and commodification of women's bodies  National gender-critical figures across Europe      French Political & Institutional Context Stéphanie Daumin — PCF Mayor of Chevilly-Larue Website: ville-chevilly-larue.fr Alexa explains that she served as directrice de cabinet for Stéphanie Daumin, the Communist mayor of Chevilly-Larue, a historically left-wing suburb in the Paris "Red Belt."  The political context matters because the episode repeatedly contrasts: older class-based Communist politics, with:  newer activist and identity-centered ideological frameworks inside the contemporary left.      Jérôme Martin's denunciation campaign against Alexa Faucher Website: x.com Referenced in relation to the activist campaign that followed Alexa Faucher's tweet asserting the immutability of biological sex.  Jérôme Martin publicly denounced Faucher online, helping escalate the controversy surrounding her employment. Follow-up thread: https://x.com/Merome_Jardin/status/1953575235707613470 The episode repeatedly returns to: online activist escalation,  public denunciation,  and institutional pressure campaigns following ideological dissent.      Chevilly-Larue cabinet dismissal controversy Website: frontieresmedia.fr One of the primary French-language reports documenting the controversy surrounding Alexa Faucher's dismissal after her tweet regarding biological sex.      The Tweet Referenced in the Episode The controversy centered around Alexa Faucher's reply concerning biological sex and legal identity changes: « Votre sexe n'a jamais été, n'est pas, et ne sera jamais féminin. Les stéréotypes de genre que vous choisissez, et qui nous sont imposés, si. Bisous. » The tweet became widely circulated in activist and political networks following Jérôme Martin's denunciation campaign.      UK Gender Politics & Institutional Conflict Helen Joyce discussing the UK Supreme Court ruling Website: youtube.com Referenced when Róisín discusses listening to Helen Joyce following the UK Supreme Court ruling on sex-based legal protections.  The ruling is discussed less as a narrow legal issue and more as: a test of institutional compliance,  ideological capture,  and whether public bodies will obey legal definitions of biological sex.      Keira Bell and the Tavistock case Website: wikipedia.org Referenced during discussion of safeguarding concerns surrounding youth medical transition.  The Bell case became internationally significant because it challenged whether minors could meaningfully consent to puberty blockers and medical transition pathways.     The Cass Review Website: cass.independent-review.uk Referenced in broader discussion of: evidence standards,  youth gender medicine,  and institutional reassessment of pediatric transition pathways.  The review became internationally influential after concluding that the evidence base for pediatric medical transition remained weak and underdeveloped.     Finnish study on psychiatric morbidity and youth gender services Website: onlinelibrary.wiley.com Referenced during discussion of the "Finnish study" mentioned by the speakers.  The April 2026 Finnish register study: Psychiatric Morbidity Among Adolescents and Young Adults Who Contacted Specialised Gender Identity Services in Finland in 1996–2019 was discussed as evidence of increasing institutional doubt emerging from inside youth gender medicine systems themselves. The speakers specifically emphasize that skepticism is now increasingly coming from: clinicians,  researchers,  and medical systems previously aligned with affirmation-based treatment models.      Covid, Conformity & Institutional Trust Didier Raoult and France's Covid divide Website: france24.com Referenced during discussion of: conformity,  institutional trust,  and scientific dissent during Covid.  For many French listeners, Didier Raoult became symbolic of: anti-establishment scientific dissent,  distrust of centralized expertise,  and collapse of institutional legitimacy during the pandemic.  The speakers use Covid primarily as: a psychological analogy for ideological compliance.      Retracted hydroxychloroquine study associated with Didier Raoult Website: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Referenced indirectly during discussion of: early contradictory Covid messaging,  institutional confusion,  and scientific authority.  The Raoult controversy became one of France's defining symbolic conflicts over: expertise,  media trust,  and anti-establishment dissent.      National Gender-Critical Figures Referenced The episode repeatedly returns to the idea that: "every country has one" meaning a nationally recognizable gender-critical feminist figure or activist.  Ireland — Laoise de Brún/Countess Website: laoisedebrun UK — Kelly-Jay Keen / Standing For Women Website: x.com UK — J.K. Rowling Website: x.com Germany — Rona Duwe Website: ronalyze.de Austria — Faika El-Nagashi Website: substack.com France — Marguerite Stern Website: wikipedia.org France — Dora Moutot Website: wikipedia.org These figures are discussed as examples of: feminist opposition to gender ideology,  online harassment campaigns,  institutional retaliation,  and ideological fracture across Europe.        Dora Moutot 🔗  X/Twitter: https://x.com/doramoutot  🔗 Co-author page / Book: Search "Transmania" on Éditions Magnus or Amazon.fr  🔗 Femelliste YouTube (joint): https://www.youtube.com/@femelliste Marguerite Stern 🔗 Personal website: https://www.margueritestern.com/  🔗 X/Twitter: https://x.com/MargueriteStern  🔗 English Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marguerite_Stern  🔗 French Wikipedia: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marguerite_Stern Joint Work  🔗 Femelliste official: https://www.femelliste.com/  🔗 Transmania (book): Widely covered; see Wikipedia entry for details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmania       Organizations & Activism Act Up-Paris Website: actupparis.org Referenced because Jérôme Martin previously served as president of Act Up-Paris between 2003 and 2006.  The discussion repeatedly returns to: activist pressure,  public denunciation,  direct-action political culture,  and ideological enforcement mechanisms.      Planning Familial's "inclusive sexual health" campaign Website: planning-familial.org Referenced during discussion of ideological changes inside French feminist and reproductive-rights organizations.  The campaign became controversial among some French feminists because it adopted: gender-neutral reproductive language,  "inclusive" terminology,  and messaging interpreted by critics as replacing sex-based language around women's bodies.  Alexa contrasts this with earlier feminist traditions centered on: abortion rights,  material sex differences,  and secular feminism.      Guest — Alexa Faucher 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/alexafaucher 🔗 LinkedIn https://fr.linkedin.com/in/alexafaucher 🔗 Novel — Puisqu'on a marché sur la lune https://www.amazon.fr/PUISQUON-MARCHE-LUNE-Alexa-Faucher/dp/2367951535 Alexa Faucher is a French law graduate, political communications professional, author, and materialist feminist.  She served as directrice de cabinet for the Communist mayor of Chevilly-Larue until July 2025 following controversy surrounding her tweet about biological sex. The episode also references her: public-sector communications background,  strategic political work,  feminist activism,  and experience inside French municipal political structures.  (Her X/Twitter account was reportedl

