The Purple Pawedcast

Today's episode features the new Mayor of Downingtown, PA, Dr. Erica Deuso.  Erica is a scientist, advocate for the marginalized...oh, and the first openly transgender Mayor in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  Erica and I discuss topics as weighty as the dirty business inherent in politics, how education is the best form of activism, and how long a buffalo would need to be in electrolysis before a vaginoplasty.

REFERENCES:
Erica Deuso’s Website:  https://www.ericadeuso.com/
Follow Erica on Bluesky:  https://bsky.app/profile/ericadeuso.bsky.social
Follow Erica on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/Erica_Deuso/
Follow Erica on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/EricaForPA/
Follow Erica on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@EricaforPA
Follow Erica on TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@erica_deuso
Emerge Pennsylvania:  https://pa.emergeamerica.org/

  • (00:00) - Opening credits
  • (00:37) - Show opening
  • (01:31) - Introducing Erica Deuso
  • (04:34) - More worried about empty storefronts than gender
  • (09:45) - Just qualified for the job
  • (14:43) - The dirty business of politics
  • (19:15) - A quick jaunt into global finance
  • (25:32) - Dealing with hate on the campaign trail
  • (31:58) - Fighting hate with critical thinking
  • (37:50) - Activism means constantly learning more
  • (44:30) - Humanity is all about respect
  • (49:47) - The Good Neighbor Mayor
  • (53:45) - Deuso Herrick 2028!
  • (58:13) - How to find Erica Deuso on the internet
  • (01:03:36) - Show closing
  • (01:04:00) - Closing credits
★ Support this podcast ★

Creators and Guests

Host
Amethysta Herrick, Ph.D.
Scientist, storyteller, and professional overthinker of all things identity. Also, I happen to be a transgender woman.

What is The Purple Pawedcast?

Welcome to The Purple Pawedcast, where we unpack the complexities of gender, identity, and what it truly means to be human—without the academic jargon (okay, maybe just a little, but only the fun kind).

Curated by Amethysta Herrick. Ph.D., this pod is where science, philosophy, and lived experience collide to challenge assumptions and spark new perspectives. Whether you’re here to explore your own identity, stay informed on the latest research, or just enjoy a deep dive into the human experience, we deliver thoughtful, engaging, and refreshingly honest discussions. No fluff. No gatekeeping. Just real conversations about who we are and how we navigate the world. Dive in, stay curious, and let’s rethink identity together.