Allyship is a Verb
By Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them)
Allyship is a VerbNov 20, 2023
The Magic of LGBTQ+ Summer Camps feat. Rebecca Kling (Replay)
Please note: This is another replay due to a super busy past few weeks. 💜 This episode is from Season 2, so you'll hear my previous name. All replay slots will be extended with original episodes, I promise! 😊
Consider the relevance of someone's identity. This week, Rebecca Kling (she/her) discusses creating inclusive summer camps for LGBTQ+ youth where they can be themselves without making everything about being from the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, you will learn 1. What conversations are coming up at summer camps 2. How B'Mitzvahs/B'nai Mitzvahs may differ from Bar and Bat Mitzvahs 3. When we might engage in understanding and empathic conversations and when it's time to disrupt and agitate for change.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/rebecca-kling
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature an allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
I'm just, like, a little dude feat. Ashabi Owagboriaye
Take the Ace Flag Revision Survey
This week, Ashabi Owagboriaye (she/they) shares the meaning behind the white stripe in the ace flag and why she’s launched an ace flag survey as a result. You will learn: 1. What they think about the intersection of transness and asexuality 2. Why openness can influence somebody and carry a generation in either direction if you’re not careful 3. How it feels like to have people come to them as an elder queer
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/ashabi-owagboriaye/
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
So, you are queer feat. Sarah Gilbert
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This week, Sarah Gilbert (she/her) shares the story of how a random question Charlie asked a few years ago sparked a journey of self-discovery. You will learn: 1. What two pieces of advice she offers others wondering if they might be LGBTQ+ 2. How it feels to be a long-time LGBTQ+-affirming therapist learning later in life that she's queer and some of the fears and hesitations she's had around claiming the term 3. Why icons like Freddie Mercury have inspired her and how queer spaces like bars, drag shows, and musical theater feel comforting and joyful
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/sarah-gilbert/
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Listen to minorities and thank them feat. Ra Ra Rollins (Replay)
Please note: This is another replay to help with my mental health break. A new episode is coming on Tuesday, March 26th. Thanks for your continued patience and understanding. 💜 This episode is from Season 2, so you'll hear my previous name.
Content warning for mentions of George Floyd's murder and generally sensitive topics without details.
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!!
Listen to minorities and thank them. In this week’s episode, Ra Ra Rollins (he/him) shares why he claims “queer” and “gay” and the difference in meaning for him between the two terms. He ponders if he’s Black first or gay, queer first, especially since not all spaces see him as a whole person with various, complex identities. Learn about how his work can be triggering as a Black therapist and what it means for him to hold space for clients at some of his same intersections. We also discuss how he pushed back in his grad school program because he learned from white professors who talked about white theorists and had white supervisors while seeing white clients. Despite that, he did gain two incredible mentors and friends for life. Ra Ra reclaims his energy by practicing boundaries, which did not come naturally to him, including by shutting down nearly all of his social media. There's also some discussion around rules and how he liberates himself from rules that don’t work or honor him.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/ra-ra-rollins
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature an allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Do you check in on your relationships? feat. Trystan Reese (Replay)
Check out the wearable merch! You can also help me close the gap on my $757 goal. I'm 76% of the way there at the time of writing this!
Please note: I'm bringing back a fan-favorite episode from season one, especially for those of you who are new to the podcast! Just a heads up, you will hear my previous name.
Why am I doing this? I'm burnt out. I need more support to keep this podcast going strong into season four. Anything you can do helps - whether it's snagging some merch, becoming a monthly donor, sponsoring an episode, or even sharing episodes.
I'm incredibly grateful for those who've been supporting me, and the reality is each episode takes me over 20 hours to put together. It's overwhelming and has become unsustainable, especially in the current anti-LGBTQ+ political climate of both the US and globally.
Your support means the world to me and helps so many feel seen, heard, and validated through the podcast. Plus, it's a crucial part of some people's LGBTQ+ allyship journeys. Thank you all so much for being a part of this community 🌈 New episodes will be coming, though I may do one more replay for my mental health 💜 I appreciate your patience and understanding.
In this week’s episode, Trystan Reese (he/him) shares about his days of being a drag king and how he's been performing as a man since he was a kid. Learn about some of the practices he's adopted to check in with his colleagues so that they're in a continuous feedback loop, including addressing power dynamics and microaggressions. We also discuss a bit of what it's like to be trainers and consultants and the work that goes into it, including figuring out our boundaries and doing the work to know how to facilitate conversations. Trystan talks about how moved he was by ALOK's talk on the podcast Man Enough and how well they were able to articulate thoughts that have been circling in his own mind.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at https://www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/trystan-reese
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature an allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Candace Rucker on being angry and eloquent
Check out the wearable merch!