    1h 43m

  2. Jun 1 ·  Video

    Kindred in Chaos

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode Kindred in Chaos Host: Róisín Michaux Guests: Tonje Gjevjon & Alison Ellis     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín Michaux speaks with Norwegian lesbian activist and artist Tonje Gjevjon and British lesbian commentator Alison Ellis about their collaborative book project Kindred in Chaos, a collection of first-person testimonies from 19 young lesbians navigating contemporary gender identity politics. The discussion explores lesbian identity, youth alienation, puberty, online trans-identification, institutional LGBT culture, social conformity, detransition narratives, online radicalization, lesbian erasure, activist networks, puberty dysphoria, and the broader political and psychological dynamics surrounding gender identity ideology in Europe. Drawing from personal experience, online activism, lesbian organizing, Scandinavian politics, youth LGBT groups, social media culture, feminism, and gender-critical organizing, the conversation examines why some young lesbians resist trans-identification pathways while others become absorbed into them. The episode also situates Kindred in Chaos within a wider international network of lesbian, feminist, and gender-critical activism across the UK and Europe.     The Book — Kindred in Chaos The central focus of the episode is Kindred in Chaos, a collaborative collection of testimonies from 19 young lesbians discussing their experiences navigating contemporary LGBT culture, gender identity ideology, social isolation, and lesbian identity.     Julie Bindel 🔗 Official Website https://juliebindel.substack.com/ 🔗 X/Twitter https://x.com/bindelj 🔗 Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julie_Bindel Tonje Gjevjon references feminist writer and activist Julie Bindel as one of the earliest figures who alerted her to ideological shifts inside progressive politics. Specifically discussed: Bindel's criticism of surrogacy and prostitution controversies surrounding feminist speech cancellation campaigns inside left-wing political spaces feminist dissent within LGBT organizations Gjevjon describes noticing ideological changes after seeing Bindel disinvited or attacked inside activist environments around 2016–2017.     Magdalen Berns 🔗 YouTube Archive https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=magdalen+berns 🔗 Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdalen_Berns Magdalen Berns is repeatedly referenced as a major influence on Alison Ellis. Ellis describes discovering Berns' videos after searching online for the term "TERF" and realizing: she was not alone in her views other lesbians shared similar concerns factual/direct language resonated more strongly than identity-centered discourse The episode frames Berns as an important early online gender-critical voice, particularly among young lesbians.     Organizations & Activist Networks LGB Alliance 🔗 Official Website https://lgballiance.org.uk/ 🔗 Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGB_Alliance The organization is discussed extensively throughout the episode. Topics include: conference organizing lesbian panels youth lesbian networking community infrastructure book promotion gender-critical lesbian organizing Alison Ellis and Tonje Gjevjon discuss appearing at an LGB Alliance conference and participating in a panel connected to Kindred in Chaos. The speakers also describe seeing increasing participation from younger lesbians and gay people at recent events.     Women's Declaration International 🔗 Official Website https://www.womensdeclaration.com/ Referenced by Tonje Gjevjon while discussing the online ecosystem through which isolated lesbians find feminist and gender-critical communities. The organization advocates for sex-based legal protections and women's rights internationally.     Let Women Speak 🔗 Standing For Women / Let Women Speak https://www.standingforwomen.com/ Referenced in relation to public feminist activism, women's speech rights, and lesbian organizing.     Norway Legal Gender Recognition 🔗 Norwegian Government Information https://www.regjeringen.no/en/topics/families-and-children/equality-and-social-inclusion/innsiktsartikler/legal-gender-recognition/id2481746/ Norway's legal gender recognition framework allows individuals to legally change gender without surgical sterilization requirements. The law became an important reference point in broader European debates surrounding: self-identification youth transition administrative gender policy legal sex classification     Gender-Neutral Pronouns & Inclusive Language 🔗 Gender-Neutral Language Overview https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gender-neutral_language 🔗 Norwegian Language / "Hen" Pronoun Context https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_language The discussion references institutional language shifts including: gender-neutral terminology pronoun normalization "parent 1 / parent 2" style frameworks avoidance of sexed language in some institutional settings The speakers frame these changes as examples of top-down ideological restructuring.     The European Lesbian Conference (EL*C) 🔗 Official Website https://europeanlesbianconference.org/     Phalloplasty & Metoidioplasty Cleveland Clinic — Phalloplasty https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/21585-phalloplasty UCSF Gender Care https://transcare.ucsf.edu/guidelines/phalloplasty Johns Hopkins — Metoidioplasty https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/metoidioplasty-for-gender-affirming-care The speakers reference two forms of gender-affirming genital surgery: Phalloplasty Construction of a penis using tissue grafts, often from the forearm, thigh, or abdomen. Metoidioplasty A procedure using hormonally enlarged clitoral tissue to construct male genitalia. Róisín Michaux specifically references observing extensive discussion around these surgeries inside online trans-masc communities, particularly in Belgium. The conversation frames breast removal as a central fixation among many young female transitioners.     Belgium & European Gender Clinics Ghent University Hospital Gender Team https://www.uzgent.be/patient/zoek-een-arts-of-dienst/centrum-voor-seksuologie-en-gender Belgium is referenced in relation to: European gender clinics transition pathways surgery prevalence online transition culture Ghent University Hospital is one of Europe's most recognized gender clinics and research centers. The speakers reference Belgium as an example of broader European gender medicine infrastructure.     The Swedish Documentary — The Trans Train Genspect Overview https://genspect.org/swedish-documentary-stopping-the-trans-train/ YouTube Playlist / Documentary Uploads https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvATEhXWd8uF7dT3g-jXBmYY7PPfSQZSs     GB News Appearance GB News https://www.gbnews.com/ Tonje Gjevjon and Alison Ellis reference appearing on GB News to discuss Kindred in Chaos following their appearance at the LGB Alliance conference.     Guests Tonje Gjevjon 🔗 X/Twitter: https://x.com/tonjegjevjon 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonjegjevjon/ 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kjendisgjevjon     Alison Ellis 🔗 TikTok: Alison Ellis   Host — Róisín Michaux 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/RoisinMichaux 🔗 Apple Podcasts — Peaked https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641       Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Peaked is available on Substack and major podcast platforms. 🔗 https://peaked.substack.com/

