Queer Talker

By Ben Cicchetti

Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversati... more

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FAQs about Queer Talker:

How many episodes does Queer Talker have?

The podcast currently has 15 episodes available.

Queer Talker episodes:

August 26, 2025 Rico Jacob Chace: Trans Activism, Intersectionality & Finding Queer Joy
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Rico Jacob Chace, one of the UK’s most visible trans voices, award-nominated activist, and filmmaker, for a powerful conversation about trans rights, intersectionality, and the importance of joy in queer life.
Rico shares how his early life shaped his stubborn self-belief, why embracing his authentic identity at 25 changed everything, and the journey from a trading floor career to the front lines of activism. He opens up about navigating the world as a Black trans man, the impact of recent UK legal rulings, and the daily realities of public advocacy.
From creating safe spaces and building community to finding laughter in friendship and hope in the next generation of activists, this episode is both unflinchingly honest and deeply uplifting.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rico Jacob Chase
04:15 Queer Panic
07:13 Influential Queer Media and Its Impact
10:08 Childhood Experiences and Identity Formation
13:05 Navigating Queerness and Authenticity
16:12 Activism and Community Engagement
19:05 Intersectionality: Being Black and Trans
22:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance
30:12 Navigating Identity and Privilege
34:00 The Impact of Recent Legal Changes
39:09 Political Tactics and Community Response
43:27 Understanding the Trans Experience
47:58 Finding Joy and Community
53:42 Advice for the Younger Generation

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

Resources Mentioned:
We Create Space - https://www.wecreatespace.co
Non-Binary Barrister - https://www.instagram.com/nonbinarybarrister/
Trans Legal Clinic - https://www.translegalclinic.com
Not a Phase - https://notaphase.org
Gay’s The Word - https://www.gaystheword.co.uk
Trans+ Solidarity Alliance - https://www.transsolidarityalliance.com
...more
1h 1min
August 12, 2025 Ella Vaday: West End Roots, Drag Race Realness and Queer Joy at Every Age
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Ella Vaday, the multi-talented drag queen and performer who went from West End shows to making it all the way to the final of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 3.
Ella, also known as Nick Collier, shares stories from a complicated childhood in rural Suffolk, a life shaped by performance and pressure, and the moment drag became an unexpected lifeline during lockdown. From surviving isolation on Drag Race to reclaiming confidence in her thirties, Ella talks candidly about coming out later in life, learning to stop hiding, and why you should never feel rushed to figure it all out.
They also dive into the highs and lows of fame, the backstage reality of reality TV, and the joy of finding your place, whether that’s in a glittery gown or a sweaty gym. Plus, Ella opens up about navigating queer identity in a social media age, why she still doesn’t feel like she fits in, and the advice she’d give to young queer people feeling lost or unseen.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s still figuring it out, still finding their voice, or still waiting for their spotlight.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ella and Queer Panic
04:24 Childhood Memories and Celebrity Crushes
07:34 Fashion and Drag Race Highlights
10:16 Influential Queer Media and Icons
13:20 Navigating Queerness and Family Dynamics
16:17 Advice for Young Queer Individuals
19:30 Social Media and Its Impact on Queerness
26:03 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
28:35 Navigating the Performing Arts Journey
33:11 The Evolution of a Drag Queen
37:45 The Rollercoaster of Drag Race Experience
42:17 Adjusting to Fame and Public Scrutiny
47:53 Lessons Learned and Advice for the Future

