Hey lovelies! We’re so excited to finally be back in your ear balls with our first full episode of Season 4! We sit and chat with the amazing duo, Jordan ‘Joho’ Daniels (He/Him) and Dr. Jon Paul (They/Them) of the Black, Fat, Femme Podcast (BFF). We dive into the intersectional experience of being queer, POC and fat plus how to use fear as a catalyst for change, how to maintain your self worth through the current political season, and building a mindset and life for yourself, where the limit does not exist (don't listen to your inner plastics). We hope you enjoy this episode! FEATURED GUESTS: Dr. Jonathan Paul Higgins (They/them) Instagram | Twitter | Website | BioSite Dr Jon Paul is a Leo and an educator, professor, national speaker, freelance journalist, thought leader, and media critic who is passionate about television and film. A Culture Strike 2021 Disruptor and Twitter Spaces Spark Creator, Dr. Higgins is a trailblazer who is creating, sharing, and crafting the stories their ancestors didn’t get to tell. Dr. Higgins has held positions at both Chernin Entertainment & Edith Productions and currently consults at United Artists, Amazon, and other media leaders. Some fun facts about them are that they were on “Nailed It” and that they are an avid user of Peloton. Jordan 'JoHo' Daniels (He/Him) Instagram | Twitter JoHo is a Libra and a Fat Queer Afro-Jew writer, photographer, activist, and fashionista. As co-host of the BFF: Black Fat Femme podcast, JoHo focuses on diving deep into the guests' experiences, their power as BFFs, and their joy. As a creative, Jordan has been featured locally and nationally in publications such as Tablet Magazine, Essence, and San Diego Voyager. During his free time, Jordan plays kickball in his queer kickball league, volunteers in the community, and spends his weekends at museums and art galleries." EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Welcome to Queerify! 01:48 Introducing the New Season and Guests 02:49 Meet Dr. John Paul and Joho 03:41 Diving into Personal Quirks and Interests 05:08 Discussing the Spectrum of Sexuality 05:50 Celebrity Crushes and Attraction 11:00 The Birth of the Black Fat Femme Podcast 15:40 Navigating Identity and Intersectionality 29:12 Wellness Journeys and Self-Care Practices 37:21 Nature and Personal Preferences 37:50 Relaxation and Popcorn 38:37 Social Media Habits 39:38 Good and Evil Inclinations 42:10 Advocacy and Fear 45:33 Standing Your Ground 49:07 The Power of Collective Action 54:44 Messages of Hope and Resilience 01:02:50 Radical Acceptance 01:07:57 Closing Remarks and Socials 📇 Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. 🌿🍄 Podcast organically grown by ♊ V Vasquez (All/Any) @lovenessmonsta, ♋ Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson, and ♈ Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14. 🎛️ Edited and sound design by Leah Jackson of Puka Puka Creative. 🎨 Cover art by Allena Braithwaite. 🎶 Music produced and composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him). Follow us on Instagram @queerifywellness and email us to be a guest on the show queerifywellness@gmail.com.
Hey QUEST fam! We’re on summer break, but we didn’t want to leave you hanging on Juneteenth! So this week we’re featuring the amazing podcast duo Dr. Jon Paul (they/them) and Jordan ‘Joho’ Daniels (he/him) from the Black, Fat, Femme (BFF) Podcast. The BFF Podcast gives voice to two of the leading queer, fat and Black changemakers while calling in the world to examine and understand what it means to love oneself unapologetically - in a world where loving oneself often feels impossible. On this episode, the hosts chat with the incomparable Angelica Ross (she/her). They expound on the obsession that cis-gender people have with queer people, while also exploring activism, allyship and advocacy. We hope you enjoy lovelies and have a wonderful Juneteenth. FEATURED GUEST: Dr. Jonathan Paul Higgins (They/them) is a Leo and an educator, professor, national speaker, freelance journalist, thought leader, and media critic who is passionate about television and film. A Culture Strike 2021 Disruptor and Twitter Spaces Spark Creator, Dr. Higgins is a trailblazer who is creating, sharing, and crafting the stories their ancestors didn’t get to tell. Dr. Higgins has held positions at both Chernin Entertainment & Edith Productions and currently consults at United Artists, Amazon, and other media leaders. Some fun facts about them are that they were on “Nailed It” and that they are an avid user of Peloton. Jordan 'JoHo' Daniels (He/Him) is a Libra and a Fat Queer Afro-Jew writer, photographer, activist, and fashionista. As co-host of the BFF: Black Fat Femme podcast, JoHo focuses on diving deep into the guests' experiences, their power as BFFs, and their joy. As a creative, Jordan has been featured locally and nationally in publications such as Tablet Magazine, Essence, and San Diego Voyager. During his free time, Jordan plays kickball in his queer kickball league, volunteers in the community, and spends his weekends at museums and art galleries." WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here THE TEAM: ♊ Host: V Vasquez (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta ♑ Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees ♋ Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson ♈ Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast produced by pukapuka. Cover photo by Niko Storment. Music produced and composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him). Episode transcripts available by email request.
