OUTTAKE VOICES™ (Interviews)

Press conference with LGBTQ leaders, legal experts, civil rights leaders and student advocates that Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ attended about the new Title IX rule. The U.S. Department of Education published its final regulatory updates that clarify Title IX protections for LGBTQ students, student survivors of sexual assault and pregnant and parenting students. Consistent with the reasoning of the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark Bostock v. Clayton County decision in 2020 the Department now clarifies that harassment on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or sex characteristics violates Title IX’s mandate for federally funded schools to prohibit sex discrimination. In March 2021 President Biden issued Executive Order 14021 beginning the process of undoing the Trump administration’s harmful actions undermining Title IX and protections for LGBTQ students and sexual assault survivors. In this virtual press briefing Shiwali Patel, Director of Justice for Student Survivors and Senior Counsel, National Women’s Law Center conducted this intimate informative session joined by Brandon Wolf, Human Rights Campaign, National Press Secretary, Olivia Hunt, National Center for Transgender Equality Policy Director, Kenyora Parham, End Rape on Campus CEO, Kel O’Hara, Equal Rights Advocates Senior Attorney, Emily Bach & Andrew Davis who are student organizers with Know Your IX A which is a project of advocates for youth and concluded with Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, GLSEN’s Executive Director.  As we celebrate this important milestone to protect our LGBTQ youth there’s still much more work to be done. Schools have also been hampered by extremist efforts at the state and local level to target LGBTQ youth especially transgender, nonbinary and gender-expansive youth. This year alone we’re already dealing with more than 470 anti-LGBTQ bills introduced in state legislatures nationwide mostly targeting our transgender youth. The new Title IX Ruling also does not protect the rights of transgender athletes to play and be part of a team. Every student including LGBTQ students should have equal access to educational opportunities throughout the entirety of their school experience. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Author Rossi talks about her new memoir “The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews” with  Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. “The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews” is published by She Writes Press and filled with fabulous rich characters, hilarious dialogue taking the reader on a ride into a secretive oppressive Jewish Orthodox world and beyond to be released on April 23rd. Rossi grew up in New Jersey where she was expected to just marry a nice Jewish boy and to be a good kosher Jewish girl but by the age of 16 the rebellious Rossi was more interested in exploring the punk rock scene of the 80’s and her sexuality. Then her adventure seeking days came to a screeching halt when her parents kidnapped her and dumped her with a Hasidic rabbi known for reforming wayward Jewish girls in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Rossi was forced to relinquish her pink hair and Sex Pistols T-shirt for maxi skirts and long-sleeved blouses in this repressive, misogynistic culture straight out of the nineteenth century where she endured not only bone-crushing boredom but also outright abuse and violence. Fortunately Rossi knew there was a better future for her as she broke free from her oppressors and made her way to NYC where she thrived. Beginning as a bartender the opportunity arose in the catering industry as she talked her way into any cooking job she could get. Rossi a self-taught chef and self-made entrepreneur ended up launching The Raging Skillet one of the most sought-after catering companies in NYC that Zagat dubbed as “the wildest thing this side of the Mason-Dixon Line”. We talked to Rossi about her inspiration for writing “The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Rossi is the catering director, owner and executive chef of The Raging Skillet for over three decades. She has earned a reputation as the go-to company for out-of-the-box catering and weddings. The Raging Skillet has been voted one of New York's Top Five Wedding Caterers by The Knot from 2009 through 2023. Her first memoir, “The Raging Skillet: The True Life Story of Chef Rossi” was published by The Feminist Press in 2015 and turned into a stage production “Raging Skillet” by playwright Jacques Lamarre that toured nationally. Currently Rossi has written two full-length plays, a number of one-act comedies, a one-woman stage adaptation of Queen of the Jews and numerous screenplays.        For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Ann Hampton Callaway talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her upcoming performance with the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus (BGMC) on March 16th at Jordan Hall in Boston, MA at 8P. The concert entitled "Melodies for a Movement" will highlight the "Tyler’s Suite" that sheds light on the devastating impact of cyber-harassment and bullying that our LGBTQ youth continue to face. Tyler Clementi was the accomplished violinist who took his life in 2010 after being cyber-bullied by his Rutgers roommate for being gay. This powerful performance will feature a suite in nine movements for chorus with a solo violin performance dedicated to the memory of Tyler Clementi. The "Tyler’s Suite" was created under the leadership of Composer Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) and explores the voices and experiences of Tyler and his family through the music of eleven of today’s top composers including Ann Hampton Callaway. "Melodies for a Movement" will also feature a cabaret set by Callaway one of America's most gifted and prolific artists. Through the stirring composition of "Tyler’s Suite" and the mesmerizing performance by Ann Hampton Callaway this fabulous concert event will evoke empathy, foster understanding and promote acceptance. Especially in these difficult times with over 600 anti LGBTQ bills in states across the country, women's rights continue to be on the chopping block, antisemitism and hate crimes on the rise all as we head toward the 2024 presidential election. We talked