    1h 3m

  3. May 19

    Where Gender Therapy is a Crime

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode Where Gender Therapy is a Crime Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Sarah     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín Michaux speaks with a Belgian child and adolescent mental health professional working with young people experiencing gender dysphoria in Belgium. The conversation explores the impact of Belgium's conversion therapy ban on psychiatric practice, the climate of fear among clinicians, ideological divisions within psychiatry, and the increasing number of adolescents presenting with gender-related distress following Covid and widespread social media exposure. The discussion also examines broader themes including anti-psychiatry movements, evidence-based medicine, social contagion, screen addiction, institutional pressure, activist influence in healthcare, and the cultural differences between Anglo and Francophone psychiatric traditions. Sarah also discusses the legal complaints made against her following public appearances criticizing gender-affirming approaches for minors, and explains why she ultimately decided to leave Belgium for Dubai.     Key Topics Discussed · Belgium's conversion therapy ban · Gender dysphoria in adolescents · Exploratory psychotherapy vs affirmation · Social contagion and online influence · Screen addiction and "screen detox" approaches · Covid-era increase in youth gender distress · Fear and self-censorship among clinicians · Evidence-based psychiatry vs ideology · Anti-psychiatry movements in Belgium and France · Postmodernism and institutional capture · Tavistock and youth gender medicine · Parent support networks in Belgium · Medical ethics and informed consent · Intersex surgery controversies · Police complaints and legal intimidation · Psychiatry, activism, and institutional pressure · Leaving Belgium for Dubai     Belgian Law & Political Context Belgium Conversion Therapy Ban https://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/eli/loi/2023/07/31/2023043775/moniteur · Referenced throughout discussion of legal risks facing clinicians · Criminal penalties discussed in relation to exploratory therapy approaches Marie-Colline Leroy https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marie-Colline_Leroy · Belgian Secretary of State referenced during discussion of the conversion therapy legislation Sarah Schlitz https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Schlitz · Former Belgian Secretary of State for Gender Equality and Equal Opportunities · Referenced during discussion of the development of the proposed legislation     Psychiatry, Mental Health & Ideology Evidence-Based Medicine https://www.bmj.com/content/312/7023/71 · Foundational BMJ paper referenced in discussion about scientific medicine vs ideology-driven practice Anti-Psychiatry Movement https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-psychiatry · Referenced during discussion of distrust toward psychiatric authority in Belgium and France Michel Foucault https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michel_Foucault · Relevant to discussion of institutional power, psychiatric labeling, and postmodern influence Psychoanalysis https://www.britannica.com/science/psychoanalysis · Discussed as a dominant influence within Francophone psychiatry Systemic Therapy https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Systemic_therapy_(psychotherapy) · Referenced repeatedly during discussion of family systems and adolescent mental health May 1968 (France) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_68 · Referenced in relation to anti-authoritarian intellectual movements influencing psychiatry and social theory     Gender Dysphoria, Youth Culture & Social Contagion Tavistock Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gender_Identity_Development_Service · Referenced during discussion of same-sex attracted youth and transition pathways Cass Review https://cass.independent-review.uk/home/publications/final-report/ · Relevant to discussion of evidence standards and youth gender medicine Rapid-Onset Gender Dysphoria (ROGD) Study https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0202330 · Relevant to discussion of peer clustering, social contagion, and online influence The Anxious Generation — Jonathan Haidt https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/ · Relevant to Sarah's repeated emphasis on screens, social media exposure, and youth mental health decline NHS — Differences in Sex Development (DSD) https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/differences-in-sex-development/ · Relevant to discussion of intersex conditions, medical ethics, and informed consent Puberty Blockers & Youth Gender Services https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/children-and-young-peoples-gender-services-implementing-the-cass-review/ · Relevant to discussion of puberty blockers, placebo effects, and treatment pathways     Belgian Organizations & Activism Cry for Recognition https://genspect.org/a-cry-for-recognition/ · Belgian parent support initiative referenced directly in the episode Genspect https://genspect.org/ · International organization connected to exploratory approaches for gender-distressed youth TransKids Belgique https://www.facebook.com/TranskidsBelgique/ · Referenced during discussion of affirming parent groups and clinician trainings RTBF https://www.rtbf.be/ · Belgian state broadcaster referenced during discussion of intersex media coverage     Intersex, Medical Ethics & Legal Controversies History of Intersex Surgery https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_intersex_surgery · Relevant to discussion of childhood genital surgery and medical decision-making Intersex Medical Interventions https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intersex_medical_interventions · Referenced in relation to surgery, consent, and activist/legal debates American Medical Association — Informed Consent https://code-medical-ethics.ama-assn.org/ethics-opinions/informed-consent · Relevant to discussion comparing intersex surgery and youth gender medicine     Host — Róisín Michaux   🔗 Substack / Podcast Home https://peaked.substack.com/ 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/RoisinMichaux 🔗 Apple Podcasts — Peaked https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641   Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Peaked is available on Substack and major podcast platforms. https://peaked.substack.com/