This week, Candace Rucker (she/her) challenges the thought that we are only one type of ally, advocate, or activist— instead, we can be fluid by going in and out of feelings and actions. You will learn: 1. How it feels to be marginalized and misunderstood due to mixed race and queer identity 2. Why she historically got really, really angry when thinking about being Black in America 3. Why she's such a fan of intersectionality and who she'd love to meet
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/candace-rucker/
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Cielo Sunsarae on how harmful articles turned into nonprofit donations and partnerships
☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement
This week, Cielo Sunsarae (they/he) shares how harmful articles from a major conservative publisher turned into unexpected donations and partnerships for their Florida-based nonprofit. You will learn 1. What initially made them decide to cancel their top surgery and what they did later on to be comfortable with rescheduling and keeping it 2. How far some journalists have gone to write harmful articles or share misleading information (including about Cielo and Queer Trans Project) 3. Why clothing stores need to rethink options for fat and neurodivergent people (and all body types)
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/cielo-sunsarae/
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Exploring LGBTQ+ history feat. Andrew Lear
📺 Watch the recording for PFLAG Los Angeles Presents: Trans and Nonbinary Joy ✨
☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement
This week, Andrew Lear (he/him) discusses what goes into curating gay art history tours and the homophobia he's seen in academia. In this episode, you will learn 1. What intimate and sexual differences he’s seen for teenage boys and men across different cultures 2. How he’s seen gay art evolve over time 3. Which LGBTQ+ historical figures he’d want to have a dinner party with, and why
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/andrew-lear
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
I'm glad you're here feat. Shane Whalley
🗳️ Vote for 'Allyship is a Verb' in the Sonic Bloom Awards People's Choice category! You can vote as many times as you'd like between now and January 25th
☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement
This week, Shane Whalley (ze/hir) sheds light on living in Austin, Texas as an older queer and genderqueer person. In this special update episode, you will learn 1. Why ze suggests not intervening during misgendering (without consent from the person harmed) 2. How ze wishes we would proactively approach social/political change (instead of playing defense) 3. What we could say instead of calling someone "brave" or "resilient"
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/shane-whalley-2024-update
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Queering weddings and gender expression feat. Tonya
📺 Watch the recording for PFLAG Los Angeles Presents: Trans and Nonbinary Joy ✨
☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement
This week, Tonya (she/they) shares how questioning their gender 3-5 years ago has taken them on a journey, including navigating decisions about pronouns, make-up, hair length, and clothing. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why they hired a wedding planner who has experience with queer weddings, among other intentional decisions they've been working through 2. What a previous workplace did that was a positive change for the LGBTQ+ community at large 3. How, surprisingly, a trip to a coffee shop in a small town in Texas recently made them feel seen
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/tonya
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
From code switching to House Hunters feat. Patrick Ladonis
Watch the recording for PFLAG Los Angeles Presents: Trans and Nonbinary Joy ✨
This week, Patrick Ladonis (he/him) shares how he shifted from fear to freedom when he came out to over 400 people at the premiere of his web series SCALES. In this episode, you will learn 1. How stressful it was to have people pry into his personal life before he felt comfortable talking about his now husband in the workplace 2. What CEOs and senior leadership can do to show up for employees, especially for shifting to an inclusive culture 3. How creating his web series changed him by building up his confidence, and he hopes future generations will discover it
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/patrick-ladonis
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
How to mess up a health checkup feat. Tiffany Rossdale
This week, Tiffany Rossdale (she/her) shares about being a transgender woman and transformational life coach who emigrated from Manila, Philippines, to Tokyo, Japan. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why she’s passionate about legal reform for Japan’s LGBTQ+ community and advocacy, taking inspiration from other transgender actors and activists like Laverne Cox and Angelica Ross 2. How she has been navigating the complexities of dating as a transgender woman, including safety considerations 3. What healthcare providers can do to serve transgender and nonbinary patients better.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/tiffany-rossdale/
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
WAIT, why am I talking? feat. Mark S. King
This week, Mark S. King (he/him) shares how the landscape of HIV/AIDS has changed over the years since the AIDS crisis of the 80s and what it's been like for him, having lived with HIV for four decades. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why is it essential to fight against HIV criminalization, especially considering the injustices and stigma it perpetuates, particularly when it's used vindictively in personal disputes and can lead to unjust labeling as sexual predators 2. How not having access to basic services like transportation can impact our health and health outcomes 3. How he initially felt about folks making comparisons between the AIDS crisis and COVID-19 and what he thinks now
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/mark-s-king
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Turning 36: A special birthday episode feat. Charlie Ocean
This week, Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), is interviewed by various friends to celebrate turning 36 on September 17th, 2023! 🥳 In this episode, you will learn 1. Why they changed their name to Charlie Ocean from Chris Angel Murphy and some of what went into that decision 2. What some of their favorite books, shows, movies, and memes are 3. How to talk about someone who changed their name or pronouns with someone who doesn't know
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/charlie-ocean/
Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Being trans and nonbinary in the workplace feat. Zoa Glows
This week, Zoa Glows (they/she) returns from the first season to share how they navigate the workplace as a trans and nonbinary person, and what they wish workplaces would do to make it safer and easier. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why she decided to leave professional performing 2. What hate comments do to their spirit, and how their reactions to it have evolved over time (plus what those of us who follow Zoa on social can do to support them) 3. How some gendered terms may feel good to her in specific situations
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/zoa-glows-2023-update
Host Charlie Ocean (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow them on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack.
Embracing softness in a capitalist hellscape feat. MJ Jupitus
This week, MJ Jupitus (they/them) shares about how they navigate language as a nonbinary person, including being their wife's wife, but not their parent's daughter. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why they call themselves a movement specialist instead of a physical trainer or physical therapist 2. What softness means to them physically and mentally 3. How we may have "queer posture" and what it is
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/mj-jupitus/
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Living authentically and forging family harmony feat. Jack Lam
- Please consider donating $15 to the Indiegogo campaign to help Chris Angel celebrate their 15-year anniversary of taking testosterone; there are only six days left!
