In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Jaxon Feeley, former prison officer, public speaker, and trans advocate, for a powerful and deeply human conversation about courage, visibility, and doing it scared.
Jaxon opens up about his life before and after transition, from working in the prison service to walking back through the gates as “Mr Feeley.” He shares how he found the strength to come out publicly, the moment he told his family they could have “a dead daughter or a living son,” and why he believes fear and bravery can exist in the same breath.
From battling stigma to embracing authenticity, Jaxon’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and relentless hope. His mantra, “do it scared,” is a reminder that courage does not mean being fearless; it means showing up anyway.
Chapters
00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire
03:35 Childhood and Early Identity
08:42 Transitioning and Authenticity
13:21 Family Dynamics and Support
18:32 Working in a Prison Environment
23:22 Reality TV Experiences
28:38 Living Authentically in the World
34:10 The Intensity of Reality TV
34:56 Balancing Multiple Roles
37:08 Finding Daily Happiness
39:11 Navigating Loneliness in the Spotlight
41:39 The Importance of Social Media Breaks
43:27 The Thrill of Hunted: A Unique Experience
56:06 The Impact of Representation in Media
59:17 Introducing 'Fear Proof': A New Book
01:03:38 Advice for the Younger Self
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
Connect from Jaxon Feeley:
Website - https://jaxonfeeley.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jaxryderfeeley
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Alex Thomas-Smith — actor and performer whose credits span the West End, TV, and Netflix, including & Juliet, What It Feels Like For A Girl, and Lena Dunham’s Too Much.
Alex reflects on their journey from childhood to the stage, sharing early memories of queer representation from Big Brother’s Nadia and Coronation Street’s Hayley Cropper, and why those moments of visibility mattered. They open up about growing up in challenging circumstances, finding strength with their sisters, and embracing authenticity without ever feeling the need for a formal “coming out.”
From the thrill of starring in & Juliet to balancing intimacy and spectacle on their wedding day, Alex speaks candidly about love, representation, and how neurodiversity shapes their creativity and career. They also discuss the importance of refusing roles that erase identity, and the joy of telling queer stories unapologetically.
This is a conversation about representation, resilience, and what it means to be brave enough to live without limits.
Chapters
00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire
07:20 Childhood and Early Influences
13:12 Awareness of Queerness
19:09 Authenticity and Self-Expression
25:07 Marriage and Personal Milestones
25:13 The Reality of Performing Eight Shows a Week
28:41 Navigating Relationships in the Theatre World
31:16 Stage vs. Screen: A Performer’s Perspective
33:19 Experiences on What It Feels Like For A Girl and Too Much
38:51 Choosing Projects: Aligning with Authenticity
40:36 The Shift in Queer Representation
42:25 Neurodiversity and Performance
44:47 Advice to Young Queer Individuals
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Jordan Gray — award-winning comedian, musician, writer, and the first trans woman to headline the London Palladium.
Jordan reflects on her journey from pop singer to stand-up comedian, and how coming out unlocked the freedom to share her authentic self on stage. She talks about creating her hit ITV show Transaction, her Channel 4 special Is It A Bird?, and her 2025 Edinburgh Fringe show Is That a Cock in Your Pocket or Are You Just Here to Kill Me?
From blending music and comedy to disarm prejudice, to navigating social media while “staying soft,” Jordan shares the highs, lows, and laughter that define her story. She also offers heartfelt advice to young queer people about choosing joy over other people’s discomfort and living unapologetically.
This is a conversation about authenticity, resilience, and why comedy is one of the most powerful tools we have for connection.
Chapters
00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire
04:28 Exploring Queer Media and Representation
07:26 Authenticity and Personal Journey
10:21 First Awareness of Queerness
13:21 Transitioning from Music to Comedy
16:27 The Art of Blending Music and Comedy
20:51 The Journey to ITV: From Concept to Screen
23:58 Writing for TV vs. Stand-Up Comedy
25:59 Navigating Public Perception and Social Media
30:24 The Power of Comedy in Challenging Conversations
33:26 The Fine Line of Humor: Intent vs. Impact
37:26 Experiencing the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
38:30 Advice for the Younger Generation
41:10 What's Next for Jordan Gray?