    1h 1m

  4. May 9

    Ideological Garbage In, Ideological Garbage Out

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode Ideological Garbage In, Ideological Garbage Out Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Ruth Parry     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín Michaux is joined by Ruth Parry to examine how large-scale survey data shapes public policy across Europe, focusing specifically on the EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) LGBTIQ Survey. Drawing on Ruth's background in clinical research and survey design, the conversation explores how recruitment methods, self-reporting, and ambiguous definitions can significantly affect outcomes. The episode contrasts activist-influenced datasets with clinically grounded research such as the DSD Life study, highlighting the consequences of using weak or biased data in policymaking. The discussion also expands into EU funding structures, the embedding of "inclusive gender" frameworks in research requirements, and broader concerns about how ideology interacts with scientific processes and institutional decision-making.     Key Topics Discussed EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) LGBTIQ Survey III  Survey design: sampling, self-reporting, and recruitment bias  Activist involvement in data collection  Intersex vs DSD (Differences of Sex Development)  Clinical vs identity-based classification  DSD Life study and evidence-based research  Medical ethics in early-life interventions  Use of statistics in policy and law  EU funding frameworks and gender equality requirements  Ideological influence in academia and institutions  Interpretation of discrimination and violence data  Feminist and scientific critiques of gender identity frameworks      Core Dataset European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights https://fra.europa.eu/en EU LGBTIQ Survey III https://fra.europa.eu/en/project/2022/eu-lgbtiq-survey-iii Large-scale online survey across Europe  Used in EU policy frameworks, national strategies, and legal contexts      Scientific Benchmark DSD Life Study (EU Project) https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/305373 Clinical research with medically verified participants  Focus: long-term outcomes, quality of life, treatment impact      Medical Context Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000411.htm Hypospadias https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001286.htm Referenced in discussion of early intervention, functional vs cosmetic treatment, and long-term outcomes      Clinical Framework Chicago Consensus (2006) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16882788/ Established modern classification of DSD  John Money https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Money Early theorist influencing gender identity models      Legal Reference Bell v Tavistock https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Bell-v-Tavistock-Judgment.pdf Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust Case concerning medical transition of minors and consent      EU Policy & Funding Context Horizon Europe https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions https://marie-sklodowska-curie-actions.ec.europa.eu/ Erasmus+ https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/ EU funding programs requiring Gender Equality Plans, including "inclusive gender" frameworks        Academic & Intellectual References Helen Joyce https://sex-matters.org/ Kathleen Stock https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathleen_Stock Book: Material Girls Alice Dreger https://alicedreger.com/ Book: Galileo's Middle Finger J. Michael Bailey https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._Michael_Bailey Louis Gooren https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Louis+Gooren     Historical Reference Ian Huntley https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ian_Huntley Referenced as an example of how awareness of risk develops only after exposure to real cases      Related Discussion Referenced in Episode Stephanie Winn — Intersex / DSD Discussion 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJeLVOwIp_s Referenced by Róisín as a prior discussion covering:  intersex conditions  surgical ethics  clinical vs activist perspectives      Research Methods Reference Randomised Controlled Trials https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1706053/ Gold standard in clinical research      Cultural Reference Turf Rocks Grassroots activist example mentioned in discussion      Host — Róisín Michaux Substack: https://peaked.substack.com/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/RoisinMichaux Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641