It’s the end of our season Queer Kittens, thank you so much for joining us on this amazing ride, we couldn’t have done it without you! 💕 To end the season, and kick off Pride month, we’re having a team “tea-time” chat. We discuss the “ups and downs” of celebrating pride, and our personal wellness tips to stay centered and mindful during this fun and energetic month. We also share our coming out stories with you! As a way to honor our journey and remind us all that we are truly not that different. We love you Queer Kitties! Have a wonderful Pride month and we'll see you later this summer 💕 ♊ Host: V aka Vanessa (All pronouns accepted) A two-spirit human, joy influencer, energy worker and dad joke connoisseur. Mexican/Indigenious Yaqui & Hopi Nation / Filipinx. @lovenessmonsta ♑ Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (all pronouns accepted) The Founder of Third Place Wellness, a functional mushroom chocolate bar brand that is making the consumption of healthy mushrooms easy and delicious. Born and raised in San Francisco, Stevie aims to anchor their entrepreneurial endeavors in the power of intention, the optimization of self and community. @steviesees ♋ Producer: Leah Jackson (she/her) Queer, Founder of pukapuka, a podcast studio creating podcasts for LGBTQ+ and womxn, DJ, bulldog lover, proud vegan and Californian. @djmsjackson ♈ Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (she/her) An Afro-Latina, Colombian y Dominicana from the Bay Area. An energy healer, bad bitch witch from the House of Hufflepuff who loves hiking, traveling, and getting weird with those she loves. She also has a big heart and even bigger hair! @la.vida.bruja14 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:49 Season Finale Announcement 01:28 Meet the Team 04:57 Pride Season and Coming Out Stories 06:13 Personal Coming Out Experiences 20:03 QUEST Teams' Coming Out Stories 21:54 First Pride Experience 25:34 Navigating Sobriety and Pride 30:02 Balancing Wellness and Partying 33:41 Imposter Syndrome in the Queer Community 44:22 Respect and Allyship at Pride 45:21 Conclusion and Season Finale WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast produced by pukapuka. Cover photo by Niko Storment. Music produced and composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him). Episode transcripts available by email request.
Queer kittens this episode is one for the books! This week we share sacred space with the host of “A Little Juju Podcast w/ Juju Bae”. Juju (She/her) is an Oshún Priestess, author, star on the Emmy/GLAAD nominated Hulu series “Living For The Dead”, and an all-around “bad bitch witch”. In this episode, Juju discusses the impact of colonialism as a child growing up in Baltimore, and how de-colonizing her spiritual practices led her to find her voice. She talks about her connection to her Ancestors, and how this has greatly impacted her wellness, her work as a healer and her role as an educator on spiritual traditions of the Black Diaspora. We also discuss her upcoming book, 'The Book of Juju: Africana Spirituality for Healing, Liberation, and Self-Discovery” aimed at empowering readers to engage with their ancestral spiritual practices in order to find healing, liberation and self-discovery. Instagram | Podcast | Linktree | Website 📖 Pre-order “The Book of Juju” HERE EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Embracing Radical Acceptance and Belonging 00:59 Introducing the Voices Behind the Podcast 01:46 Juju Bae: A Journey into African Diasporan Religions 02:20 The Power of Listening and Personal Stories 03:33 Exploring Spirituality and Relationships 06:10 Juju's Personal Journey: From Quiet Child to Spiritual Educator 09:18 Navigating Identity and Culture in School 15:46 Finding Healing Through Ancestral Connections 22:30 Understanding Ancestral Relationships and Queerness 25:46 The Impact of Authenticity on Depression and Ancestral Healing 27:09 Healing Generational Trauma and Spiritual Exhaustion 28:00 Finding Balance and Listening to Ancestors 28:34 Protecting Your Energy: A Bartender's Mantra 29:27 Discovering and Embracing Spiritual Gifts 30:03 Journey into Adulthood: Embracing Spiritual Gifts 32:15 Living for the Dead: A Unique Paranormal Show 33:27 Maintaining Calm in the Face of the Paranormal 36:46 The Power of Community Support 38:55 Writing 'The Book of Juju': A Serendipitous Journey 43:59 Navigating Spirituality as LGBTQ+ 46:36 Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 48:04 Connecting with Juju Bae WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here THE TEAM: ♊ Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta ♑ Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees ♋ Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson ♈ Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast produced by pukapuka. Cover photo by Niko Storment. Music produced and composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him). Episode transcripts available by email request.