to Ann about what she hopes to accomplish with her music and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Ann Hampton Callaway is one of America’s most gifted artists in pop and jazz. A leading champion of the great American Songbook she’s made her mark as a singer, pianist, composer, lyricist, arranger, actress, educator, TV host and producer. Voted by Broadway World as “Celebrity of the Year” and two years in a row as “Best Jazz Vocalist” Ann is a born entertainer. She is best known for Tony-nominated performance in the hit Broadway musical “Swing!” and for writing and singing the theme song to the hit TV series “The Nanny.” Her latest CD “Finding Beauty, Originals Volume 1” premiered number 1 in Jazz on Amazon. Currently Ann is working on “Finding Beauty, Originals Volume 2”. The Boston Gay Men’s Chorus founded in 1982 is one of New England’s largest and most successful community-based choruses consisting of over 200 voices. "Melodies for a Movement" honors Tyler Clementi's memory while igniting the flame of positive change to build a world where every individual is cherished for exactly who they are.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Jason A. Rodriguez talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ at the 2024 National LGBTQ Task Force Creating Change Conference that took place in New Orleans, LA. Creating Change is the foremost political, leadership and skills-building conference for our LGBTQ social justice movement. There are also fun events especially when Jason A. Rodriguez the talented dancer/actor from the hit FX series “Pose” presented a workshop on the history, importance and elements of Vogue. This year’s conference theme was “Queer Power, Action & Joy” and Jason delivered the joy conducting workshops on New Way Vogue. Jason who played Lamar on “Pose” also served as the movement coach for all three seasons. Currently Rodriguez conducts New Way Vogue classes at the Ailey Studios in NYC. The workshops Jason led at the Creating Change Conference gave the attendees an opportunity to learn the three styles of Voguing. Stretch and precision are key to New Way Vogue allowing the voguers to show off contorted and flexible poses with precision and grace. It’s all accomplished by learning arm controls to show off your control of creating lines, shapes, illusions and face framing movements to the beat of the music in addition to poses, floor work, cat walks, duck walks and dips. Jason also served as one of the judges at the Conference’s “Agents of Change –A Night of a Thousand Stars Mini-Ball” which presented professional and novice Voguers to strut their stuff down the runway. We talked to Jason about his inspiration to carry on the Voguing tradition and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Jason Anthony Rodriguez is a Dominican-American born and raised in Washington Heights in New York City. He was trained in voguing by Benny Ninja, Dorit Koppel and Kevin Wynn. Besides being a series regular on “Pose”, Jason also guest-starred on HBO's The Deuce as Enrico. Rodriguez has taught vogue in various institutions throughout the states as well as internationally in Dominican Republic, Vienna and Japan. Next year’s Creating Change Conference will take place in Las Vegas, NV January 22nd to the 26th, 2025. We want to thank New Orleans and Company for sponsoring our coverage of the 2024 National LGBTQ Task Force Creating Change Conference.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Peaches Christ, San Francisco's own drag impresario and filmmaker talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her upcoming northeast tour of “Idol Worship: An Evening with Mink Stole and Peaches Christ”. Coming off their sold-out San Francisco shows they’ll be kicking off their northeast Queer theatre tour in Salem, MA on February 14th Valentine’s Day at 7:30P presented by Salem Horror Fest and Cinema Salem. If you're a fan of John Waters' films, Divine, drag history or cult movies you don't want to miss this fabulous event. This heartfelt cabaret show starring living legend and cult film icon Mink Stole alongside Christ who have been close friends for 2 decades will include an evening of storytelling, film clips and performance in a wildly entertaining and uncensored exposé that is as hilarious as it is revealing. The tour then continues on to the Columbus Theatre, Providence, RI on February 15th at 8P, NYC at the Green Room 42 570 Tenth Avenue February 16th & 17th, Punch Line Philly, Philadelphia, PA February 18th and concludes in DC at The Comedy Loft on February 20th. Mink Stole is an original Dreamlander the term for John Waters’ cast and crew regulars across his 50+ years as a filmmaker. Mink has co-starred in every single Waters film dating back to his notorious 1967 short “Roman Candles”. She then created the iconic characters of Connie Marble in “Pink Flamingos”, Taffy Davenport in “Female Trouble” and Dottie Hinkle in “Serial Mom” to name a few. Peaches and Mink will share her decades of cult filmmaking on this intimate tour and more. We talked to Peaches about what she hopes to accomplish with “Idol Worship: An Evening with Mink Stole and Peaches Christ” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Peaches Christ is the alter- ego of writer/director Joshua Grannell whose infamous movie events are self-produced at the Castro Theatre and regularly draw over 1,000 attendees to each new production before they tour. Events have featured special guest stars John Waters, Cloris Leachman, Patricia Quinn, Nell Campbell, Linda Blair, Bruce Campbell, Apollonia, Barry Bostwick, Pam Grier and more. Grannell is the writer and director of the feature film “All About Evil” the award-winning dark comedy gore film stars Natasha Lyonne, Thomas Dekker, Cassandra Peterson, Mink Stole and Peaches Christ herself. Peaches Christ has been featured in the films Milk, I Am Divine, Diary Of A Teenage Girl, Mansfield 66/67, Tura!, Scream Queen: My Nightmare On Elm Street, You Don’t Nomi and more. “Idol Worship: An Evening with Mink Stole and Peaches Christ” tickets prices vary with VIP tickets including a post-show meet & greet in a private room and a photo with Mink & Peaches, priority seating in the front rows of the theatre and a signed commemorative event poster.