Allyship is a Verb
People want to do better, but they don’t always know how. Allyship is a Verb is a 4x award-nominated (and now award-winning!) podcast featuring conversations with LGBTQ+ community members of various lived experiences and backgrounds who share their stories and an allyship tip. The host is a silly, warm human who offers self-reflection questions and voiceovers to help deepen the learning for listeners. The host is Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), who has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work.
S3 E21 · Tue, June 04, 2024
The Gender Swap feat. Molly Rix
The giveaway is over, but you can still head to the merch shop ! This week, Molly Rix (she/her) steps out from behind the scenes as our audio engineer to become a guest who shares her story publicly for the first time. In this episode, you will learn: 1. How an innocent question over her 2020 birthday weekend changed her entire life 2. What it's been like looking for different pockets of community as she has been reinventing herself 3. Why re-entering the dating pool was intimidating 🎙️ Connect with Molly: Sky Ripper on Spotify Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E20 · Tue, May 21, 2024
Ed Carratalà is the infiltrated bisexual
Podcast merch !!! Book a free discovery call for programming for Pride Month (and beyooooond!). This week, Ed Carratalà (he/him/él) updates us on transitioning from formerly teaching about LGBTQ+ communities privately to now openly offering it. In this episode, you will learn: 1. How creating a new queer community in Barcelona, Spain was sparked by former guest Charlie's Everywhere is Queer resource 2. What new therapy project is in the works 3. Why he continues to share that he's bi and field questions 🎙️ Connect with Ed: Instagram Twitter His research page (in Catalan) and GRPF: Couples and Family Research Group Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E19 · Tue, May 07, 2024
Trisha Wallis isn't recruiting anything except for people to stay alive
Book a free discovery call for programming for Pride Month (and beyoooond!). Bring Allyship is a Verb to your workplace at a special rate. This week, Dr. Trisha Wallis (she/her) shares how two years of work led up to the passing of California Senate Bill 372, a great example of the "Curb Cut" effect. You will learn: 1. Why the identities lesbian and queer don't fully fit, prompting her to use both, depending on the situation // 2. What "recruiting" looks like, including versions 2.0 and 3.0 // 3. How she leverages her privilege and access to do the most good, and what she does to check herself and keep the work moving forward 🎙️ Connect with Trisha: Instagram Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
Bonus · Tue, April 23, 2024
The Magic of LGBTQ+ Summer Camps feat. Rebecca Kling (Replay)
Please note: This is another replay due to a super busy past few weeks. 💜 This episode is from Season 2, so you'll hear my previous name. All replay slots will be extended with original episodes, I promise! 😊 This week, Rebecca Kling (she/her) discusses creating inclusive summer camps for LGBTQ+ youth where they can be themselves without making everything about being from the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, you will learn 1. What conversations are coming up at summer camps 2. How B'Mitzvahs/B'nai Mitzvahs may differ from Bar and Bat Mitzvahs 3. When we might engage in understanding and empathic conversations and when it's time to disrupt and agitate for change. 🎙️ Connect with Rebecca to learn more about + support her work: Mastodon LinkedIn Website Co-Founder of Better World Collaborative 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: TransTorah Celebrating the Age of Mitzvah: A Guide for all Genders | Keshet Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S3 E17 · Tue, April 09, 2024
I'm just, like, a little dude feat. Ashabi Owagboriaye
Take the Ace Flag Revision Survey This week, Ashabi Owagboriaye (she/they) shares the meaning behind the white stripe in the ace flag and why she’s launched an ace flag survey as a result. You will learn: 1. What they think about the intersection of transness and asexuality 2. Why openness can influence somebody and carry a generation in either direction if you’re not careful 3. How it feels like to have people come to them as an elder queer 🎙️ Connect with Ashabi: Ace In Grace | Instagram 💻 Sources and resources : I Am Cait | IMDB Miss Representation | IMDB Share the Ace Flag Revision Survey Instagram post Yasmin Benoit | Instagram Refusing Compulsory Sexuality: A Black Asexual Lens on Our Sex-Obsessed Culture by Sherronda J Brown Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E16 · Tue, March 26, 2024
So, you are queer feat. Sarah Gilbert
Sign up for the AIAV newsletter ! This week, Sarah Gilbert (she/her) shares the story of how a random question Charlie asked a few years ago sparked a journey of self-discovery. You will learn: 1. What two pieces of advice she offers others wondering if they might be LGBTQ+ 2. How it feels to be a long-time LGBTQ+-affirming therapist learning later in life that she's queer and some of the fears and hesitations she's had around claiming the term 3. Why icons like Freddie Mercury have inspired her and how queer spaces like bars, drag shows, and musical theater feel comforting and joyful 🎙️ Connect with Sarah: Transitions Therapy LLC Sarah Gilbert Coaching Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
Bonus · Tue, March 12, 2024
Listen to minorities and thank them feat. Ra Ra Rollins (Replay)
Please note: This is another replay to help with my mental health break. A new episode is coming on Tuesday, March 26th. Thanks for your continued patience and understanding. 💜 This episode is from Season 2, so you'll hear my previous name. Content warning for mentions of George Floyd's murder and generally sensitive topics without details. This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!! Listen to minorities and thank them. In this week’s episode, Ra Ra Rollins (he/him) shares why he claims “queer” and “gay” and the difference in meaning for him between the two terms. He ponders if he’s Black first or gay, queer first, especially since not all spaces see him as a whole person with various, complex identities. Learn about how his work can be triggering as a Black therapist and what it means for him to hold space for clients at some of his same intersections. We also discuss how he pushed back in his grad school program because he learned from white professors who talked about white theorists and had white supervisors while seeing white clients. Despite that, he did gain two incredible mentors and friends for life. Ra Ra reclaims his energy by practicing boundaries, which did not come naturally to him, including by shutting down nearly all of his social media. There's also some discussion around rules and how he liberates himself from rules that don’t work or honor him. Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com/episode/ra-ra-rollins Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature an allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack .
Bonus · Tue, February 27, 2024
Do you check in on your relationships? feat. Trystan Reese (Replay)
Check out the wearable merch ! You can also help me close the gap on my $757 goal . I'm 76% of the way there at the time of writing this! Please note: I'm bringing back a fan-favorite episode from season one, especially for those of you who are new to the podcast! Just a heads up, you will hear my previous name. Why am I doing this? I'm burnt out. I need more support to keep this podcast going strong into season four. Anything you can do helps - whether it's snagging some merch, becoming a monthly donor, sponsoring an episode, or even sharing episodes. I'm incredibly grateful for those who've been supporting me, and the reality is each episode takes me over 20 hours to put together. It's overwhelming and has become unsustainable, especially in the current anti-LGBTQ+ political climate of both the US and globally. Your support means the world to me and helps so many feel seen, heard, and validated through the podcast. Plus, it's a crucial part of some people's LGBTQ+ allyship journeys. Thank you all so much for being a part of this community 🌈 New episodes will be coming, though I may do one more replay for my mental health 💜 I appreciate your patience and understanding. In this week’s episode, Trystan Reese (he/him) shares about his days of being a drag king and how he's been performing as a man since he was a kid. Learn about some of the practices he's adopted to check in with his colleagues so that they're in a continuous feedback loop, including addressing power dynamics and microaggressions. We also discuss a bit of what it's like to be trainers and consultants and the work that goes into it, including figuring out our boundaries and doing the work to know how to facilitate conversations. Trystan talks about how moved he was by ALOK's talk on the podcast Man Enough and how well they were able to articulate thoughts that have been circling in his own mind. Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at https://www.allyshipisaverb.com/episodes/trystan-reese Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature an allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack .
S3 E13 · Tue, February 13, 2024
Candace Rucker on being angry and eloquent
Check out the wearable merch ! This week, Candace Rucker (she/her) challenges the thought that we are only one type of ally, advocate, or activist— instead, we can be fluid by going in and out of feelings and actions. You will learn: 1. How it feels to be marginalized and misunderstood due to mixed race and queer identity 2. Why she historically got really, really angry when thinking about being Black in America 3. Why she's such a fan of intersectionality and who she'd love to meet 🎙️ Connect with Candace: LinkedIn 💻 Sources and resources : The intersectionality wars | Vox.com piece about how and why Kimberlé Crenshaw coined intersectionality Stan Lee: A Life (Centennial) - Bob Batchelor | Bookshop.org Journal of a Black Queer Nurse - Britney Daniels | Bookshop.org Black Friend: Essays - Ziwe | Bookshop.org Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America - Michael Harriot | Bookshop.org (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from the Bookshop.org links, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E12 · Tue, January 30, 2024
Cielo Sunsarae on how harmful articles turned into nonprofit donations and partnerships
☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement This week, Cielo Sunsarae (they/he) shares how harmful articles from a major conservative publisher turned into unexpected donations and partnerships for their Florida-based nonprofit. You will learn 1. What initially made them decide to cancel their top surgery and what they did later on to be comfortable with rescheduling and keeping it 2. How far some journalists have gone to write harmful articles or share misleading information (including about Cielo and Queer Trans Project) 3. Why clothing stores need to rethink options for fat and neurodivergent people (and all body types) 🎙️ Connect with Cielo: Instagram TikTok 💻 Sources and resources : Queer Trans Project r/transmascdicks Trans Bucket Press 3 for a pep talk from kindergartners. A new hotline gives you options for joy | NPR Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E10 · Tue, January 30, 2024
Exploring LGBTQ+ history feat. Andrew Lear
📺 Watch the recording for PFLAG Los Angeles Presents: Trans and Nonbinary Joy ✨ ☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement This week, Andrew Lear (he/him) discusses what goes into curating gay art history tours and the homophobia he's seen in academia. In this episode, you will learn 1. What intimate and sexual differences he’s seen for teenage boys and men across different cultures 2. How he’s seen gay art evolve over time 3. Which LGBTQ+ historical figures he’d want to have a dinner party with, and why 🎙️ Connect with Andrew: Facebook Oscar Wilde Tours 💻 Sources and resources : Andrew Lear | Wikipedia Rare Photos of the Stonewall Riots On Display in New Exhibit | NY1 Images From the Stonewall Uprising’s Final Night | NY Times 7 LGBTQ Uprisings Before Stonewall | History.com Stonewall at 40: The Voice Articles That Sparked a Final Night of Rioting | Village Voice Gay Liberation Front GLF | Wikipedia Gay Activists Alliance GAA | Wikipedia Frank Kameny | Wikipedia Craig Rodwell | Wikipedia Sylvia Rivera, “Y’all Better Quiet Down” Original Authorized Video, 1973 Gay Pride Rally NYC * loud volume warning * | YouTube Camp Pride | Campus Pride ShopQueer.co | Online, also has The Rainbow Book Bus <a href="https://www.
