Queer and Here: Let’s Talk Mental Health

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
 

Meet Natalie: "I wanted to break the cycle of violence"

In this conversation, Natalie Jovanic shares their journey as a non-binary counselor, discussing their experiences with childhood trauma, the challenges of navigating identity, and the healing process through various therapeutic modalities. They emphasize the importance of understanding systemic oppression, the role of literature in healing, and the significance of setting boundaries for self-care. Natalie also highlights their work at Bright Horizon Therapies, focusing on accessibility in mental health care for queer individuals. In this conversation, Alicia Nolan and Natalie Jovanic explore the journey of entrepreneurship, the importance of healing, and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community in today's society. They discuss the impact of societal changes on mental health, the balance between advocacy and self-preservation, and the significance of self-belief and empowerment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for compassion, safety, and the right to exist authentically in a world that can often feel oppressive.
Find Natalie here:
https://brighthorizontherapies.com/
https://www.instagram.com/brighthorizontherapies/
https://brighthorizontherapies.com/blog/category/trauma-demystified/
 
 

The Fight for Trans Rights: Insights from Van Ethan Levy

In this conversation, Van Ethan Levy shares their extensive work as an advocate and educator for trans and non-binary identities, discussing their personal journey, the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, and the importance of creating safe spaces. They highlight the impact of societal norms and the current political climate on mental health, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in addressing transphobia and advocating for community support. In this conversation, Van and Alicia discuss the importance of legal support for the trans community, the need for vocal advocacy against harmful rhetoric, and the significance of understanding internalized transphobia. They emphasize the importance of dialogue in challenging misconceptions and provide actionable steps for allies to support the trans community. The conversation culminates in a powerful message about trusting oneself and others in the fight for equality and acceptance.
To Contact Van:
https://trans.health/
https://dosomethingidentities.org/
https://dosomethingidentities.org/providers/
https://nomoregatekeeping.org/
https://vanethanlevy.com/
IG: @SKTRVAN
IG: @dosomethingidentityies

Meet Sadie: The Healing Power of Music

In this conversation, Sadie Smith, a psychological counselor and music therapist, discusses her journey from Canada to Berlin, her work with queer individuals, and the importance of music therapy in mental health. She explores the concept of polyamorous families, the global landscape of LGBTQ rights, and the challenges faced by trans individuals. Sadie emphasizes the healing power of music and how it can be used to express emotions and foster resilience in clients. In this conversation, Alicia  and Sadie delve into the therapeutic power of music, particularly in the context of queer mental health. They discuss how music can serve as a tool for emotional expression and healing, especially when guided by trained music therapists. The dialogue transitions into the importance of finding safe and affirming therapeutic spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the need for practitioners to understand the unique challenges faced by this community. The conversation culminates in a celebration of queer joy and resilience, highlighting the strength found in community and self-acceptance despite societal challenges.
Find Sadie at www.crescendocounselling.com
And on IG @crescendocounselling

Meet Ren: Being Non-Binary and Addressing Gender Norms in the Dance Community

In this conversation, Ren shares their journey of self-discovery and gender identity within the dance world. They discuss their experiences growing up as a dancer, the challenges of coming out as non-binary, and the impact of costuming choices on their mental health and performance. Ren emphasizes the importance of communication and support in navigating these challenges, as well as the need for greater understanding and acceptance within the dance community. In this conversation, Ren and Alicia discuss the evolving landscape of dance, particularly focusing on gender identity and inclusivity. Ren shares personal experiences of navigating a traditionally gendered dance environment and the importance of using language that respects all identities. They emphasize the need for open dialogue and education within the dance community to foster a more inclusive atmosphere. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support and the role of Ren's podcast, 'Dissecting Dance,' in addressing taboo topics in the dance world.
Find Ren at: https://renrdance.weebly.com/
Or follow on Instagram @dissectingdance