We’re excited to be back with the incredibly talented Toushai (@toushai). Toushai is a Puerto-Rican Lesbian, multi-faceted artist known for her contributions to the QTBIPOC community through music, tattoos, and the creation of the widely popular #TEEFTuesdays. Tune into the beautiful sounds of nature in the background as we discuss with Toushai the power of self-reflection, silence and internal healing. Toushai discusses how her music is a healing space where she processes emotions, and how she hopes to empower others by sharing her story through her songs. V and Toushai also discuss the transformative power of nature, and how a simple hike can positively affect your emotional and spiritual growth. FEATURED GUEST: Toushai (she/her) @toushai Lesbo, artist (music/tattoo/bodyart) Sagittarius Sun/Scorpio Moon. I am Boricua from Perth Amboy / Carteret, NJ. I cook 90% of my meals all vegan/gluten free ; never tasted vegan food that taste like my grandma’s food till I made mine. Raspberries make my throat small. I have 3 brothers names Luis along with my dad, uncle and grandpa, all with the same initials. Super athlete. Creator of #TEEFtuesday. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Embracing Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 00:36 Introducing the Podcast: A Queer Compass 01:19 Spotlight on Touche: A Multifaceted Artist's Journey 03:07 Touche's Personal and Artistic Evolution 07:27 From Childhood to Queer Identity: Touche's Story 10:39 Athletic Achievements and Coaching Success 15:02 Navigating Anger and Healing Through Self-Reflection 27:13 Exploring Silence, Nature, and Self-Discovery 30:02 Emotional Release Through Music 30:36 Discovering New Music and Emotional Connections 31:44 The Power of Silence and Self-Reflection 32:57 Exploring Meditation and Mindfulness 34:10 Spirituality Beyond Religion 35:35 Family's Spiritual Influence and Experiences 38:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance 40:19 The Impact of Reading and Personal Growth 41:40 Starting a Spiritual Journey and Embracing Nature 44:02 Transitioning to Veganism for Health 45:55 The Art of Vegan Cooking and Future Projects 47:35 Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 49:21 Closing Thoughts and Social Media Connect WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here THE TEAM: ♊ Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta ♑ Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees ♋ Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson ♈ Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast produced by pukapuka. Cover photo by Niko Storment. Music produced and composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him). Episode transcripts available by email request.
On this latest episode we get vulnerable with the one and only Luis Cornejo (He, Him, They, Them) a Queer, Indigenous, Latinx(e), Licensed Marriage & Family/Sex Therapist, a model and host of the podcast, Queer Magic. Luis shares his journey towards embracing his queer expression, and how being authentic impacted his private practice serving the QTBIPOC community. He also discusses the importance of healthy relationships in personal growth, and how being honest about your personal experience can help you heal through trauma. We hope this episode brings you closer to YOU queer kittens! EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Embracing Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 00:53 Introducing the Hosts: Stories of Queer Identity and Empowerment 02:49 Journey to Self-Discovery: Moving Away and Finding Oneself 04:10 The Transformative Power of College and Embracing Queerness 12:37 Unpacking Religious Trauma and Embracing Queer Identity 15:33 The Journey of Self-Acceptance and Launching a Private Practice 33:43 Overcoming People Pleasing and Embracing Authenticity 36:19 Unlearning People Pleasing: A Journey to Self-Love 36:57 The Roots of People Pleasing: Trauma and Survival 38:32 Personal Growth: From Self-Neglect to Self-Care 40:20 The Power of Supportive Relationships 41:07 Love and Learning in a Long-Term Partnership 42:55 Embracing Differences: The Dynamics of a Complementary Relationship 44:16 Navigating Love, Self-Discovery, and Therapy Together 46:11 The Importance of Communication and Empathy in Relationships 49:37 Green Flags and Red Flags in Connections 59:49 Radical Acceptance and Self-Care: Closing Thoughts WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here THE TEAM: ♊ Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta ♑ Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees ♋ Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson ♈ Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast produced by pukapuka. Cover photo by Niko Storment. Music produced and composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him). Episode transcripts available by request.