    1h 20m

  5. Apr 27

    'Peace Money' and Northern Ireland's Be-Kind Elite

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode 'Peace money' and Northern Ireland's Be-Kind elite Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Sara Morrison     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín Michaux is joined by Sara Morrison to explore the social, political, and cultural landscape of Northern Ireland in the post-conflict era. The discussion examines how the legacy of the Good Friday Agreement shaped a funding-dependent NGO ecosystem, particularly in the arts and voluntary sectors. Through Sara's firsthand experience working in these sectors, the episode explores how economic structures, institutional incentives, and cultural pressures contribute to ideological conformity and risk-averse environments. The conversation also moves into feminist politics, gender policy conflicts, and Sara's personal experience of workplace cancellation following her participation in a public event, leading to an ongoing employment tribunal.     Key Topics Discussed · Post-conflict Northern Ireland economy and society · NGO funding and "peace money" dependency · Arts and charity sector employment structures · Public sector dominance vs private industry · Violence against women and policy failures · Gender ideology and feminist conflict · Workplace cancellation and tribunal case · Protest culture and ideological enforcement · "Militant kindness" and social conformity · Cross-community identity vs modern inclusion frameworks     Historical & Political Context The Good Friday Agreement (1998) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-belfast-agreement · Ended major violence during The Troubles · Led to significant international funding and NGO expansion     The Troubles (Background Context) https://www.britannica.com/event/The-Troubles-Northern-Ireland-history · Sectarian conflict shaping modern Northern Ireland · Long-term impact on identity, politics, and economy     Post-Conflict Funding & NGO Economy PEACE PLUS Programme https://www.seupb.eu/peaceplus · Cross-border EU, UK, and Irish government funding programme · Supports community, reconciliation, and economic projects     Invest Northern Ireland https://www.investni.com/ · Economic development agency focused on business growth     Arts Council of Northern Ireland https://artscouncil-ni.org/ · Primary funding body for arts and cultural sector     Belfast City Council https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ · Referenced in building-use controversy and policy criteria     Political Landscape Sinn Féin https://www.sinnfein.ie/ Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) https://mydup.com/ Alliance Party https://www.allianceparty.org/     Social Issues & Policy Violence Against Women Strategy (Northern Ireland) https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/stopping-domestic-and-sexual-violence-and-abuse-strategy     Sexual Violence & Support Services Nexus NI https://nexusni.org/ Women's Aid NI https://www.womensaidni.org/ The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre https://www.southerntrust.hscni.net/services/the-rowan/     Sara Morrison — Case & Context BBC Coverage https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0gj42l4zeo     Case Briefing https://sex-matters.org/case-briefings/sara-morrison-v-belfast-film-festival/     Let Women Speak Event https://www.standingforwomen.com/     J. K. Rowling Support Context https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/trans-child-women-only-spaces-skdtl3bcx · Public support and financial contribution to Morrison's case     Feminism, Gender & Policy Nordic Model (Sex Work Policy) https://nordicmodelnow.org/what-is-the-nordic-model/     Repeal the 8th Amendment (Ireland) https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/justice/civil-law/repeal-of-the-8th-amendment/     Emma Watson https://www.unwomen.org/en/goodwill-ambassadors/emma-watson · Referenced in context of funding support for services     Arts, Culture & Institutions Imagine Belfast Festival https://imaginebelfast.com/     Northern Ireland Screen https://www.northernirelandscreen.co.uk/     Media & Cultural References Elephant https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant_(1989_film)     Van Morrison https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Van_Morrison     Protest Culture & "Militant Kindness" Northern Ireland Protest Coverage (Context Referenced in Episode) https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/ · Referenced discussion of protests and counter-protests · Highlights tension between grassroots groups and activist responses     Gay Not Queer (Referenced by Sara) https://x.com/gaynotqueer · Referenced directly in episode · Source of "militant kindness" framing · Critiques contradictions within activist culture     Organizations & Networks NIPSA (Trade Union) https://nipsa.org.uk/     Free Legal Advice Centres (FLAC) https://www.flac.ie/     Key Figures Mentioned Jim Gamble https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Gamble       Guest — Sara Morrison https://x.com/SeeRedWoman1   Host — Róisín Michaux   🔗 Substack / Podcast Home https://peaked.substack.com/ 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/RoisinMichaux 🔗 Apple Podcasts — Peaked https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641     Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Peaked is available on all major platforms. https://peaked.substack.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641

