The GIST backs trans athletes but declines interview with dissenting reporter

The GIST, a women’s-sports media platform with one million newsletter subscribers and a sizable social following, openly advocates for trans women to compete based on gender identity. Co-founder Ellen Hyslop and podcast partner Steph Rotz framed the WNBA’s trans-athlete debate as a cultural conflict, criticizing players like Sophie Cunningham and urging stars such as Caitlin Clark to speak out. After a public-relations representative offered the outlet’s co-founder for an interview, the reporter asked whether Hyslop was aware of the pitch, anticipating tough questions.

The PR team responded that the interview would focus on the "growth of women’s sports" rather than the political side, then withdrew the offer. The reporter reiterated interest and sent written questions about the outlet’s stance, but The GIST did not reply before publication. The episode highlights a tension between the outlet’s declared editorial line and its willingness to engage with opposing viewpoints.