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Cathy Renna, Communications Director for the National LGBTQ Task Force talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the upcoming Creating Change Conference that takes place Wednesday January 17th to Sunday January 21st at the Hilton Riverside in New Orleans, LA. Creating Change is the foremost political, leadership and skills-building conference for our LGBTQ social justice movement. This year’s 36th annual conference theme is “Queer Power, Action & Joy” and Kierra Johnson, National LGBTQ Task Force Executive Director will deliver the opening State of the Movement plenary. Raquel Willis the award-winning activist, author and media strategist dedicated to Black transgender liberation will emcee and host the conference. Creating Change continues its long tradition of presenting compelling keynote speakers, presentations, annual awards and more than 100 workshops and caucuses. This year’s Indigenous Leadership Award Honoree will be presented to Jean-Luc Pierite, scholar, advocate and founder of InDigiFab (Tunica-Biloxi). There will also be fun events including special guest Jason Rodriguez the talented dancer/actor from the hit Fox series Pose who will be presenting a workshop on the history, importance and elements of VOGUE. Other fun events will include Gayme Night, Opening Cruise and the Agents of Change Masquerade Ball. Then Big Freedia the nationally recognized hip-hop artist, TV personality and larger-than-life ambassador of New Orleans Bounce music will be dancing her way to Creating Change to perform at the closing plenary. Since 1988 Creating Change has created networking opportunities and inspiration for thousands of committed people to develop and hone their activist skills. We talked to Cathy about what she hopes to accomplish at this year’s Creating Change Conference and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Cathy Renna has been part of the National LGBTQ Task Force’s extended family for decades. Renna is a veteran in the communications industry and serves as the Principal of Target Cue an LGBTQ+ focused communications consultancy. Since her time at GLAAD through the 1990’s Cathy has executed her particular expertise in crisis and strategic communications. She played a central role in shaping nearly all major issues affecting our LGBTQ community from the beating death of Matthew Shepard in 1998 to the fight for marriage equality and the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell”. In her 30 years of media relations and activism experience Cathy has garnered placements in every major media outlet in the U.S. and internationally including The New York Times, USA Today, The Associated Press, BBC and the Washington Post. Renna lives in Montclair, New Jersey with her wife Karen. She is the proud Mom of Mars who attends HSPVA High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, TX. The National LGBTQ Task Force recognizes that COVID-19 remains an ongoing public health concern and complies with all local and federal regulations at their in-person events.  For More Info…. LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Rev. Richard Emmanuel talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about The Church, a non-profit organization established in 1968 in East Gloucester, MA that is dedicated to raising individual and collective consciousness while increasing spiritual awareness. We called on Emmanuel a visionary and dedicated political activist to give us his brutally honest spin on where our world may be headed in 2024. With religious wars raging in Middle East and the war in Ukraine among others, we are faced with a global humanitarian crisis. Emmanuel addresses the fact that Christianity, Judaism and Islam are at war with one another causing a younger generation to become both weary of global conflict and wary of hierarchical institutions. Currently in this country we’re under attack by white national domestic terrorists as we fend off over 600 anti LGBTQ bills in states across the country, women’s rights are on the chopping block and antisemitism is on the rise all as we head into the 2024 election. Since 1968 Emmanuel has questioned the uncomfortable truths that the western religions are for the most part a perpetuation of conformity to the patriarchal myth that males are superior to the females of the human species. Richard also addresses the human experience as a life cycle of four stages. The cycle mirrors the planetary earth seasons consisting of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter as the four phases of being human as in childhood, young adulthood, middle age and elder-hood. We talked to Rev. Emmanuel about how we can regain a sense of humanity in a world spiraling downward and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Rev. Richard Emmanuel is a provocateur who creates both concept iconography and multimedia assemblages in 2d and 3d. His work is an exploration of consciousness with great emphasis drawn from the ancient civilizations on this planet and the “aboriginal dream” which spawned these ancient narratives. The practical use of his concepts and “designed environments” have been used in international corporate communications and exhibits. His work has shown at the Baltimore Visionary Art Museum. As a consultant he has envisioned for major international corporations and has had work installed at the American Visionary Art Museum and the Smithsonian Air-Space Museum. Richard understands that the greatest task is to teach each generation the quest for “what is truth?” Emmanuel sees the path and agrees with the greatest of ancient teachers that “one can only point the way” and above all “know thy self”. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Laury A. Egan talks about her latest novel “The Firefly” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. “The Firefly” published by Spectrum Books begins as an LGBTQ coming-of-age novel set in 1964 and evolves into a woman’s lifelong journey to find fulfillment in both love and career. The story begins with Robin Bennet at fourteen who has been left to fend for herself at a lakeside rental after her parents argue and leave the premises each believing the other has remained with their daughter. Robin then discovers someone has been sleeping in the house and stealing food. That night Robin observes a beautiful blond girl who magically appears on the dock dancing to the light of a lantern. The next day Kieran a fifteen-year-old charming intruder invites himself to dinner. It turns out that he is the brother of the beautiful blond girl Stella who magically appeared on the dock the night before and after he departs the “Firefly” returns. This time Robin is brave enough to approach her leading to Robin’s first kiss but in the morning Stella has disappeared. Robin’s quest to find her is then cut short when Teresa her mother returns canceling their summer holiday on the lake. With Robin’s attempt to find her new friends ending in vain she returns home but never forgets that night of passion on the lake. As she enters adulthood pursuing her dream of becoming an architect she continues to explore her sexuality as she struggles to fulfill her lost desire for Stella. We talked to Laury about her inspiration for writing “The Firefly” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Laury A. Egan is the author of thirteen books of fiction. Her stories and poems have appeared in 85 literary journals and in multiple anthologies. Two full-length poetry volumes Snow, Shadow, a Stranger and Beneath the Lion’s Paw were issued in limited edition as were two chapbooks Presence & Absence and The Sea & Beyond. Egan is also a fine arts photographer, a former book designer and a reviewer for The New York Journal of Books. She lives on the northern coast of New Jersey.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Executive Producer Paula S. Apsell talks about her new documentary “Resistance - They Fought Back” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. The film is having its World Premiere at the Boston Jewish Film Festival November 2nd and  9th. “Resistance - They Fought Back” explores the misinformation that Jews went to their deaths like sheep to the slaughter during the Holocaust. Actually Jews fought back in more than sixty armed rebellions including six in death camps and thousands of Jewish partisans in forests of Europe. Through interviews with historians, survivors and their families the film belies a long-held myth and shines a new light on a lost chapter of history. Apsell co-directed this relevant and timely film with Kirk Wolfinger after a documentary they made for the PBS NOVA series in 2016 which she helmed for 35 years. Told by survivors, their children and expert witnesses from the U.S, Israel and Europe “Resistance - They Fought Back” is a revelation based on extensive research of how the Jews of Europe fought back. It uncovers evidence of non-violent methods which served as crucial tools of resistance and evolved into Jewish armed revolts in ghettos, forests and death camps even as the odds of success were alarmingly small. Today almost eighty years after the Holocaust this story remains largely unknown to the general public. It is important to understand this genocide that wiped out two-thirds of European Jews especially with the global rise of antisemitism, hatred and denial of the Holocaust itself. We talked to Paula about what she hopes to accomplish with “Resistance - They Fought Back” and as a fierce ally her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Paula S. Apsell spent 35 years as the Senior Executive Producer of the PBS NOVA science series responsible for more than 650 documentaries in the sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine which won every major broadcasting award including the Emmy; the Peabody; the duPont-Columbia University Gold and Silver Batons and an Academy Award nomination for Special Effects. She has been recognized with numerous individual awards including the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Emmy of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Currently she is CEO of Leading Edge Productions, Inc., a 501(c)(3) public charity. “Resistance: They Fought Back” is currently being screened at the Boston Jewish Film Festival and numerous screenings globally and is distributed by Abramorama.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ talks with 14 celebrity women on The Dinah's Red Carpet for its legendary Black & White Ball and Hollywood Party in Palm Springs, CA. We had a blast chatting with these fabulous women about their music, what they hope to accomplish with their work and how they’re coping in these challenging times.  First we talked with Black Box headlining the Friday night Black & White Ball who is passionate about bringing back the 80’s dance sound and talked about the importance of forums like The Dinah bringing people together. Next we spoke to XANA a new rising star on the pop scene who performed at Sunday’s Pool Party who’s currently on her first American tour and recording a new album. Then we chatted with singer-songwriter Ariana Castelli who released her first single “Love is Love” a few years ago and performed at The Dinah with Keeana Kee. Then we talked with The Dinah’s DJ’s Mo, Alex D and China G who are all committed to creating a safe place for women to party and thrive. Next we chatted with Phem one of the most prominent new queer indie singers who performed poolside and just concluded a world tour with Avril Lavigne. Then we chatted with influencer Divinity Ray an LA-based content creator, dancer and hair stylist with a passion for beauty, fashion and mental health. Concluding Friday night’s Red Carpet was Oomy Oomy The Dinah’s Emerging Artist Winner also known as "Porno" a trailblazing force in the realm of futuristic feel-good funk.    Then for Saturday night’s Red Carpet at the infamous Hollywood Party we talked to Chef K a private chef who spent the last several years working on the margins of the Kardashians and is now stepping into her own celebrity chef status. Then we caught up with Mackenzie Lansing a French-American television and film actress who was cast in the Hunger Games prequel and “Mare of Easttown” alongside Kate Winslet. Next we chatted with Latvian-born New York based lesbian fashion model turned pop star Keeana Kee who performed at the Sunday Pool Party. Then Rose Garcia from the Showtime docuseries “The Real L Word” talked about her 27th year at The Dinah after beating stage 3 ovarian cancer last year. Rose is now advocating for people to get tested and also shared how practicing meditation helped to get through it. We concluded our Red Carpet coverage with rapper and songwriter Princess Nokia who headlined The Dinah’s Hollywood Party. When asked what she wanted to accomplish with her music Princess Nokia stated, “I want people to feel like they are wonderful, amazing and free and I hope that my music always inspires people to feel awesome and feel relatable.”  