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Life Through a Queer Lens
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© 2025 Life Through a Queer Lens
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Life Through a Queer Lens is where queer history, lived experience, and cultural critique collide, unapologetically and with heart.
Co-hosted by Jenene (she/they) and Kit (he/they/it)—two queer activists from different generations with shared values and distinct voices. This podcast brings raw, nuanced conversations to life through a blend of education, storytelling, intersectionality, and just the right amount of sass.
Together, we unpack the complexity of queerness in today’s world while honoring the legacies and liberation work that brought us here. We dive into topics like evolving queer language, body autonomy, disability justice, gender euphoria, artistic expression, grief, protest, neurodivergence, and chosen family. Whether it’s deep-diving into queer-coded characters in the arts, spotlighting underrepresented voices in our LGBTQIA+ umbrella, or making sense of headlines and harmful legislation, we’re here to ask the hard questions and hold space for real answers.
Kit brings firsthand insights as a disabled, autistic, trans masc non-binary person; Jenene brings an artistic and strategic lens from their work in queer performance spaces and nonprofit leadership. Together, we hold a commitment to uplift all marginalized communities, knowing that no one is free until we all are.
We speak to those who’ve lived it, those who are living it, and those ready to listen deeply. No rainbow capitalism here. Just real, messy, brilliant queer truths. If you’re craving layered conversations that honor the past, question the present, and dream toward liberation, pull up a chair.
This is radical, curious, layered, liberatory queer storytelling.
Queer, allied, learning, unlearning, or somewhere in between, you’re welcome here.
This is Life Through a Queer Lens. Welcome.
75 Episodes
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The pink triangle, a symbol of Nazi persecution of homosexuals, has been reclaimed and transformed into powerful monuments worldwide, from Amsterdam to San Francisco to Paris. • Amsterdam's Homomonument (1987) was the world's first and largest LGBTQ+ memorial, with a triangular design pointing to significant locations including Anne Frank's house • Berlin's Holocaust Memorial at Nolendorfplatz station (1989) features an upside-down pink triangle plaque commemorating homosexual victims of Nat...
The pink triangle evolved from a symbol of Nazi persecution to an emblem of queer liberation and activism. This episode traces its journey from concentration camps through the AIDS crisis to modern Pride celebrations, revealing how it was reclaimed by the queer community as a powerful symbol of resistance. • Nazi Germany used color-coded triangle badges to identify prisoner groups in concentration camps, with gay men forced to wear pink triangles • An estimated 65% of gay men in concentratio...
Sir Francis Bacon, born in 1561, was the Lord Chancellor of England, a philosopher, author, statesman, and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community who developed what we now call the scientific method. His story demonstrates that queerness isn't new but has existed throughout human history, even before we had the terminology to describe it. • Bacon served as Lord Chancellor from 1608 to 1621 and spoke in Parliament • He conceptualized the Baconian method (scientific method) based on observatio...
Joy is a powerful form of resistance during difficult times, especially when combined with community care and practical safety measures. Survival itself becomes an act of defiance when we remember that what we're fighting for is the right to experience joy and connection. • Crisis resources include the 988 Suicide Hotline and specialized warm lines like Trans Lifeline (877-565-8860) • Self-care activities like gaming, nature walks, and creative expression are essential for maintaining resili...
We explore accessible educational alternatives in response to the executive order dismantling the Department of Education, focusing on resources families can use immediately to support learning outside traditional school settings. • Administration's March 2025 executive order is beginning the dismantling of the Department of Education • ACLU website details consequences to students' civil rights and access to equal education • Groups most affected include disabled students, low-income famili...
Mutual aid represents the foundation of human civilization, beginning with our ancestors' willingness to care for each other and continuing through indigenous practices that have existed for centuries before the concept was formally named. • Origins of mutual aid as a philosophical concept from Peter Kropotkin, countering social Darwinism with the idea that cooperation, not competition, is key to survival • Distinction between charity (which reinforces us/them dynamics) and mutual aid (based...
Our queer elders have crucial wisdom to share about navigating difficult times, having been through similar challenges in previous decades. • Find and get involved with your local LGBTQ center, even in small towns • Build physical community networks of people who can actually help if things get worse • Centers provide safe spaces, resources, event information, and connections to elders • Legacy organizations like ACT UP, Lambda Legal, and the National LGBTQ Task Force continue fighting...
Death comes for us all, but as queer people we must take extra steps to ensure our identities are respected after we pass. This episode explores end-of-life planning specifically for LGBTQIA+ individuals with practical guidance on protecting your identity in death. • Iconic LGBTQIA+ graves including Leonard Malkovich's Gay Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Patricia Cronin's "Memorial to Marriage" • The formation of the "Gay Corner" in Congressional Cemetery in Washington DC • Step-by-step instru...
