Queer Conscious Podcast

Breakups don't run on a schedule, they don't care if it's been two weeks or two years. But there is actual science on how to move through one, and that's where we're starting today.We're breaking down seven research-backed strategies for overcoming a breakup.Who better than to talk about breakups with my ex-boyfriend, Juan Reynoso. So instead of talking about in theory… we're going to talk about ours—what happened, what we've learned since, how it compares to science and what it's like sitting across from each other now, saying some of this out loud for the first time. So if you've ever needed a way through heartbreak that's rooted in both research and real experience, this one's for you.

What if the secret to finding love isn’t dating apps, hookups, or being set up by friends—but friendship itself? In this episode, I explore the “friends-to-lovers pipeline” and why research shows friendships are the number one way LGBTQ+ people meet their partners.We’ll talk about the difference between community and friendship, why both matter, and how to build them in real life (even when everyone’s tired, busy, and brunch costs too much). I’ll share stories where community meant learning to coexist with all kinds of personalities and how those lessons translate into creating your own chosen family.Along the way, we’ll dive into the science of friendship, how many hours it really takes to form a close bond, the mental and physical health benefits of belonging, and practical ways you can start building connections today.If you’ve ever felt stuck between surface-level acquaintances and wanting deeper friendships or if you’re curious about how community can actually be the foundation for love this episode is for you.

Divorce is never easy—but for queer folks, it can come with an extra layer of grief, shame, and confusion. In this vulnerable and honest conversation, Eric Nicoll opens up about his divorce, the signs he ignored, and what it really takes to move forward when the life you planned falls apart.From the quiet unraveling of connection to the painful beauty of rebuilding, Eric shares relatable truths, hard-earned lessons, and a few much-needed laughs along the way. If you’ve ever stayed too long, questioned everything, or struggled to let go—this one’s for you.Check out Eric's Podcast "Just Do You" on all streaming platforms.

What if flirting wasn’t just a way to get someone’s number…but a way to heal, to connect, and to feel more alive?In today’s episode, I’m joined by Flirt Coach and Gay Libra Benjamin Camras. We talk about the unique challenges of flirting in the gay community — from rejection sensitivity to reading the signals wrong (or way too right). But more importantly, we explore how flirting can be a way for queer folks to reclaim joy, confidence, and embodiment.If you’ve ever felt awkward, anxious, or like you need to be a perfect 10 to get someone's number, we’re here to remind you.. that it's not that serious. You might also get a live demonstration in flirting as we follow our yearning little hearts into the sexy subjects of city planning, professional, development, and dating within systems, So whether you're single, partnered, or just trying to get out of bed... get ready to be inspired to get your flirt on!

Have you ever felt hurt by someone you love? I’m sure we all have but there’s something particularly hurtful about queer on queer crime. I’m sitting down with Yinka Freeman — a powerhouse entrepreneur and community leader — as she shares her story of hurt by the very community she set out to serve.We’re talking about what it feels like when the people you thought would have your back... don't. About the heartbreak, the anger— and the courage it takes to keep going. To keep believing. To stay focused on your mission even when it feels like the ground is falling out from under you.This episode is about reclaiming your narrative —  and about finding your way back to trust, hope, and integrity. If you've ever felt disillusioned by the very spaces meant to uplift you, I hope this episode helps to bring your attention back to the important things in life.

One of the biggest questions I wanted to answer with my podcast is how to keep our hearts open. It is too easy, especially for the LGBTQ+ community to close ourselves off from loving someone because the risk of losing it is all too real. And we've all experienced grief in some way. One moment you’re fine… and the next, a song, a smell, or a grocery store aisle takes you out...Today’s episode is a powerful one. I’m joined by Jim Laveck—author of Life After Losses and two additional books about navigating grief, healing, and love. Jim’s not just writing about grief from theory—he’s lived it. By the age of 47, Jim had lost not one, but two husbands. And oddly enough they were both named Bob.In this conversation, Jim shares the heartbreak, the healing, and the hope he found along the way. We talk about what grief actually looks like and how it’s not so linear and we also discuss how the importance of being gentle with yourself through the roller coaster of emotions.Whether you’re grieving someone, something, or just trying to figure out how to keep your heart open in queer dating scene—I hope this episode serves as a reminder to keep your hearts open and to never give up an opportunity to love and be loved in return.

If we are being completely honest, before we even understand the concept of love, most of us have probably learned how to protect ourselves. We’ve got rules, we’ve got exit strategies, we’ve got brick walls… each brick represents a different story from our past about how we were hurt, betrayed, or let down by someone we love … but do we still have room for intimacy? Eh, some of us do.But if you’ve ever found yourself craving closeness while simultaneously self-sabotaging the hell out of it—this episode is for you.Today, I’m joined by the brilliant Whitni Miller—sex educator, pleasure coach, and certified builder of emotional intimacy at BDE Moves. Together, we’re talking about what it means to move from protection to connection—and why sometimes, keeping the walls up isn’t keeping us safe… it’s keeping us stuck, lonely, and miserable.You’ll learn how to build your emotional security bank, balance structure without slipping into stagnancy, and create deeper intimacy with yourself and your partner(s). So if you’re ready to soften your guard and build something real, then I hope you let your walls down just enough to get the most out of this episode.

Family relationships can be messy, especially in the queer community. But the concept of a chosen family has become such a cornerstone of safety, connection, and belonging for our community. If you’re someone who’s struggled with the complexities of family dynamics—and let’s be honest, who hasn’t—this episode is for you… becausetoday, we’re sitting down with one of the brightest lights in queer talent: the incredible J. Harrison Ghee. A Tony Award-winning actor, singer, and dancer, who you may know from their incredible performances in Some Like It Hot, Kinky Boots, and so much more…but the reason they’re here today… is they are someone who’s story I’ve gotten to know personally and has been one that is so inspiring especially in the way they’ve navigated and maintained relationships in their family without compromising the beautiful, unique human, that they are.. And doing it with SO. MUCH. GRACE. And being a human THEY ARE PROUD OF… Idk how many people can say that… Are you proud of the human you are? A question you can ponder while you sit back and listen up.

Performance anxiety is no joke and can show up in so many different ways depending on your gender, upbringing, and education and no, it’s not just a later in life thing. Whether it’s nerves, pressure, or a total mental spiral, it can turn what’s supposed to be a fun, intimate moment into something you’d rather avoid… And for the LGBTQ+ community, the lack of real sex education only makes things harder—or, you know… not.In this conversation, Nathan Serrato and Dr. Jennifer Litner, Certified Sex Therapist and Educator, explore the complexities of performance anxiety in sexual experiences, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.You’ll learn why performance anxiety happens and simple strategies to feel more at ease, more connected, and more in control of your own pleasure. So if you’re ready to say no without guilt—and invite intimacy without pressure, keep listening, this episode… might just do it for you. 

When was the last time you truly felt alive in the bedroom? Whether you’ve been with your partner for years and feel stuck in a rut, or you’re cycling through quick connections that leave you feeling unfulfilled, this episode is here to reignite your spark. Somatic Sex and Intimacy Coach, Court Vox, joins us to explore how embracing your eroticism can reconnect you with your most authentic and vibrant self. In this conversation, we dive into the challenges of stagnancy in relationships, the impact of hidden desires, and the difference between codependency and true intimacy. Court shares practical tips for reigniting passion, creating novelty, and fostering deeper connections through open communication. From exploring fantasies to understanding your erotic needs, this episode will help you to deepen your intimacy, feel sexier in your own skin, and cultivate a more fulfilling relationship. Use code QC100 for $100 off Court's next retreat! https://thebodyvox.com/connect%3A-joshua-tree