For Info…  LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Mariah Hanson, founder and producer of The Dinah talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the most renowned annual music festival for queer women that’s celebrating its 32nd year and takes place September 20th through September 24th in Palm Springs, CA. The Dinah is continuing its legend with a show-stopping all-female entertainment line-up at one of Palm Springs’ most historic hotels The Margaritaville formerly The Riviera. This glamorous venue will host The Black and White Ball in the Grand Ballroom Friday night September 22nd with Doechii one of today’s most magnetic rappers who will take centerstage as the headliner. Doechii rose to prominence in 2021 with the viral Tik Tok success of her song "Yucky Blucky Fruitcake" and earlier this year appearing on the Billboard Hot 100 with her single “What it is (Block Boy)”. The Dinah mix on Friday night will also feature Black Box who has been keeping millions of fans dancing beneath disco balls and neon lights for 3 decades. Then on Saturday night at The Hollywood Party Princess Nokia the electrifying gender nonconforming queer NY Rapper and newest star to be is set to deliver an explosive headlining performance. After nearly a decade as a leader and icon for outsiders and misfits the New York-born Puerto Rican MC, singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, style icon, actress and activist Princess Nokia continues to speak up and speak out. Of course, during the daytime there will be The Dinah’s legendary pool parties showcasing a string of galvanizing queer emerging performers. FYI don’t miss The L-Word Pool Party on Saturday September 23rd as Phem one of the most prominent up-and-coming queer indie genre-defying singers will be performing poolside to get your swim on. Throughout the festivities The Dinah will also present world-famous DJs, go-go dancers, red carpet events with celebrity guests, dance parties, meet and greets and so much more. We talked to Mariah about what she hopes to accomplish with The Dinah this year and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Mariah Hanson continues to utilize The Dinah as a platform to mobilize our LGBTQ community around humanitarian and social issues especially in these challenging times. An exemplary community leader she has single-handedly revolutionized her industry, overturned tradition and raised the bar on female achievement with an event that is entirely produced by women for women. OUTTAKE MEDIA has been a proud Media Sponsor of The Dinah for the last seven years and we’ll be onsite broadcasting all the festivities this year for our global LGBTQ audience.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Randy Roberts talks about his new show “Aging Dis-Gracefully” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. “Aging Dis-Gracefully” is currently at the Post Office Cafe and Cabaret now through August 29th in Provincetown, MA. We caught his fabulous new show last week and were thoroughly entertained with his theme of divas who refuse to grow old gracefully including impeccable performances from Cher, Bette Midler and more. However what makes Roberts show so outstanding is how he brings his own voice to the party. This is not a lip sync show but a Virtuoso performing in drag. Then when he concluded his show performing “The Music of the Night” from The Phantom of the Opera in his own persona we were blown away especially thinking about the controversy all drag artists are facing in this country with the politicizing of their performances. In Key West, Florida where Randy has performed at the La Te Da Cabaret for 25 years they no longer allow anyone under 18 years old to attend even though Randy’s show is totally appropriate for all ages. In “Aging Dis-Gracefully” he does address Florida being ground zero with the current culture wars specifically drag artists under attack. Yet Roberts manages to address the issue flawlessly with a tribute to Governor DeSantis in a parody entitled “He’s DeSantis” to the song “It's De-Lovely” and a moving rendition of the LGBTQ power anthem “Color Out of Colorado.” We talked to Randy about his inspiration for his new show “Aging Dis-Gracefully” and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Randy Roberts is an actor, singer, director and world-renowned female impersonator entertaining audiences for over 30 years. Hailing from Norfolk, VA he started in community theater and found a niche in female impersonation. First in small bars and clubs and then touring the country in the review “Masquerade a La Cage”. During this run he caught the eye of the producers of the long running Las Vegas drag revue “Boy-Lesque” at the Sahara Hotel and Casino. Roberts was also featured on the tenth season of NBC television’s “America’s Got Talent” and appeared on ABC television’s “One Life To Live” as “Cher”. Randy made his film debut in the award-winning indie film “Any Day Now” starring Alan Cumming, Garret Dillahunt and Frances Fisher. Randy is currently celebrating his 25th year headlining in the Crystal Room Cabaret at La Te Da in Key West, Florida and in Provincetown at the Post Office Cafe and Cabaret where he is currently performing. Upcoming performance dates include September 22nd at the Sun Festival in Rehoboth Beach, DE & September 14th, 15th and 16th at the Crazy Coqs in London, UK.