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She started by interviewing people on a Brooklyn street with her dad's camcorder. Then she spent years on air watching the words coming out of her mouth turn negative. Emmy, Associated Press and Telly Award-winning news anchor and producer Sonia Baghdady explains why she chose a different path, and what she found at The Advocates.
Sonia is executive vice president of EP Studios at Equal Pride and host of The Advocates on Out Magazine's YouTube channel. She sits down with Bryan and Jon of Out Loud and Laughing to trace her path from TV news anchor and reporter to entertainment news and production work, and then to storytelling with more depth, meaning and integrity. As a straight ally, she shares why she wants to give people a platform to tell their own stories.
Instagram: instagram.com/soniabaghdady
Website: theadvocateson.com/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters
00:00 Meet journalist and advocate Sonia Baghdaddy
01:20 A creative Sunday, from watercolor to wellness
02:23 Why Sonia shifted from hard news to uplifting stories
06:10 Balancing LGBTQ+ issues with joy and celebration
08:15 Reporting with empathy instead of chasing headlines
10:20 How curiosity helps guests move beyond PR answers
11:32 What allyship asks of people with a platform
12:52 Growing EP Studios and The Advocates
14:00 Hope, representation, and the next phase of The Advocates
17:17 Gratitude through loss and career transitions
20:11 Beyond the News Desk: Sonia plays this or that
25:24 Why personal impact matters more than recognition
26:12 Where to find The Advocates and Equal Pride
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
Jesse Jolles isn’t just a comedian; she’s a vibrant force of nature who transforms the chaos of life into pure comedic gold. Dive into this episode as Jesse shares her journey from a small-town girl in Virginia to making waves in NYC's comedy scene. If you've ever felt lost in your quest for authenticity or wondered how to embrace your true self, this conversation is just what you need.
In a world that often pressures us to fit into neat boxes, Jesse’s story is a refreshing reminder that embracing our quirks can lead to incredible success. You’ll discover how the pandemic shifted her perspective on fashion and self-expression, leading her to create content that resonates deeply with her audience. Jesse reveals the magic behind her viral Astoria-style videos, where she dresses with unapologetic flair and humor, inviting others to join the fun.
We break down key insights on authenticity in the creative industry, the importance of community, and how dressing for yourself can be an act of self-love. Jesse shares her thoughts on finding joy in the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the beauty of asking yourself, "What do I truly want?" This episode isn't just about laughter; it's about connecting with your inner self and the power of being unapologetically you.
As we navigate through the noise of societal expectations, Jesse’s journey highlights the significance of owning your narrative. Not knowing these insights could mean missing out on the freedom that comes with self-acceptance and creativity.
Perfect for anyone seeking inspiration and a good laugh, this episode is essential listening if you’re ready to embrace your true self and leave the chaos behind.
Join us for a delightful ride that’ll leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world!
Website: .jessiejolles.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/jessiejolles/?hl=en
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Time Stamps:
01:56 Growing up in Virginia and discovering comedy
03:49 Astoria street style becomes her runway
06:00 Rebuilding after the pandemic and “dating” New York City
08:14 Staying true to herself in the entertainment industry
09:52 Queer community, joy and belonging
11:12 Fame, meeting followers and showing up on low days
13:00 Making content for herself—and finding confidence
15:29 “Confidence isn’t a destination”
17:59 Dreaming of QVC, creating products and choosing joy
19:31 “This or That: Astoria and Aesthetic Edition”
20:25 Thrifting hidden gems or a high-end splurge?
21:47 Sunglasses, red lips and fashion choices
22:40 Reality TV, true crime and Bravo bonding
24:38 Group-chat drama or one-on-one gossip?
25:25 NYC transit nostalgia and old-school habits
26:43 Comfort, shoes and being ready to run
27:48 Being loud and unfiltered—and remembered for her heart
28:50 Where to follow Jessie and episode close
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
He was a workaholic political copywriter writing clickbait fundraising emails for people he didn't agree with. Then a moment in Central Park changed everything. Josh Banfield, the creator behind Josh the Ronnie Stan, shares how he vision boarded his way out of politics and into the queer digital space within a year.