- If Chris Angel didn't scare you away with their bizarre personals ad for Kaitlyn, check them out on Instagram
This week, Jack Lam (they/them) discusses how being a Malaysian Chinese immigrant has impacted them, including struggling to release shame and fear so they could name and embrace their genderqueer identity after coming to the United States. In this episode, you will learn 1. How their gender expression becomes a powerful tool for visibility 2. When allyship begins to become performative and how to avoid it 3. Why we need to normalize talking about mental health and getting support
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/jack-lam/
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
What should LGBTQ+ flags look like? feat. Lena Dirscherl
- The Queer Trans Project is a black-led and trans-led organization that offers build-a-queer kits and flight assistance. They need to raise $50K by September! Thanks to Sam Marion for helping me to amplify The Queer Trans Project’s great work.
- Want to bring Allyship is a Verb to your workplace or group? Get a shoutout? Check out our Indiegogo campaign, including lots of other great perks!
- New merch drop 👀 with another line coming soon 👕
- Major thanks to Kit Ballum Cohen (they/them/kit), a nonbinary designer, artist, and parent who designed the newest podcast cover. Follow + check out their work at https://linktr.ee/itskit
To kick off season three, Lena Dirscherl (they/them) returns to discuss the value of having recognizable LGBTQ+ flags with intentional design. In this episode, you will learn 1. What goes into sensitivity reading, including promoting authentic representation, avoiding harmful tropes, and challenging unconscious bias. 2. Where they have been finding and connecting with the polyamory community. 3. How technology fatigue can negatively impact LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and artists.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/lena-dirscherl-2023-update
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
You go, Indiegogo!
You go, Indiegogo! Season three is around the corner, and we have a quick announcement... we've launched an Indiegogo campaign with some sweet perks! At the time of writing this, we're also an Indiegogo Team Favorite :) :) :)
Host Chris Angel ("Well, hello there!") needs your help to make this the best season yet. By contributing, you're helping to fund season three production costs. We'd also like to publish allyship e-books, have traveling audio exhibits, and so much more. You'll find yourself saying, "I've never known a podcast to have a [top secret idea] before!" I know, right?!
As an indie-produced podcast, we truly can't do this without you
We'd also love to offer a heartfelt OHMYGOSHTHANKYOUSOMUCH to those who have supported us over the years!!! Thanks to your contributions, we hired an illustrator this season to give us an incredible new podcast cover, which is already on some merch (with another design on the way soon). Big shoutout to nonbinary designer Kit Ballum Cohen!
Anything, even $5, helps us get closer to our goal of $5,000 to make these wild ideas a reality. Thanks for your support!
PS - If someone you know works for a company or organization that values diversity and inclusion, please consider forwarding the campaign to them. They may be interested in becoming a sponsor or hiring Chris Angel for a deeply discounted training session on allyship! https://igg.me/at/allyship-is-a-verb
See you VERY SOON on August 1st for the start of season three :)
The History of Black HIV in the South with hosts Anna DeShawn and Duane Cramer
Hopefully a future Allyship is a Verb guest, Anna DeShawn (she/her), created a mini-series called Black HIV in the South: How Did We Get Here? This is Episode 1 of 4. Please check out all of Anna's work with E3 Radio, LLC and The Qube (explained more in her bio further below). I had the extreme privilege of being introduced to Anna through The Ambies, as we were nominated in the same category! We met in Vegas at the award ceremony, and I cried tears of joy when she won Best DIY Podcast. Thank you for allowing me to amplify your top-notch work! - Chris Angel (they/them)
The History of Black HIV in the South
Go on a journey with Anna DeShawn to explore the history, economics, and culture of HIV/AIDS in the Black community. Through interviews and personal stories, Anna and her co-host, Duane Cramer, explore the shame, stigma, and solutions.
In this episode, Anna and Duane share their personal connections to the work and the history of HIV/AIDS in the Black community. Subject matter experts Nathan Townsend, Jada Harris, and Dafina Ward deliver insight into the reality of life for individuals afflicted by HIV in the 80s and 90s, the story of Michael Felton, an early unsung hero in the fight for justice, and why we must turn our collective attention toward this epidemic in the South.
✊🏾✊🏽✊🏿🌈🏳️⚧️
Hosts:
Anna DeShawn is a Chicago-born social entrepreneur who builds digital media platforms that center & celebrate BIPOC & QTPOC creatives. She received her bachelor's in radio/television production from Drake University and then received her master’s in communications from Ithaca College. Anna spent 12 years in the digital media space producing webinars and virtual events for government and corporate clients alike. Media has always been Anna’s passion, so she turned her passion into a reality when she founded E3 Radio, LLC. E3 Radio is an online radio station playing queer music & reporting on queer news in high rotation with an intersectional lens. Most recently, she co-founded The Qube, a curated app of music & podcasts by BIPOC & QTPOC creatives. Anna is determined to ride media into its next era by utilizing online radio streams to play the music & tell the stories that deserve to be heard.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/annadeshawn/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/annadeshawn
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annadeshawn?lang=en
Since being diagnosed with HIV 27 years ago, Duane Cramer has become a tireless advocate for HIV awareness and education, using his photography and creative skills to bring attention to the disease. Duane is an internationally known, award-winning photographer. He is well known for his photography-based HIV awareness visuals, particularly his efforts in the African-American community, which has been disproportionately affected by HIV. In addition, his poignant photos of dignitaries, celebrities, and everyday individuals gracefully capture the humanity of his subjects. Duane’s work, which has been favorably compared to the late Gordon Parks and Herb Ritts for his compelling black-and-white imagery, has been published around the world.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/eyeseeit/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DuaneCramer
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/duane.l.cramer
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Credits:
Black HIV in the South: How Did We Get Here? is a production of The Qube. The Qube is a podcast production company and curated platform to discover the best BIPOC & QTPOC podcasts. Begin discovering at https://theqube.app and follow @thequbeapp across social.