This week we chat with the wonderfully unique and multi-talented, Alexis Benefield (she/her). Alexis is a Black/Filipina Bay Area native, queer femme, and multidisciplinary artist, designer and community organizer, who believes we are all perfectly and uniquely made beings finding our way back home to ourselves ✨ We discuss her community driven projects SIS (Solidarity in Sisterhood) and Tender, aimed at fostering BIPOC liberation by creating safe spaces for artistic expression and healing in nature. We hear about Alexis’ need for a community that she felt aligned with. Which led to her creating events that specifically focus on healing spaces for BIPOC to be seen, heard, and supported in their wellness journeys. We hope you enjoy! 💕 FEATURED GUEST: Alexis Benefield (She/Her) Instagram Handles : @alexisben @solidarityinsisterhood @tender_bipocshowcase Bio: Alexis Benefield (she/her) is a Black/Filipina Bay Area native, queer femme, and multidisciplinary artist, designer and community organizer. With an Aquarius sun and a tender, loving pisces Venus Alexis believes we are all perfectly and uniquely made beings finding our way back home to ourselves ✨ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Exploring Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 00:38 Introducing the Hosts and Their Mission 01:19 Guest Introduction: Alexis Benefield's Journey 02:37 Empowering QTBIPOC Communities Through Art and Solidarity 05:31 The Evolution of Tender: A BIPOC Artist Showcase 11:31 Creating Spaces for Healing and Community 14:48 The Transformative Power of Vulnerability and Community 18:49 Rhythm 33: A Birthday That Unveiled Deep Connections 26:01 The Impact of Intergenerational Trauma and Healing 30:12 Finding Wellness Through Community and Curiosity 33:00 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here THE TEAM: ♊️ Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta ♑️ Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees ♋️ Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson ♈️ Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast produced by pukapuka. Cover photo shot by Niko Storment. Episode transcripts available by request.
In this episode, we’re honored to feature the artist THEIA (she/her), a proud ‘wahine moe wahine’ (lesbian) from the Waikato-Tainui and Ngaati Tiipaa tribes of New Zealand. Theia shares her journey as an artist, and how her Māori upbringing and identity influenced her music and activism. She shares her deep connection to her indigenous heritage, discussing the importance of language, traditional practices, and the concept of radical acceptance. She also examines self-care through the lense of culture, spirituality, and queerness. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Embracing Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 00:35 Introducing the Hosts: A Celebration of Queer Identity 03:57 Exploring Intersectionality: Race, Culture, and Spirituality 04:36 The Power of Language and Tradition in Māori Culture 06:21 Understanding Incantations and Spiritual Practices 13:46 The Significance of the Haka in Māori Culture 19:29 Wellness Practices and Cultural Healing 28:14 Art, Activism, and the Impact of Colonialism 30:12 Navigating Identity and Culture Through Art 31:04 The Power of Performance in Community Spaces 34:36 Embracing Bilingualism in Music Projects 37:08 Upcoming Releases and the Importance of Language 37:42 Tour Dates and How to Stay Connected 40:09 Spotlighting Influential Māori Musicians 43:23 Closing Thoughts on Radical Acceptance and Self-Care 49:19 Final Blessings and Podcast Wrap-Up FEATURED GUEST: Theia (@theiaofficialxo) makes unapologetic, trailblazing bilingual (Māori language) alternative music! Staunchly independent and writing political, challenging anthems, the enigmatic artist who proudly represents her indigenous Māori heritage hails from Aotearoa, New Zealand and is now based in Los Angeles. Theia has clocked up more than 17 million streams on Spotify alone and has earned critical acclaim from the likes of Rolling Stone and Billboard Magazine, which described her as “one of the most exciting voices to emerge from New Zealand in the last five years”. Theia’s now gearing up to release her debut album, which she revealed for the first time at the official LA Pride 2023 afterparty and headlining Sum Of Us festival in the Sierra Nevada mountains in September. In February she is playing the sold out Camp A Lo Hum, in March she is headlining Vancouver queer club night Babes On Babes and the prestigious WOMAD festival. In April 2024 she is performing at Miami Beach Pride, in May she is performing at Belltown Bloom in Seattle. Theia is of the Waikato-Tainui and Ngaati Tiipaa tribes. STAR SIGN : Libra QUEER FUN FACT : “In my native language te reo Maaori, 'moe' means both 'to marry' and 'to sleep with' - our phrase for 'lesbian' is 'wahine moe wahine' which means 'a woman who marries or sleeps with women' - i think that's incredibly beautiful and tender." WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. THE TEAM: Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced by pukapuka. Episode transcripts available by request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