    1h 31m

  6. Apr 2

    The Faking of a Sob Story

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode Lydia Foy - The Faking of a Sob Story Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Sean, Catherine      Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín is joined by a guest to examine the life, legal case, and cultural legacy of Lydia Foy, one of the most significant figures in Ireland's legal history on gender recognition. The discussion moves between documentary storytelling, legal records, media portrayals, and cultural references to unpack how a single case shaped Irish law and influenced broader debates across Europe. Drawing from court judgments, archival interviews, activist commentary, and media narratives, the episode explores how law, medicine, and storytelling intersect and how different sources present the same events in radically different ways. The conversation also examines how public narratives are constructed through documentaries, advocacy, and cultural references, and how these narratives influence legal reform, public opinion, and institutional response.     Key Topics Discussed The life and legal case of Lydia Foy Irish High Court proceedings and European human rights attempts Role of FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) in public interest litigation The European Commission of Human Rights (1997 application) Gender Recognition Act (Ireland and UK comparisons) Medical evidence and brain-based theories of gender identity Media narratives vs court-record facts Cultural references including Orange Is the New Black Activism, legal advocacy, and institutional influence Amnesty-related activism and legal disputes Historical analogies and media impact (Emmett Till case)     Historical & Legal Context: Lydia Foy Case The episode heavily references official court records and legal proceedings. Irish High Court Judgment (Primary Source) https://www.bailii.org/ie/cases/IEHC/2002/116.html This judgment includes: Marriage and family background Psychiatric consultations Judicial separation and barring orders Loss of access to children Property transfer     European Human Rights Attempt (1997) Pre-1998, cases were submitted to the European Commission of Human Rights (not the Court directly). This included: Application involving legal aid refusal Attempt to reopen domestic proceedings Procedural dismissal     FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) https://www.flac.ie/ FLAC played a central role by: Taking the case as public interest litigation (mid-1990s) Shifting focus to birth certificate recognition Supporting long-term legal strategy     Legislative Context UK Gender Recognition Act (2004) https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/7/contents Introduced legal gender recognition framework Highly debated in Parliament Parliamentary Debate (Norman Tebbit) https://api.parliament.uk/historic-hansard/lords/2004/jan/29/gender-recognition-bill-hl Key themes: Legal vs biological sex Concerns about long-term implications     Medical & Scientific References Brain Structure Research (BSTc Studies) https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/85/5/2034/2660626 https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/1995Natur.378...68Z/abstract These studies: Examined brain structures (BSTc region) Suggested differences aligned with gender identity Became influential in legal and medical discussions     Researcher: Louis Gooren https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_Gooren https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Louis+Gooren Endocrinologist Specialist in hormone therapy and gender dysphoria     Media & Narrative Sources RTÉ Documentary https://www.rte.ie/radio/doconone/646740-radio-documentary-my-name-is-lydia-foy-transgender-transsexual "My Name is Lydia Foy" (2011) First-person narrative Covers childhood, marriage, transition, and legal struggle     ShoutOut Series https://www.shoutout.ie/know-your-queer-history Lydia Foy episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xzVf4Drxc0 Interview-based storytelling Personal account of legal and social experience     Cultural & Media References Orange Is the New Black https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orange_Is_the_New_Black Character reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sophia_Burset Used as a comparison for family dynamics and transition     Advocacy, Activism & Legal Networks Michael Farrell https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Farrell_(activist) Council of Europe involvement: https://www.coe.int/en/web/european-commission-against-racism-and-intolerance/ecri-bureau/-/asset_publisher/TlH7DYDQnFdQ/content/farrell-michael Human rights lawyer Connected to Strasbourg institutions     Bill Shipsey & Art for Amnesty https://artforhumanrights.org/about-us/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Shipsey Legal dispute: https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2022/09/18/group-founded-by-bill-shipsey-shocked-at-amnesty-legal-action/ https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/amnesty-international-sues-ex-irish-chairman-in-trademark-row/41992774.html Trademark dispute over "Amnesty" name Lawsuit initiated in 2022, later halted     Social Media Reference Bill Shipsey LinkedIn Post https://www.linkedin.com/posts/billshipsey_dr-lydia-foy-i-never-got-an-apology-actually-activity-7299369043466088448-6-HP Reflects on Lydia Foy's legal journey Mentions legal team and impact     Additional Cases & References 📚 🎯 CORE ROSA PARKS RESOURCES 🔗 Main Biography (reliable, concise) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rosa-Parks ✔ Covers: Bus incident (1955) Montgomery Bus Boycott Role in Civil Rights Movement   📚 🎯 Emmett Till (Historical Comparison) 🔗 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmett_Till 🔗 https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/till-murder/ 🔗 https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/emmett-till Used as an example of media impact and public response Includes reference to paid confession after acquittal     Supporting Context: Activism & Recognition Labour Party Recognition (Ireland) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lydia_Foy Lydia Foy awarded Jim Larkin "Thirst for Justice" Award (2025) https://www.instagram.com/p/DRH_IQrjBT7/     Host — Róisín Michaux   🔗 Substack / Podcast Home https://peaked.substack.com/ 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/RoisinMichaux 🔗 Apple Podcasts — Peaked https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641     Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Peaked is available on all major platforms. https://peaked.substack.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641

