Queer and Here: Let’s Talk Mental Health

Meet Darshana Avila: We Talk Erotic Liberation and Understanding One's Erotic Identity

Summary
In this conversation, Alicia Nolan and Darshana Avila explore the concept of erotic wholeness, discussing its significance in the realms of sexuality, intimacy, and personal growth. Darshana shares her journey into this field, emphasizing the importance of a trauma-informed approach and the need for self-discovery. They delve into the therapeutic process, the role of nervous system regulation, and the importance of consent and communication in intimate relationships. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by queer individuals and the cultural norms surrounding sexuality, encouraging listeners to embrace their desires and explore their erotic selves with curiosity and openness.
 
Website: https://www.darshanaavila.com
Community is Galgasm https://darshanaavila.com/freebie/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@darshana-avila
 
 

"This is not a drill" Part 2 with the Leftist Lezzies

In this episode of Queer and Here, the host discusses the intersection of LGBTQ+ issues and politics with the Leftist Lezzies KB and Kelly, emphasizing the importance of political awareness for the community. They explore the role of the judiciary in protecting rights, the complexities of the court system, and the significance of judicial accountability. The conversation also touches on recent political pardons and their implications, highlighting the need for vigilance in the face of political challenges. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the current political climate, focusing on LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, and the impact of political decisions on identity and national security. They emphasize the importance of knowledge and research in navigating political discourse and the emotional responses triggered by current events. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the need for awareness and advocacy in the face of changing policies. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the alarming rise of political extremism and the implications for national security. They express concerns about the potential for martial law and the ethical responsibilities of military personnel. The discussion also touches on the dangers posed by armed extremists and the increasing use of executive orders to bypass democratic processes. Throughout the conversation, the importance of community support and mental health is emphasized, highlighting the need for resilience in the face of adversity.
 
Follow the Leftist Lezzies: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567729265155
IG: https://www.instagram.com/leftistlezzies/
Podbean: https://leftistlezzies.podbean.com/

Meet Megan and Maddy: The Power of Trauma-Informed Massage Therapy

Summary
In this conversation, Megan and Maddy, licensed massage therapists and founders of Sage Wellness, discuss their journey in creating a safe and inclusive space for the queer community. They delve into the significance of trauma-informed bodywork, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotional and physical healing. The conversation highlights the need for client-centered care, where individuals feel empowered to express their needs and comfort levels. Additionally, they explore the concept of gender-affirming bodywork, stressing the importance of proper pronoun usage and respect for individual identities. Overall, the discussion sheds light on the transformative power of bodywork in fostering resilience and healing. In this conversation, Alicia, Megan, and Maddy discuss the importance of inclusivity and understanding within the wellness community, particularly for the LGBTQ+ and trans communities. They emphasize the need for safe spaces, the significance of visibility through symbols like the Pride flag, and the importance of finding therapists who align with one's values. The discussion also touches on self-care practices and the importance of community support.
 
Check out their website at: https://www.sagewellnesscos.com/
Follow them on IG: @sagewellness.cos 
And check out Everywhere Is Queer! www.everywhereisqueer.com and download the app!

Meet Dara: The Power of Psychedelic Therapies Through a Personal Journey

THIS CONVERSATION IS NOT INTENDED TO OFFER MEDICAL ADVICE. PSYCHEDLICS ARE ILLEGAL IN MANY STATES AS OF TODAY. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR OWN HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE CONSIDERING ANY AND ALL FORMS OF MEDICAL TREATMENT.
 
In this engaging conversation, Alicia Nolan and Dara Hoffman explore the intricacies of mental health, personal journeys, and the transformative power of psychedelic therapy. Dara shares their experiences with health challenges, the importance of listening to one's body, and the concept of the hero's journey as a framework for personal growth. The discussion delves into the significance of community support and the call to explore psychedelic medicine as a means of healing and self-discovery. In this conversation, Dara and Alicia explore the transformative effects of psychedelics, particularly psilocybin and MDMA, on personal healing and mental health. They discuss the importance of befriending one's thoughts, the differences between various psychedelic therapies, and the significance of community support in the healing journey. The dialogue emphasizes self-love, the need for guidance in therapeutic settings, and the potential of psychedelics to facilitate deep emotional healing and integration.
 
To reach out to Dara:
dara@peakpsychedelictherapy.com
Coming Soon
https://darahoffman.com/
http://peakpsychedelictherapy.com/
 
For more informaiton:
https://maps.org/
https://psychedelic.support/
https://doubleblindmag.com/

Meet Hillary: Hear Her Story of the Transformative Power of Therapy and Ketamine

In this conversation, Hillary shares her deeply personal journey through childhood trauma, family dynamics, and the impact of loss. She reflects on her relationship with her mother, the challenges of growing up in a dysfunctional family, and the struggles of navigating her identity as a queer individual. Through vulnerability and honesty, Hillary discusses the importance of therapy, the weight of shame and guilt, and the resilience required to heal and embrace her true self. In this conversation, Hillary shares her profound journey through crippling anxiety, panic attacks, and the transformative power of therapy and medication, including ketamine. She discusses her experiences with EMDR therapy, the challenges of managing autoimmune diseases, and the importance of building deep connections within the LGBTQ+ community. The dialogue emphasizes resilience, healing, and the significance of sharing personal stories to foster understanding and support.