Hey there Queer Kittens! This episode we’re so excited to bring you one half of the Bad Queers (@badqueerspod) podcast duo Shana Sumers! Hang with us and Shana as we discuss life, community and what it means to be a gold member of the Beyhive. Shana shares her journey from being a music therapist, to working for the HER app and how that led to the creation of the Bad Queers Podcast. She also discusses her current role as the senior manager of diversity, equity and inclusion at Hubspot, and how she focuses on the importance of building safe, identity-based professional spaces. We hope you enjoy! FEATURED GUEST: Shana Sumers (she/her) Shana is the Co-Host and Creator of Bad Queers Podcast. By day, Shana is a corporate baddie building online communities for professionals who deserve it most (aka those of us from underestimated backgrounds and identities) in order to help them achieve their professional goals. Shana is an Aquarius and has no idea what that means and my queer fun fact is that I used to work for a queer dating app. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction to Radical Acceptance and Self Care 00:37 Meet the Host: Vee's Journey and Mission 01:15 Confessions and Introducing Shana Summers 03:51 Shana Summers: A Force in the Queer Community 07:52 Beyoncé Trivia: Testing Shana's 'Gold Member' Status 16:51 Being Black and Queer: Shana's Perspective 20:16 Community Building: Shaina's Impact and Experience 20:44 Finding Purpose in Mission-Driven Work 21:13 Unexpected Career Shifts: From Music Therapy to Community Building 21:39 The Journey to Australia and Joining the 'HER' App 23:01 Returning Home and Navigating Career Challenges 24:13 The Unexpected Job Offer and Moving to Arizona 25:06 Starting Community at 'HER' and the Evolution of the Brand 26:52 The Birth of 'Bad Queers' Podcast 27:33 Transitioning to New Work and Building Communities for Professionals 28:19 The Importance of Community and Networking 30:56 Self-Care and Personal Well-being 33:08 The Power of Community and Building Foundations 36:07 Resources for Community Building and Professional Growth 40:31 The Impact of Community Events and the Power of 'Yes' 42:49 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. THE TEAM: Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
“All walls gon’ fall, free them all, free them all.” On this week’s episode we discuss black liberation and collective wellness through the power of sex magick with the incredible, Halo the Gxdbody (they/them). Halo opens up about their own journey of exploration, and how the combination of black sex magick and BDSM practices has brought them closer to their divine energy. They believe that through intentional sex magick, marginalized communities have the power to manifest social justice and collective liberation. FEATURED GUEST: Halo is a Queer, non-binary magical Black radical, anti-capitalist alchemist, shapeshifter and shift shaper currently residing in East Oakland, CA. Halo is the creator of the #fuckthesystem series in the 2020 Navel LA: ASSEMBLIES cohort which explored the role of radical thought, sacral healing and sex magic in re-imagining Black liberation. Read their article, “Black Sex Magick: How Activating Pleasure Can Change the World” on The Other Almanac and listen to their track “FBW” from the #fuckthesystem assembly mentioned in the episode. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 01:17 Celebrating Black Liberation and Introduction of Special Guest 02:05 Exploring Sexual Wellness and Liberation 02:26 Discussion on HALO's Article and Concept of Black Sex Magic 03:02 Introduction to Carnal Alchemy 03:50 Guest Introduction and Personal Journey 04:29 Exploring Creativity and Expression 05:17 Understanding Sacral Magic and Chakras 06:22 Guest's Personal Healing Journey and Self-Care Practices 09:36 Exploring the Concept of Sex Magic 10:40 Understanding the Power of Healing Sacral Chakras 14:21 Discussion on Kink and BDSM as Somatic Experiences 19:26 Exploring the Connection between Sex and Pleasure 22:56 Understanding Sex Magic as a Divining Tool 24:30 Practical Ways to Incorporate Sex Magic into Personal Life 26:54 Harnessing Orgasmic Energy 28:00 Sex Magic Rituals for Liberation 29:57 Exploring Personal Sexuality and Ancestry 36:36 The Power of Collective Energy and Ritual 38:27 The Future of Collective Rituals 40:26 The Intersection of Tech and Magic 42:47 Closing Thoughts and Shout-outs WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. THE TEAM: Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta Executive Producer: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