    56 min

  7. Mar 12

    Femsplaining: Irish Cultural Capture with Laoise de Brún

    🎙️ Peaked — Episode 5 Femsplaining: Irish Cultural Capture with Laoise de Brún Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Laoise de Brún     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, Róisín Michaux speaks with Irish activist and commentator Laoise de Brún, founder of The Countess, about the changing cultural and political landscape in Ireland and Europe. The conversation is a deep exploration of how gender identity ideology entered Irish institutions. De Brún explains the origins of The Countess, a grassroots feminist organisation she founded in 2020, and describes how activists attempt to influence policy in a media environment dominated by outlets such as RTÉ and The Irish Times. A significant part of the discussion focuses on gender identity policy in schools, NGO influence on guidance documents, and the legal controversy surrounding teacher Enoch Burke, who has repeatedly been imprisoned for contempt of court in a dispute with his school over pronoun use. The conversation also explores Ireland's historical culture of respectability, referencing Catholic social norms and institutions such as Magdalene Laundries, and draws parallels with contemporary ideological pressures within politics, academia, and public administration.     Key Topics Discussed • The founding and strategy of The Countess • NGO influence on gender identity policy in Irish schools • Media framing in RTÉ and The Irish Times • The legal case involving teacher Enoch Burke • Gender identity legislation and the Irish Gender Recognition Act (2015) • The Cass Review and youth gender medicine • Ireland's historical culture of social respectability • European institutions and policy influence • Political dynamics within Ireland and the role of parties such as Aontú     About the Guest Laoise de Brún is an Irish feminist activist, former broadcast journalist, and founder of The Countess, a grassroots women's advocacy organization launched in 2020. Her work focuses on women's rights, gender identity legislation, immigration policy, and institutional accountability in Ireland. 🔗 The Countess https://thecountess.ie     Institutional Context The Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) The Irish Council for Civil Liberties is a major Irish human rights NGO involved in policy advocacy related to civil liberties, equality legislation, and legal reform. 🔗 ICCL https://www.iccl.ie     Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission is Ireland's statutory equality body established in 2014 to monitor equality legislation and human rights protections. 🔗 IHREC https://www.ihrec.ie     Major Stories Referenced The Enoch Burke Case Irish teacher Enoch Burke became the focus of a major legal dispute after refusing to use a student's requested pronouns at Wilson's Hospital School in County Westmeath. Burke has been jailed multiple times for contempt of court after repeatedly returning to the school despite an injunction banning him from doing so. 🔗 Reuters — Explanation of the Case https://www.reuters.com/fact-check/irish-teacher-enoch-burkes-arrest-ordered-contempt-not-over-pronoun-use-2025-11-27/ 🔗 Wilson's Hospital School https://www.whs.ie     Mountjoy Prison The Dublin prison where Burke has been repeatedly detained for contempt of court. 🔗 Mountjoy Prison https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountjoy_Prison     Laws and Legal Frameworks Referenced Gender Recognition Act 2015 (Ireland) Ireland's Gender Recognition Act allows adults to legally change their gender through a self-declaration process. 🔗 Irish Statute Book https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2015/act/25/enacted/en/html     Lydia Foy Gender Recognition Case The Irish legal case brought by Dr. Lydia Foy helped establish pressure for gender recognition legislation in Ireland. 🔗 High Court Judgment https://www.bailii.org/ie/cases/IEHC/2007/H470.html 🔗 Case Background https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lydia_Foy     Research and Reports Mentioned The Cass Review The Cass Review is an independent review of gender identity services for children and young people in England led by pediatrician Dr. Hilary Cass, published in 2024. 🔗 Final Report https://cass.independent-review.uk/home/publications/final-report/ 🔗 Review Website https://cass.independent-review.uk     Media Organizations Referenced RTÉ Ireland's national public broadcaster. 🔗 RTÉ https://www.rte.ie     The Irish Times Ireland's newspaper of record referenced during the discussion about media narratives. 🔗 The Irish Times https://www.irishtimes.com     Individuals Referenced Petra De Sutter Belgian politician and former Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium, referenced during discussion of Belgian political culture and institutional dynamics. 🔗 Petra De Sutter — Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petra_De_Sutter 🔗 Brussels Times — AI quotes controversy https://www.brusselstimes.com/1909581/ugent-chancellor-petra-de-sutter-caught-using-ai-in-opening-speech 🔗 Anadolu Agency coverage of the same incident https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/belgian-rector-turns-down-honor-after-using-ai-generated-fake-quotes-in-speech/3794175     Stella O'Malley Irish psychotherapist and founder of Genspect, mentioned in relation to an earlier podcast appearance by Laoise de Brún. 🔗 Genspect https://genspect.org     Helen Joyce Journalist and author of Trans: When Ideology Meets Reality, referenced as a prominent commentator in gender identity debates. 🔗 Helen Joyce https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_Joyce     Leo Varadkar Former Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland, referenced in discussion about political identity and Irish political culture. 🔗 Leo Varadkar https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leo_Varadkar     Books Referenced Derek Scally — The Best Catholics in the World A historical study examining the relationship between Ireland and the Catholic Church. 🔗 Book Page https://www.sandstonepress.com/book/the-best-catholics-in-the-world/     Peig Sayers — Peig Memoir of Irish storyteller Peig Sayers, widely known as a classic Irish-language text. 🔗 Peig Sayers https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peig_Sayers     Organizations Mentioned A&L Goodbody Major Irish law firm referenced in the discussion about legal guidance attached to policy documents. 🔗 A&L Goodbody https://www.algoodbody.com     Guest Resources 🔗 The Countess https://thecountess.ie 🔗 The Countess Campaigns and Publications https://thecountess.ie/about-us/     Guest — Socials 👤 Laoise de Brún 🔗 X / Twitter https://x.com/LaoiseDeBrun 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laoise-de-br%C3%BAn-97a488202/ 🔗 Organization Website https://thecountess.ie     Host — Róisín Michaux 🔗 Podcast / Substack https://peaked.substack.com 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/RoisinMichaux 🔗 Apple Podcasts — Peaked https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641     Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Peaked explores European politics, institutions, and cultural debates shaping policy across the continent. If you enjoy conversations examining how ideas move through media, governments, and international organizations, consider subscribing on Substack or your preferred podcast platform.

