Today we sat down with Ibtisam Ahmed (he/him). Ibtisam is the Policy and Research Manager at LGBT Foundation, working to expand intersectional activism.

He shares with us about a recent research project on LGBT Migrants and their experiences of healthcare. When researching a community you are a part of, there are of course some emotional challenges. But just by being yourself you can draw out nuance that would be missed by others. Sit back and have a listen of Ibtisam’s experience leading this vital project.

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Content warning: grief/loss, hospitalisation

We are proud to present an extended episode today featuring the wonderful Jay Swinnerton. Jay is also known as Shanika Sunrise- their drag persona who has emerged from her hiatus following a cancer relapse. This relapse shook Jay’s world. Having been through it all before they had to fight to hold on to their humour and honour those they lost along the way.

In this episode Jay highlights the lesser known aspects of the cancer survival journey. From their first dismissive doctor’s appointment to how they continue to celebrate life today.

For someone with blood cancer or a blood disorder, an amazing stranger donating their stem cells could be their best chance of survival.  

If you sign up to the Anthony Nolan stem cell register and one day come up as a genetic match, you could be that amazing stranger. Without you, there is no cure. If you’re assigned male at birth and/or from a minority ethnic background, then you can make an even bigger difference to patients as these donors are needed most. To apply to join the stem cell register, you need to fill in our online form to request a swab pack to complete and post back. https://www.anthonynolan.org/help-save-a-life/join-stem-cell-register

Content warning: grief/loss, hospitalisation

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Kai aka Frogboi (they/them) is an interdisciplinary artist, drag goblin and ambulatory wheelchair user. Their experience of ME/CFS and arthritis led them harness the power of community to fundraise for their powerchair. In this episode we share the reality of being visibly disabled; the hilarious moments as well as the frustrations. We dig into stigma, ignorance, freedom and art as therapy. We share our fears and you grant you permission to yes to the things that help you live your life.

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On this episode, writer and performer mandla rae joins Elliss Lewin-Turner (she/her) to share mandla’s experiences of repackaging trauma into art in the form of ‘as british as a watermelon’.

They also explore managing as a touring artist with chronic pain and the lesson’s mandla has learnt along the way. Have a listen for some insight into mandla’s healing journey.

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Content Warning: religion, homophobia,

Today’s guest, Reverend Jide Macaulay (he/him), was born and raised in a Nigerian, conservative Christian household and was excommunicated due to his sexuality. Today, 20 years after being diagnosed with HIV and 17 years since founding House of Rainbow; an organisation supporting LGBTIQ people of colour of any faith, he talks to host Elliss (she/her) about how he relearned God’s love.

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Non-binary medical student Georgie Webster (they/them) is passionate about; books, activism and decolonising healthcare. The aspiring  “down to earth medic” shares their experiences as a young, queer, Black, future doctor. Navigating studying as a medical student and patient, their experience tells us so much. They talk to Elliss (she/her), about inclusive sexual health, power imbalance in healthcare settings, and the importance of having a community mindset towards health.

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Self professed Jack-of-all-trades, Dumisani Nyathi (they/them) talks; surviving the zombie apocalypse, role models and defining success for oneself with our host Elliss (she/her). A charity-sector veteran and talented mentor, Dumisani discusses supporting and inspiring the next generation of intersectional individuals in the charity and health professions.

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Whether it's dance, yoga or mindful walks, today's guest, David Kam (he/him) wants to get us moving - at our own pace. Host Elliss (she/her) asks David about his multi-faceted, person-lead practices and asks what IS true mindfulness? How do we make self-care work for all of us and our varying experiences, needs and abilities? How do we make it fun?

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You can find out more about David Kam and his amazing work and activism on Instagram @davidkamkw

Today, On the Black Beetle Health Podcast. Host Elliss (She/Her) talks with Jass (She/They) founder of the organisation 'Intersectional Glam' and a member of 'The House of Spice'. The two Discuss their experiences of living with chronic pain, fashionable accessibility items and how you can find the joy in your trauma. 

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On this NEW episode of The Black Beetle Health Podcast. 

Host Elliss (She/Her) Sits down with Sasha (She/They) a transgender woman and member of Ketts Rebellion, a transgender activism community. Sasha talks deeply about how coming out affected relationships, transitioning in an all boys school and how the school system creates barriers for those who just want to be themselves.

Such a thought provoking episode!

Keep updated with what's happening at Black Beetle Health:

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