Produced by Latrice Sampson Richards of STS Productions (www.instagram.com/latricesampsonrichards)
Podcast Editing by Xperience J of Shhh! Jus’ Listen Media (www.instagram.com/xperiencejay/)
Research Contributor - Nicole Holmes, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD), Manager of Health Equities
Podcast Fact Checker - Timothy S. Jackson, Director of Government Relations at AIDS Foundation of Chicago
Disco Fever: How Music Fueled a Cultural Revolution by Closeted History
Former Allyship is a Verb guest, Destiny Clarke (she/they), has a podcast called Closeted History: LGBTQ+ Stories of the Past. This is Season 2, Episode 2 of their show. Please give it a watch/listen (it's best to watch the video! You can watch it on Allyship is a Verb's Spotify feed or Closeted History's YouTube channel). Be sure to follow Destiny's show wherever you listen to podcasts to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community's history! - Chris Angel (they/them)
Disco Fever: How Music Fueled a Cultural Revolution
In this episode, we explore the impact of disco on LGBTQ+ rights and the evolving societal norms during the transformative 1970s. Disco was not just about dancing the night away; it was a revolutionary movement that gave a voice to those in the margins of society. The rise of disco from its origins in LGBTQ+ clubs to mainstream success in the late 1970s transformed the world of music and helped pave the way for an intersectional fight for human rights.
FOLLOW US 🌈 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@closetedhistory Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/closetedhistory/ Connect on Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@closetedhistory Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ClosetedHistory/
SUPPORT OUR CHANNEL ♥️ Like, comment, and subscribe for more LGBTQ+ history! Join our Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/ClosetedHistory Listener Support - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/closetedhistorypodcast/
VISIT OUR SITE ✨ www.closetedhistory.com
GET IN TOUCH 💌 ClosetedHistoryPodcast@gmail.com
Queer, Trans, And Gender Expansive Joy In The Workplace feat. Rex Wilde
This event aired live on June 2nd, 2023, via LinkedIn, and has been edited for brevity.
To sign up for Rex's roundtable event, visit https://www.rexwilde.com/tgx-monthly-roundtable
Enjoy this Pride Month bonus video episode! Join Rex Wilde (they/them) and Chris Angel Murphy (they/them) for a quick conversation about the importance and practice of queer joy and gender euphoria in the workplace. With so much discussion and movement around anti-LGBTQ legislation, it’s important to ground ourselves in how we can cultivate joy for LGBTQ+ and TGX+ (trans and gender expansive) folks – especially at work!
You can listen to the audio or watch this video on Spotify. Alternatively, you can watch on LinkedIn to see the comments from the attendees and participate in the conversation.
In this special bonus video episode, you will learn 1. How we define queer joy and gender euphoria 2. Some specific ways organizations and individuals can inspire joy for LGBTQ+ colleagues in the workplace 3. That repressing our joy doesn't lead to liberation, inspired by adrienne maree brown's book, Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/queer-trans-and-gender-expansive-joy-in-the-workplace
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. They run free online community events approximately once a quarter to help elevate stories and causes.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
The Magic of LGBTQ+ Summer Camps feat. Rebecca Kling
Consider the relevance of someone's identity. This week, Rebecca Kling (she/her) discusses creating inclusive summer camps for LGBTQ+ youth where they can be themselves without making everything about being from the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, you will learn 1. What conversations are coming up at summer camps 2. How B'Mitzvahs/B'nai Mitzvahs may differ from Bar and Bat Mitzvahs 3. When we might engage in understanding and empathic conversations and when it's time to disrupt and agitate for change.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/rebecca-kling
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
The costs of religious trauma feat. Christina Carlson
- Sign up for Sam's workshop, Understanding the Basics of Neurodiversity and the Neurodiversity Movement. Happening virtually on Thursday, May 11th or 25th, 7-8 PM ET.
- Register for Speak Up! Tools for Active Trans Allyship with Chris Angel and Rebecca, Thursday, May 18th at 7 PM ET.
Do work on your own shame. This week, Christina Carlson (she/they) talks about how being ex-religious has impacted her life. In this episode, you will learn 1. How people are taught to distrust themselves, the harmful systems that upholds, and the additional impacts on queer and trans people 2. The impacts of not seeing yourself reflected around you 3. Why we should celebrate ourselves every chance we get.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/christina-carlson
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
What is T4T? feat. Maze Felix
Want to book Chris Angel for Pride month and beyond? Here are their standard topics.