Josh is a pop culture savant and the unofficial historian of Bravo. In late 2023, a year and ten months into his job, he realized he wanted out. He left politics full time and became his own boss. Along the way, he found the Bravo tagline that sums up his life, and it comes from either Carole Radziwill's "politics of friendship" or Lisa Vanderpump's "throw me to the wolves and I shall return leading the pack." Listen to find out which one fits. We learn…
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Josh Banfield and his background
02:25 The light bulb moment: from political copywriter to TikTok star
05:19 Authenticity and returning to pop culture roots
06:16 Goals and future plans in content creation
07:41 Memorable interactions with Bravo cast members
11:04 Thoughts on the new Vanderpump Rules cast
13:06 Ideas for a Bravo-inspired reality show
16:29 The chaos of TV and creator culture
20:59 Quick fire Bravo and pop culture questions
27:16 Balancing wit and heart in content and personality
Bravo, Bravo podcast, Josh Banfield, Josh the Ronnie Stan, pop culture, Real Housewives, Vanderpump Rules, BravoCon, queer creators, career change
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
He was in millions of living rooms for eight years as Jonathan Bauer on Who's the Boss. Now Danny Pintauro is auditioning in a industry that doesn't know what to do with someone this open. Hosts Jon and Bryan sit down with him for a warm, funny, and honest conversation.
When the National Inquirer outed Danny in 1997 while he was at Stanford, it took the moment out of his hands. He shares how he took the wheel back: the letters from people who say his coming out kept them alive, the family and friends he had already told, and the parents who worried most about his career. He also reveals where the harshest criticism came from, and it wasn't who you'd expect. We learn…
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Daniel Pintauro's Life and Career
01:59 Growing Up in Hollywood and Early Influences
03:57 Experiences of Outing and Public Scrutiny
05:58 The Power of Community Support and Letters of Hope
07:59 Challenges of Acting at 50 and Staying Relevant
10:00 Living with Intention and Embracing Authenticity
12:03 Balancing Personal Life, Advocacy, and Career
13:55 Humor, Joy, and Simple Pleasures in Life
16:01 The Importance of Perseverance and Self-Compassion
18:09 Fun Rapid-Fire Questions: This or That
19:59 Final Thoughts and Words of Inspiration
Danny Pintauro, Who's the Boss, Jonathan Bauer, queer podcast, coming out, HIV advocacy, Hollywood actor, 80s nostalgia, LGBTQ interview, chosen family
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1:
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
Comedian and actor Arden Myrin joins us for a funny, candid conversation about finding success without shrinking who you are. After decades in comedy, Arden shares what it felt like to see herself on a Times Square billboard—and why staying true to her quirky, authentic self helped her get there.Arden takes us behind the scenes of Christmas at the Kringles, the horror-comedy she made with Tom Lennon, including the improvisation and on-set moments that had the cast laughing.
Learn more at https://www.kringlesmovie.com/ and purchase tickets today!
She also talks about her work on Mad TV and Chelsea Lately, her time on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and the time she and Lance Bass tried to get on The Amazing Race as Team Razzle Dazzle.The conversation turns personal as Arden reflects on growing up feeling different, embracing the parts of herself she once tried to hide, and finding belonging through chosen family. It’s a joyful reminder that the qualities we think make us “too much” can be exactly what makes us memorable.If you love comedy, entertainment stories, reality TV, and conversations about authenticity and belonging, this episode is for you.
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters
00:00 Arden Myrin’s career milestones and Times Square billboard
05:04 Protecting your magic in a business that wants you to fit in
09:41 The Amazing Race plan with Lance Bass
13:11 Making Christmas at the Kringles with Tom Lennon
16:47 On-set improvisation, Rachel Bilson, and holiday chaos
19:35 RuPaul’s Drag Race and being embraced by queer fans
21:24 Feeling different, showing up authentically, and chosen family
24:14 Christmas songs, reality-TV loyalties, and playful hot-seat questions
30:49 Looking ahead with pride, resilience, and hope
32:11 The 18-day, low-budget making of Christmas at the Kringles
Arden Myrin, Arden Myrin interview, Episode 180 Arden Myrin, comedian interview, actress interview, Christmas at the Kringles, Christmas horror comedy, Tom Lennon, Mad TV, Chelsea Lately, RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Amazing Race, Lance Bass, comedy podcast, LGBTQ+ podcast, chosen family, being authentic, Hollywood career, behind the scenes comedy
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
Broadway performer and The Gilded Age actor Claybourne Elder joins Out Loud and Laughing for a warm, candid conversation about queer artistry, creative independence, and the stories we choose to tell.Claybourne shares the inspiration behind his solo album, If the Stars Were Mine—a personal project shaped by the lullaby he sings to his son. He talks about reimagining classic songs through a gay jazz lens, producing the album himself, and learning to trust his creative instincts when support fell through.
The conversation also explores his role as John Adams in The Gilded Age and why he wanted to move beyond familiar stereotypes of queer characters. Claybourne discusses his acting process, his love of playing villains, his Broadway work, and how he encourages people to take practical steps to support the causes they believe in.Expect heartfelt stories, theater talk, laughs, and a reminder that the legacy that matters most may be the way we show up for the people we love.