In today's episode, we explore the intersection of privilege and activism, examining how systemic inequalities persist and the importance of discomfort in seeking equity. Our focus shifts from personal experiences to broader societal issues, emphasizing the necessity of engaging in activism even when it feels challenging. • Discussion on returning from a holiday hiatus • The impact of mental health on activism • DEI policies and perceptions of meritocracy • Exploring ...
Explore the journey of immigration through a queer lens, highlighting the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face when seeking refuge in a divided world. We'll compare Uruguay and Paraguay, showcasing Uruguay's progressive laws and firm stance against dictatorship as a beacon of hope. From the Equality Index to practical advice on legal protections and societal views, this episode offers essential insights for navigating relocation. With historical reflections and a call for empathy, we aim to i...
Picture this: our living room, popcorn scattered everywhere, laughter echoing, and a family movie night that turned into a rollercoaster of emotions. The movie adaptation of "Wicked" had us totally spellbound, and with Jeff Goldblum's brilliant portrayal of a character with a god complex, it was an experience worth every teardrop and chuckle. The decision to split the film into two parts gave the storytelling the depth it needed, reflecting themes that resonate powerfully today. And, of cours...
Discover how to express your pride boldly while staying safe in environments that might not always be welcoming. In this episode, we promise you’ll learn creative strategies like designing personalized battle vests and jackets that let you showcase your identity with pride, yet smartly—by placing symbols where you can keep an eye on reactions. Revisit the original pride symbols like the Gilbert Baker rainbow flag with us, as we advocate against their commercialization. We also dive into the r...
Join us as we honor the resilience of queer elders, reflecting on their strength through monumental LGBTQIA+ history, from Stonewall to the 1980s AIDS crisis. Explore curated mental health resources like Trans Lifeline and Thrive Lifeline, alongside self-care strategies to foster resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. Stay tuned for future episodes on activism, accessible care, and tools for resistance, as we stand united for change. We share episode topics we plan to drop between ...
In this episode, we navigate the challenges of maintaining relationships with loved ones holding opposing political views, exploring how fear-driven narratives hinder societal progress. We discuss resilience, the power of human connection, and the role of white allies in fostering unity within the queer community. Reflecting on personal struggles and societal change, we honor trailblazers like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, emphasizing inclusivity, solidarity, and hope for a better futu...
Have you ever felt the rush of being truly seen and accepted for who you are? This episode dives into Kit's transformative Halloween night at a drag show, where the dazzling performances of three incredible Queens ignited his passion for capturing queer joy through photography. Join Kit as he reflects on the power of drag culture, the strength of community, and the vital role we all play in celebrating and safeguarding queer art and identity. Check out our linktree If anyone is seeking a sa...
This episode dives into digital romance, a love for Halloween films, and navigating inclusion in horror. From marrying Stardew Valley’s Shane to celebrating horror icons, it's a journey through nostalgia, representation, and real-life Halloween escapades, embracing the eerie and the endearing all at once. Check out our linktree If anyone is seeking a safe place for chiropractic care on Long Island, you're welcome at Sound Chiropractic in Oakdale, NY. For Chiropractic care or information, c...
Join us for a thrilling exploration of queer trans horror recommendations, discussing everything from films and books with positive representation to our mixed feelings about vending at the Scarecrow Festival. We also dive into standout performances by Dominique Jackson and Elliot Page, while celebrating horror classics like James Whale's "Frankenstein." Don't forget to check resources like doesthedogdie.com to make sure your spooky season is as enjoyable as it is thrilling! Che...
!!TRIGGER WARNING!! This episode contains discussions of transphobic media and its impact on transgender people and society's view of queerness and gender nonconformance Summary: What if horror films are reinforcing harmful stereotypes that shape societal perceptions? In this Halloween-themed episode, we explore the damaging "man in a dress" trope in classics like Psycho and Silence of the Lambs, and its impact on trans representation. Join us as we critically examine these films while cele...
What if an 8-bit Rocky Horror video game unlocked a retro adventure but was restricted by platform exclusivity? We dive into the possibilities of such a game and lament the barriers that may keep fans from experiencing it. Our conversation shifts to the cancellation of the Chucky TV series after its third season, sparking a deeper discussion on the cultural impact of prematurely axed queer-themed shows like "Our Flag Means Death." We celebrate Chucky’s commitment to LGBTQ+ representati...
Curious about how one person can transform transgender rights? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Kyler Broadus, a pioneering lawyer and trans advocate whose activism has led to significant legal advancements. We'll dive into his personal story, from the influence of his father to discovering trans jazz musician Billy Tipton, and discuss his landmark testimony in 2012. Plus, we'll reflect on broader queer history, Missouri's anti-trans discrimination laws, and our plans for...
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