A Queer Understanding

Can a life-changing health scare lead to a flourishing jewelry business? Discover the remarkable journey of Jamal Wesley, who turned a crisis into a beacon of inclusivity and self-expression. With a 15-year background in the insurance industry, Jamal's pivot to creating a jewelry line that celebrates love and the LGBTQIA+ community is nothing short of inspiring. We'll explore his new book, "Authentically Authentic," and his YouTube series "Queer Love Letters," both of which underscore his mission to foster meaningful connections and champion authenticity. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of authenticity, love, and forgiveness, offering listeners invaluable insights and inspiration. https://myauthenticbook.com/ https://bit.ly/QueerLoveLetters Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Matthew Reeves, a licensed professional counselor and nationally certified rehabilitation counselor, shares his powerful journey from a conservative upbringing to becoming the owner of Integral Mental Health Services. As a gay cis man who is legally blind, Matthew offers a unique lens on the mental health challenges within the LGBTQAI+ and disability communities. We talk about how his experiences shape his mission to help others transform their pain into strength, especially those dealing with trauma rooted in religious and spiritual backgrounds. Matthew's narrative of personal growth and professional transformation underscores the beauty of embracing diverse perspectives. He opens up about the challenges of navigating relationships and identity, particularly when coming out isn't safe, and reflects on his struggles with self-censorship and the mixed reactions from his evangelical Christian family. Through it all, Matthew emphasizes self-compassion and the healing journey, offering valuable insights and advice to those facing similar struggles. Listen in for an inspiring conversation that highlights hope, resilience, and the power of specialized support. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

What motivates someone to dedicate their life to LGBTQ+ activism and public service? Join us as we sit down with Vic Basile, a pioneering leader in the LGBTQ community, to unpack his extraordinary journey, from his early days as a VISTA volunteer to becoming the first executive director of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). Vic shares the motivations behind his newly authored book, "Bending Toward Justice," a profound look into the evolution of HRC and a tribute to its founder, Steve Endean. Discover the pivotal moments of LGBTQ political advocacy and the foundational goals that have shaped the movement. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

What happens when a pioneering dance hall/hip-hop artist decides to challenge the status quo of a traditionally homophobic genre? Join us as Lexxicon shares his daring journey to create an inclusive space in dance hall music with his hit single "Batty Man Party." Batty Man Party (Official Music Video) https://www.lexxiconofficial.com/ Linktr.ee IG - @officialexxicon Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Have you ever held something in your hands that felt like a piece of you, a symbol of your journey and identity? Braxton Fleming, CEO of Stealth Bros & Co., joins us with an inspiring tale of how a search for dignified medical storage became a beacon for underrepresented communities. Embarking on a path less traveled, Braxton transformed his need for discretion into Stealth Bros & Co., a luxury brand that's more than just chic medical storage—it's a statement of pride and an emblem of unity for those often left at the sidelines of medical conversations. https://www.stealthbrosco.com/ https://www.instagram.com/stealthbrosco/ https://www.facebook.com/StealthBrosCo/ Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Marriage is not without its challenges, and this heart-to-heart with Rahim Thayer peels back the layers of emotions that often underpin our actions and reactions within our most intimate relationships. We look into how our childhood experiences with family can cast long shadows over our adult lives, especially in how we form and enforce boundaries with our partners. Rahim's insights guide us through understanding the complexities of these emotional legacies, offering a path to reconcile our past with our present. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Navigating the inaugural year of marriage is no small feat, and Cassy and I are thrilled to share our journey with you, alongside the insights of Rahim Thawer, a social worker and psychotherapist who's no stranger to the dance of queer partnerships. Season 5 opens up with the lush tale of our dreamy beach wedding, the leaps we've taken in our careers, and a family reunion in Jamaica that was nothing short of a cultural embrace. With each challenge and celebration, we've discovered new depths of support and growth, and we can't wait for you to join us in unwrapping these moments of connection and courage. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Have you ever pondered on the revolutionary innovations taking place within the LGBT community? Join us, as we dive into an insightful conversation with our guest Glenise, the ingenious mind behind SkiiMoo Tech. SkiiMoo Tech is a game-changer; designing products that cater specifically to the LGBT community and addressing gaps in the market. We kick off the discussion with their revolutionary first product, VDOM, a smart penis device designed to add spontaneity to your sex life and offer gender-affirming solutions for transgender individuals. https://thevdom.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thevdomatl https://www.instagram.com/the.vdom/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.vdom Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Rahim, known for his dedicated work with communities he resonates with, initiates a riveting dialogue about how the evolution and interpretations of religious practices and sexuality can often disempower individuals. As we navigate deeper, we also delve into the cycle of guilt and shame that accompanies drastic life changes and the essence of open communication in relationships. https://allmylinks.com/ladyativan https://www.affectiveconsult.ca/ Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Get ready for a deep and inspiring conversation with Godfrey Riddle, the powerhouse behind Civic Saint, a trailblazing social protest brand that aims to revolutionize affordable housing and community living. We'll journey through Godfrey's personal struggles, shedding light on his resilience in the face of adversity and his ambition to create positive change in the world. From battling cancer to overcoming personal loss, his tenacity has led him to design an innovative model for sustainable living, with a focus on compressed earthen blocks (CEBs). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Miio44cPcyo Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Imagine the grit it takes to stand as the only out transgender person working at the Florida State Capitol. Our guest, Eleanor McDonald, has dared to challenge the status quo & fight for the rights of her community within the corridors of power. She has not only weathered the storm but also managed to thrive in the conservative landscape of Florida's political scene. In this episode, she opens up about the impact of politics on marginalized communities, the roles played by prominent figures like Governor DeSantis, and the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Picture this: growing up as a queer individual in a small Caribbean country, grappling to understand your identity amidst microaggressions and societal norms. With us today is the remarkable Dr. Kellon Bubb, climate change researcher, LGBTQ+ advocate, and academic who shares his captivating journey of overcoming discrimination and the triumphs of finding a community. He also shares insights and experiences of his life in Grenada, his bold move to the US, and his commitment to making a difference through his work and the enlightening Bubb Report podcast. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