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Clay Elder and his career
02:38 Clay's pivotal moment from violin to acting
04:27 Growing up in Utah and early influences
06:16 Creating 'If the Stars Were Mine' and its themes
08:11 Overcoming self-doubt in the creative process
11:18 The grassroots journey of producing his album
14:25 Portrayal of LGBTQ characters in historical context
15:42 The importance of character development and imagination
20:02 Standing up for community and social issues
22:01 Fun rapid-fire: Broadway, music, and personal preferences
27:35 Reflections on legacy: voice vs. heart
Claybourne Elder, Claybourne Elder interview, Claybourne Elder podcast, Out Loud and Laughing, The Gilded Age actor, John Adams The Gilded Age, Broadway actor interview, Little Shop of Horrors Broadway, If the Stars Were Mine album, gay jazz album, LGBTQ+ representation in television, queer actors, queer storytelling, Broadway and television, creative independence, producing a solo album, actor creative process, global human rights advocacy
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
Pumpkin spice at the wrong time, giga yachts, Ozempic, and Christmas trees in October - this one is pure chaotic gay energy in the best possible way. Ben McDonnell joins Bryan and Jon for a brutally funny catch-up that starts with The Traitors and somehow ends with elite-level holiday planning, reality TV fantasies, and a conversation about what we’re actually putting in our bodies.
Ben, who’s currently on The Traitors, opens up about life as a faithful, what he’d do on the show, and why he’s absolutely here for strategy, drama, and the wardrobe. The trio also gets candid about GLP-1 shots, body image, trainer culture, and the very gay math of time vs. money when it comes to fitness.
You'll also hear about Ben’s summer on a “giga yacht” with a helicopter, Bryan and Jon’s 10-year anniversary in Spain, their glamorous villa in the hills of Barcelona, and the not-so-glamorous reality of keeping kids believing in Santa. Along the way, they get into fake meat, chicken trauma, reality competition shows, and why Vanna White may have the easiest job in America.
This episode is equal parts hilarious, unfiltered, and weirdly wholesome. If you love pop culture, queer banter, reality TV, and conversations that bounce from nonsense to sincerity without warning, this is your sign to hit play.
Ben McDonnell is the host of It's Been a Week and a contestant on The Traitors, known for his sharp humor and effortlessly chaotic energy.
Bryan and Jon are the hosts of Out Loud and Laughing, bringing the quick wit, relationship banter, and community-centered perspective that makes this episode feel like catching up with your funniest friends.Perfect for listeners who love messy group chat energy, gay pop culture commentary, and the kind of episode that makes a Friday feel like a vacation.
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:18 Ben's Reality TV Experience and Show Involvement
02:39 Favorite Shows and Watching Strategies
04:00 Ozempic and Weight Loss Stories
05:12 Medical Trends and Body Image
06:55 Farm Life and Ethical Eating
09:01 Travel Adventures in Greece and Europe
12:40 Summer Vacation and Greek Islands
14:59 Luxury Yacht Experiences and Family Connections
16:58 Wedding Anniversary and Celebrations
22:01 Upcoming Projects and Industry Events
23:30 Voting for Podcast Competition and Community Engagement
25:00 Holiday Preparations and Family Traditions
28:01 Elf on the Shelf and Holiday Magic
29:58 Favorite Game Shows and Celebrity Hosts
33:00 Legacy Hosts and TV Careers
36:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans
Out Loud and Laughing, Ben McDonnell, The Traitors, The Traitors contestant, LGBTQ podcast, gay podcast, queer pop culture, LGBTQ conversation, reality TV, reality competition shows, celebrity podcast interview, gay friends podcast, Ozempic conversation, GLP-1 weight loss, body image, fitness culture, giga yacht, luxury yacht vacation, Greece and Italy travel, Spain anniversary trip, holiday traditions, Elf on the Shelf, pumpkin spice season, funny podcast conversation
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
Hollywood producer Dan Jinks joins us to share how he built an Oscar-winning career by championing original stories—and why he never saw being gay as a limitation in an industry full of gatekeepers.From a theater-obsessed kid dreaming of show business to producing films that made a lasting cultural impact, Dan reflects on the experiences that shaped his career and his creative instincts. He takes us behind the scenes of Milk, including the challenges of getting the film made, why Sean Penn was pivotal to the project, and how the cast came together.Dan also shares a memorable moment from the set of American Beauty, what he looks for in a script today, and why originality and characters that move him still matter. We talk about the challenges facing LGBTQ+ stories in Hollywood, the audience response to Heated Rivalry, and the movie musical Dan still hopes to bring to life.Plus, Dan joins us for a playful round of “This or That: The Producer’s Cut.”
In this episode:
If you love filmmaking, queer representation, and the stories behind iconic movies, this conversation is for you. Dan also recommends checking out Down with Love.