Meet Stephanie: The Head Editor of Let's Say Gay Literary Journal for Queer Youth

In this conversation, Stephanie shares her journey as a queer writer and the founder of the literary journal 'Let's Say Gay,' which aims to create safe spaces for queer youth. She discusses the impact of recent legislative changes in Florida on LGBTQ+ youth, the importance of storytelling and representation, and the empowerment that comes from community and expression. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by queer youth today and the significance of fostering connection and support in a politically charged environment. In this conversation, Stephanie and Alicia discuss the importance of community, resilience, and activism in the face of societal challenges. They explore historical parallels, the complexities of American identity, and the need for caring for the elderly. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of amplifying youth voices and the power of storytelling as a means of connection and empowerment. They also touch on patriotism, personal experiences, and the call to action for the LGBTQ+ community to resist oppression and embrace their identities with pride.
To follow Stephanie and the Let's Say Gay Literary Journal:
IG: @letssaygaylitjournal
Website: www.letssaygay.com

Meet Bryan: Fighting Discrimination as an Educator and Current Political Climate

In this conversation, Bryan Stanton shares their journey as a queer educator, discussing their experiences in Texas and the challenges they faced in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights within the educational system. They highlight the importance of community support, innovative teaching methods, and the impact of their transition to New York City. Bryan emphasizes the ongoing struggles within the education system and the need for advocacy and awareness in the face of discrimination. In this conversation, Bryan and Alicia discuss the pressing issues surrounding education cuts, government accountability, and the importance of representation. They delve into the challenges of navigating political turbulence and the impact on mental health for activists. The discussion emphasizes the need for authenticity in education, particularly for queer educators, and concludes with valuable advice for the queer community on resilience and joy amidst adversity.
Please follow Bryan (IG) @teachingwhilequeer and listen to the podcast on your favorite platform.
https://teachingwhilequeer.org/
IG: @profbryanstantion 

"This Is Not A Drill." - Political Insight with the Hosts of the Leftist Lezzies Podcast - Part 1

In this episode of Queer and Here, host Alicia Nolan welcomes the hosts of Leftist Lezzies, Kelly Wise and KB King, to discuss the intersection of queer identity and politics. They explore their motivations for starting the podcast, the impact of political decisions on mental health, and the importance of community and allyship in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The conversation also addresses the challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in the military, and the misinformation that often circulates in political discourse. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the overwhelming nature of current political events, the historical patterns in political messaging, and the implications of recent judicial decisions. They express concerns about immigration policies, the targeting of marginalized communities, and the mental health implications of proposed rehabilitation strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience and community action in navigating the complexities of today's political landscape. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various social issues, including crime and recidivism, the impact of Reagan's policies on society, and the controversial Furries Act legislation in Texas. They emphasize the importance of community support and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges, while also advocating for critical thinking and self-care in today's climate. The discussion concludes with a message of hope and the need for continued dialogue on these pressing topics.
Follow Leftist Lezzies on your favorite podcasting platform. 
 
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567729265155
 

Meet Enfys Book: Navigating Queer Rites of Passage

In this conversation, Enfys Book discusses their journey as a queer author and spiritual leader, sharing insights from their latest book 'Queer Rites'. They explore the importance of personal sovereignty, the significance of rituals in queer rites of passage, and the challenges of navigating identity and acceptance within family dynamics. The discussion also touches on mental health and the need for supportive practices in the queer community. In this conversation, Enfys Book and Alicia Nolan discuss the importance of mental health care within the queer community, especially in the current political climate. They explore how rituals can serve as acts of resistance and ways to cultivate queer joy. The discussion emphasizes the significance of self-care, navigating social media, and the need for regulation in digital spaces. They also touch on the importance of community support and provide insights on engaging in political action, all while protecting one's emotional well-being and joy.
Find out more about Enfys and their books at: www.majorarqueerna.com
Check out their newest book: Queer Rites
Read about Itchy Sweaters: https://majorarqueerna.com/itchy-sweaters-an-allys-guide-to-understanding-late-in-life-pronoun-and-gender-changes/
Mastodon Handle: enfysbook@kind.social
Pixelfed Handle: Enfysbook on pix.lgbt
 

Meet Marcie: Religious Trauma to Radical Self Acceptance

Summary
In this conversation, Marcie Macari shares her profound journey through religious trauma, identity struggles, and the search for community and acceptance as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. She reflects on her experiences of being stranded in Africa, navigating relationships, and the impact of her upbringing in a fundamentalist Christian environment. Marcie also reads a poignant piece from a queer anthology that encapsulates her struggles and realizations about faith and identity. In this conversation, Marcie Macari shares her profound experiences with religious trauma, including a shocking exorcism aimed at 'casting out' her same-sex attraction. She discusses the impact of such experiences on her mental health and spirituality, leading her to explore BDSM as a therapeutic practice. Marcie emphasizes the importance of radical self-acceptance as a foundation for healing and personal growth, and how her work helps others navigate their trauma and find empowerment through their experiences.
Marcie Macari Practices Intentional, Trauma-informed BDSM with a focus on self-development, and is the owner and Professional Dominatrix known as: Mistress Mia Payne at: www.paynewithpurpose.com 
https://speakerhub.com/speaker/marcie-macari
https://www.tiktok.com/@marciemacari