In this episode of Gay 2K, we’re diving deep under the sea—and deep into our feelings. Joining the show is a very special guest: my high school friend, Karma LiLola. Together, we revisit the 1989 Disney classic The Little Mermaid, but we aren’t just talking about catchy tunes and crustacean sidekicks.We’re exploring Ariel’s journey through a lens that many queer and trans folks have felt for decades, even before we had the words for it. From the longing for a world where you truly belong to the literal transformation of the body to match the spirit, we break down why this film remains a transformative piece of art for queer youth.