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Seth Insua, debut author of Human, Animal and talented artist, for a thoughtful conversation about queerness, creativity, and finding belonging.
Seth shares how a childhood obsession with Pinocchio shaped his creative spirit, how growing up queer in a homophobic all-boys school influenced his search for authenticity, and the inspiration behind his acclaimed novel. He reflects on themes of masculinity, non-belonging, and the power of perspective that run through his writing, as well as the influence of queer icons like Russell T Davies.
From exploring why queerness and horror are so intertwined, to the importance of finding your people and embracing mistakes, this episode offers both intimate insight into the mind of a writer and universal lessons on living authentically.
Chapters
00:00 Queer Panic Game: Rapid Fire Questions
04:13 Influential Queer Media: Movies, TV Shows, and Books
07:20 Childhood Reflections: Growing Up Queer
10:05 Writing Process: Obsession and Creativity
13:25 Authenticity: Discovering and Embracing Queer Identity
16:14 Inspiration Behind 'Human, Animal': A Multifaceted Story
20:16 Exploring Family Dynamics in Dairy Farming
23:44 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Belonging
26:24 Researching Perspectives: Understanding Different Narratives
30:04 Challenging Traditional Masculinity
33:09 Finding Common Ground in Divisive Times
36:36 The Intersection of Art and Writing
41:51 Advice for the Younger Generation
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
Connect with Seth Insua
Website - https://www.sethinsua.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sethinsua
Buy Human, Animal - https://linktr.ee/seth.insua
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Brandon Wolf — survivor of the Pulse nightclub shooting, national press secretary for the Human Rights Campaign, and one of the most powerful voices for LGBTQ+ equality in the United States.
Brandon shares his journey from growing up in a small conservative town, to finding chosen family and queer spaces that gave him the courage to be unapologetically himself. He opens up about his best friend Drew, the night of the Pulse tragedy, and the promise he made to keep fighting for a world Drew would be proud of.
From the desecration of sacred memorials to the resilience of a community that refuses to be erased, Brandon speaks candidly about grief, advocacy, and the work still to be done. He also reminds us of the joy, hope, and humanity at the heart of queer liberation — and why giving up is never an option.
This is a conversation about loss, resilience, and the fight for a future where everyone can live unapologetically and authentically.
Chapters
00:00 Queer Panic: A Fun Introduction
04:27 Exploring Identity and Safe Spaces
07:33 The Impact of Community and Chosen Family
10:31 Reflections on Family and Early Influences
13:34 Awakening to Queerness: Media and Real Life Experiences
16:16 Finding Authenticity and Belonging
19:26 Life Before Pulse: Dreams and Aspirations
22:34 The Significance of Pulse Nightclub
25:12 Community Resilience After Tragedy
30:07 Refusing to be Erased: The Resilience of the Queer Community
31:44 Historical Context: Lessons from the Past
34:25 Building a Movement: The Power of Persistence
35:27 Remembering Drew and Juan: Stories of Friendship
39:58 A Promise to Fight: Creating a World of Pride
43:51 Finding Balance: Self-Care in Advocacy
48:42 Community Engagement: The Power of Connection
52:29 Gun Safety: Progress and Challenges
56:59 Political Aspirations: Impact Over Title
58:53 Advice for the Younger Generation: Be Unapologetically You
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Rico Jacob Chace, one of the UK’s most visible trans voices, award-nominated activist, and filmmaker, for a powerful conversation about trans rights, intersectionality, and the importance of joy in queer life.
Rico shares how his early life shaped his stubborn self-belief, why embracing his authentic identity at 25 changed everything, and the journey from a trading floor career to the front lines of activism. He opens up about navigating the world as a Black trans man, the impact of recent UK legal rulings, and the daily realities of public advocacy.