We’re celebrating Black History Month by featuring an episode from one of our favorite podcasts, Bad Queers hosted by Shana and Kris. They beautifully weave the black queer experience, pop culture, entertainment, and so much more. We hope you enjoy this episode queer kittens! FEED DROP: BAD QUEERS | EPISODE 192: For the second year in a row, Angela Bassett did the thing. This time with Regina King.This week, we circle back to Katt Williams' interview and the fallout from Claudine Gay's resignation from Harvard and the emerging anti-DEI culture war. In politics, trans youth in Louisiana are suing the state over their ban on gender-affirming care. In Am I A Bad Queer, we talk friends with benefits vs. dating apps (and the limitations of vibrators) and if having an LGBTQ+ family member you respect prevents you from being homo/transphobic. Are lesbians who intentionally try to "turn" straight women a service to the community or problematic? Is Lil Nas X the most disrespected young superstar of all time? We answer in Bad Queer opinions.Shoutouts:Shana: Black Alphabet - Black LGBTQ+ nonprofit arts organization based in Chicago with national/international programming. They are committed to giving the Black LGBTQ+ community a voice through the arts and media. They host art therapy, film festivals and more - Follow @black_alphabet Kris: Segregation By Design - IG page featuring data & remastered historic photos documenting the destruction of communities of color by redlining, highways & urban renewal IG: @segregation_by_design Affiliates we actually loveSupport Lucky Skivvies and our pod by using coupon code badqueers10 for 10% off your next purchase. Treat your butt today.Shop NowEmail us for advice at badqueerspodcast@gmail.com or DM on InstagramFollow us @badqueerspod on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram & Tik TokLove our soundtrack? Check out Siena Liggins: @sienaligginsLike us? Love us? Leave a review*The opinions expressed during this podcast are conversational in nature and expressed only for comedic purposes. Not all of the facts will be correct but we attempt to be as accurate as possible. BQ Media LLC, the hosts, nor any guest host(s) hold no liability over the conversations on this podcast and by using this podcast you understand that it is solely for entertainment purposes. Copyright Disclaimer: Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use"... WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. HOST: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) THE CREW: Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
On this episode, we’re honored to have the amazing Chhoti Maa (They/ella). Born in Guanajuato, Mexico; Chhoti Maa is a rapper, singer, and songwriter whose music is rooted in ecofeminism, migrant rights and the power of community. Their music reflects decolonial living, ancestral medicine, queerness, love and radical sisterhood. We discuss Chhoti’s passion for learning their ancestral traditions, what sparked their wellness journey, how they’ve embraced their intersectionality, plus the role of compassionate listening of Indigenous Peoples. Listen and download their music on Bandcamp. We hope you enjoy the episode Queer Kittens! FEATURED GUEST: Chhoti Maa started in 2007 within the migrant rights movement and hip hop scene of Richmond, VA. The production team expanded in 2012 with beto guapoflaco and Keith Avelino Hernandez. The music of Chhoti Maa is rooted in community organizing, hip hop, neufolk, r&b, cumbia, migrant soul and oral tradition. It reflects decolonial living, ancestral medicine, queerness, migrant empowerment, love and radical sisterhood. To date, Chhoti Maa has performed, collaborated and taught in Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, China, US, Cuba, Spain, Qatar, U.A.E., Ghana, Sweden, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Chile and multiple Indigenous nations. Chhoti Maa has released two studio albums Agua Corre (2016) and Caldo de Hueso (2018) featuring musical legends such as jazz saxophonist Howard Wiley, flautist KJ Pied Piper of the Bay, cumbia accordionist Ivan Flores and Native emcee Dioganhdih. 7 Luminarias is set to release in 2024. As the creative engine of Chhoti Maa, Vreni Michelini-Castillo is also a cultural producer, curator, educator and organizer based in Huichin, Ohlone land (Oakland, CA). WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. HOST: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) THE CREW: Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative.Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