Have your own accountability system. This week, Maze Felix (they/them) talks about the beauty of T4T (trans for trans) relationships! In this episode, you will learn 1. What affirming actions they experienced behind the scenes while shooting a Pride Target commercial 2. Why being in community with others in their gender journeys is euphoric and healing 3. How relationships can be tested when trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive folks transition medically, legally, and/or socially.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/maze-felix
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Have you worked through your own trauma? feat. Shaan Dasani
Work through your own trauma; try to find connection points with folks. This week, Shaan Dasani (he/they) talks about creating Agents of Change and what it means to have an all-queer and trans cast! In this episode, you will learn 1. How spy movies like D.E.B.S. and the James Bond series inspired him while writing Agents of Change. 2. Why having someone as a possibility model was helpful for their gender journey 3. What in the world a “nibling” is.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/shaan-dasani
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
One woman's late in life lesbian story feat. Kathy Houston
RSVP to Celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV)
RSVP to Connecting With Community: How to Build an Online Audience for your LGBTQ-owned Business
RSVP to Speak Up For TDOV: Talking Points for Active Trans Allyship
Put yourself in the other person's shoes. This week, Kathy Houston (she/her) talks about Club LILLES and what it means for her to be a late in life lesbian. In this episode, you will learn 1. How lesbian TikTok has been a wonderful, informative resource. 2. Why her first girlfriend gave her “homework.” 3. What it feels like to live in the affirming bubble of St. Petersburg, Florida.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/kathy-houston
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
How do you talk about someone with no pronouns? feat. Lianna Newman
Listen to listen, not to respond! This week, Lianna Newman (name only) expands on carving out space in STEM, finding community, and creating resources. In this episode, you will learn 1. Some changes we'd like to see in tech. 2. The complexities of gender-neutral vs gendered awards. 3. How to use no pronouns and what we mean when we ask someone for their pronouns in the first place.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/lianna-newman
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Exploring the kink spectrum and community feat. Wesley Toma
Exploring the kink spectrum and community! This week, Wesley Toma (he/him) expands on how kink is a spectrum, and for those who fall on it, it's very unlikely we're vanilla kinksters. In this episode, you will learn 1. How kinks and fetishes are different. 2. Some examples of how someone could start safely exploring the kink community. 3. Why he currently must travel out of state to access certain kink communities and spaces.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/wesley-toma
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Get clear on what you're willing to lose feat. Rebecca Minor
Check out Rebecca's parent coaching.
We’re nominated for Best Personal Growth and Best DIY for The Ambies! See the nominees and watch live on March 7, 2023, via Amazon Music’s Twitch Channel
Get clear on what you're willing to lose! This week, Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her), expands on why the term femme feels the most at home and who helped her to tap into that energy. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why her blog post about fictosexuality got a lot of attention, and what that even means. 2. How she owns "a shocking amount of pencil skirts" she doesn't wear, which leads to a larger conversation about her sensory experiences with gender presentation. 3. What she does as a gender specialist, and what she gets asked the most by parents she coaches.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/rebecca-minor
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
The best apology is changed behavior feat. Kieran Mcmonagle
The best apology is changed behavior! This week, Kieran Mcmonagle (he/him) expands on how he's learned so much from young people in the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why he shares that he was born in the right queer, trans body. 2. How no space can be truly safe for everyone. 3. How parents of trans kids should love and support their kids and do their own processing in private.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/kieran-mcmonagle
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Turning mistakes into teachable moments feat. Ed Carratalà
Grab podcast merch here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/allyship-is-a-verb/
Be proud of your mistakes because they can become teachable moments! This week, Ed Carratalà (él/he/him) expands on how he spent 33 years of his life hiding parts of himself. In this episode, you will learn: 1. What it was like for him to attend his first pride event after coming out. 2. Why he had to teach his therapy students about the LGBTQ+ community in secret. 3. How therapists can cause great harm to clients and why it can be helpful for them to do the work of questioning their own gender and sexuality.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/ed-carratala
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling feat. Jesse Freidin and Rebecca Minor
You can watch this video on Spotify or YouTube. Looking for more info about the merch? Grab the wearable merch here and the stickers here!
Author and photographer Jesse Freidin (he/him) and gender specialist and parent coach Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her) discuss the resiliency of trans youth and the importance of empowering trans kids to tell their own stories. Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling features audio clips of the interviews, portraits of the youth, and more.
In this special video episode, you will learn 1. Why this series is essential right now and what it's helping to combat. 2. What messages trans and nonbinary youth want to share with other youth. 3. The behind-the-scenes work going into Jesse's series and how you can help sustain it.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/are-you-ok
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. They run free online community events approximately once a quarter to help elevate stories and causes.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Sex and gender are made-up concepts (like everything else) feat. Lena Dirscherl
Prepare yourself to stand up for others when they are not around! This week, Lena Dirscherl (they/them) expands on some of the many factors that influence gender. In this episode, you will learn: 1. What our thoughts are on the term "transgender" and where we think it's heading in the future. 2. Some of the many different definitions of "queer" or "queerness." 3. How "sex" and "gender" are made-up concepts and why that matters.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/lena-dirscherl
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Bonus Episode: Check in on your LGBTQ+ friends and family
In the wake of the most recent tragedy yesterday (November 19th, 2022) at Club Q, an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs, CO, I am publishing a formerly recorded episode that I never released. At the time of posting this, we believe that 5 people are dead and 18 are injured. There was a drag show.
I didn't publish this episode because I thought it was too dark and heavy to be so early in the first season. I thought about revisiting it but then changed the format of the podcast episodes and it didn't fit anywhere else. But now, I feel moved to publish it.
I'm leaving it as recorded in its final version, July 2021.
If you want to learn how to support those of us in the LGBTQ+ community during this time, especially with the potential crunchiness of the holiday season that can come up for us, please listen to this episode and attend my Self-care for the Holigays: Taking care of ourselves and each other event. I'm co-presenting with my lovely friend, Cody Daigle-Orians (he/they).