From creating safe spaces and building community to finding laughter in friendship and hope in the next generation of activists, this episode is both unflinchingly honest and deeply uplifting.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rico Jacob Chase
04:15 Queer Panic
07:13 Influential Queer Media and Its Impact
10:08 Childhood Experiences and Identity Formation
13:05 Navigating Queerness and Authenticity
16:12 Activism and Community Engagement
19:05 Intersectionality: Being Black and Trans
22:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance
30:12 Navigating Identity and Privilege
34:00 The Impact of Recent Legal Changes
39:09 Political Tactics and Community Response
43:27 Understanding the Trans Experience
47:58 Finding Joy and Community
53:42 Advice for the Younger Generation
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
Resources Mentioned:
We Create Space - https://www.wecreatespace.co
Non-Binary Barrister - https://www.instagram.com/nonbinarybarrister/
Trans Legal Clinic - https://www.translegalclinic.com
Not a Phase - https://notaphase.org
Gay’s The Word - https://www.gaystheword.co.uk
Trans+ Solidarity Alliance - https://www.transsolidarityalliance.com
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Ella Vaday, the multi-talented drag queen and performer who went from West End shows to making it all the way to the final of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 3.
Ella, also known as Nick Collier, shares stories from a complicated childhood in rural Suffolk, a life shaped by performance and pressure, and the moment drag became an unexpected lifeline during lockdown. From surviving isolation on Drag Race to reclaiming confidence in her thirties, Ella talks candidly about coming out later in life, learning to stop hiding, and why you should never feel rushed to figure it all out.
They also dive into the highs and lows of fame, the backstage reality of reality TV, and the joy of finding your place, whether that’s in a glittery gown or a sweaty gym. Plus, Ella opens up about navigating queer identity in a social media age, why she still doesn’t feel like she fits in, and the advice she’d give to young queer people feeling lost or unseen.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s still figuring it out, still finding their voice, or still waiting for their spotlight.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ella and Queer Panic
04:24 Childhood Memories and Celebrity Crushes
07:34 Fashion and Drag Race Highlights
10:16 Influential Queer Media and Icons
13:20 Navigating Queerness and Family Dynamics
16:17 Advice for Young Queer Individuals
19:30 Social Media and Its Impact on Queerness
26:03 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
28:35 Navigating the Performing Arts Journey
33:11 The Evolution of a Drag Queen
37:45 The Rollercoaster of Drag Race Experience
42:17 Adjusting to Fame and Public Scrutiny
47:53 Lessons Learned and Advice for the Future
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with the electrifying Love Bailey, artist, musician, activist, and founder of the Savage Ranch, for a powerful and unapologetically fierce conversation about art, identity, rebellion, and queer survival.
Love shares her early experiences with homophobia and performance, her journey through fashion and celebrity styling, and her path to living fully as the woman she is today. From dancing with pigs at the Savage Ranch to releasing her music video Tranz Panic, she reveals how glamour, satire, and protest come together in her vision of queer utopia.
They discuss the making of her film The Battle for TransMecula, the ongoing fight against anti-trans legislation in the US, and the importance of community, visibility, and refusing to dim your light. Love speaks openly about being shadowbanned, navigating misogyny even within queer spaces, and why fantasy is her fiercest form of resistance.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about trans joy, radical queer art, and creating a world where we can all exist louder and prouder.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Love Bailey
02:40 Queer Panic
05:31 The Journey to Authenticity
08:25 Creating the Savage Ranch
11:19 The Inspiration Behind Transpanic
13:59 The Battle for TransMecula
17:00 Visibility and Representation in Queer Spaces
20:07 Advice for the Younger Generation
Learn More About Love Bailey:
Website - https://www.lovebailey.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/loveisbailey
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this heartfelt episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with writer, podcaster, and creative force Andrew Flewitt to explore his powerful journey, from growing up queer in a conservative town to building an unapologetically authentic life grounded in creativity, connection, and self-discovery.
Andrew opens up about what inspired his moving book Do You Believe In Life After Loss, why Brighton became a turning point in embracing his queerness, and how losing and rebuilding family, love, and identity helped him discover a deeper version of himself. He shares how queerness has become his superpower, why community is vital, and how amplifying diverse queer voices became his creative mission.
They also talk about the losses we don’t always name, of safety, identity, opportunity, and why queer storytelling is essential in an era of rising hate. This is a raw, hopeful conversation about finding joy through pain, creating space for grief, and learning to love the version of yourself that emerges on the other side.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating loss, craving connection, or ready to embrace the radical, resilient joy of being queer.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Andrew's Early Years
02:57 The Impact of LGBTQ Representation
05:57 Finding Authenticity and Community
08:52 Embracing Queerness and Creativity
11:53 The Importance of Diverse Voices
14:49 Navigating Loss and Resilience
17:43 The Journey of Writing a Book
20:43 The Power of Podcasting
24:05 Exploring Different Types of Loss
26:58 Cultural Reflections and Queer Experiences
29:58 The Role of Music in Identity
32:47 Hope and Grief Coexisting
35:53 Life After Loss
39:02 The Importance of Community
41:52 Supporting Independent Creatives
44:46 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights
Learn More About Andrew Flewitt:
LinkTree - https://linktr.ee/fleweyactually
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Chris McAllister—comedian, writer, actor, and self-described “person-next-door funny”—to explore how humor, identity, and visibility can work together to spark real social change.
Chris shares how growing up as a tomboy in Northern England shaped their early sense of self, why they came out as a lesbian before later identifying as transmasc, and how their wife helped unlock their fullest, most authentic self. They reflect on the healing power of sobriety, the complexity of pregnancy as a trans person, and the joy of helping others understand trans identity—one joke at a time.
They also unpack what it’s like to be visibly trans in today’s political climate, why curiosity should be met with compassion, and how laughter can soften hearts, shift narratives, and open minds. From viral Instagram videos to starring in the web series Kit, Chris proves that trans joy isn’t just powerful—it’s disarming.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about trans visibility, using your voice for change, and finding joy in being unapologetically you.
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Humor in Social Change
01:31 Childhood and Identity Formation
05:45 First Encounters with LGBTQ+ Representation
09:51 Navigating Authenticity and Relationships
11:40 Comparing Trans Rights: UK vs Australia
16:31 The Impact of Social Media on Trans Visibility
19:42 The Role of Comedy in Education
25:32 Balancing Visibility and Safety
29:38 Advice for Younger Generations
33:40 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Favorites
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this powerful episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Ali Najjar, Pride Award winner, proud gay Muslim man, and fierce advocate for hope, to explore a life marked by resilience, reinvention, and radical authenticity.
Ali opens up about growing up gay in a Muslim household, surviving relentless bullying at school, facing trauma in the workplace, and living two lives before finally embracing his truth. He reflects on the journey to self-acceptance, the heartbreak of losing his father, and the years-long rift with his mother, until their relationship was joyfully restored at his wedding to his husband, Adam.
They also unpack the beauty and complexity of intersectional identity, the need for inclusive queer representation in media and faith spaces, and the lasting impact of being seen and celebrated. Plus, Ali shares the moment he realized he had to speak up, how he turned pain into power, and why he’s never looking back.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about queer liberation, cultural identity, and the lifelong process of healing, belonging, and living out loud.
Chapters:
00:00 Understanding LGBTQ+ Identity Through Childhood Experiences
04:09 The Journey to Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
18:42 Navigating Intersectionality as a Queer Muslim
21:19 Growing Up in the 80s: Challenges and Bullying
26:01 Workplace Challenges and Sexual Assault Experiences
33:19 The Importance of Safe Spaces in the LGBTQ Community
38:32 Celebrating Love: Marriage and Acceptance
47:43 Cultural Icons and Their Influence
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Helen Scott — author of Live, Laugh, Lesbian, radio DJ, stand-up comedian, and content creator — to explore her vibrant queer journey and the power of showing up authentically online and offline.
Helen opens up about navigating bullying as a child, discovering her sexuality in an era with little representation, and the moment queer nightlife gave her that first true sense of belonging. She also shares how her online community inspired her bestselling book, why we must embrace fluidity in identity, and how the queer community can come together to fight division in the face of rising hostility.
They dive into the double-edged sword of social media, the importance of offline queer spaces, and practical advice for anyone — from teens to those coming out later in life — looking to build community and live joyfully as their true self.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about queer joy, authentic representation, and building a stronger, more connected LGBTQ+ community.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Childhood Influences on Identity
01:45 First Awareness of LGBTQ+ Community
04:42 The Journey to Authenticity
07:53 The Impact of Community and Belonging
10:40 The Birth of 'Live, Laugh, Lesbian'
13:42 Navigating Stereotypes and Expectations
16:54 The Role of Social Media in Representation
20:02 The Power of Authenticity in Visibility
24:04 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
27:08 Building Community in Real Life
31:04 Advice for the Younger Self and the Queer Community
34:39 Celebrating Queer Icons and Representation
38:12 The Impact of Writing and Legacy
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Zander Murray, who made history as Scotland’s first openly gay senior footballer. From the weight of secrecy to the freedom of coming out, Zander shares his deeply personal journey—one shaped by resilience and the hope of creating lasting change in the world of sport.
Zander opens up about the moment he knew he had to come out, the unexpected support that followed, and the mental toll of staying closeted in a hyper-masculine environment. He reflects on football culture, the barriers that still exist for LGBTQ+ players, and why true representation matters both on and off the pitch.
They also explore what it means to live authentically, the pressure of being seen as a role model, and how Zander’s work today continues to champion inclusion and visibility for the next generation of athletes.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about football, queer visibility in sport, and the transformative power of living your truth.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Zander's Early Life
04:20 The Journey of Self-Discovery
07:07 The Impact of Role Models
10:01 Coming Out: A Personal Journey
13:03 Navigating Media and Public Perception
16:03 The Role of Football in LGBTQ+ Inclusion
19:15 Challenges of Being a Role Model
22:05 The Future of LGBTQ+ Representation in Football
32:22 The Impact of Coming Out in Sports
34:50 Transitioning from Player to Advocate
39:50 Empowering the Next Generation of LGBTQ+ Athletes
44:53 Overcoming Internalized Homophobia
48:36 Celebrating Authenticity and Team Support
54:16 New Chapter
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with author Robby Weber, whose joyful and heartfelt queer love stories have helped thousands of readers see themselves on the page—and escape into something beautiful.
Robby shares how a lifelong love of stories turned into a career, the surprising power of writing flawed queer characters, and why authenticity is an ongoing journey—not a destination. He opens up about navigating social media, the emotional messages he receives from readers, and how growing up in Florida fuels his passion to fight for queer visibility, especially in the face of book bans.
They also discuss the joy of queer romance, how Robby finds inspiration in real friendships, and what we lose when LGBTQ+ stories are always rooted in trauma.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves YA fiction, queer joy, and the power of books to change lives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Robby Weber
04:19 The Journey of Authenticity
07:25 Navigating Negativity and Social Media
10:23 The Importance of Representation in Literature
13:12 The Evolution of Writing Career
15:47 Inspiration and Creative Process
18:22 Connecting with Readers through Social Media
21:36 Reflections on Young Love and Personal Experiences
24:18 Celebrating Queer Joy in Literature
27:36 Advice for Young LGBTQ+ Individuals
29:06 Legacy and Impact of LGBTQ+ Stories
32:55 The Importance of Flawed Characters
37:10 Dream Collaborations and Future Projects
More from Robby Weber:
Website: https://www.robbyweber.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robbyreads/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@robby.reads
Preorder Everything About You: https://www.robbyweber.com/everything-about-you/
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Rebecca Minor, gender specialist, author, educator, and clinician, to explore her powerful work supporting trans and gender-diverse youth on their journey of becoming—and helping their families affirm them every step of the way.
Rebecca opens up about her own queer journey, growing up in creative spaces, navigating compulsory heterosexuality, and the moment she decided to publicly live her truth. She shares what inspired her to become a gender specialist, and how she uses “possibility modelling” to show young queer people that their futures can be bright, joyful, and expansive.
They also unpack the disinformation crisis surrounding trans identities, the political weaponization of gender, and the misconceptions parents and the public still hold. Plus, Rebecca offers heartfelt advice for families, educators, and allies alike—and teases her upcoming book Raising Trans Kids: What to Expect When You Weren’t Expecting This.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about affirming queer youth, breaking down harmful narratives, and building a world where everyone is free to live authentically.
00:00 Understanding the Role of a Gender Specialist
04:18 Exploring Personal Identity and Childhood Experiences
07:22 The Impact of Representation in Media
10:16 Authenticity and Professional Identity
13:20 The Political Landscape of Gender Issues
16:24 Misinformation and Disinformation in Gender Discussions
19:31 Supporting Trans and Non-Binary Youth
22:20 Advice for Parents of LGBTQ+ Children
25:21 Navigating Family Dynamics and Acceptance
28:18 Messages of Hope for LGBTQ+ Youth
31:15 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights
More from Rebecca:
Website: https://www.genderspecialist.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gender.specialist/
Preorder Raising Trans Kids (UK): https://tinyurl.com/yxdpjr2a
Preorder Raising Trans Kids (US): https://tinyurl.com/32jxv5uy
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Zac Haniff—Senior Social Video Journalist at Metro UK, content creator, and proud pop culture obsessive—to explore his journey from camcorder kid to one of the UK’s most vibrant queer voices in media.
Zac opens up about growing up in a very “non-queer” household with two brothers, discovering his passion for video editing and Disney Channel dreams, and how moving to London unlocked his sense of self. He shares how he launched Charlotte Tilbury’s TikTok, built Metro’s entertainment channel, and the importance of using social media to spotlight joy and escape the doomscroll.
Zac dives into why queer content is essential in dark times, how Metro is rewriting what inclusion looks like in media, and the queer icons who’ve shaped Zac’s world—including JoJo Siwa, Rebecca Black, and RuPaul. Zac also reflects on authenticity in the digital age, the art of the celebrity interview, and why he’s manifesting a moment with Ariana and Cynthia for Wicked: For Good.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about queer joy, pop culture, and building platforms that make us feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
00:00 Introduction
02:08 Metro Pride Awards Experience
04:46 Childhood Influences and Early Interests
08:01 Authenticity and Self-Discovery
09:57 Journey into Social Media
14:53 Memorable Interviews and Impactful Moments
19:57 The Importance of Queer Representation in Pop Culture
25:02 Looking Ahead: Excitement for 2025
29:54 The Power of Voice in the LGBTQ+ Community
34:45 The Power of Representation in Media
38:59 Advice to Younger Generations
48:08 Starstruck Moments and Celebrity Encounters
50:59 Favorite Queer Icons and Cultural Impact
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Blair Imani—historian, educator, author, and creator of Smarter in Seconds—to explore her remarkable journey as a Black, queer, Muslim woman navigating identity, visibility, and activism in today’s world.
Blair shares how her early experiences shaped her deep sense of purpose, how discovering intersectionality changed everything, and why authenticity—online and offline—is the key to her voice and platform. She reflects on moments of erasure, finding community, and the personal cost of being visible in a time of increasing political hostility.
She also dives into the evolution of Smarter in Seconds, the power of reclaiming terms like “woke” and “DEI,” and how education, storytelling, and joy can be acts of resistance.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about intersectionality, representation, and the ongoing fight to ensure every queer person is seen, celebrated, and safe.
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In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Olly Pike, author, educator, and founder of Pop’n’Olly, to explore his incredible journey—from aspiring performer to leading the charge for LGBTQ+ inclusive education in schools.
Olly shares how his early experiences shaped his passion for storytelling, why representation in children’s education is more important than ever, and how teaching kids about diversity at a young age can break the cycle of prejudice before it even begins.
He also dives into the realities of LGBTQ+ education in schools today, the backlash against inclusive teaching, and what still needs to change to ensure every child grows up knowing that being LGBTQ+ is normal, accepted, and celebrated.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about education, LGBTQ+ representation, and shaping a future where every child sees themselves reflected in the stories they grow up with.
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In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Christopher Kenna, founder and CEO of BA Diversity Inc., to explore his extraordinary journey—from a challenging childhood and military service to leading a media company focused on true representation.
Christopher opens up about how his early experiences shaped his relentless drive, why authenticity is key to success, and the lessons he’s carried from the military into the business world. He also dives into the fight for genuine inclusion in media, the backlash against DEI, and what still needs to change for LGBTQ+ and minority communities to be truly represented.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about representation, resilience, and rewriting the narrative of who gets a seat at the table.
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Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversations, we explore themes of identity, authenticity, and the power of living boldly.
Follow me:
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