S3 E11 · Mon, January 29, 2024
I'm glad you're here feat. Shane Whalley
🗳️ Voting for 'Allyship is a Verb' in the Sonic Bloom Awards People's Choice category has ended. Thanks to everyone who helped out! ☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement This week, Shane Whalley (ze/hir) sheds light on living in Austin, Texas as an older queer and genderqueer person. In this special update episode, you will learn 1. Why ze suggests not intervening during misgendering (without consent from the person harmed) 2. How ze wishes we would proactively approach social/political change (instead of playing defense) 3. What we could say instead of calling someone "brave" or "resilient" 🎙️ Connect with Shane: LinkedIn Twitter Daring Dialogues | Shane’s training and consulting business 💻 Sources and resources : Charlie’s Pronoun and Name Mistake Flowchart Waverships | AceDadAdvice on Instagram Want to practice pronouncing the ze/hir pronoun set? You can hear them (and more) here https://en.pronouns.page/ Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E9 · Tue, November 21, 2023
Queering weddings and gender expression feat. Tonya
📺 Watch the recording for PFLAG Los Angeles Presents: Trans and Nonbinary Joy ✨ ☎️ Call the new QTP Loveline to get various LGBTQ+ affirmations and encouragement This week, Tonya (she/they) shares how questioning their gender 3-5 years ago has taken them on a journey, including navigating decisions about pronouns, make-up, hair length, and clothing. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why they hired a wedding planner who has experience with queer weddings, among other intentional decisions they've been working through 2. What a previous workplace did that was a positive change for the LGBTQ+ community at large 3. How, surprisingly, a trip to a coffee shop in a small town in Texas recently made them feel seen 💻 Sources and resources : Microsoft Teams Pronouns | YouTube video showing how to enable it Reel one and two | Instagram account @butchboudoirproject showing how to add pronouns for iOS17 Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E8 · Mon, November 20, 2023
From code switching to House Hunters feat. Patrick Ladonis
Watch the recording for PFLAG Los Angeles Presents: Trans and Nonbinary Joy ✨ This week, Patrick Ladonis (he/him) shares how he shifted from fear to freedom when he came out to over 400 people at the premiere of his web series SCALES. In this episode, you will learn 1. How stressful it was to have people pry into his personal life before he felt comfortable talking about his now husband in the workplace 2. What CEOs and senior leadership can do to show up for employees, especially for shifting to an inclusive culture 3. How creating his web series changed him by building up his confidence, and he hopes future generations will discover it 🎙️ Connect with Patrick: SCALES The Webseries | YouTube 💻 Sources and resources : Lost-n-Found Youth | Atlanta-based nonprofit organization that provides services to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Atlanta Angels | Supporting children, youth, and families experiencing foster care. Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E7 · Tue, October 24, 2023
How to mess up a health checkup feat. Tiffany Rossdale
This week, Tiffany Rossdale (she/her) shares about being a transgender woman and transformational life coach who emigrated from Manila, Philippines, to Tokyo, Japan. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why she’s passionate about legal reform for Japan’s LGBTQ+ community and advocacy, taking inspiration from other transgender actors and activists like Laverne Cox and Angelica Ross 2. How she has been navigating the complexities of dating as a transgender woman, including safety considerations 3. What healthcare providers can do to serve transgender and nonbinary patients better. 🎙️ Connect with Tiffany: Breakfast with Tiffany Show | Apple Podcasts Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn 💻 Sources and resources : Good news! Days after the episode was published, this happened: Japan's top court says trans sterilisation requirement unconstitutional | BBC News FEW Japan | For Empowering Women in Japan Pride House Tokyo Famous Japanese Trans Women | Tumblr post 'Deeply hurt': Anti-trans hostility rises in Japan | Japan Times Aya Kamikawa | Wikipedia LGBT culture in Tokyo | Wikipedia Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E6 · Tue, October 10, 2023
WAIT, why am I talking? feat. Mark S. King
This week, Mark S. King (he/him) shares how the landscape of HIV/AIDS has changed over the years since the AIDS crisis of the 80s and what it's been like for him, having lived with HIV for four decades. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why is it essential to fight against HIV criminalization, especially considering the injustices and stigma it perpetuates, particularly when it's used vindictively in personal disputes and can lead to unjust labeling as sexual predators 2. How not having access to basic services like transportation can impact our health and health outcomes 3. How he initially felt about folks making comparisons between the AIDS crisis and COVID-19 and what he thinks now 🎙️ Connect with Mark S. King: Website | Where you can find his blog, My Fabulous Disease My Fabulous Disease | Mark’s new book (borrowed from the blog’s title) The Day After He was Murdered, I Got a Card from Josh Kruger | Post from Mark’s blog Facebook X 💻 Sources and resources : TheBody | HIV/AIDS Resources The Reunion Project | National alliance of long-term survivors of HIV POZ magazine HIV/AIDS awareness days | HIV.gov USCHA | United States Conference on AIDS Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E5 · Tue, September 26, 2023
Turning 36: A special birthday episode feat. Charlie Ocean
This week, Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them) , is interviewed by various friends to celebrate turning 36 on September 17th, 2023! 🥳 In this episode, you will learn 1. Why they changed their name to Charlie Ocean from Chris Angel Murphy and some of what went into that decision 2. What some of their favorite books, shows, movies, and memes are 3. How to talk about someone who changed their name or pronouns with someone who doesn't know 🎙️ Connect with Charlie: Instagram LinkedIn Substack 💻 Sources and resources : : Small, Medium, Large : Foamy The Squirrel | YouTube Muffins - Liam Kyle Sullivan (also known for the hit song Shoes) | YouTube List of Strongbad emails | Homestar Runner End of Ze World | YouTube Charlie bit my finger | YouTube Charlie the Unicorn | YouTube playlist Y tho | Know your meme Charlie’s epic 90s birthday playlist | Spotify Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E4 · Tue, September 12, 2023
Being trans and nonbinary in the workplace feat. Zoa Glows
This week, Zoa Glows (they/she) returns from the first season to share how they navigate the workplace as a trans and nonbinary person, and what they wish workplaces would do to make it safer and easier. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why she decided to leave professional performing 2. What hate comments do to their spirit, and how their reactions to it have evolved over time (plus what those of us who follow Zoa on social can do to support them) 3. How some gendered terms may feel good to her in specific situations 🎙️ Connect with Zoa: Instagram TikTok 💻 Sources and resources : Charlie’s reel about not being transmasc (which includes the 2D 3D comment) The Gender and Sexuality Galaxies | Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights 📣 Announcements : Our names are a gift that we can exchange - Substack post about the name change from Chris Angel to Charlie New merch drop 👀 with another line coming VERY soon 👕 Host Charlie Ocean (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and social work. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions given their unique intersecting identities. You can follow them on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack.
S3 E3 · Tue, August 29, 2023
Embracing softness in a capitalist hellscape feat. MJ Jupitus
This week, MJ Jupitus (they/them) shares about how they navigate language as a nonbinary person, including being their wife's wife, but not their parent's daughter. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why they call themselves a movement specialist instead of a physical trainer or physical therapist 2. What softness means to them physically and mentally 3. How we may have "queer posture" and what it is 🎙️ Connect with MJ: Instagram Website 📣 Announcements : There are just two days left to support Allyship is a Verb’s Indiegogo campaign , including lots of great perks! Please consider donating $15 in honor of Chris Angel’s milestone of 15 years on testosterone (August 12th). New merch drop 👀 with another line coming soon 👕 Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S3 E2 · Tue, August 15, 2023
Living authentically and forging family harmony feat. Jack Lam
This week, Jack Lam (they/them) discusses how being a Malaysian Chinese immigrant has impacted them, including struggling to release shame and fear so they could name and embrace their genderqueer identity after coming to the United States. In this episode, you will learn 1. How their gender expression becomes a powerful tool for visibility 2. When allyship begins to become performative and how to avoid it 3. Why we need to normalize talking about mental health and getting support 🎙️ Connect with Jack: Instagram (select posts included below) To be an immigrant When you’re part of the community Questions to a genderqueer person For when you want it all to end 💻 Sources and resources : Coming Out: Living Authentically as LGBTQ Asian and Pacific Islander Americans | The National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance and HRC Foundation 📣 Announcements : Love is in the air! 😍 Or is it? Charlie's personals ad for their friend Kaitlyn may have scared you away 😅 but if it hasn’t, go check out Kaitlyn on Instagram Want to bring Allyship is a Verb to your workplace or group? Get a shoutout? Check out our Indiegogo campaign , including lots of other great perks! Please consider donating $15 in honor of Charlie's milestone of 15 years on testosterone (August 12th). New merch drop 👀 with another line coming soon 👕 Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S3 E1 · Tue, August 01, 2023
What should LGBTQ+ flags look like? feat. Lena Dirscherl
To kick off season three, Lena Dirscherl (they/them) returns to discuss the value of having recognizable LGBTQ+ flags with intentional design. In this episode, you will learn 1. What goes into sensitivity reading, including promoting authentic representation, avoiding harmful tropes, and challenging unconscious bias. 2. Where they have been finding and connecting with the polyamory community. 3. How technology fatigue can negatively impact LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and artists. 🎙️ Connect with Lena to learn more about + support their work: BoPoLena’s Patreon Instagram Website (and shop!) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: The History of Polyamory Flags | polyamproud tricolor polyamory pride flag | polyamproud 📣 Announcements : The Queer Trans Project is a black-led and trans-led organization that offers build-a-queer kits and flight assistance. They need to raise $50K by September! Thanks to Sam Marion for helping me to amplify The Queer Trans Project’s great work. Want to bring Allyship is a Verb to your workplace or group? Get a shoutout? Check out our Indiegogo campaign , including lots of other great perks! New merch drop 👀 with another line coming soon 👕 Major thanks to Kit Ballum Cohen (they/them/kit), a nonbinary designer, artist, and parent who designed the newest podcast cover. Follow + check out their work at https://linktr.ee/itskit Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
Bonus · Tue, July 25, 2023
You go, Indiegogo!