Listen in as the QUEST team, Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) and Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) define what radical acceptance means to them, and how they apply it to their own lives and to others they love. We discuss cultivating healthy boundaries with family and friends in order to honor authenticity, and what it means to be radical when faced with adversity and dysfunction. We hope this episode brings you clarity of spirit, and closer to your own sacred strength 💪🏾 FEATURED GUESTS: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) - An Afro-Latina, Colombian y Dominicana from the Bay Area. An energy healer, bad bitch witch from the House of Hufflepuff who loves hiking, traveling, and getting weird with those she loves. She also has a big heart and even bigger hair! Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) - They are the Co-Founder of Kinoko Chocolates, a functional mushroom chocolate bar brand that is making the consumption of healthy mushrooms easy and delicious. Born and raised in San Francisco, Stevie aims to anchor their entrepreneurial endeavors in the power of intention, the optimization of self and community. WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. HOST: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) THE CREW: Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
“What is your gift? What is the medicine you can give to the world?” - Madame Gandhi Happy 2024 folks! We’re so excited to be back with you and to be starting this season off with such an amazing guest. In this episode, we sit down with Madame Gandhi (she/her). She is a musician, activist, gender liberation and personal empowerment speaker. Listen in as we discuss tools to overcome life’s roadblocks and ways to stay connected to your own personal power. May this new year bring you joy, where you learn, laugh, heal and GROW 💕 FEATURED GUEST: Madame Gandhi is an award-winning artist and activist known for her uplifting, percussive electronic music and positive message about gender liberation and personal power. She began producing music in 2015, after her story running the London Marathon free-bleeding to combat menstrual stigma went viral around the world. She has been listed as Forbes 30 Under 30 in Music and BBC 100 Women, and her mainstage TED Talk about conscious music consumption has been viewed over a million times. Madame Gandhi’s mission is to use music as a medium for a message about positivity, personal expression and human thriving. WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. HOST: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) THE CREW: Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Be a guest on the pod questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
Hello Queer Kittens! 2023 is nearing its end, and we wanted to take this chance to reflect and recharge amongst community. In this episode we have Aïma The Dreamer (They/Them/Femme) joining us in meaningful and healing conversation. They are a multi-disciplinary artist, musician, and activist based in Oakland, CA. They use their art as a tool for liberation by uplifting the principles of QTBIPOC empowerment, intersectional feminism, women's rights, and anti-racism. Listen in as we discuss current global affairs and how we can show up authentically for ourselves and for humanity. FEATURED GUEST: Aïma Paule (They/Them/Femme), also known as Aïma the Dreamer, is a multi-disciplinary artist, musician, and activist based in Oakland, CA. With a career spanning over two decades, Aïma has made a significant impact locally, nationally, and internationally through their art exhibitions, performances, event productions, and event hosting. As a living embodiment of intersectionality, Aïma embraces their Queer mixed-race identity, which encompasses Black, Indigenous, North African Amazigh, Arab, and Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. As the first-generation child of an immigrant single mother and a survivor of homelessness, assault, and poverty, Aïma possesses a deeply personal understanding of life's complexities. Aïma's artistry serves as a powerful tool for liberation, as they utilize mixed art disciplines to uplift the diverse voices and perspectives of their communities. Their work is deeply rooted in the principles of QTBIPOC empowerment, intersectional feminism, women's rights, and anti-racism. Follow Aïma on all platforms @aimathedrmr Linktree / Bandcamp Music / Makers Page @huemanstyle Watch And Follow FemmeRage Film Website / Instagram 🍉 Action Toolkit Resource WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. HOST: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) THE CREW: Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Email us your community S/O questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
