In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Jaxon Feeley, former prison officer, public speaker, and trans advocate, for a powerful and deeply human conversation about courage, visibility, and doing it scared.

Jaxon opens up about his life before and after transition, from working in the prison service to walking back through the gates as “Mr Feeley.” He shares how he found the strength to come out publicly, the moment he told his family they could have “a dead daughter or a living son,” and why he believes fear and bravery can exist in the same breath.

From battling stigma to embracing authenticity, Jaxon’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and relentless hope. His mantra, “do it scared,” is a reminder that courage does not mean being fearless; it means showing up anyway.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire

03:35 Childhood and Early Identity

08:42 Transitioning and Authenticity

13:21 Family Dynamics and Support

18:32 Working in a Prison Environment

23:22 Reality TV Experiences

28:38 Living Authentically in the World

34:10 The Intensity of Reality TV

34:56 Balancing Multiple Roles

37:08 Finding Daily Happiness

39:11 Navigating Loneliness in the Spotlight

41:39 The Importance of Social Media Breaks

43:27 The Thrill of Hunted: A Unique Experience

56:06 The Impact of Representation in Media

59:17 Introducing 'Fear Proof': A New Book

01:03:38 Advice for the Younger Self

Connect with Ben Cicchetti:

Website - https://www.queertalker.com 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

Connect from Jaxon Feeley:

Website - https://jaxonfeeley.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jaxryderfeeley