By: Lisa Patrick
Andrea Leigh’s memoir, Do You Still Like Football: From Harley-Riding Rancher to Fashion Icon: A Journey of Courage and Reinvention, is not just a story—it’s a bold declaration of self-discovery, resilience, and authenticity. Released in January 2025, the book chronicles Andrea’s extraordinary life journey, from her success in the pharmaceutical industry and life as a rancher to her courageous decision to embrace her identity as a transgender woman. Through her writing, public speaking, and coaching, Andrea challenges societal norms, dismantles stereotypes, and inspires others to find the courage to live authentically.
Before transitioning, Andrea—then known as Andy—lived what many would consider the American Dream. Happily married and thriving in a lucrative career with Pfizer Inc., she and her family managed a ranch guided by sustainable, holistic agricultural practices inspired by permaculture. Yet, beneath the surface of her professional and personal accomplishments, Andrea grappled with a deeper truth. Her decision to transition was not a sudden revelation but the result of profound self-reflection, a journey she shares with honesty and humor in her memoir.
In Do You Still Like Football?, Andrea recounts her path to self-acceptance with a raw vulnerability that is both inspiring and relatable. She offers readers an intimate look at the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her authentic self. One such moment came during an impromptu makeup session with her wife, whose simple yet powerful affirmation—“You will make a beautiful woman”—ignited a spark of confidence. Another was her realization that transitioning meant not merely identifying as a woman but experiencing life as one. These moments, among others, became cornerstones of her journey, shaping her perspective and fueling her determination to live without regret.
Andrea’s story also challenges assumptions about gender identity and the stereotypes often associated with it. As she puts it, “I was a very masculine man, comfortable in that identity, having achieved many outward markers of success. Yet, I was searching for something deeper.” Her transition, which she describes as becoming a “very feminine woman, a fashionista who embraces the essence of femininity,” defies traditional narratives and expands the conversation around what it means to live authentically.
Andrea’s love for football began in childhood and remained a constant passion throughout her life. Similarly, her childhood love for motorcycles was rekindled later in life, becoming something she shared with her wife. However, as she embraced her transition, Andrea made the decision to part with her motorcycles. She realized that the risks associated with riding conflicted with her desire to fully embrace this new chapter of her life. Reflecting on the choice, she explains, “The boldness, the thrill, and the aggressiveness often linked to masculinity didn’t disappear with the bikes. Those traits are still a part of me, even as I embrace my identity as a woman.”
Beyond her personal journey, Andrea has become a powerful voice for understanding and acceptance. As a two-time award-winning international speaker, she captivates audiences with her keynote talks, which have been well-received in both conservative and liberal environments, from Oklahoma and Texas to Canada. Her talks address how people react and respond to those different from themselves, particularly in the context of gender identity. “The media and political rhetoric often amplify divides,” she notes. “But my personal experience and the professional environments I’ve worked in don’t reflect that level of polarization. Many people simply want to understand.”
Andrea’s openness and vulnerability resonate with audiences across the political spectrum, offering a non-polarizing, unapologetic perspective on gender identity. She believes that the topic, often sensationalized in political discourse, touches far more people than those who are personally transitioning. “It affects their parents, families, extended relatives, friends, and others who simply want to understand,” she explains. Her approach fosters empathy and understanding, bridging divides and encouraging meaningful dialogue.
Andrea’s remarkable journey is also reflected in her professional life. After spending 24 years with Pfizer Inc., she transitioned from the bio-healthcare industry to the world of fashion, a shift that underscores her willingness to embrace change and reinvent herself. Now an executive leader with the C-Suite Network and LeadHERship Global, Andrea uses her platform to inspire others to to embrace living life fully without a fear of judgment, empowering them to navigate life with confidence, clarity, and purpose. She is also a co-host on Thriving Women Network TV and a transformation coach, helping clients experience personal growth and reinvention.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Andrea’s unwavering commitment to authenticity and personal transformation has paved the way for a life filled with purpose and joy. She remains happily married to her wife of 22 years, a testament to the strength of their partnership and mutual support throughout her journey.
Andrea Leigh’s story is one of disruption and resilience. Her memoir, keynote talks, and coaching serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those navigating their own paths of self-discovery. As she shares her journey and perspectives, Andrea highlights the potential of embracing new experiences and living authentically.
Published by Stephanie M.