You can RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/self-care-for-the-holigays-tickets-446207447487?aff=AIAV
Take good care, friends
Chris Angel (they/them)
Cassie Brighter on the hidden costs of being transgender, TSA PreCheck, and "the surgery"
Did you miss our November event? Watch it here on YouTube: Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling feat. Jesse Freidin and Rebecca Minor
Content warning for abuse.
Nothing about us without us! This week, Cassie Brighter (she/her) expands on the hidden costs of being transgender, why TSA PreCheck may make travel safer for trans women, and how she responds to questions about "the surgery." In this episode, you will learn: 1. Why she doesn't want LGBTQ+ events at churches, even if they're affirming. 2. What it's like to run the Support Network for Parents of Trans Kids Facebook group. 3. How she learned about the "unacceptables in society" through bathroom graffiti and inappropriate jokes amongst adult men. We also discuss her being a trans advocate, mother, writer, and public speaker.
PS: It's Transgender Awareness Month! Will you share this episode with someone you think might benefit from hearing it?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/cassie-brighter
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Cody Daigle-Orians on being ace, queer, and polyamorous
Did you miss our November event? Watch it here on YouTube: Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling feat. Jesse Freidin and Rebecca Minor
Let's approach with curiosity! This week, Cody Daigle-Orians (he/they), AKA "Ace Dad Advice," explores what it means for them to be asexual, queer, and polyamorous. In this episode, you will learn: 1. How do his ace and polyamorous identities intersect? 2. How do they manage multiple relationships? 3. What is his experience of being ace within the broader LGBTQ+ community? We also discuss their upcoming book, I Am Ace: Advice on Living Your Best Asexual Life. It drops on January 19th, 2023, so please support Cody by pre-ordering or requesting it at your local library!
PS: Did you know Ace Week is October 23-29th this year? Follow Cody's social media accounts for lots of resources and info! Links are on the episode page below.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/cody-daigle-orians
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Give people and situations grace feat. Mister Larrie
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!!
Give people and situations grace. In this week's episode, Mister Larrie (he/him) and I get SILLY! It starts off with him encouraging you to do the work of finding your people in your communities (and to be patient with the process). We get into mistakes and how having a learner's mindset can help, including when others correct us. Learn what he's been told as a Black man about his career, mental health, and more. Mister Larrie reflects on being visible at multiple intersections and the emotional labor involved in holding those spaces for others, especially during his academic career. Early on, the pandemic inspired his switch to social media as his persona, Mister Larrie, in which he produces videos about mental health and crafting. We reminisce about elementary school and some of the projects we'd do as kids, which you may have done, too. Woof! Have you heard of the bear community? Mister Larrie and I give examples of our experiences, including critiques of what could be better for everyone involved.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/mister-larrie
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
The Patriarchy Episode feat. Petey Gibson
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!!
Content warning for LGBTQ+ youth discrimination, suicide statistics.
The Patriarchy Episode. In this week's episode, Petey Gibson (he/him) shares about who he's inspired by to embody gentle masculinity. Suppose you've wondered about the differences between characters written as cisgender men versus trans men or transmasculine people. In that case, Petey explains what he's experienced in Hollywood. We also get into the film he starred in and produced: The Sympathy Card, a Boston-based lesbian rom-com. Learn what Petey misses about the lesbian community and some of what his transition means to him. Petey reflects on Gen Z, LGBTQ+ media being niche, LGBTQ+ stories that don't involve trauma or coming out, the first time he passed as a man in public, comedy, sobriety, drag, Dyke Day LA, and more!
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/petey-gibson
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Why do some people use two sets of pronouns? feat. Josée Sovinsky
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!!
Did you miss the launch party for the Corporate Guide to LGBTQ+ Events? You can watch the recording and purchase the guide here!
Why do some people use two sets of pronouns? In this week's episode, Josée Sovinsky (she/they) updates us on what's changed since we spoke early last season, including pronouns and identities. If you've ever wondered why some people use two or more sets of pronouns, Josée explains what it means for her and how she tested they/them out before sharing that additional set with more people. They talk about the cisgender/transgender binary and how people can exist somewhere in between or outside of that, though we may not yet have the language for the experience. We also get into what it means to expand on definitions, create new terminology, adopt generic labels, or reject labels entirely (and how it's a personal process for everyone to decide what works for them). Learn why she thinks there is overlap between the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergence communities (including the parallels she has found in her journey with both). Josée reflects on bi panic, safety, unmasking, Heartstopper, affirming reactions and support, and why coming out this time looked and felt different.
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/josee-sovinsky-2022-update
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Anger and fury can be turned into action that can create change feat. Jesse Freidin
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!!
Interested in the Corporate Guide to LGBTQ+ Events? Watch the recorded launch party on LinkedIn! You can now buy the guide here.
Anger and fury can be turned into action that can create change. In this week’s episode, Jesse Freidin (he/him) shares about his former photography projects and how he's surprised himself by working on a new series that hits close to home. The "Are you OK?" series addresses the current wave of anti-trans legislation by interviewing trans and gender nonconforming youth with their families all over the States. Jesse talks us through some of what it takes to work on such a project, including building trust with the local communities, families, and youth themselves. We also get into the steps to maintain his own safety, especially as his work has him road-tripping all over. We discuss how concepts like "being an adult" and age overall may be different for trans folks. Learn about how he decides what kind of life he wants for himself outside of the noise of any narratives our society can place upon us, including the boundaries he maintains. Jesse reflects on what the series would have meant for him as a young person and marvels at the access trans youth have to each other present day. Some self-reflection:
- Do I think the media is doing a good job of accurately reporting on Monkey Pox? Also known as MPOX or MPV.