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
...more
54min
July 29, 2025 Love Bailey: Savage Beauty, Trans Liberation and Creating Queer Utopia
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with the electrifying Love Bailey, artist, musician, activist, and founder of the Savage Ranch, for a powerful and unapologetically fierce conversation about art, identity, rebellion, and queer survival.
Love shares her early experiences with homophobia and performance, her journey through fashion and celebrity styling, and her path to living fully as the woman she is today. From dancing with pigs at the Savage Ranch to releasing her music video Tranz Panic, she reveals how glamour, satire, and protest come together in her vision of queer utopia.
They discuss the making of her film The Battle for TransMecula, the ongoing fight against anti-trans legislation in the US, and the importance of community, visibility, and refusing to dim your light. Love speaks openly about being shadowbanned, navigating misogyny even within queer spaces, and why fantasy is her fiercest form of resistance.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about trans joy, radical queer art, and creating a world where we can all exist louder and prouder.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Love Bailey
02:40 Queer Panic
05:31 The Journey to Authenticity
08:25 Creating the Savage Ranch
11:19 The Inspiration Behind Transpanic
13:59 The Battle for TransMecula
17:00 Visibility and Representation in Queer Spaces
20:07 Advice for the Younger Generation

Learn More About Love Bailey:
Website - https://www.lovebailey.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/loveisbailey

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
...more
24min
July 22, 2025 Andrew Flewitt: Life After Loss, The Power of Storytelling and Showing Up for Yourself
In this heartfelt episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with writer, podcaster, and creative force Andrew Flewitt to explore his powerful journey, from growing up queer in a conservative town to building an unapologetically authentic life grounded in creativity, connection, and self-discovery.
Andrew opens up about what inspired his moving book Do You Believe In Life After Loss, why Brighton became a turning point in embracing his queerness, and how losing and rebuilding family, love, and identity helped him discover a deeper version of himself. He shares how queerness has become his superpower, why community is vital, and how amplifying diverse queer voices became his creative mission.
They also talk about the losses we don’t always name, of safety, identity, opportunity, and why queer storytelling is essential in an era of rising hate. This is a raw, hopeful conversation about finding joy through pain, creating space for grief, and learning to love the version of yourself that emerges on the other side.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating loss, craving connection, or ready to embrace the radical, resilient joy of being queer.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Andrew's Early Years
02:57 The Impact of LGBTQ Representation
05:57 Finding Authenticity and Community
08:52 Embracing Queerness and Creativity
11:53 The Importance of Diverse Voices
14:49 Navigating Loss and Resilience
17:43 The Journey of Writing a Book
20:43 The Power of Podcasting
24:05 Exploring Different Types of Loss
26:58 Cultural Reflections and Queer Experiences
29:58 The Role of Music in Identity
32:47 Hope and Grief Coexisting
35:53 Life After Loss
39:02 The Importance of Community
41:52 Supporting Independent Creatives
44:46 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

Learn More About Andrew Flewitt:
LinkTree - ⁠https://linktr.ee/fleweyactually⁠

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
1h 2min
July 15, 2025 Chris McAllister: Laughing Through Labels, Trans Joy on Stage & Living Out Loud
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Chris McAllister—comedian, writer, actor, and self-described “person-next-door funny”—to explore how humor, identity, and visibility can work together to spark real social change.
Chris shares how growing up as a tomboy in Northern England shaped their early sense of self, why they came out as a lesbian before later identifying as transmasc, and how their wife helped unlock their fullest, most authentic self. They reflect on the healing power of sobriety, the complexity of pregnancy as a trans person, and the joy of helping others understand trans identity—one joke at a time.
They also unpack what it’s like to be visibly trans in today’s political climate, why curiosity should be met with compassion, and how laughter can soften hearts, shift narratives, and open minds. From viral Instagram videos to starring in the web series Kit, Chris proves that trans joy isn’t just powerful—it’s disarming.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about trans visibility, using your voice for change, and finding joy in being unapologetically you.

