This week on The Banh Mi Chronicles, I did a total kiki with the multi-talented writer, dancer, and creative benedict nguyễn (she/her).

Benedict joined me as we dived deep into the genesis of her debut novel, Hot Girls With Balls (Catapult 2025). We explore the nuances of writing trans stories that center joy and athleticism, the reality of navigating social media as a public-facing creative, and why finding the right publisher and community spaces are essential for queer and trans writers of color.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Genesis of the Novel: How Hot Girls With Balls went from an idea to a USA Today National Bestseller.

Trans Athletes & Representation: Crafting a story that honors the reality of trans athletes beyond the headlines.

The Dancer Life: Benedict’s background as a dancer and how movement informs her writing.

Social Media & Community: Navigating the digital landscape and finding genuine connection through promoting her book.

The Publishing Industry: The importance of working with publishers who advocate and support QTPOC voices.

About benedict:

benedict nguyễn (she/her) is a #freelanceflailing dancer, writer, and creative producer. A Publishers Weekly 2025 “Writer to Watch,” Benedict is the author of the debut novel Hot Girls With Balls, an ABA Indie Next Pick and USA Today National Bestseller.

She has danced in projects by Sally Silvers, Kris Seto, and Monstah Black, and appeared in the short film Don’t Fck with Bà* (2024). As a producer, she has supported projects at the New York Botanical Garden, Danspace Project, and the Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance! Her writing on labor and culture has appeared in The Baffler, Vanity Fair, and BOMB Magazine.

Connect with Benedict

Buy "Hot Girls With Balls" Here

Website:

https://benedict-nguyen.com/

Instagram: xbennyboo

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