S2E5: Building Queer Community from Florida to South America
Description
In this episode of The Skittle Squad Podcast, we’re joined by Brian Longstreth, a pioneer of LGBTQ+ visibility in St. Pete and the visionary behind GayStPete.com, Casa Del MerMan, and Visit Gay Montanita.
Brian takes us on a ride through decades of queer activism, community-building, and pride parades, sharing the story of how a city once lacking LGBTQ+ visibility grew into a thriving, inclusive hub.
From opening one of the first gay-owned businesses in the Grand Central District to organizing international Pride trips, Brian’s life is a mix of rainbow flags, real estate, and radical joy.
This episode dives into:
- The grassroots evolution of St. Pete’s LGBTQ+ scene
- Why visibility in business spaces still matters
- Turning passion into purpose through queer travel
- The vision behind Casa Del MerMan (yes, it’s real—and fabulous)
- Finding healing and perspective in Montañita, Ecuador
- Advice for younger LGBTQ+ leaders: “Travel more. Get outside your bubble.”
Brian reminds us that showing up doesn’t always mean doing the most, it can mean resting, reconnecting, and dreaming bigger for the next chapter.
United States
