For September, our theme was #ForGirlsByGirls, which focused on female creatives and empowerment. For the first time in our brand's 13-year history, our magazine was photographed exclusively by women. To check out our September issue cover story, starring Tavi Gevinson and written and styled by Grace Coddington, go here. And as always, don't forget to pick up your own copy of the magazine, on newsstands August 16th. (But PS — you can subscribe here!)

Laverne Cox is a living legend — a trailblazer, a pioneer, and a warrior for transgender equality. So when the actress — who rewrites (and rectifies) history this October in the TV movie remake of Rocky Horror Picture Show — agreed to host a Q&A with Transparent's Hari Nef, we were (of course) honored. "It was amazing to connect again with this young woman who's beginning her career," Laverne says. "Hearing from her how her journey has inspired her to live her dreams was so deeply affirming that having the courage to live our truths out loud can shift the world."

Below, you'll see Hari fully acknowledge that living her truth became a little less scary after season one aired of Orange Is the New Black, and a certain character named Sophia Burset flashed across millions of computer and television screens worldwide. Laverne became the first trans woman of color to have a leading role on a mainstream scripted show — a legacy she has never taken lightly. "The whole thing feels like a huge responsibility, and it is — there's lots of pressure. But I have to remind myself that I'm doing the best I can, and to stay in the love."

If now it seems that Laverne's road to success was paved and proper, she's quick to urge fans and viewers not to get it twisted. "Being black, trans, and a woman kept me in very limited boxes for years," she says. "But I believed as I persevered and changed my own thinking about myself and my talent, and things shifted around me."

Below, Hari and Laverne engage in a very special conversation about making it in Hollywood — and how authenticity is the secret to leading a truly successful life.

LAVERNE COX: Hey, girl. I'm so excited we’re chatting! I actually just saw your Ted Talk. How did that happen?

HARI NEF: Oh my gosh, I'm so happy you watched it. I guess they had maybe read some things I had written and they asked me to do a talk at Connecticut College.

LC: What was really interesting to me about watching was that it reminded me of Janet Mock's comment, where she accused Bell Hooks of being femmephobic.