Chapters
00:00 The Power of Humor in Social Change
01:31 Childhood and Identity Formation
05:45 First Encounters with LGBTQ+ Representation
09:51 Navigating Authenticity and Relationships
11:40 Comparing Trans Rights: UK vs Australia
16:31 The Impact of Social Media on Trans Visibility
19:42 The Role of Comedy in Education
25:32 Balancing Visibility and Safety
29:38 Advice for Younger Generations
33:40 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Favorites

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
40min
July 02, 2025 Ali Najjar: Finding Light After Darkness, Intersectional Pride & Rebuilding Love
In this powerful episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Ali Najjar, Pride Award winner, proud gay Muslim man, and fierce advocate for hope, to explore a life marked by resilience, reinvention, and radical authenticity.
Ali opens up about growing up gay in a Muslim household, surviving relentless bullying at school, facing trauma in the workplace, and living two lives before finally embracing his truth. He reflects on the journey to self-acceptance, the heartbreak of losing his father, and the years-long rift with his mother, until their relationship was joyfully restored at his wedding to his husband, Adam.
They also unpack the beauty and complexity of intersectional identity, the need for inclusive queer representation in media and faith spaces, and the lasting impact of being seen and celebrated. Plus, Ali shares the moment he realized he had to speak up, how he turned pain into power, and why he’s never looking back.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about queer liberation, cultural identity, and the lifelong process of healing, belonging, and living out loud.

Chapters:
00:00 Understanding LGBTQ+ Identity Through Childhood Experiences
04:09 The Journey to Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
18:42 Navigating Intersectionality as a Queer Muslim
21:19 Growing Up in the 80s: Challenges and Bullying
26:01 Workplace Challenges and Sexual Assault Experiences
33:19 The Importance of Safe Spaces in the LGBTQ Community
38:32 Celebrating Love: Marriage and Acceptance
47:43 Cultural Icons and Their Influence

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
56min
June 18, 2025 Helen Scott: Owning Your Story, The Joy of Being Queer & Building Real-Life Community
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Helen Scott — author of Live, Laugh, Lesbian, radio DJ, stand-up comedian, and content creator — to explore her vibrant queer journey and the power of showing up authentically online and offline.
Helen opens up about navigating bullying as a child, discovering her sexuality in an era with little representation, and the moment queer nightlife gave her that first true sense of belonging. She also shares how her online community inspired her bestselling book, why we must embrace fluidity in identity, and how the queer community can come together to fight division in the face of rising hostility.
They dive into the double-edged sword of social media, the importance of offline queer spaces, and practical advice for anyone — from teens to those coming out later in life — looking to build community and live joyfully as their true self.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about queer joy, authentic representation, and building a stronger, more connected LGBTQ+ community.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Childhood Influences on Identity
01:45 First Awareness of LGBTQ+ Community
04:42 The Journey to Authenticity
07:53 The Impact of Community and Belonging
10:40 The Birth of 'Live, Laugh, Lesbian'
13:42 Navigating Stereotypes and Expectations
16:54 The Role of Social Media in Representation
20:02 The Power of Authenticity in Visibility
24:04 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
27:08 Building Community in Real Life
31:04 Advice for the Younger Self and the Queer Community
34:39 Celebrating Queer Icons and Representation
38:12 The Impact of Writing and Legacy

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
47min
June 04, 2025 Zander Murray: Breaking Barriers, Owning His Truth & the Future of LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Football
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Zander Murray, who made history as Scotland’s first openly gay senior footballer. From the weight of secrecy to the freedom of coming out, Zander shares his deeply personal journey—one shaped by resilience and the hope of creating lasting change in the world of sport.
Zander opens up about the moment he knew he had to come out, the unexpected support that followed, and the mental toll of staying closeted in a hyper-masculine environment. He reflects on football culture, the barriers that still exist for LGBTQ+ players, and why true representation matters both on and off the pitch.
They also explore what it means to live authentically, the pressure of being seen as a role model, and how Zander’s work today continues to champion inclusion and visibility for the next generation of athletes.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about football, queer visibility in sport, and the transformative power of living your truth.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Zander's Early Life
04:20 The Journey of Self-Discovery
07:07 The Impact of Role Models
10:01 Coming Out: A Personal Journey
13:03 Navigating Media and Public Perception
16:03 The Role of Football in LGBTQ+ Inclusion
19:15 Challenges of Being a Role Model
22:05 The Future of LGBTQ+ Representation in Football
32:22 The Impact of Coming Out in Sports
34:50 Transitioning from Player to Advocate
39:50 Empowering the Next Generation of LGBTQ+ Athletes
44:53 Overcoming Internalized Homophobia
48:36 Celebrating Authenticity and Team Support
54:16 New Chapter

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
55min
May 21, 2025 Robby Weber: Queer Joy, Flawed Characters & the Power of LGBTQ+ Storytelling
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with author Robby Weber, whose joyful and heartfelt queer love stories have helped thousands of readers see themselves on the page—and escape into something beautiful.
Robby shares how a lifelong love of stories turned into a career, the surprising power of writing flawed queer characters, and why authenticity is an ongoing journey—not a destination. He opens up about navigating social media, the emotional messages he receives from readers, and how growing up in Florida fuels his passion to fight for queer visibility, especially in the face of book bans.
They also discuss the joy of queer romance, how Robby finds inspiration in real friendships, and what we lose when LGBTQ+ stories are always rooted in trauma.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves YA fiction, queer joy, and the power of books to change lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Robby Weber
04:19 The Journey of Authenticity
07:25 Navigating Negativity and Social Media
10:23 The Importance of Representation in Literature
13:12 The Evolution of Writing Career
15:47 Inspiration and Creative Process
18:22 Connecting with Readers through Social Media
21:36 Reflections on Young Love and Personal Experiences
24:18 Celebrating Queer Joy in Literature
27:36 Advice for Young LGBTQ+ Individuals
29:06 Legacy and Impact of LGBTQ+ Stories
32:55 The Importance of Flawed Characters
37:10 Dream Collaborations and Future Projects

More from Robby Weber:
Website: https://www.robbyweber.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robbyreads/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@robby.reads
Preorder Everything About You: https://www.robbyweber.com/everything-about-you/

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
41min
May 07, 2025 Rebecca Minor: Becoming Ourselves, Affirming Others & Guiding Families with Pride
In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Rebecca Minor, gender specialist, author, educator, and clinician, to explore her powerful work supporting trans and gender-diverse youth on their journey of becoming—and helping their families affirm them every step of the way.
Rebecca opens up about her own queer journey, growing up in creative spaces, navigating compulsory heterosexuality, and the moment she decided to publicly live her truth. She shares what inspired her to become a gender specialist, and how she uses “possibility modelling” to show young queer people that their futures can be bright, joyful, and expansive.
They also unpack the disinformation crisis surrounding trans identities, the political weaponization of gender, and the misconceptions parents and the public still hold. Plus, Rebecca offers heartfelt advice for families, educators, and allies alike—and teases her upcoming book Raising Trans Kids: What to Expect When You Weren’t Expecting This.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about affirming queer youth, breaking down harmful narratives, and building a world where everyone is free to live authentically.

00:00 Understanding the Role of a Gender Specialist
04:18 Exploring Personal Identity and Childhood Experiences
07:22 The Impact of Representation in Media
10:16 Authenticity and Professional Identity
13:20 The Political Landscape of Gender Issues
16:24 Misinformation and Disinformation in Gender Discussions
19:31 Supporting Trans and Non-Binary Youth
22:20 Advice for Parents of LGBTQ+ Children
25:21 Navigating Family Dynamics and Acceptance
28:18 Messages of Hope for LGBTQ+ Youth
31:15 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

More from Rebecca:
Website: https://www.genderspecialist.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gender.specialist/
Preorder Raising Trans Kids (UK): https://tinyurl.com/yxdpjr2a
Preorder Raising Trans Kids (US): https://tinyurl.com/32jxv5uy

Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
...more
35min

FAQs about Queer Talker:

How many episodes does Queer Talker have?

The podcast currently has 15 episodes available.