You go, Indiegogo! Season three is around the corner, and we have a quick announcement... we've launched an Indiegogo campaign with some sweet perks! At the time of writing this, we're also an Indiegogo Team Favorite :) :) :) Host Chris Angel ("Well, hello there!") needs your help to make this the best season yet. By contributing, you're helping to fund season three production costs. We'd also like to publish allyship e-books, have traveling audio exhibits, and so much more. You'll find yourself saying, "I've never known a podcast to have a [top secret idea] before!" I know, right?! As an indie-produced podcast, we truly can't do this without you We'd also love to offer a heartfelt OHMYGOSHTHANKYOUSOMUCH to those who have supported us over the years!!! Thanks to your contributions, we hired an illustrator this season to give us an incredible new podcast cover, which is already on some merch (with another design on the way soon). Big shoutout to nonbinary designer Kit Ballum Cohen ! Anything, even $5, helps us get closer to our goal of $5,000 to make these wild ideas a reality. Thanks for your support! PS - If someone you know works for a company or organization that values diversity and inclusion, please consider forwarding the campaign to them. They may be interested in becoming a sponsor or hiring Chris Angel for a deeply discounted training session on allyship! See you VERY SOON on August 1st for the start of season three :) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
Bonus · Tue, June 20, 2023
The History of Black HIV in the South with hosts Anna DeShawn and Duane Cramer
Hopefully a future Allyship is a Verb guest, Anna DeShawn (she/her), created a mini-series called Black HIV in the South: How Did We Get Here? This is Episode 1 of 4. Please check out all of Anna's work with E3 Radio, LLC and The Qube (explained more in her bio further below). I had the extreme privilege of being introduced to Anna through The Ambies, as we were nominated in the same category! We met in Vegas at the award ceremony, and I cried tears of joy when she won Best DIY Podcast. Thank you for allowing me to amplify your top-notch work! - Chris Angel (they/them) The History of Black HIV in the South Go on a journey with Anna DeShawn to explore the history, economics, and culture of HIV/AIDS in the Black community. Through interviews and personal stories, Anna and her co-host, Duane Cramer, explore the shame, stigma, and solutions. In this episode, Anna and Duane share their personal connections to the work and the history of HIV/AIDS in the Black community. Subject matter experts Nathan Townsend, Jada Harris, and Dafina Ward deliver insight into the reality of life for individuals afflicted by HIV in the 80s and 90s, the story of Michael Felton, an early unsung hero in the fight for justice, and why we must turn our collective attention toward this epidemic in the South. ✊🏾✊🏽✊🏿🌈🏳️⚧️ Hosts: Anna DeShawn is a Chicago-born social entrepreneur who builds digital media platforms that center & celebrate BIPOC & QTPOC creatives. She received her bachelor's in radio/television production from Drake University and then received her master’s in communications from Ithaca College. Anna spent 12 years in the digital media space producing webinars and virtual events for government and corporate clients alike. Media has always been Anna’s passion, so she turned her passion into a reality when she founded E3 Radio, LLC . E3 Radio is an online radio station playing queer music & reporting on queer news in high rotation with an intersectional lens. Most recently, she co-founded The Qube , a curated app of music & podcasts by BIPOC & QTPOC creatives. Anna is determined to ride media into its next era by utilizing online radio streams to play the music & tell the stories that deserve to be heard. IG: https://www.instagram.com/annadeshawn/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/annadeshawn Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annadeshawn?lang=en Since being diagnosed with HIV 27 years ago, Duane Cramer has become a tireless advocate for HIV awareness and education, using his photography and creative skills to bring attention to the disease. Duane is an internationally
Bonus · Tue, June 13, 2023
Disco Fever: How Music Fueled a Cultural Revolution by Closeted History
Former Allyship is a Verb guest, Destiny Clarke (she/they), has a podcast called Closeted History: LGBTQ+ Stories of the Past. This is Season 2, Episode 2 of their show. Please give it a watch/listen ( it's best to watch the video! You can watch it on Allyship is a Verb's Spotify feed or Closeted History's YouTube channel ) . Be sure to follow Destiny's show wherever you listen to podcasts to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community's history! - Chris Angel (they/them) Disco Fever: How Music Fueled a Cultural Revolution In this episode, we explore the impact of disco on LGBTQ+ rights and the evolving societal norms during the transformative 1970s. Disco was not just about dancing the night away; it was a revolutionary movement that gave a voice to those in the margins of society. The rise of disco from its origins in LGBTQ+ clubs to mainstream success in the late 1970s transformed the world of music and helped pave the way for an intersectional fight for human rights. FOLLOW US 🌈 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@closetedhistory Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/closetedhistory/ Connect on Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@closetedhistory Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ClosetedHistory/ SUPPORT OUR CHANNEL ♥️ Like, comment, and subscribe for more LGBTQ+ history! Join our Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/ClosetedHistory Listener Support - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/closetedhistorypodcast/ VISIT OUR SITE ✨ www.closetedhistory.com GET IN TOUCH 💌 ClosetedHistoryPodcast@gmail.com
Bonus · Tue, June 06, 2023
Queer, Trans, And Gender Expansive Joy In The Workplace feat. Rex Wilde
This event aired live on June 2nd, 2023, via LinkedIn, and has been edited for brevity. To sign up for Rex's roundtable event, visit https://www.rexwilde.com/tgx-monthly-roundtable Enjoy this Pride Month bonus video episode! Join Rex Wilde (they/them) and Chris Angel Murphy (they/them) for a quick conversation about the importance and practice of queer joy and gender euphoria in the workplace. With so much discussion and movement around anti-LGBTQ legislation, it’s important to ground ourselves in how we can cultivate joy for LGBTQ+ and TGX+ (trans and gender expansive) folks – especially at work! You can listen to the audio or watch this video on Spotify. Alternatively, you can watch on LinkedIn to see the comments from the attendees and participate in the conversation. In this special bonus video episode, you will learn 1. How we define queer joy and gender euphoria 2. Some specific ways organizations and individuals can inspire joy for LGBTQ+ colleagues in the workplace 3. That repressing our joy doesn't lead to liberation, inspired by adrienne maree brown's book, Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good. 🎙️ Connect with Rex to learn more about + support their work: LinkedIn Website 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good | adrienne maree brown (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E21 · Tue, May 23, 2023
The Magic of LGBTQ+ Summer Camps feat. Rebecca Kling
Consider the relevance of someone's identity. This week, Rebecca Kling (she/her) discusses creating inclusive summer camps for LGBTQ+ youth where they can be themselves without making everything about being from the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, you will learn 1. What conversations are coming up at summer camps 2. How B'Mitzvahs/B'nai Mitzvahs may differ from Bar and Bat Mitzvahs 3. When we might engage in understanding and empathic conversations and when it's time to disrupt and agitate for change. 🎙️ Connect with Rebecca to learn more about + support her work: Mastodon LinkedIn Website Co-Founder of Better World Collaborative 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: TransTorah Celebrating the Age of Mitzvah: A Guide for all Genders | Keshet Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E20 · Tue, May 09, 2023
The costs of religious trauma feat. Christina Carlson
Sign up for Sam's workshop, Understanding the Basics of Neurodiversity and the Neurodiversity Movement . Happening virtually on Thursday, May 11th or 25th, 7-8 PM ET. Register for Speak Up! Tools for Active Trans Allyship with Chris Angel and Rebecca, Thursday, May 18th at 7 PM ET. This week, Christina Carlson (she/they) talks about how being ex-religious has impacted her life. In this episode, you will learn 1. How people are taught to distrust themselves, the harmful systems that upholds, and the additional impacts on queer and trans people 2. The impacts of not seeing yourself reflected around you 3. Why we should celebrate ourselves every chance we get. 🎙️ Connect with Christina to learn more about + support their work: Instagram Facebook Website Christina’s podcast Bitches, Witches, and Queers Other interviews Losing our way for love: How to Spot Co-dependency in Relationships and Christina Carlson on Embodied Spirituality 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: EricaSmith.Sex.Ed Instagram Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E19 · Tue, April 25, 2023
What is T4T? feat. Maze Felix
Want to book Charlie for Pride month and beyond? Check out their offerings here . This week, Maze Felix (they/them) talks about the beauty of T4T (trans for trans) relationships! In this episode, you will learn 1. What affirming actions they experienced behind the scenes while shooting a Pride Target commercial 2. Why being in community with others in their gender journeys is euphoric and healing 3. How relationships can be tested when trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive folks transition medically, legally, and/or socially. 🎙️ Connect with Maze to learn more about + support their work: Instagram TikTok Polam With My Chapsticks | Poem on Instagram Examples of Maze’s fluidity | Post on Instagram 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Target AD Maze’s Humankind spotlight Code-switching | Better Up Interview with Maze Felix | Hear Us Scream Trans Day of Visibility Nonbinary Panel | Watch on Spotify , YouTube Zoa Glow’s Episode Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E19 · Tue, April 11, 2023
Have you worked through your own trauma? feat. Shaan Dasani
This week, Shaan Dasani (he/they) talks about creating Agents of Change and what it means to have an all-queer and trans cast! In this episode, you will learn 1. How spy movies like D.E.B.S. and the James Bond series inspired him while writing Agents of Change. 2. Why having someone as a possibility model was helpful for their gender journey 3. What in the world a “nibling” is. 🎙️ Connect with Shaan to learn more about + support their work: Shaan’s Website Shaan’s Instagram Agents of Change Instagram | For updates on when and where you can watch it Karma Theory Films Website 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Shaan’s Google Commercial | Goals in Google Calendar Resources about Max of The L Word (contains spoilers) Recap of Max’s character arc ‘The L Word’ failed a trans TV pioneer. 17 years later, he’s back to repair the damage | Los Angeles Times The L Word star Daniel Sea says it was ‘healing’ to return to the show as a happy trans elder | PinkNews ‘The L Word’ Star Daniel Sea on the ‘Reparative Gesture’ of Max’s Return | IndieWire Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E17 · Tue, March 28, 2023
One woman's late in life lesbian story feat. Kathy Houston
RSVP to Celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) RSVP to Connecting With Community: How to Build an Online Audience for your LGBTQ-owned Business RSVP to Speak Up For TDOV: Talking Points for Active Trans Allyship Put yourself in the other person's shoes. This week, Kathy Houston (she/her) talks about Club LILLES and what it means for her to be a late in life lesbian. In this episode, you will learn 1. How lesbian TikTok has been a wonderful, informative resource. 2. Why her first girlfriend gave her “homework.” 3. What it feels like to live in the affirming bubble of St. Petersburg, Florida. 🎙️ Connect with Kathy to learn more about + support her work: Website LinkedIn Facebook 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Club LILLES | A social community and platform for women and non-binary people who identify as lesbian, bi-sexual, pansexual, or any sexuality that loves women. The word LILLES is an acronym for Late in life Lesbians but has been adapted since its creation. LILLES means people who love women who also are dedicated to a growth mindset and support others in the community. Queer Flower | TVTropes page on flowers and their meanings in the LGBTQ+ community In U.S., 10.2% of LGBT Adults Now Married to Same-Sex Spouse | GALLUP Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend | Wikipedia Girls In Wonderland Biden signs into law same-sex marriage bill, 10 years after his famous Sunday show answer on the issue | CNN Tennessee House passes bill targeting marriage equality | The Black Wall Street Times <a href="https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/columns/2023/02/12/the-loof
S2 E16 · Tue, March 14, 2023
How do you talk about someone with no pronouns? feat. Lianna Newman
This week, Lianna Newman (name only) expands on carving out space in STEM, finding community, and creating resources. In this episode, you will learn 1. Some changes we'd like to see in tech. 2. The complexities of gender-neutral vs gendered awards. 3. How to use no pronouns and what we mean when we ask someone for their pronouns in the first place. 🎙️ Connect with Lianna to learn more about + support Lianna’s work: LinkedIn Instagram 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Out In Tech | Non-profit community of LGBTQ+ tech leaders. We create opportunities for our members to advance their careers, grow their networks, and leverage tech for social change. Lesbians Who Tech | A community of LGBTQ women, non-binary, and trans individuals in and around tech (and the people who support them). oSTEM | A non-profit professional association for LGBTQ+ people in the STEM community. LGBTQ+ Conferences List More LGBTQ+ Job and Career resources Coded Bias | Documentary website Barbershop movie | IMDb More LGBTQ+ tech resources: 500 Queer Scientists visual campaign LGBTech LGBTQ in Technology Slack LGBT Tech Institute Out to Innovate Pride in Stem Start Out TransTech Social Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E15 · Tue, February 28, 2023
Exploring the kink spectrum and community feat. Wesley Toma