- If I take road trips or travel, do I have to think much about my safety?
- Have I seen any LGBTQ+ related stickers on cars where I live?
- Would I ever consider being a mentor to youth if I don’t do that currently?
- Do I have a retirement plan if I am not already in retirement?
- Am I OK?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/jesse-freidin
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Listen to minorities and thank them feat. Ra Ra Rollins
Content warning for mentions of George Floyd's murder and generally sensitive topics without details.
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!!
Listen to minorities and thank them. In this week’s episode, Ra Ra Rollins (he/him) shares why he claims “queer” and “gay” and the difference in meaning for him between the two terms. He ponders if he’s Black first or gay, queer first, especially since not all spaces see him as a whole person with various, complex identities. Learn about how his work can be triggering as a Black therapist and what it means for him to hold space for clients at some of his same intersections. We also discuss how he pushed back in his grad school program because he learned from white professors who talked about white theorists and had white supervisors while seeing white clients. Despite that, he did gain two incredible mentors and friends for life. Ra Ra reclaims his energy by practicing boundaries, which did not come naturally to him, including by shutting down nearly all of his social media. There's also some discussion around rules and how he liberates himself from rules that don’t work or honor him. Some self-reflection:
- What’s the first physical thing I notice about people when I first meet them or see them?
- What’s the first physical thing people tend to notice about me?
- Do I notice who is not in the room or being represented at work or at times when big decisions are being made?
- At what age did I first hear an LGBTQ+ slur? Who said it? Which slur was it?
- Do I have access to a therapist who represents me?
- What are rules I follow that don’t serve me?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/ra-ra-rollins
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Don't forget to live a queer, abundant life and laugh feat. Richard Follett
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her). For more information about her parent and caregiver coaching, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/coaching
Don't forget to live a queer, abundant life and laugh. In this week’s episode, Richard Follett (he/him) shares how each of his intersections has shaped a portion of who he is and that while some of them may seem at odds with each other, that's not the case for him. Learn about how he knew he was gay at the age of four but found himself trying to "pray away the gay" and entered into a heterosexual marriage. We also discuss how the Metropolitan Community Church helped him to "marry" his sexuality and Christianity. Richard recalls several times people assumed he was straight/heterosexual because of myths and misconceptions people have about gay men and how he pushed for equality in his teachings with his students and colleagues throughout his career. There's also some storytelling related to his relationship with Chris Angel. Some self-reflection:
- How old is the youngest person I know? The oldest?
- Do I have people from various generations in my life?
- Do I believe that people can be both gay and Christian?
- How do I handle any oppression I may experience, especially if I’m from any marginalized communities? Do I feel good about how I respond to those situations?
- Do I believe that my vote makes a difference?
- Do I know about any LGBTQ+ history in any of the places I’ve lived?
Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Special Video Episode: Trans Day of Visibility Nonbinary Panel! feat. Zoa Glows, Maze Felix, and Noel Fernando
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her course, How To Talk To Kids About Gender, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/learn Listeners of this podcast get 10% off with code ALLYSHIP
For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat
And if you're looking to book an LGBTQ+ event for Pride month or after, consider hiring me: https://www.chrisangelmurphy.com
Our last episode of season one is a special video event featuring the live panel from Trans Day of Visibility on March 31st, 2022! It features stories and wisdom from Zoa Glows (they/she) [current set of pronouns since the event aired], Maze Felix (they/them), and Noel Fernando (they/them) at the intersections of being both nonbinary and trans. Zoa Glows was also a guest on the podcast earlier on in the season and it's one of the listener favorites! We got some great comments, questions, and love from the live panel viewers, so thank you to everyone who helped to make it happen, including Rebecca for helping with back-end tech! For panelist bios, more about the event, and a chance to watch with subtitles via YouTube, please visit: https://www.gendersexuality.info/blog/trans-day-of-visibility-nonbinary-visibility-panel
Thank you to all of you for making season one such a great success!!! I'm so grateful and I'm glad I could take the time to acknowledge each of you for making Allyship is a Verb what it is today. See you Tuesday, August 2nd, 2022, for season two!
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at https://www.allyshipisaverb.com/
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Do you take action? feat. Destiny Clarke
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her course, How To Talk To Kids About Gender, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/learn Listeners of this podcast get 10% off with code ALLYSHIP
Do you take action? In this week’s episode, Destiny Clarke (she/her) talks about why she left teaching in the classroom to pursue a career in providing teachers with LGBTQ+ inclusive education. We discuss how living in North Carolina as a pansexual person isn't exactly easy and some surprising spaces and communities where she's found support. Learn what she calls "bless your heart homophobia" and what that can look like in the South. Destiny explains how her gender expression has evolved over the years and how good it's felt to get support from her current partner. Learn about the 3 times she's started a Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) club in her schools and how each time was different, including how she handled an instance of a parent pushing back. Some self-reflection:
- Do I know any LGBTQ+ people who live in the south?
- Have I been vocal or taking any other action to support the LGBTQ+ community as of late?
- Have I ever made a joke when someone was trying to open up to me? Did that shut down the conversation?
- What kind of greeting do I use when I address groupings of people?
- What’s an allyship action I’ve been afraid to take? Where can I get support to work through it?
- Have I thanked someone recently for an action they took that made my life better, in even the smallest of ways?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at https://www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/destiny-clarke/
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Are you open to other's paths? feat. Dominic
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat
Are you open to other's paths? In this week’s episode, Dominic (he/him) talks about the first time he got hit on by a girl and how that started his sexuality (and later gender) journey. Learn about what shifts occurred in his life as he started to be read as a man in society and some decisions he's made as a result, including going stealth. We also discuss how he told his mom he's a trans man and some of her initial reactions. Dominic talks about how he's felt in LGBTQ+ spaces over the years and how he kind of misses them but it would contradict his decision to be private. He also talks about co-running a support group and some of the stressful moments that have come about as a result.
- When did I first hear about the LGBTQ+ community? Was it a positive experience?
- Has anyone ever come out to me? Looking back, did I potentially ask any invasive questions?
- Have I ever dated anyone who is trans? If not, would I be open to it? Why or why not?
- If I have a transgender friend and/or loved one in my life, do I make sure people know they are trans when talking about them or introducing them? Why?
- Have I checked in broadly with my friends to understand their boundaries?
- Have I ever dated anyone who is trans? If not, would I be open to it? Why or why not?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/dominic
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Do you support queer businesses? feat. Charlie Sprinkman
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat
Do you support queer businesses? In this week’s episode, Charlie Sprinkman (he/they) talks about growing up in "small-town vibes" Wisconsin and how it's important for people to find the best language for themselves. Learn about what happened when he came out during the Trump administration. We also discuss how important it is to make things better broadly for future generations and nerd out over the power of LGBTQ+ camps like Brave Trails. Charlie talks about their resource, Everywhere is Queer, and how they got the inspiration for it while driving home from Brave Trails. He also talks about voice dysphoria, traveling across 40+ states, and what queer spaces can do for people. Self-reflection:
- Have I ever been in a queer space? What did that feel like for me?
- How would it feel for me or people I care about to have access to more queer spaces?
- Do I know who owns the businesses I support?
- Are there spaces I feel safer in? How often do I have access to them?
- Have I ever experienced voice dysphoria?
- When’s the last time I questioned my identities?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/charlie-sprinkman
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Do you do the work? feat. Katrina Strohl
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her course, How To Talk To Kids About Gender, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/learn Listeners of this podcast get 10% off with code ALLYSHIP
The Trans Day of Visibility: Nonbinary Visibility panel is now available to watch here: https://youtu.be/mYPQBrBvwrc
Do you do the work? In this week’s episode, Katrina Strohl (they/she/he) talks about why they freely share their identities and how they want to be centered as a person versus their identities when brought up in conversations. Learn about what a "safety pause" is and some tips on how you may be able to support someone if it comes up in any of your conversations. We also discuss how she has a great practice of sending follow-up emails after networking calls by recalling what was discussed and any next steps. Furthermore, he's amassed a huge list of resources across various topics if folks need more support than he's able to provide related to what came up in the call. Katrina talks about how it feels when people mistake them for an ally of groups they belong to and how they came across the word bisexual thanks to the show A Shot at Love With Tila Tequila, although they're now using queer. Some self-reflection:
- When I think of a queer person, who do I see?
- When I think of a veteran, who do I see?
- When I think about mental health conditions, who do I see?
- Do you have any pictures in your mind you need to update?
- Have you ever done a safety pause?
- Is there any allyship work you’ve been avoiding doing? And if so, why?
Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at https://www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/katrina-strohl
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Do you have a learner’s mindset? feat. Nick Daily
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her). For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat/
Do you have a learner’s mindset? In this week’s episode, Nick Daily (he/they) shares about what sparked the daily reminders he posts to Instagram to inspire others. Learn about why they’re learning to say “no” and what it means with the nuance of being Black, among their other identities, and practices like not working on their birthday. We also discuss the silliness of people and companies requesting Black History Month and Pride Month events not soon enough. Please request them much, much sooner and not during the actual month! Nick talks about what queer leadership means to him and how he doesn’t believe that our way to freedom and liberation is through the disposability of people. Some self-reflection:
- What do you think queer leadership means?
- Have you ever called someone in or out?
- Have you ever been told that you’re not like the others? Others being a particular group you may identify with or belong to.
- Do I have a learner’s mindset? If I don’t, is that a value I’d like to adopt?
- Do I know of anyone in my life or follow anyone online who is intersex?
- Do I treat certain people as if they are disposable? If so, how have I justified that?
Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
Do you check in on your relationships? feat. Trystan Reese
Do you check in on your relationships? In this week’s episode, Trystan Reese (he/him) shares about his days of being a drag king and how he's been performing as a man since he was a kid. Learn about some of the practices he's adopted to check in with his colleagues so that they're in a continuous feedback loop, including addressing power dynamics and microaggressions. We also discuss a bit of what it's like to be trainers and consultants and the work that goes into it, including figuring out our boundaries and doing the work to know how to facilitate conversations. Trystan talks about how moved he was by Alok's talk on the podcast Man Enough and how well they were able to articulate thoughts that have been circling in his own mind. Some self-reflection:
- What does being a man mean to me, whether or not I am one?
- Do I know any men who have been or are pregnant?
- Have I ever reported something on social media? What happened?
- Which lenses do I view the world in?
- Are there any resentments I’ve been carrying?
- When’s the last time I checked in on my relationships?
Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com
Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities.
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