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Jason Stuart and Mitch Hara talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the second season of their must-watch comedy series “Smothered” currently available on all major streaming services including Amazon, Apple, DirecTV and Revry. Jason Stuart (The Birth Of A Nation) and Mitch Hara (Mutant Olive) have co-written, co-starred and co-produced this series about a longtime gay couple that can’t stand each other but can’t afford to get divorced. With the success of the first season that was named one of the best comedy series by Amazon and was nominated for the Spotlight Award at the Indie Series Awards Jason and Mitch have upped their game. Season 2 of “Smothered” boasts an impressive cast of guest stars that include Amanda Bearse (Married w/ Children/Bros), Jai Rodriguez (Bros/Queer Eye), Carole Ita White (Laverne & Shirley), Armand Fields (Queer as Folk) and more. “Smothered” second season follows the boomer-aged gay couple Randy and Ralph who still can't stand each other and still can't afford to get a divorce so they attempt to salvage their hideous relationship in therapy hell before they kill each other and everyone else. Both Stuart and Hara were also nominated for Best Actor and the series for Best Digital Series at the Queerty Awards. “Smothered” season 2 is directed by acclaimed theatre director Carlyle King who is making her Television début. We talked to Jason and Mitch about what they hope to accomplish with Smothered and their spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Jason Stuart is one of the most prolific character actors who’s also an outrageous openly gay stand-up comedian. With over 150 credits his film work includes “The Birth Of A Nation” “Tangerine”, “Love Is Strange”, “Gia”, “Kindergarten Cop” and “Vegas Vacation” among his fan favorites. His TV work has wowed audiences with guest roles on such shows as “Sleepy Hollow”, “Entourage”, “The Closer”, “It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia”, “House”, “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Will & Grace” among others. Recently he won The Indie Series Award for Best Actor In a Comedy Series for the first season of “Smothered”. Jason also serves as the National LGBTQ Co-Chairman of the SAG-AFTRA LGBTQ Committee a role he co-created in 2004. For More Info… Mitch Hara is an actor/writer/director who joined the acclaimed Actors Studio when he was just 19. Mitch won Best Actor Award for his portrayal of “Sister Coco Call-Me- Ishmael” a mental-patient-drag-queen-nun. He also co- wrote and directed Joe Manganiello in “One Night Stand.” Hara’s award-winning solo show “Mutant Olive” is currently playing to sold out houses in LA and is currently touring globally with rave reviews. For More Info…  For More Info... LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Latina filmmaker Sue Zarco Kramer and cast members of “Swipe NYC” talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the dramedy featurette that has already won film festival awards across the country. First we talked to Sue and the film’s star Lisa Edelstein (House, Girlfriends Guide to Divorce) who plays Syd a newly divorced empty nester who throws herself into the vulnerable, scary, sexy world of online dating. Each date serves as a metaphor of Syd picking up the broken pieces of her life and regaining her sense of sexuality, confidence, empowerment and independence. Along the way she encounters her stellar cast of supporting actors including Richard Schiff (Wakanda Forever, The Good Doctor, The West Wing) and Bridget Moynahan (Blue Bloods, I Robot) among others. We also had the opportunity to get their spin on the current WGA Writer’s Strike and address our LGBTQ issues. Then we talked to Richard Schiff who plays Steve about how he got involved in the film and what he hopes to accomplish with his career. Next we chatted with Angela Wong Carbone who plays Jane and David Kelsey who plays Luke about their roles and how David would like to see “Swipe NYC” developed into a streaming series. The film is also produced by Kelsey along with Bridget Moynahan, Heather Sederquist, Cheryl Bayer and Sue Zarco Kramer. Filmmaker Sue Zarco Kramer is a graduate of UCLA Film School. She graduated winning the coveted Jim Morrison Award for Outstanding Direction and Writing. Kramer has written for almost every studio and made her feature directorial debut with her original feature "Gray Matters" which pays homage to 1940's screwball comedies with one big bang of a modern twist. The film starred Heather Graham, Tom Cavanagh, Alan Cumming, Sissy Spacek, Bridget Moynahan and Molly Shannon in the romantic comedy about a brother and a sister who fall in love with the same woman. "Gray Matters" not only closed the 2007 Santa Barbara Film Festival but was chosen as the Spotlight Film of The Hamptons Film Festival. "Gray Matters" has remained on the top 25 Netflix list of "gay and lesbians hits" of all time. “Swipe NYC” premiered at The Beverly Hills Film Festival in April 2023 winning the best audience award and will be in San Francisco at the Jewish film festival on July 29th & August 4th winning the coveted freedom expression award. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

LGBTQ Filmmakers and activists at the 25th annual Provincetown International Film Festival talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. First we spoke with director Sophia Castuera and writer Ali Edwards about their first feature film “August At Twenty-Two” that’s receiving a lot of buzz and will be available on most VOD streaming outlets next month. The film is about actress Cal (played by Edwards) who is floundering after college and is shocked to discover that her childhood soulmate has a serious girlfriend Em (Lilli Kay) who Cal unexpectedly falls in love with. “August At Twenty-Two” is an evocative and deeply felt portrait of young artists struggling to find their way in their craft and their lives. We also talked to Sophia and Ali about their inspiration for creating this film and their spin on our LGBTQ issues. Next we chatted with producer Fermin Rojas and director Mike Syers about their short film “There Are Things To Do” about LGBTQ activist and author Urvashi Vaid who passed away last year. Vaid was an outspoken immigrant, lesbian and woman of color who was an LGBTQ superhero and believed in human rights for all people. Urvashi led the charge in shaping the modern-day LGBTQ rights movement as Executive Director of National LGBTQ Task Force from 1989 to 1992 to founding LPAC the first lesbian Super PAC raising millions of dollars for candidates who are committed to social justice. The film chronicles her life in Provincetown and 34-year relationship with partner/wife comedian Kate Clinton who inspired her call to action resulting in achieving equality for our LGBTQ community. We concluded our montage with director Sam Shahid whose documentary “Hidden Master: The Legacy of George Platt Lynes” uncovers the life and work of photographer George Platt Lynes. Best remembered for his dazzling celebrity and fashion photographs of the 1930’s and 1940’s, Lynes was forced to keep his male nude photos hidden from the public. Shahid hopes his film will help reclaim this gifted artist’s full legacy and lasting influence as one of the first openly gay American artists.  