Exploring the kink spectrum and community! This week, Wesley Toma (he/him) expands on how kink is a spectrum, and for those who fall on it, it's very unlikely we're vanilla kinksters. In this episode, you will learn 1. How kinks and fetishes are different. 2. Some examples of how someone could start safely exploring the kink community. 3. Why he currently must travel out of state to access certain kink communities and spaces. 🎙️ Connect with Wesley to learn more about + support his work: Wesley’s website LinkedIn Facebook page 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Wheel of Power and Privilege | University of Wisconsin-Madison Fetlife BDSM Versus the DSM: A history of the fight that got kink de-classified as mental illness | The Atlantic Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E14 · Tue, February 14, 2023
Get clear on what you're willing to lose feat. Rebecca Minor
Check out Rebecca's parent coaching . We were nominated for Best Personal Growth and Best DIY for The Ambies! Thank you to those who watched live on March 7, 2023. We didn't win this time, though it was an honor to be nominated for both categories. This week, Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her), expands on why the term femme feels the most at home and who helped her to tap into that energy. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why her blog post about fictosexuality got a lot of attention, and what that even means. 2. How she owns "a shocking amount of pencil skirts" she doesn't wear, which leads to a larger conversation about her sensory experiences with gender presentation. 3. What she does as a gender specialist, and what she gets asked the most by parents she coaches. 🎙️ Connect with Rebecca to learn more about + support her work: Rebecca Minor's Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook page 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: What is Fictosexuality? | Gender Specialist Cisgender Identity Challenge | Gender Specialist - Instagram post This Man Married a Fictional Character. He'd Like You to Hear Him Out | New York Times Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E13 · Tue, January 31, 2023
The best apology is changed behavior feat. Kieran Mcmonagle
This week, Kieran Mcmonagle (he/him) expands on how he's learned so much from young people in the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, you will learn 1. Why he shares that he was born in the right queer, trans body. 2. How no space can be truly safe for everyone. 3. How parents of trans kids should love and support their kids and do their own processing in private. 🎙️ Connect with Kieran to learn more about + support his work: Instagram TikTok Red Cape Therapy 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: LGBTQ+ Conference List LGBTQ+ Camps for Youth, Adults, and Families Good Judy Garage | Live in or near Denver, CO? Charlie highly recommends this LGBTQ+-owned auto repair shop! Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E18 · Tue, January 17, 2023
Turning mistakes into teachable moments feat. Ed Carratalà
Grab podcast merch here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/allyship-is-a-verb/ This week, Ed Carratalà (él/he/him) expands on how he spent 33 years of his life hiding parts of himself. In this episode, you will learn: 1. What it was like for him to attend his first pride event after coming out. 2. Why he had to teach his therapy students about the LGBTQ+ community in secret. 3. How therapists can cause great harm to clients and why it can be helpful for them to do the work of questioning their own gender and sexuality. 🎙️ Connect with Ed to learn more about + support his work: Instagram (and the photo from pride!) Twitter His research page (in Catalan) and GRPF: Couples and Family Research Group Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E11 · Tue, January 03, 2023
Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling feat. Jesse Freidin and Rebecca Minor
This event aired live on December 4th, 2022, and has been cut for clarity. "Are You OK?" documents the experiences and stories of 130+ trans and nonbinary youth living in the United States during this time of horrific anti-trans legislation. You can watch this video on Spotify or YouTube . Looking for more info about the merch? Grab the wearable merch here ! Be sure to check the podcast website for any new stickers or other items. Author and photographer Jesse Freidin (he/him) and gender specialist and parent coach Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her) discuss the resiliency of trans youth and the importance of empowering trans kids to tell their own stories. Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling features audio clips of the interviews, portraits of the youth, and more. In this special video episode, you will learn 1. Why this series is essential right now and what it's helping to combat. 2. What messages trans and nonbinary youth want to share with other youth. 3. The behind-the-scenes work going into Jesse's series and how you can help sustain it. Jesse Freidin Jesse Freidin’s website Are You OK? | Series website; please financially support the project if you have the means or you can book a portrait When Dogs Heal and Finding Shelter series websites Facebook page Instagram Twitter Rebecca Minor Rebecca Minor's Website Facebook page Instagram LinkedIn Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E10 · Tue, November 22, 2022
Sex and gender are made-up concepts (like everything else) feat. Lena Dirscherl
This week, Lena Dirscherl (they/them) expands on some of the many factors that influence gender. In this episode, you will learn: 1. What our thoughts are on the term "transgender" and where we think it's heading in the future. 2. Some of the many different definitions of "queer" or "queerness." 3. How "sex" and "gender" are made-up concepts and why that matters. 🎙️ Connect with Lena to learn more about + support their work: BoPoLena’s Patreon Instagram TikTok Website Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
Bonus · Sun, November 20, 2022
Bonus Episode: Check in on your LGBTQ+ friends and family
In the wake of the most recent tragedy yesterday (November 19th, 2022) at Club Q, an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs, CO, I am publishing a formerly recorded episode that I never released. At the time of posting this, we believe that 5 people are dead and 18 are injured. There was a drag show. I didn't publish this episode because I thought it was too dark and heavy to be so early in the first season. I thought about revisiting it but then changed the format of the podcast episodes and it didn't fit anywhere else. But now, I feel moved to publish it. I'm leaving it as recorded in its final version, July 2021. Take good care, friends Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E8 · Tue, November 08, 2022
Cassie Brighter on the hidden costs of being transgender, TSA PreCheck, and "the surgery"
Did you miss our November event? Watch it here on YouTube: Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling feat. Jesse Freidin and Rebecca Minor Content warning for abuse. This week, Cassie Brighter (she/her) expands on the hidden costs of being transgender, why TSA PreCheck may make travel safer for trans women, and how she responds to questions about "the surgery." In this episode, you will learn: 1. Why she doesn't want LGBTQ+ events at churches, even if they're affirming. 2. What it's like to run the Support Network for Parents of Trans Kids Facebook group. 3. How she learned about the "unacceptables in society" through bathroom graffiti and inappropriate jokes amongst adult men. We also discuss her being a trans advocate, mother, writer, and public speaker. PS: It's Transgender Awareness Month! Will you share this episode with someone you think might benefit from hearing it? 🎙️ Connect with Cassie to learn more about + support her work: Medium Facebook Instagram Support Network for Parents of Trans Kids Empowered Trans Woman Facebook Empowered Trans Woman Instagram Protect Trans Kids Facebook 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: LGBTQ+ Awareness Events | Gender Sexuality Info Transgender Day of Remembrance | Live in or near Boulder, CO? Charlie* will be speaking at this event in the evening. Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E7 · Tue, October 25, 2022
Cody Daigle-Orians on being ace, queer, and polyamorous
Did you miss our November event? Watch it here on YouTube: Are You OK?: Empowering Trans Youth Through Storytelling feat. Jesse Freidin and Rebecca Minor This week, Cody Daigle-Orians (he/they), AKA "Ace Dad Advice," explores what it means for them to be asexual, queer, and polyamorous. In this episode, you will learn: 1. How do his ace and polyamorous identities intersect? 2. How do they manage multiple relationships? 3. What is his experience of being ace within the broader LGBTQ+ community? We also discuss their upcoming book, I Am Ace: Advice on Living Your Best Asexual Life . It dropped on February 21, 2023, so please support Cody by pre-ordering or requesting it at your local library! PS: Did you know Ace Week is October 23-29th this year? Follow Cody's social media accounts for lots of resources and info! Links are on the episode page below. 🎙️ Connect with Cody to learn more about + support their work: Instagram YouTube Twitter TikTok Facebook Patreon Website Pre-prder the book I Am Ace: Advice on Living Your Best Asexual Life 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: How 'Ace Dad Advice' creator helps and learns from his asexual community | Good Morning America New York judge rules in favor of polyamorous relationships | LGBTQNATION Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E6 · Tue, October 11, 2022
Give people and situations grace feat. Mister Larrie
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!! In this week's episode, Mister Larrie (he/him) and I get SILLY! It starts off with him encouraging you to do the work of finding your people in your communities (and to be patient with the process). We get into mistakes and how having a learner's mindset can help, including when others correct us. Learn what he's been told as a Black man about his career, mental health, and more. Mister Larrie reflects on being visible at multiple intersections and the emotional labor involved in holding those spaces for others, especially during his academic career. Early on, the pandemic inspired his switch to social media as his persona, Mister Larrie, in which he produces videos about mental health and crafting. We reminisce about elementary school and some of the projects we'd do as kids, which you may have done, too. Woof! Have you heard of the bear community? Mister Larrie and I give examples of our experiences, including critiques of what could be better for everyone involved. 🎙️ Connect with Mister Larrie to learn more about + support his work: Instagram YouTube TikTok Facebook Website 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Fast Company | We need more Black designers. Here’s how to support their success Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E5 · Tue, September 27, 2022
The Patriarchy Episode feat. Petey Gibson
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!! Content warning for LGBTQ+ youth discrimination, suicide statistics. In this week's episode, Petey Gibson (he/him) shares about who he's inspired by to embody gentle masculinity. Suppose you've wondered about the differences between characters written as cisgender men versus trans men or transmasculine people. In that case, Petey explains what he's experienced in Hollywood. We also get into the film he starred in and produced: The Sympathy Card, a Boston-based lesbian rom-com. Learn what Petey misses about the lesbian community and some of what his transition means to him. Petey reflects on Gen Z, LGBTQ+ media being niche, LGBTQ+ stories that don't involve trauma or coming out, the first time he passed as a man in public, comedy, sobriety, drag, Dyke Day LA, and more! 🎙️ Connect with Petey to learn more about + support his work: Instagram Website The Sympathy Card - YouTube Trailer The Sympathy Card - Website 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Meg Stalter’s Hi Gay 2021 and Hi Gay 2022 ExBulletin | A fresh start for actor and comedian Petey Gibson Advocate | 20 Photos of Trans Elders Who Have Survived To Survive on This Shore: Photographs and Interviews with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Older Adults | Project by Jess T. Dugan and Vanessa Fabbre The Trevor Project | National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health 2021 Study Reveals Which Transgender Teens Have Highest Suicide Risk Mental Health Outcomes in Transgender and Nonbinary Youths Receiving Gender-Affirming Care Dyke Day LA Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie
S2 E4 · Tue, September 13, 2022
Why do some people use two sets of pronouns? feat. Josée Sovinsky
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!! Did you miss the launch party for the Corporate Guide to LGBTQ+ Events? You can watch the recording and purchase the guide here ! In this week's episode, Josée Sovinsky (she/they) updates us on what's changed since we spoke early last season, including pronouns and identities. If you've ever wondered why some people use two or more sets of pronouns, Josée explains what it means for her and how she tested they/them out before sharing that additional set with more people. They talk about the cisgender/transgender binary and how people can exist somewhere in between or outside of that, though we may not yet have the language for the experience. We also get into what it means to expand on definitions, create new terminology, adopt generic labels, or reject labels entirely (and how it's a personal process for everyone to decide what works for them). Learn why she thinks there is overlap between the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergence communities (including the parallels she has found in her journey with both). Josée reflects on bi panic, safety, unmasking, Heartstopper, affirming reactions and support, and why coming out this time looked and felt different. 🎙️ Connect with Josée Sovinsky and learn more about + support their work: Instagram Blossom Counselling Centre 2021 coming out post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CQxERNOHMMa/ The follow-up: https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ1SDvQrnHU/ 2022 coming out post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cf9q17ZtJQ_/ Follow-up meme post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cgzu_i3jiMI/ Neurodiversity and Eating Disorders: Considerations for Affirming Care | Presented by: Sophie Raniere (she/her), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) & Josée Sovinsky (she/they), Registered Dietitian, Registered Psychotherapist 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Not sure what to do if you make a mistake? Read Charlie's blog post, which features the pronoun and name mistake flowchart .