What happens when a seasoned activist and advocate for trans rights shares their journey? Lee Blinder, a passionate voice for the LGBTQIA+ community in Maryland, joins us to unfold their incredible story, deeply rooted in their personal experiences and unwavering spirit. As we traverse the intricate landscape of sex, gender, faith, trauma, and liberation, Lee's perspective illuminates the underbelly of our society, laying bare the biases, the systemic injustice, and the urgent need for queer representation in media. We also dissect the phenomenon of sex and gender, unraveling the preconceived notions and misconceptions deeply embedded in our society. The stories of famous athletes like Caster Semenya and the persistent policing of gender norms underscore the challenges faced by trans and non-binary people. In our exploration, we unravel the tangled intersections of gender identity, sexual orientation, acceptance, and the freedom to express oneself. Join us on this enlightening journey with Lee Blinder, as we uncover the intricacies of the queer experience and the path to advocacy. https://www.theguardian.com/science/the-h-word/2015/feb/19/nature-sex-redefined-we-have-never-been-binary http://www.nature.com/news/sex-redefined-1.16943 http://www.newstatesman.com/future-proof/2015/02/sex-isn-t-chromosomes-story-century-misconceptions-about-x-y Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Quinton Reynolds, founder of Game-Changing Men, discusses his work with the trans community addressing toxic masculinities and promoting the health and wellness of communities of color. Quinton discusses transitioning while incarcerated & overcoming some of his own stigmas to build a life with his wife, who is also trans. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Dr. Davis Brown discusses his work facilitating equity in the workplace, as well as his groundbreaking book, The Souls of Queer Folk: How Understanding LGBTQ+ Cultural Values Can Transform Your Leadership Practice, where he discusses how the values and norms of the LGBTQ+ community can serve as the foundation for transformative leadership. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Hear our conversation with our friend, Raka, as she helps us navigate telling the story of our journey to finding love with each other. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Sunny shares information on his new, innovative podcast on climate change, gender identity and sexuality, and the obstacles he's faced as a trans man. https://www.sunnydrake.com/climatechangeandothersmalltalk https://www.sunnydrake.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sunny_drake/ https://www.facebook.com/sunnydrake.creations Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Helmut discusses his passion for the LGBTQ+ community, coming out later in life, overcoming a heartbreaking divorce from the mother of his 3 daughters, and navigating gay life. https://thegaylydose.com/ marketing@thegaydose.com https://www.instagram.com/thegaylydosepod/ https://www.facebook.com/thegaylydosepod Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Eboné Bell is a business owner, speaker, and trailblazer who shines bright in the world of entrepreneurship, DEI, activism, and LGBTQ media. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Tagg Magazine. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand

Tune in for our conversation with Maurice Tomlinson about his work challenging anti-gay laws, including Jamaica’s ban on same-sex intimacy and marriage, and other advocacy work. https://www.gofundme.com/f/fifty-still-fighting CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains sensitive material that may be triggering for some listeners. Contact the hosts of A Queer Understanding https://www.aqueerunderstanding.com/ Like, subscribe, & follow @aqueerunderstanding@aqueerunderstanding@QueerUnderstand