Dan Jinks Instagram: @danjinks
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Dan Jinks and his career
01:55 Dan's early passion for theater and show business
03:51 Hiding and discovering his sexuality through acting
05:37 Making Milk and the challenges of bringing LGBTQ+ stories to the screen
09:00 Navigating Hollywood as an out gay producer
11:10 Representation and casting in Hollywood
13:57 The artistry behind American Beauty and memorable scenes
16:59 What drives Dan to choose projects
19:03 Obstacles for LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream cinema
22:09 Future projects and the desire for original storytelling
23:30 Fun rapid-fire questions: preferences and personal insights
28:04 Closing thoughts and where to follow Dan Jinks
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
What does it take to build a life, a relationship, and a creative empire together? On and Dave join us for a candid conversation about queer love, entrepreneurship, and staying unapologetically themselves.The couple shares how they balance working and living together, what they’ve learned from building their apparel brand, and why patience matters when growing a business. They also talk about turning real-life experiences into music, their podcast Boys Bear Talk, and the story of how they first met.In this episode, we get into:
From business lessons to playful “This or That” questions, On and Dave bring honesty, humor, and plenty of chemistry to the conversation.
Boys Bare Talk: https://open.spotify.com/show/7L5aN0YxdTxz0ySjbUj5LV
David Mekahel Instagram: @davemekahel
On Mekahel Instagram:@iamonmekahel
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to On and Dave's Creative Partnership
01:11 Getting Personal: Off-Clock Life and Routines
03:11 On Growing Up Independent and Building Grit
04:30 The Secret to Working Together and Maintaining Love
05:42 Launching Mounderware and Evolving the Brand
08:12 Surprising Discoveries in Apparel Design
11:14 Vulnerability and Authenticity in Podcasting
15:21 How They Met and Their Love Story
17:44 Overcoming Boundaries as Queer Entrepreneurs
22:25 Future Plans: Fashion Shoots and Brand Vision
23:21 Legacy: Love Story or Empire?
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
Jake Graf had to write his own role in life—and then turned that same determination into films, activism, and a family story the world rarely gets to see. From growing up under Section 28 in Britain to becoming a trans filmmaker, actor, and advocate, this conversation explores visibility, survival, and the courage to live authentically.
Jake joins Bryan and Jon Ruiz to talk about knowing he was a boy from an early age, searching for representation, and finding hope after meeting another trans man. He reflects on transitioning at 28, building a life and family with his wife Hannah, and why it’s never too late to start living as yourself.
Jake also shares how he made his short film XY on a tiny budget—and how hearing from trans viewers around the world showed him the power of seeing yourself represented on screen. He discusses acting in Colette alongside Keira Knightley, the ongoing need for trans male representation in film and television, and what fatherhood has taught him.The conversation balances difficult realities with joy, honesty, and laughter, including a quickfire round to close.
Jake Graf is a British director, actor, and activist. Find him on YouTube at youtube.com/user/Jakerson55 and on Instagram at @jake_graf5
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest overview
01:02 Jake's childhood in London and early signs of creativity
02:06 Growing up under Section 28 and its effects on LGBTQ+ youth
03:04 Jake's realization of being a boy and early self-expression
04:57 Reflecting on the last decade: joy, love, and challenges
07:52 The rise and regression of trans visibility in media
08:39 Advice for trans people starting their journey later in life
13:14 Creating the short film XY and its significance
19:10 Authentic trans representation in film: working on Colette
23:30 The current state of trans representation in media
23:53 Parenthood and lessons learned from raising children
31:49 Finding joy in quiet victories and hope for the future
Jake Graf, Jake Graf interview, trans visibility, transgender representation, trans filmmaker, trans director, queer cinema, LGBTQ stories, LGBTQ podcast, queer family, trans fatherhood, trans activism, trans stories, XY short film, Colette film, chosen family, Out Loud and Laughing, LGBTQ representation
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Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9
From the publisher's feed
Presented by Out.com / Out Magazine
Out Loud & Laughing is a hilarious,…
Hosted by two proud queer cousins, our show uses laughter as a compass to navigate navigating identity, culture, and the unique challenges of the LGBTQ+ experience. Together with equalpride—the ultimate home for LGBTQ+ media—we are on a mission to build a community where identity and humor intersect. We’re here to inspire bold self-expression, deep connection, and plenty of side-splitting laughs.
With laughter as their guide, Bryan and Jon create a welcoming space that fosters connection, self-expression, and pure, unapologetic joy. Whether you are tuning in for the wild stories, the sharp humor, the deep relatability, or a mix of all three, this is the show that celebrates living life as your truest, most authentic self—out loud and laughing.

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