S2 E3 · Tue, August 30, 2022
Anger and fury can be turned into action that can create change feat. Jesse Freidin
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!! Interested in the Corporate Guide to LGBTQ+ Events? Watch the recorded launch party on LinkedIn! You can now buy the guide here . In this week’s episode, Jesse Freidin (he/him) shares about his former photography projects and how he's surprised himself by working on a new series that hits close to home. The "Are you OK?" series addresses the current wave of anti-trans legislation by interviewing trans and gender nonconforming youth with their families all over the States. Jesse talks us through some of what it takes to work on such a project, including building trust with the local communities, families, and youth themselves. We also get into the steps to maintain his own safety, especially as his work has him road-tripping all over. We discuss how concepts like "being an adult" and age overall may be different for trans folks. Learn about how he decides what kind of life he wants for himself outside of the noise of any narratives our society can place upon us, including the boundaries he maintains. Jesse reflects on what the series would have meant for him as a young person and marvels at the access trans youth have to each other present day. 🎙️ Connect with Jesse to learn more about + support his work: Jesse Freidin’s website Are You OK? | Series website; please financially support the project if you have the means When Dogs Heal and Finding Shelter series websites Facebook page Instagram Twitter 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Nondiscrimination Laws - Housing | Movement Advancement Project Will LGBTQ+ Retirees End Up Back In The Closet? | Forbes LGBTQ+ seniors fear having to go back in closet for the care they need | The 19th* LGBTQ+ Aging stats and resources | SAGE USA <a href="https://www.sageusa.org/resource-posts/nationa
S2 E2 · Tue, August 16, 2022
Listen to minorities and thank them feat. Ra Ra Rollins
This episode is sponsored by a private donor. Thank you!!! Content warning for mentions of George Floyd's murder and generally sensitive topics without details. In this week’s episode, Ra Ra Rollins (he/him) shares why he claims “queer” and “gay” and the difference in meaning for him between the two terms. He ponders if he’s Black first or gay, queer first, especially since not all spaces see him as a whole person with various, complex identities. Learn about how his work can be triggering as a Black therapist and what it means for him to hold space for clients at some of his same intersections. We also discuss how he pushed back in his grad school program because he learned from white professors who talked about white theorists and had white supervisors while seeing white clients. Despite that, he did gain two incredible mentors and friends for life. Ra Ra reclaims his energy by practicing boundaries, which did not come naturally to him, including by shutting down nearly all of his social media. There's also some discussion around rules and how he liberates himself from rules that don’t work or honor him. 🎙️ Connect with Ra Ra to learn more about + support his work: Our guest had an online presence at the time of the recording but has since pulled it down to protect his peace. 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Foster and Adoption Laws - Movement Advancement Project Overall United States Policy Tally - Movement Advancement Project Report: South Has Most LGBTQ Residents In the U.S. - Memphis Flyer Absolutely Not! - Are You Paying Me To Be Your Black Friend? w/ Ra Ra Rollins Point Foundation - The LGBTQ Scholarship Fund Gender Sexuality Info’s scholarship list - Scroll down toward the bottom of the page Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S2 E1 · Tue, August 02, 2022
Don't forget to live a queer, abundant life and laugh feat. Richard Follett
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her). For more information about her parent and caregiver coaching, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/coaching In this week’s episode, Richard Follett (he/him) shares how each of his intersections has shaped a portion of who he is and that while some of them may seem at odds with each other, that's not the case for him. Learn about how he knew he was gay at the age of four but found himself trying to "pray away the gay" and entered into a heterosexual marriage. We also discuss how the Metropolitan Community Church helped him to "marry" his sexuality and Christianity. Richard recalls several times people assumed he was straight/heterosexual because of myths and misconceptions people have about gay men and how he pushed for equality in his teachings with his students and colleagues throughout his career. There's also some storytelling related to his relationship with Charlie. 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: It Gets Better Prof. Richard Follett - YouTube video It Gets Better Project Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles National Coming Out Day is October 11th every year and you can find a list of more LGBTQ+ awareness events on Chris Angel’s GSI website California Courts - Proposition 8 Los Angeles Times - When Gavin Newsom issued marriage licenses in San Francisco, his party was furious. Now, it’s a campaign ad Britannica - Obergefell v. Hodges IMDB - Making Love film HRC - What is a lavender ceremony? Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E27 · Tue, May 24, 2022
Special Video Episode: Trans Day of Visibility Nonbinary Panel! feat. Zoa Glows, Maze Felix, and Noel Fernando
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her course, How To Talk To Kids About Gender, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/learn Listeners of this podcast get 10% off with code ALLYSHIP For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat And if you're looking to book an LGBTQ+ event for Pride month or after, consider hiring me: https://www.chrisangelmurphy.com Our last episode of season one is a special video event featuring the live panel from Trans Day of Visibility on March 31st, 2022! It features stories and wisdom from Zoa Glows (they/she) [current set of pronouns since the event aired], Maze Felix (they/them), and Noel Fernando (they/them) at the intersections of being both nonbinary and trans. Zoa Glows was also a guest on the podcast earlier on in the season and it's one of the listener favorites! We got some great comments, questions, and love from the live panel viewers, so thank you to everyone who helped to make it happen, including Rebecca for helping with back-end tech! For panelist bios, more about the event, and a chance to watch with subtitles via YouTube, please visit: https://www.gendersexuality.info/blog/trans-day-of-visibility-nonbinary-visibility-panel Thank you to all of you for making season one such a great success!!! I'm so grateful and I'm glad I could take the time to acknowledge each of you for making Allyship is a Verb what it is today. See you Tuesday, August 2nd, 2022, for season two! Resources, references, and full transcripts are available at https://www.allyshipisaverb.com/ Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
S1 E26 · Tue, May 10, 2022
Experiencing "Bless Your Heart" Homophobia in the South feat. Destiny Clarke
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her course, How To Talk To Kids About Gender, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/learn Listeners of this podcast get 10% off with code ALLYSHIP In this week’s episode, Destiny Clarke (who now uses she/they pronouns) talks about why they left teaching in the classroom to pursue a career in providing teachers with LGBTQ+ inclusive education. We discuss how living in North Carolina as a pansexual person isn't exactly easy and some surprising spaces and communities where she's found support. Learn what they call "bless your heart homophobia" and what that can look like in the South. Destiny explains how her gender expression has evolved over the years and how good it's felt to get support from her current partner. Learn about the 3 times she's started a Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) club in her schools and how each time was different, including how she handled an instance of a parent pushing back. 🎙️ Connect with Destiny: Closeted History Podcast - Instagram (the podcast launched June 1st, 2022!) Closeted History - Website 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Schitt's Creek - The Wine Not the Label - Scene on YouTube Movement Advancement Project - North Carolina LGBTQ Youth in The South - The Trevor Project Report: South Has Most LGBTQ Residents In the U.S. Let Me Google That for You - Encourage someone to do their own Google search LGBTQ Center of Durham GSA Network GLSEN Insider: As a gender specialist, I've seen kids as young as 3 recognize they are trans by Rebecca Minor Gender Specialist’s Cisgender Identity Challenge Instagram post QMUNITY.org’s Gender-neutral Language Sheet resource (scroll down) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at l
S1 E25 · Tue, April 26, 2022
Stealth Mode Activated: Living as a Trans Man in Private feat. Dominic
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat In this week’s episode, Dominic (he/him) talks about the first time he got hit on by a girl and how that started his sexuality (and later gender) journey. Learn about what shifts occurred in his life as he started to be read as a man in society and some decisions he's made as a result, including going stealth. We also discuss how he told his mom he's a trans man and some of her initial reactions. Dominic talks about how he's felt in LGBTQ+ spaces over the years and how he kind of misses them but it would contradict his decision to be private. He also talks about co-running a support group and some of the stressful moments that have come about as a result. 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Count Me In - Human Rights Campaign Potato Parcel RuPaul Responds To Controversy Over The Word 'Tranny' How RuPaul’s comments on trans women led to a Drag Race revolt — and a rare apology Mariah Carey - Emotions | YouTube Trans Day of Visibility: Nonbinary Visibility Panel PFLAG National - Find a chapter near you A Guide for the Gender Neutral B-Mitzvah Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E24 · Tue, April 12, 2022
Everywhere is Queer: Mapping Our Vibrant Businesses feat. Charlie Sprinkman
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat In this week’s episode, Charlie Sprinkman (he/they) talks about growing up in "small-town vibes" Wisconsin and how it's important for people to find the best language for themselves. Learn about what happened when he came out during the Trump administration. We also discuss how important it is to make things better broadly for future generations and nerd out over the power of LGBTQ+ camps like Brave Trails. Charlie talks about their resource, Everywhere is Queer, and how they got the inspiration for it while driving home from Brave Trails. He also talks about voice dysphoria, traveling across 40+ states, and what queer spaces can do for people. 🎙️ Connect with Charlie to learn more about + support their work: Instagram Everywhere is Queer 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Refuge Restrooms ACLU | Grimm V. Gloucester County School Board Gavin Grimm’s Twitter Now Use Yelp to Find Gender-neutral Restrooms Yelp makes it easy to support LGBTQ-owned businesses, and find “Open to All” places to celebrate Pride Brave Trails Forever Home Details + Fundraiser (also links to their programs) Gender Sexuality Info’s list of LGBTQ+ Camps for Youth, Adults, and Families (this is a resource by Charlie) Pattie Gonia | Environmentalist Drag Queen who recently co-founded The Oath MKE Black | Milwaukee’s Black-owned Business Directory Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and <a href="https://hicharlieocean.subst
S1 E23 · Tue, March 29, 2022
Conversation Checkpoint: The Role of a Safety Pause feat. K Strohl
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW. For more information about her course, How To Talk To Kids About Gender, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/learn Listeners of this podcast get 10% off with code ALLYSHIP The Trans Day of Visibility: Nonbinary Visibility panel is now available to watch here: https://youtu.be/mYPQBrBvwrc In this week’s episode, K Strohl (K's pronouns present day are now they/them) talks about why they freely share their identities and how they want to be centered as a person versus their identities when brought up in conversations. Learn about what a "safety pause" is and some tips on how you may be able to support someone if it comes up in any of your conversations. We also discuss how she has a great practice of sending follow-up emails after networking calls by recalling what was discussed and any next steps. Furthermore, he's amassed a huge list of resources across various topics if folks need more support than he's able to provide related to what came up in the call. Katrina talks about how it feels when people mistake them for an ally of groups they belong to and how they came across the word bisexual thanks to the show A Shot at Love With Tila Tequila, although they're now using queer. 🎙️ Connect with K to learn more about + support their work: K’s website Absolutely Not! - K’s podcast 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Blair Imani’s Instagram A Shot at Love With Tila Tequila | One of Charlie’s favorite contestants on the show was the person in the softball tee in this brief clip The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) talks about Inviting In Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E22 · Tue, March 15, 2022