On this episode, we are reclaiming the holiday season with our guest, Bex Mui (She/her). We discuss the importance of setting intentional practices for yourself during the holidays in order to enter the new year with some ease. Bex also discusses her QTBIPOC-centered spiritual play space, “House of Our Queer” and book, “House of Our Queer: Healing, Reframing and Reclaiming Your Spiritual Practice”. We hope that this episode will help you cultivate ease into your holidays Queer Kittens. 💕 FEATURED GUEST: Bex Mui @itsbexnow @houseofourqueer is a biracial Chinese/Polish, first gen queer witch, tarot reader, certified energy worker, and spiritual organizer. You can find Bex traveling around Asia, scuba diving under the sea, or cuddling at home with her financé, kitty, and betta fish. WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. HOST: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) THE CREW: Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Email us your community S/O questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
On this episode, we had the privilege of talking to the incredible and multifaceted Sie Savage Chambers @ThaPlantbasedSavage. He is a Southern-born, Plant-Based Wellness Coach, Chef, Educator, Creator, Poet, Community Organizer, and Founder of @Hyer_wellness. We discuss all things gut health, and what it’s like navigating family holiday dynamics while living a plant-based lifestyle. Sie also highlights some simple food/ingredient alternatives that can improve your mental, physical, and emotional health. We hope these tips help you navigate the holiday season with your own care in mind! Use Sie’s referral code to get 10% off a Magic Pop Mic! WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. THE CREW: Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Email us your community S/O questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
Halloween has arrived Queer Kittens! Now is the time to let our true-est self come out and play, and there is no better person to help us do just that than Helixir Jynder Byntwell! Helixir (he/they) is a gender-bending trans-nonbinary Drag King who is taking the Bay Area by storm. Join us as we discuss the magic of transformation and how Helixir found authenticity through drag and by leaning in on their community. Shine on, Spooky Kitties! FEATURED GUEST: Helixir (he/they) @helixirdrag is the crowned San Francisco Drag King of 2022. This black, trans non-binary, queer drag king is your local emo sad-boi and the dapper daddy of your dreams! He’s also a gender affirming barber in SF, so if you want a haircut hit him up @jenjibarber! THE CREW: Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Email us your community S/O questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
Happy October Queer Kitties! In this episode, we welcome back one of our amazing guests, Melissa from episode “The Giver (2020 Wrap-up)”. Listen in as we glimpse some of her incredible personal growths and life changes since last year at Sum Of Us festival. We were also blessed to get a chance to speak to Melissa’s kiddo, Morgan, who gave us a new perspective on their mother’s transformation, as well as a look into their own personal journey towards wellness. Hope you enjoy! FEATURED GUESTS: Melissa (all pronouns): @felicia_tamaguchi Morgan (they/them): @morgana_97 WELLNESS RESOURCES: Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here THE CREW: Host: V (All Pronouns Accepted) @lovenessmonsta Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Email us your community S/O questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Episode transcripts available by email request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.
Hey Queer Kitties! We’ve missed you! For our new listeners we welcome you with open arms. Come hang out with the QUEST crew in our first episode of season 3 kick-off. You will hear the team discuss some of our summer highlights, set backs, and learning moments. We have a lot to catch you up on, so tune in! Check out all the wellness resources mentioned on the podcast here. THE CREW: Host: Vanessa Vasquez aka V @lovenessmonsta (All Pronouns Accepted) Executive Producers: Stevie Cua (All Pronouns Accepted) @steviesees Producer: Leah Jackson (She/Her) @djmsjackson Associate Producer: Raphaella Landestoy (She/Her) @la.vida.bruja14 Music: Produced and Composed by BASK aka Eric Guizar Vasquez (He/Him) CONNECT: Follow us on Instagram @questwellnesspod Email us your community S/O questwellnesspod@gmail.com Podcast is produced in collaboration with Kinoko Chocolates & Puka Puka Creative. Some episode transcripts available here. Send us a request questwellnesspod@gmail.com.