The Provincetown Film Society, Inc. (PFS) is a non-profit year-round organization and home of the Provincetown International Film Festival. PFS is dedicated to showcasing new achievements in independent film and honoring the work of acclaimed and emerging directors, producers and actors.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Andrew Peterson, Director of Programming of the Provincetown International Film Festival that takes place June 14th to June 18th in Provincetown, MA talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. PIFF is celebrating its 25th year with over 100 films that include diverse BIPOC and LGBTQ filmmakers as well as wildly talented first-time filmmakers along with PIFF’s longstanding commitment to gender parity. The opening night film will be “Cora Bora” starring Megan Stalter and directed by Hannah Pearl Utt. Written by Rhianon Jones “Cora Bora” follows the story of Cora a messy millennial and struggling musician. When she goes home to Portland to win her girlfriend back Cora realizes there’s a lot more than her love life that needs salvaging. As we announced earlier Stalter will receive the festival’s Next Wave Award this year. “Theater Camp” from directors Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman is set to close the festival. It tells the story about staff members of an upstate New York theater camp who must band together when their beloved founder falls into a coma. Also honored this year will be Bruce LaBruce with the Filmmaker on Edge Award, Billy Porter the Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor will be honored with this year’s Excellence in Acting Award and along with Megan Stalter, writer, director and actor Julio Torres will receive the Next Wave Award. There will also be lots of fabulous special events and parties. We talked to Peterson about what he hopes to accomplish at the 25th annual Provincetown International Film Festival and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Andrew Peterson has served as the Director of Programming for the Academy Award Qualifying Provincetown Film Festival for the last 21 years. Peterson is also the Executive Director of FilmNorth one of the largest filmmaker service organizations in the country. Previously he was Vice President of Production for Werc Werk Works where he co-produced Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman’s “Howl”, Todd Solondz’s “Life During Wartime”, Jill Sprecher’s “Thin Ice” and Lawrence Kasdan’s “Darling Companion”. Andrew holds an MFA from New York University Graduate Film School and has taught filmmaking at Macalester and Middlebury Colleges. The Provincetown Film Society, Inc. (PFS) is a non-profit year-round organization and home of the Provincetown International Film Festival. PFS is dedicated to showcasing new achievements in independent film and honoring the work of acclaimed and emerging directors, producers and actors. This is our 16th year covering PIFF for OUTTAKE MEDIA™.  For Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Alison Burgos, Co-Founder and Vice President of the KindRED Pride Foundation talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the launch of “Red Shirt Pride Day” an annual global movement on the first Saturday of June to get a million LGBTQ individuals and allies to wear a red shirt not only in celebration of Pride Month but as a message of “KindRED” spirit in these challenging times. The link between red and Pride originated in 1991 when Disney cast members and the Central Florida LGBTQ Community decided to meet socially on the first Saturday in June in front of the Castle at Magic Kingdom. They wore red t-shirts as an expression of pride and to identify their “kindred spirits” since they had only met on a bulletin board and never in person. “Gay Disney” flourished and quickly grew to be one of the largest LGBTQ annual gatherings in the world. The growth was in part the result of the national exposure brought on by the protests of far-right groups threatening to boycott. The LGBTQ community responded in droves and year after year have journeyed to Disney World Resorts from around the world. Red is also the first color of the rainbow flag and stands as a symbol of life and passion. Burgos hopes to start a yearly worldwide tradition with Red Shirt Pride Day building connections with LGBTQ communities and allies around the world as a sign of solidarity for those who believe in diversity, inclusion, equality, safe expression and kindness. The KindRED Pride Foundation will inaugurate its Red Shirt Campaign at the official kickoff of Pride Cup the annual LGBTQ multi-sport competition held during Gay Disney weekend that takes place June 1st to June 4th in Orlando, Florida. We talked to Alison about what she hopes to accomplish with Red Shirt Pride Day and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  KindRED Pride Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization whose mission is to support the endeavors of like-minded charities for the education, promotion and celebration of Diversity, Inclusion, Equality, Safe Expression and Kindness. The organization is aligning with national, regional and local non-profits who provide valuable resources to fight bullying, teen homelessness, HIV services and legal/business/housing services to the LGBTQ community.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Boze Hadleigh talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about his fabulous new book “Game Show Confidential” published by Lyons Press and distributed by the National Book Network. At a time when books are being censored across the country this must-read LGBTQ inclusive book covers a fascinating history of the game show genre. Since first appearing on radio broadcasts in the 1930’s to the current phenomenon dominating our broadcast culture, game shows continue to draw huge audiences. We especially saw an insurgence of this popular programming during COVID providing TV audiences with its “feel good” entertainment. “Game Show Confidential” describes the evolution of the game show with its larger-than-life producers and hosts as well as the scandals that have rocked it from time to time. Back in 1954 the FCC tried to ban television game shows but the Supreme Court disagreed. Then came the 1958 game show scandals that led to a