You're Not Like Those Other Black People: Confronting Othering feat. Nick Daily
This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/her). For more information about her resource, My Kid Just Came Out: Free Guide for Parents, please visit: https://www.genderspecialist.com/nowwhat/ In this week’s episode, Nick Daily (he/they) shares about what sparked the daily reminders he posts to Instagram to inspire others. Learn about why they’re learning to say “no” and what it means with the nuance of being Black, among their other identities, and practices like not working on their birthday. We also discuss the silliness of people and companies requesting Black History Month and Pride Month events not soon enough. Please request them much, much sooner and not during the actual month! Nick talks about what queer leadership means to him and how he doesn’t believe that our way to freedom and liberation is through the disposability of people. 🎙️ Connect with Nick to learn more about + support their work: Instagram LinkedIn LuvServedDaily Consulting 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Camp Pride | Check out this resource I created for more youth, family, and adult LGBTQ+ camps across the US D'Loco Kid Creating The Black Queer Tarot blog post & @BLKQUEERTAROT + @kendrickdaye on Instagram Sonya Renee Taylor Mia Mingus Intersex Justice Project Facts about intersex folks | @pinkmantaray’s Instagram post End intersex surgery | @briannavieira’s Instagram post We Will Not Cancel Us: And Other Dreams of Transformative Justice | Adrienne Maree Brown You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience, and the Black Experience | Book edited by Tarana Burke and Brené Brown (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from these two book links, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/the
S1 E21 · Tue, March 01, 2022
Unplugging from the Matrix: Finding Freedom as Trans feat. Trystan Reese
In this week’s episode, Trystan Reese (he/him) shares about his days of being a drag king and how he's been performing as a man since he was a kid. Learn about some of the practices he's adopted to check in with his colleagues so that they're in a continuous feedback loop, including addressing power dynamics and microaggressions. We also discuss a bit of what it's like to be trainers and consultants and the work that goes into it, including figuring out our boundaries and doing the work to know how to facilitate conversations. Trystan talks about how moved he was by Alok's talk on the podcast Man Enough and how well they were able to articulate thoughts that have been circling in his own mind. 🎙️ Connect with Trystan to learn more about + support their work: Website LinkedIn Collaborate Consulting, LLC How We Do Family: From Adoption to Trans Pregnancy, What We Learned about Love and LGBTQ Parenthood - Trystan’s book! (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Alok: The Urgent Need for Compassion | The Man Enough Podcast Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. - one of Brené Brown’s books (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) ACT UP Activism After Stonewall - learn more about the Gay Liberation Front Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E20 · Tue, February 15, 2022
Your Clothes Are Gay: Well, of Course. It's Because I'm Queer feat. Mon Malanovich-Gallagher
In this week’s episode, Mon Malanovich-Gallagher (they/them) shares about being an LGBTQI+ speaker and facilitator and what some of their experience as an introvert can look like, including introducing the term “anchor.” Learn why they left Poland and the importance of language including identities that reflect our experience. We also discuss employment diversity questions and how data matters while recognizing the privilege of being able to answer as honestly as possible. Have you ever wondered why there’s gatekeeping within the broader LGBTQ+ community and subgroups? Mon talks about how we should be able to claim our own identities and that what we land on feels right to us as individuals without trying to fit any “standards.” We also discuss what it might look like to queer-ify relationships, an example of a supportive pronoun question, and being aware of our impact on and how we show up for marginalized communities. 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: MindOut UK Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E19 · Tue, February 01, 2022
Happy Hour Culture: Confronting Alcohol in LGBTQ+ Spaces feat. Chris Tompkins
In this week’s episode, Chris Tompkins (he/him) shares about being an LGBTQ inner advocate and practicing allyship toward himself. Learn how he found his way to sobriety while acknowledging that AA isn't for everyone. We also discuss the term "Guncle" and how being one was part of the inspiration for his book, Raising LGBTQ Allies. Have you ever heard of "machismo?" Chris talks about how it influences Latin American culture and what it meant for the messages he received as a young gay child. We also discuss what it's like sharing our stories on PFLAG panels, spirituality, and how heteronormativity is a lot like humidity...! 🎙️ Connect with Chris to learn more about + support his work: Website LinkedIn Instagram 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Code-switching: How BAME and LGBT people 'blend in' PFLAG National Make Sure Your Child’s School Is Safe For LGBTQ+ Students & Families––Here’s How written by Chris Tompkins Chris’ interview with Melinda Wenner Moyer - How to be an LGBTQ-affirming parent What children learn from the things they aren't told | Chris Tompkins | TEDxCSULB Raising LGBTQ Allies - book (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E18 · Tue, January 18, 2022
U-Hauling Flannel Hearts: Examining Lesbian Stereotypes feat. Jaffe
In this week’s episode, Jaffe (she/her) shares the origins of her drag show, Them Fatale Drag Kings. Learn how she claims the terms "lesbian" and "queer." We also discuss the Los Angeles queer bar scene when we were in our early 20s and how it is present day. Have you ever wondered if you’re welcome to an LGBTQ+ space as someone not from the community? Jaffe talks about how it’s important to have a sense of humor when entering such spaces. We also get vulnerable about how when I was first coming out under the transgender umbrella, our friendship was put to the test and that she would do things much differently today. 🎙️ Connect with Jaffe to learn more about + support her work: Jaffe's Instagram Them Fatale Drag Kings Instagram 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: The history of the lesbian toaster joke - LezWatch.TV Teen Vogue’s 10 Myths About Lesbians You Need to Stop Believing Now Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E17 · Tue, January 04, 2022
You Can Never Trust Them: Confronting Bi Stereotypes feat. Dr. Leah Tidey
In this week’s episode, Dr. Leah Tidey (she/her) shares about how her definition of bisexuality has evolved since she first claimed it at the age of 12. Learn how intersections of bisexuality and consensual non-monogamy have created stigma she’s been pushing against. We also discuss Robyn Och’s definition of bisexuality and how Leah’s work as a sexual health educator can be tricky in terms of how much of herself she feel comfortable sharing with her students or overall in certain spaces due to bisexual erasure and biphobia. Have you ever wondered why people may use the term “partner”? Leah talks about how she doesn’t want to deceive people and doesn’t feel she is; she’s intentional about how it’s encompassing as a term and moves way from traditions we may have been taught, while recognizing the privilege in feeling comfortable enough to use it. We also talk about how COVID-19 and the pandemic overall has brought about lots of conversations that the polyamorous community has already been having for a long time related to bubbles and who we are seeing and when. 🎙️ Connect with Leah to learn more about + support her work: Dr. Leah Tidey's website Levi & Leah YouTube Channel The Love Doctor Podcast - Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more Instagram TikTok Twitter Come as You Are: Revised and Updated: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski - the book she recommends (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Levi’s Future Proof YouTube Channel Options for Sexual Health Here are some related episodes from Leah’s podcast: Consensual Non-Monogamy: Is It Just About Sex? feat. Dr. Amy C. Moors Can Women and Men Be "Just Friends?" (And What If They're Bi?!) feat. Marcus Territory TikTok Beauty Filters & How
S1 E16 · Tue, November 30, 2021
Fat Liberation vs. Glittery Body Positivity feat. Provvidenza Catalano
In this week’s episode, Provvidenza Catalano (they/them) shares about how the closer they get to who they are versus how Hollywood typecasts folks, they now get more interest and are called in for different roles. Learn how intersections of fatphobia, transphobia, butchphobia, ableism, and more have shaped their experiences and the work they're doing internally. We also discuss some of what casual representation could look like and how much more authentic and nuanced stories would be for LGBTQ+ characters and beyond if we embraced this kind of storytelling. Have you been disappointed with a marginalized character because they weren't the perfect representation of that demographic? Provvidenza talks about how asking characters to be "the most acceptable version" [...] "is not revolutionary in any stretch of the imagination." We also talk about active allies and how taking the "charge" and "hotness" out of a mistake can be helpful toward knowing what to do next. 🎙️ Connect with Provvidenza: Provvidenza's website Instagram TikTok Fat and Queer: An Anthology of Queer and Trans Bodies and Lives - the book they were published in (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Instagram post on nonbinary casting Dating When You're Queer & Fat Is Like Navigating Through a Minefield Them Fatale the drag king show they host in Los Angeles, CA Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E15 · Tue, November 16, 2021
Reparenting Myself: Exploring Gender as an Adult feat. Dr. Kyl Myers
In this week’s episode, Dr. Kyl Myers (they/them, she/her) shares how their gender creative parenting has evolved over the years and that it can look different for each family. Learn how gender creative parenting gave her an opportunity to check in with herself about her own gender and gender expression. We also discuss some of the questions that you asked on Instagram! Are you trying to support friends in your life who have LGBTQ+ kids? Kyl talks about some of what's helped them, which might sound counterintuitive. We also talk about the emotional labor of internet trolls and some of the pressures of a large following on social media. 🎙️ Connect with Kyl: Dr. Myers’s website Instagram YouTube Channel Patreon Raising Them book - support small + local business by purchasing from Bookshop.org (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Dr. Myers’s Essay in TIME TEDx Talk “Want Gender Equality? Let’s Get Creative" Raising Zoomer Blog and the post on Sasha and Storm Raising Zoomer Instagram (doesn’t use this account anymore, but lots of great info) Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E14 · Tue, November 02, 2021
Coming Out as Trans: When HR Takes That Decision Away feat. Leo Yockey
In this week’s episode, Leo Yockey (he/him) shares how his first tech job denied him the opportunity to control his narrative. Learn what surprised him about the experience and hear how it shaped the man he is today. We also discuss the "I'm not gay hug." Are you a fan of Tan France from Queer Eye? Leo talks about how reading Tan's memoir was the inverse of his experience, though it helped him find a man to model himself after. 🎙️ Connect with Leo: Leo Yockey's website The Leo Yockey Show podcast LinkedIn Instagram (now private) X (also now private) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Leo’s Instagram post on being shirtless Leo has since taken down his blog post on his tech experience Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E13 · Tue, October 26, 2021
From Ohio to NYC: Connecting with Queer Community feat. Laura Graving
In this week’s episode, Laura Graving (she/her) shares about how there are tarot decks that are queer and trans-inclusive. Learn what support she offers folks and what values she founded her small business on. We also discuss why LGBTQ+ folks can feel seen and validated by astrology, tarot, and similar practices. Have you ever used white sage to cleanse a space? She talks about how we can ethically source our white sage and what tips can take those practices to the next level. 🎙️ Connect with Laura and learn more about + support her work: Eso Cleric Instagram Facebook Her free PDF on Foundations of Tarot (and to sign up for her email newsletter) 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: The Dark Exact - Coleman Stevenson’s tarot deck Marcella Kroll - Readings and more Campus Pride Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E12 · Tue, October 19, 2021
Is your therapist the right fit for you?
Is your therapist the right fit for you? Do you even want or have access to one? In the previous episode, Dr. Rick Grant-Coons (he/him) shared out the allyship tip "Just trust that people know who they are best. They know themselves best and just believe that they can tell you who they are and that is the truth, right? Like, let people tell you who they are. And just believe, accept, celebrate, find out what works for them, and not try to define for them or tell them who they should be, what they are. How they're doing this wrong, you know, just instead just say, "Hey, I'm going to trust in you and I'm going to learn who you are by you telling me and that's how I will support you and figure out how we all can navigate this world a little bit better." In this mini-episode, host Chris Angel (they/them) discusses some of their own experiences with therapy over the years. Self-reflection questions/journaling prompts for people in or seeking therapy: 1. Does the mental health professional honor your identities? Is it important for them to reflect any of your communities? 2. Are they a specialist or have any training in the topics most important for you to work through? 3. Are there any barriers that make it difficult to see them? 4. Do you feel safe with them? 5. Do you have a gut feeling telling you it isn’t a good match? 6. Does the relationship feel healthy? 7. Do you feel you’ve learned all you can from them? And now, for mental health professionals. Before taking on a new client or patient, ask yourself: 1. Is this a community I’ve learned about? 2. Do I feel I can serve this community without inflicting unintentional harm? 3. Do I consider myself LGBTQ+ friendly or am I an affirming provider? 4. Where do I get my information from? Is it people with that lived experience? 5. Do I ask my patients or clients to educate me? 6. Do I ask questions that satisfy my curiosity or are they important for the work we’re doing together? 7. Do I regularly attend educational opportunities for this community? 8. Do I find the balance of leaning on my knowledge of this community, while not trying to put my client into a box? Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Mini-episodes feature any shout-outs, listener-submitted comments and questions, and a dive deeper into the allyship tip the previous guest shared. Please consider following where you listen to podcasts and become a monthly financial supporter! Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
S1 E11 · Tue, October 12, 2021
She-Ra vs. Barbie: The Butch Compromise feat. Dr. Rick Grant-Coons
In this week’s episode, Dr. Rick Grant-Coons (he/him) shares about moving 13 times every 1-3 years in the south as a young person and how, in some ways, it was easier to come out because of all of the moving. Learn what support he received and which communities he found comfort in over the years. We also discuss some signs to look for in an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. Have you ever wondered what even is LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy? He talks about the programs he took and how access to this information is more accessible for mental health providers now. We also discuss how, ideally, professional disclosure of personal identities should be for the greater good of the person you're trying to help. 🎙️ Connect with Rick: LinkedIn Profile Empowered Living Therapy Facebook YouTube 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: LGBTQIA Affirmative Therapy Certification - Modern Sex Therapy Institutes Joy Turek, PhD Douglas Sadownick, PhD Antioch University - MA in Clinical Psychology, LGBT-Affirmative Psychology The Real World - Norman Korpi Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E10 · Tue, October 05, 2021
Is your allyship accidentally performative?
Is your allyship accidentally performative? In the previous episode, Tasha Colin (rolling they/them, she/her) shared out the allyship tip "Honestly, I would love if people wouldn't assume or- I would love for people to ask me what my identities mean for me in order to know how to support me better. Versus maybe hearing how I identify and then assuming certain things. Yet, just asking me how they can support me is supportive." In this mini-episode, host Chris Angel (they/them) introduces ways people and businesses may accidentally be practicing performative allyship. Self-reflection questions/journaling prompts: 1. Have I been told that my allyship is performative? 2. Are my actions and words consistent with how I want to show up as an ally? 3. What am I willing to do for the LGBTQ+ community? 4. What are boundaries I have for myself? 5. How can I push past any discomfort or tension of allyship? 6. Who are some other allies I can engage with and talk to if and when things get hard? 7. Where do I get my allyship ideas and tips from? Are they people with that lived experience? Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Mini-episodes feature any shout-outs, listener-submitted comments and questions, and a dive deeper into the allyship tip the previous guest shared. Please consider following where you listen to podcasts and become a monthly financial supporter! Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
S1 E9 · Tue, September 28, 2021
Agender in a Gendered World: Challenging Norms feat. Tasha Colin
In this week’s episode, Tasha Colin (rolling they/she) shares about coming out as a previously held identity and what three magic words of support boosted their spirit. Learn what book helped spark her curiosity and made her feel seen. We also discuss how asking about pronouns is totally okay AND how asking personal questions about sex and how people have it is NOT a good way of showing support. Have you ever heard of the term demisexual and wondered what that was all about or why a term is needed for that experience? They talk about how their claimed identities have evolved over the years and why their identities and terms may continue to change as time goes on. We also wonder if utopia and liberation are possible when folks don't all agree on what that looks like. 🎙️ Connect with Tasha: Personal Instagram Account Training Instagram Account Therapy Instagram Account LinkedIn 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Keeping You a Secret book - support small + local businesses by purchasing from Bookshop.org (Disclaimer: Gender Sexuality Info, LLC may receive a small commission from you purchasing from this link, which helps to provide free educational services like this podcast) What is demisexuality? by Pink News | YouTube 4 Demisexual People Explain What "Demisexuality" Means To Them by Tinder Demisexuality Resource Center | YouTube X post explaining ACE Awareness Week and some definitions: https://www.x.com/vbarronart/status/1320856524076494851 Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E8 · Tue, September 21, 2021
Can we agree to stop assuming straight is the default?
Can we agree to stop assuming straight is the default? In the previous episode, Josée Sovinsky (she/her) shared out the allyship tip for people to "...actively seek out opportunities to [...] question their assumptions that they make." In this mini-episode, host Chris Angel (they/them) revisits this tip and introduces why coming out is a privilege, complicated, and nuanced. They also talk about how if LGBTQ+ youth are considering coming out, they need a safety plan if they have any reason to believe they might be rejected by their families. In fact, it may be best to wait. Instead of self-reflections this episode, Chris Angel is asking for you to help get the Equality Act passed in the United States Senate or get involved with helping to get LGBTQ+ protections passed where you live. Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Mini-episodes feature any shout-outs, listener-submitted comments and questions, and a dive deeper into the allyship tip the previous guest shared. Please consider following where you listen to podcasts and become a monthly financial supporter! Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
S1 E7 · Tue, September 14, 2021
Bi & Committed: Debunking Relationship Myths feat. Josée Sovinsky
In this week’s episode, Josée Sovinsky (now using she/they pronouns) shares about coming out on her professional Instagram page this past pride month and what happened as a result. Learn what messages she was given about bisexuality while questioning her sexual orientation. We also discuss honoring marginalized communities by believing in science AND holding space for people’s own uniquely lived experiences + expertise (and paying them for it!). Have you ever wondered about some of the reasons why people don’t want to come out, especially as bi? They talk about how they claimed queer first because of stigma, bi-erasure, biphobia, and lack of representation overall. 🎙️ Connect with Josée: https://www.instagram.com/joseesovinskyrd/ Blossom Counselling Centre Coming out post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CQxERNOHMMa/ Follow-up post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ1SDvQrnHU/ 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: LGBT Identification Rises to 5.6% in Latest U.S. Estimate A statistical portrait of Canada's diverse LGBTQ2+ communities Reporting on the Bisexual Community: A resource for journalists and media professionals This is article felt super-affirming to her: If You’re Not Sure You’re ‘Allowed’ to Identify as Bisexual, Read This Bi Visibility Day - Website Bi+ History Month - Website Bi+ Health Month - Website If you happen to be in Ottawa, Canada - check out Kind Space for more resources, including for the bisexual community Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E6 · Tue, September 07, 2021
What are rolling pronouns? Are there questions you shouldn't ask trans people?
What are rolling pronouns? Are there questions you shouldn't ask trans people? In the previous episode, Zoa Glows (rolling she/her, they/them, he/him) shared out the allyship tip: "My ally tip is to pause and ask yourself, "will my compliments, questions, and language uplift this individual? Or could they possibly cause them discomfort or harm?" Because each of those things- compliments, questions, a lot of questions have called caused me harm and discomfort and a lot of language has caused me harm and discomfort. But on the flip side, a lot of it has uplifted me. So if you are willing, and you're wanting to uplift me, that's what I would love. Uplift me and make me feel like you see me and so: pause. Before you say something and think about those things and I think that people could possibly feel a little safer in approaching if they pause to think about whether they're gonna hurt me or not." In this mini-episode, host Chris Angel (they/them) revisits this tip and introduces the term rolling pronouns. They also talk about if trans people transition, what that can look like, and the questions that are definitely off-limits! Self-reflection questions from this episode: Will my compliments, questions, and language uplift this individual? Or could they possibly cause them discomfort or harm? Is this serving my own curiosity? Is it important for the work that we're doing together? Is there a trusted resource where I could learn about my question? Do I need to know this about the individual in order to support and/or love them? Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Mini-episodes feature any shout-outs, listener-submitted comments and questions, and a dive deeper into the allyship tip the previous guest shared. Please consider following where you listen to podcasts and become a supporter! Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
S1 E5 · Tue, August 31, 2021
High School Students as Unexpected Mirrors feat. Zoa Glows
In this week’s episode, Zoa Starlight Glows (Zoa now uses they/she pronouns) shares about coming out to her students and family. Learn about what messages she was given as a Black person while navigating a big, religious family, her LGBTQ+ identities over the years, and the noise of society overall telling and teaching her to hate herself (but rose above it!). We also discuss honoring students by giving a name + pronoun sheet ahead of time and how the term deadnaming doesn’t resonate for everyone. Have you been wondering why someone might use multiple pronoun sets? They talk about how their sets embrace different parts of themself and how you absolutely can ask people how they want you to use multiple pronoun sets. 🎙️ Connect with Zoa: Instagram TikTok The footage of Zoa coming out to students: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoaglows/video/6971755967306304774 The infamous suitcase: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoaglows/video/6998160167107906821 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: @Ellosteph on Instagram, also known as Steph Frosch, who created the pronoun sheet Zoa mentioned in the episode for teachers Ace Schwarz (they/them) of @TeachingOutsideTheBinary also has a Get to Know You Sheet for teachers Inviting In Toolkit by the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) “SUGGESTS that if someone puts in the work, they may be INVITED IN“. You can also see this IG post for more info: https://www.instagram.com/p/COA1O3rLt5y/ Matt Bernstein’s post on love the sinner, hate the sin bigotry : https://www.instagram.com/p/CSiOgsLDv3O/ Want to practice pronouncing pronoun sets? You can hear them here https://en.pronouns.page/ Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on <a href="https://www.instag
S1 E4 · Tue, August 24, 2021
Calling in conversations and tips for bridging generations
Are you open to a conversation? In the previous episode, Coco Peru (she/her, he/him) shared out her allyship tip: "What's important is the story. And so I would encourage that part of allyship be don't always judge a person on what they are presenting, but listen to their story. Because the story is where it's rich and the story is where you're going to connect with that person. The person that might appear so different from you, might actually be your greatest ally. So I think that for me, was the biggest lesson in creating Coco." In this mini-episode, host Chris Angel revisits this tip and shares out a suggestion for calling people in. They also give the following tips/self-reflections for building bridges across generations. 1. Have you built any bridges to connect with people of different generations? 2. Are there voices not being heard or included at events you attend? 3. Is there an LGBTQ+ archive near you? Sometimes they can be dedicated to specific sub-groups. You may find them on college campuses or private collections. There are lots of ways to get involved like looking through their collection, scheduling a tour, attending events, volunteering, and donating financially or pieces to sustain and grow the history for years to come. 4. Have you read any autobiographies? Poetry books or other media published or released by community members? If you are within the LGBTQ+ community, do you know your own history connected to your identities? An archive or library may be able to guide you or offer support. 5. Do you know the stories of any elders, specifically? There are history projects recording stories, such as the The Lavender Effect®’s oral history project. There’s also projects like @theaidsmemorial account on Instagram. 6. Does your local LGBTQ+ center, if you have one, offer any programming where generations or people of various backgrounds can come together? Are there other community organizations? There may be volunteer roles or ways to simply connect. For example, helping to organize a LGBTQ+ conference. 7. Does your local pride event intentionally find ways to bring people together? Since pride has become so commercialized over the years, I’m wondering about programming that helps us to learn more about each other, ourselves, and offer opportunities for connection. Resources, references, and full transcripts for each episode are available at www.allyshipisaverb.com Host Chris Angel (they/them) has a background in LGBTQ+ education, community organizing, and social work. Mini-episodes feature any shout-outs, listener-submitted comments and questions, and a dive deeper into the allyship tip the previous guest shared. Please consider following where you listen to podcasts and become a supporter! Keep the conversation going on Instagram @GenderSexualityInfo
S1 E3 · Tue, August 17, 2021
Surviving Through Laughter: LGBTQ+ Humor as Resilience feat. Coco Peru
In this week’s episode, Coco Peru (she/her, he/him) shares her history with self-identifying and how she's still seeking inspirational + affirming language, loving and reclaiming terms that are still used as slurs today, and a time in her life where the trans community and drag performers were under the same umbrella (and may still be for certain folks). We also discuss what it was like discovering We’wha and the term Two Spirit from a book, how reality TV has shaped drag over the years, and the importance of having conversations - especially when there are differences. Coco also shares about a time she handled an upsetting situation and the shift that occurred after. 🎙️ Connect with Coco and learn more about + support her work: Website YouTube Channel Instagram X 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: How to use the term Two Spirit and notes on the variations http://jhr.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/JHR2017-Style-Book-Indigenous-People.pdf Brief PBS video about We’wha https://rmpbs.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/fp20-we-wha/wewha-first-person-classroom/ We’wha Wikipedia page https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/We%27wha Drag Kids - 2019 Documentary https://www.facebook.com/DragKidsDoc/ Interested in watching drag shows? Some include RuPaul’s Drag Race (and its variations), We’re Here, The Boulet Brothers' Dragula, Pose, and Legendary. Hamburger Mary’s is a chain of franchised restaurants in the United States and Mexico that features regular drag shows, like drag bingo, and supports local LGBTQ+ charities. Drag performers mentioned in the episode: Varla Jean Merman Jackie Beat Bianca Del Rio Peaches Christ Heklina Ongina Aiden Zhane Trixie Mattel <a href="https://www.bobt
S1 E2 · Tue, August 10, 2021
Sorry Not Sorry: When Apologies Fall Flat for Queer Folks (And 3 Tools to Fix It)
In the previous episode, Shane Whalley (ze/hir) shared out hir allyship tip: "I think being a good ally, is the willingness to be uncomfortable. If you make a mistake, I'm a big believer that I would love for someone[... to] #AcknowledgeandApologize and then ask if there's anything needed for repair and then do better. Right. And so for me, we're always going to make mistakes. We're always going to make mistakes. But, what we do once we do them is again, for me, is where our greatest learning happens and it's where our greatest healing happens." In this mini-episode, host Chris Angel revisits this tip and shares 3 tools to help you genuinely apologize: 1. oops, ouch, I'm sorry (they now use "oops, ouch, thank you" - which will be addressed in a future bonus episode of season 3) 2. nine essential ingredients of a true apology 3. a repair model These tools combined will help to give you the confidence you need to give better apologies. 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Dr. Harriet Lerner and Brené Brown I’m Sorry: How To Apologize & Why It Matters Rhodes Perry: How Do You Repair After Unintentionally Causing Harm? Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack. *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and previous ones.*
S1 E1 · Tue, August 03, 2021
From Gender Gray to Genderqueer: Navigating Evolving Language feat. Shane Whalley
In this week’s episode, Shane Whalley (ze/hir) shares a bit about hir history of language and community. Learn about the differences between cultural competency, cultural humility, and cultural responsiveness. We also discuss honoring community organizations that have been doing the work to embrace the trans community and why acknowledging their history is important. Have you been wondering as a cisgender and heterosexual ally if you can use the term queer? Ze has some tips for you. 🎙️ Connect with Shane: LinkedIn X Website - Daring Dialogues Hir video for the Trans Lives/Trans Voices storytelling project created by Ground Floor Theatre: https://forge-forward.org/tdov-shane-whalley/ 💻 Sources and resources from this episode: Campus Pride https://www.campuspride.org/ The National LGBTQ Taskforce https://www.thetaskforce.org/ allgo https://allgo.org/ PFLAG https://pflag.org/ and their glossary https://pflag.org/glossary/ Queer Nation https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queer_Nation Want to practice pronouncing they/them, ze/hir/, e/em pronoun sets? You can hear them here https://en.pronouns.page/ Host Charlie Ocean, MSW (they/them), has a background in LGBTQ+ training, community organizing, and technology. Guest episodes feature at least one allyship tip, including tailored questions based on the guests' unique intersecting identities. You can follow Charlie on Instagram , LinkedIn , and Substack . *You will hear Charlie's former name in this episode and others up through August 29th, 2023.* 🙏🏻 Call to Action: Enjoyed this episode? Follow "Allyship is a Verb" on your favorite podcast platform so you don't miss any episodes. Your support helps us continue to bring conversations on LGBTQ+ allyship to the forefront. 🌐 Visit our Website: For more resources and a full transcript of the episode, visit AllyshipIsAVerb.com
Trailer · Sat, July 10, 2021
Season 1 Trailer
It's not too late to start your allyship practice or continue to make adjustments. This show talks about LGBTQ+ allyship tips and passing the mic. Episodes are quick tips that include some self-reflection questions, as well as longer episodes dedicated to passing the mic to keep the conversation intersectional. We'll hear from a wide range of LGBTQ+ guests about what tips they have, including any allyship they may practice. Let's create a safer space and learn about practicing allyship together! Full transcripts available at AllyshipisaVerb.com Host Chris Angel (they/them) is from Los Angeles, CA and now lives in Denver, CO. Their background is in LGBTQ+ training , community organizing, and social work. Subscribe to their monthly newsletter and enroll in their courses through LGBTQ School . Check out GenderSexuality.Info for national US LGBTQ+ resources. Get episode teasers and additional tips on Instagram at @GenderSexualityInfo
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