    48 min

  8. Feb 24

    Inside the StrasBorg: The Council of Europe and the Conversion Therapy Ban Resolution

    🎙️ Peaked Inside the StrasBorg: The Council of Europe and the Conversion Therapy Ban Resolution Host: Róisín Michaux Guest: Annette Pacey     Episode Overview In this episode of Peaked, I speak with Annette Pacey about what happened inside the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe during the recent vote on a resolution calling for a Europe-wide ban on "conversion practices." Our conversation examines how resolutions are developed within the Council of Europe, how political groups coordinate amendments and voting strategy, and why attendance and procedural dynamics can determine the outcome of controversial measures. Rather than focusing only on rhetoric, we explore how language such as "conversion therapy" functions in law and policy, how gender identity has been embedded into European human rights frameworks, and why relatively obscure institutions like PACE can shape national legislation across 46 member states.     Key Topics Discussed · The structure and function of the Council of Europe versus the European Union · The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and its political groups · The Committee on Equality and Non-Discrimination · The resolution "For a ban on conversion practices" and its legislative trajectory · The role of rapporteurs, including UK MP Kate Osborne · Political group strategy, amendments, and voting coordination · Attendance patterns and procedural dynamics in Strasbourg · The distinction between sexual orientation and gender identity in law · The concept of "affirmation" in policy frameworks · The broader impact of Council of Europe resolutions on national legislation     About the Guest Annette Pacey is a writer and policy commentator affiliated with Athena Forum, a European network focused on evidence-based policy and sex-based rights. She attended the January 2026 session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, where she engaged directly with delegates across political groups regarding the draft resolution on conversion practices. Annette speaks in a personal capacity in this episode and reflects on her observations of institutional process, political negotiation, and advocacy dynamics inside PACE.     Institutional Context: The Council of Europe and PACE The Council of Europe is a pan-European intergovernmental organization founded in 1949 and headquartered in Strasbourg, France. It currently has 46 member states and is distinct from the European Union. 🔗 Council of Europe — Official Website https://www.coe.int The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is composed of sitting national parliamentarians from member states. Delegates are not directly elected to PACE but are appointed from their domestic parliaments. 🔗 Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) https://pace.coe.int Political groups within PACE include: · SOC — Socialists, Democrats and Greens Group · EPP/CD — Group of the European People's Party · ALDE — Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe · EC/DA — European Conservatives Group and Democratic Alliance · UEL — Unified European Left 🔗 Political Groups Overview https://pace.coe.int/en/pages/political-groups     The Conversion Practices Resolution The episode centers on the resolution titled: "For a ban on conversion practices" The report was prepared by Kate Osborne MP (UK, Labour), serving as rapporteur for the Committee on Equality and Non-Discrimination. 🔗 Resolution Text and Report (Doc. 16315) https://pace.coe.int/en/files/35742 The resolution calls on member states to: · Introduce legislative bans on conversion practices · Provide criminal sanctions where appropriate · Prohibit so-called "conversion practices" affecting sexual orientation and gender identity · Implement awareness campaigns and support mechanisms As discussed in the episode, Council of Europe resolutions are not binding law. However, they are frequently cited as human rights standards and can influence national legislation.     Legal Precedents Referenced Malta — Affirmation of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression Act (2016) Malta was the first European country to introduce legislation addressing conversion practices. 🔗 Malta Legislation Overview https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/540/eng Spain — Law 4/2023 (Ley para la igualdad real y efectiva de las personas trans) Spain's 2023 reform includes provisions addressing conversion practices. 🔗 Spanish Official Gazette (BOE) https://www.boe.es/eli/es/l/2023/02/28/4     Political Dynamics Discussed The episode examines: · Amendment strategies within the EPP group · Pre-agreed amendments negotiated with the rapporteur · The role of party leadership in shaping final votes · Attendance patterns on the final day of plenary · Strategic considerations among center-right delegates The conversation reflects on how procedural decisions and group coordination can affect the substance of policy outcomes.     Individuals Referenced 🔗 Kate Osborne MP UK Labour MP; Rapporteur on conversion practices https://members.parliament.uk/member/4657 🔗 Helena Dalli European Commissioner for Equality https://commission.europa.eu/persons/helena-dalli_en 🔗 Thor Bjørn Jagland Former Secretary General of the Council of Europe (2009–2019) https://www.coe.int/en/web/secretary-general/former-secretaries-general     Athena Forum Athena Forum is a European civil society initiative focused on evidence-based policy and sex-based rights. 🔗 Athena Forum https://athena-forum.eu/     Guest — Socials 👤 Annette Pacey • LinkedIn: https://es.linkedin.com/in/annette-pacey-6a159b3a • X (Twitter): https://x.com/annettepacey?lang=en • Substack (Gender Lupa): https://genderlupa.substack.com/podcast     Host — Róisín Michaux 🔗 Substack / Podcast Home https://peaked.substack.com/ 🔗 X (Twitter) https://x.com/RoisinMichaux 🔗 Apple Podcasts — Peaked https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peaked/id1734814641     Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Peaked is available via Substack and major podcast platforms. If you value careful analysis of European institutions, human rights law, and the mechanics of political decision-making, consider subscribing.

    33 min
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About

A podcast about gender identity ideology, women's rights, and free speech in the EU. peaked.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Róisín Michaux
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Peaked srl
  • Show Website
    Peaked

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