Congressional investigation into the rigging of game shows which director Robert Redford zeroed in on in the film "Quiz Show". During that time an interesting fact was ex contestant and child star Patty Duke appeared before a Congressional investigating committee and broke down crying admitting she'd been coached by adults to lie. “Game Show Confidential” also addresses the misogyny, bigotry and homophobia that have dominated the genre until recently. Though we now have women hosting primetime games show like Jane Lynch, Ellen Degeneres and Elizabeth Banks, when Betty White was set to host a 1960’s game show, ABC vetoed having a female host. We talked to Boze about his inspiration for writing “Game Show Confidential” and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Boze Hadleigh has published 29 books primarily on show business that are all LGBTQ inclusive though they’re not all gay-themed. Hadleigh is the #1 author on our LGBTQ presence in the entertainment industry especially Hollywood. The Los Angeles Times dubbed him a "pop culture phenomenon." Hadleigh holds a Master's in journalism, speaks five languages and won on the TV game show "Jeopardy!" Boze’s LGBTQ inclusive titles include Hollywood Gays, The Lavender Screen, Sing Out!, Broadway Babylon, Celebrity Lies!, Marilyn Forever, An Actor Succeeds, “Hollywood Lesbians: From Garbo To Foster, Inside the Hollywood Closet: A Book of Quotes and currently Game Show Confidential.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

David Zimmerman, Publisher of Boston Spirit Magazine and a fierce LGBTQ ally talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the 15th Annual LGBT Executive Networking Night on May 17th in Boston, MA. This year's event will feature keynote speaker Jonathan Knight the popular HGTV star and “New Kids On The Block” member. Knight is both a local and LGBTQ icon capturing the hearts of millions of fans with his incredible farmhouse renovations on HGTV’s “Farmhouse Fixer” and during his Grammy-nominated career in pop music with NKOTB. As keynote speaker Jonathan will share his story and celebrate his remarkable career. The evening promises to be a fabulous night of networking, mingling and making valuable connections with the Greater Boston LGBTQ corporate professional community and business leaders. The event will take place at the Marriott Boston Copley Place Ballroom from 6P to 9P. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, share insights and build lasting relationships. There will also be a special presentation by the LGBT History Project on the history of the LGBTQ community in the region. Since its founding in 2006 Boston Spirit Magazine has become an indispensable resource for Boston's LGBTQ community covering a wide range of topics including business, arts and entertainment, travel, health and wellness and more. Boston Spirit Magazine is dedicated to producing high-quality content that informs, educates and inspires its readers. We talked to Zimmerman about what he hopes to accomplish with the 15th Annual LGBT Executive Networking Night and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  David Zimmerman launched Boston Spirit Magazine 17 years ago after a stellar career in both public relations and advertising. For nearly 20 years David worked at both the Boston Business Journal and Boston Magazine. The 15th Annual LGBT Executive Networking Night on May 17th at the Marriott Boston Copley Place Ballroom is an opportunity to network with other LGBTQ professionals from the Greater Boston area and meet with over 50 exhibitors. Many of the attending exhibitors are hiring so if you are in the market for a new career be sure to bring business cards. There will also be fabulous free appetizers and a cash bar with your $15 cover (cash or check only) at the door.  For More Info & RSVP… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Victoria Kirby York, Director of Public Policy & Programs for the National Black Justice Coalition talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. Since 2003 the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) has been America’s leading national civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black LGBTQ people including people living with HIV/AIDS through coalition building, federal policy change, research and education. Their mission is to end racism, homophobia, LGBTQ bias and stigma. NBJC supports Black individuals, families and communities in strengthening the bonds and bridging the gaps between the movements for racial justice and LGBTQ equity. Recently NBJC unveiled its Federal Policy Agenda for the 118th Congressional Term offering its recommendations for urgently needed action to address pressing public policy issues facing our Black LGBTQ community ensuring their freedoms and equal protection under the law. NBJC is prioritizing three policy pillars this legislative session addressing Awareness, Access and Accountability. Black LGBTQ Americans represent a significant subset of Black families with over one million people (3.7 percent of all Black Americans) identifying as LGBTQ. The community's challenges are compounded partly by the stigma and marginalization resulting from social constructions of race, normative gender and sexuality. NBJC will also continue to fight and campaign for the Equality Act, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, the Student Loan Debt Relief Act, the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act of 2019 and several Biden-Harris Administration executive actions. We talked to Victoria about what she hopes to accomplish at NBJC and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Victoria Kirby York is responsible for leading NBJC’s advocacy and action strategies to maintain the org’s position as a recognized public-policy leader especially concerning Black trans, queer and non-binary/non-conforming people, families and communities as well as other multiple marginalized communities. Previously she served as the Deputy Director for the Advocacy & Action Department at the National LGBTQ+ Task Force where she managed the policy, organizing and faith team to queer advocacy around faith, equity and democracy. For over 20 years Victoria has been working in a variety of capacities regarding a number of progressive issues and candidates as well as in the private sector.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES