Queer Talker

In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with comedian, writer, and podcaster Lee Peart.

Lee shares the journey that led him from navigating multiple identities at school to finding confidence and connection through stand-up comedy. Growing up balancing different versions of himself, Lee talks openly about humour becoming both a shield and a way to explore who he really was.

From discovering comedy to embracing life on stage, Lee reflects on how performing helped him step into his identity as a gay man and build the confidence he once struggled to find.

The conversation also explores the role of queer mentorship, the importance of seeing people further along the journey, and the impact figures like Matthew Shepard had on shaping queer history and visibility.

This is a conversation about identity, humour, resilience, and the power of finding the space where you can finally be yourself.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions

09:39 Exploring Childhood and Identity

16:14 First Awareness of LGBTQ+ Representation

21:22 The Role of Humor in Identity

27:59 Journey into Comedy

37:00 Navigating Different Spaces

40:11 Podcasting and Wine Demystification

45:06 Advice for Younger LGBTQ+ Individuals

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

In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with writer, performer and Awkward Productions co-founder Linus Karp.

From viral fringe shows to West End transfers, Linus has built a reputation for bold, chaotic and wildly intelligent queer theatre. But beneath the comedy is a deep understanding of identity, satire and what it really means to take up space as a queer creative.

Linus shares the journey from a leaky shipping container at the Edinburgh Fringe to sold-out runs and five-star reviews. He talks about creating work like Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story and Gwyneth Goes Skiing, and why parody can sometimes say more about culture than seriousness ever could.

We explore queer visibility in comedy, the difference between poking fun and punching down, and how working creatively with his husband has shaped both his art and his life.

This is a conversation about ambition, irreverence, collaboration and building a body of work that refuses to behave.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic

03:01 Childhood and Early Influences

05:43 Passion for Pop Culture

08:37 First Awareness of Queerness

11:36 Navigating Queerness and Authenticity

14:32 Theater Journey and Awkward Productions

17:50 Creative Process and Show Development

20:42 Marriage and Collaboration with Joseph

23:35 The Edinburgh Fringe Experience

26:31 Queer Culture and Political Context

29:40 Pressure of Success and Future Projects

32:38 Humor and Audience Connection

35:33 Performing in the U.S. and Cultural Differences

38:44 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth

41:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

Credits:

Photo Credit: Dax Smith - https://www.instagram.com/the.photosmith/

In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with drag artist, educator, and community force Miss Tess Tickle.

Growing up queer in a small mining village in County Durham, Tess shares what it was like to survive bullying, Section 28, and a total lack of representation. From hiding parts of herself to finding joy, confidence, and purpose through drag, this is a powerful story about staying when it would have been easier to leave.

Tess opens up about coming out to her parents, the moment that changed everything, and why visibility in small towns matters just as much as visibility on television. She also talks candidly about drag beyond Drag Race, working in tough straight venues, and using comedy, education, and compassion to change minds.

We also explore Tess’s incredible community work through The Angel Trust, how drag became a tool for education and safeguarding, and why she believes we should not have to come out at all.

This is a conversation about resilience, representation, chosen family, and being the person you needed when you were younger.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic

04:30 Growing Up LGBTQ+: Challenges and Realizations

07:25 The Impact of Representation in Media

10:23 Coming Out: Personal Stories and Family Reactions

13:24 Finding Acceptance and Love

16:28 The Journey into Drag: A New Identity

19:16 Visibility and Community Engagement

26:05 The Journey into Drag

27:18 Life as a Drag Queen in the UK

31:59 Education Through Performance

37:08 Inspiration from Icons

43:03 Fighting for Acceptance in the Community

51:10 Empowering the Next Generation

Learn more about the Angle Trust

Website - https://www.angeltrust.co.uk 

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

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Jude Guaitamacchi, non-binary activist, writer, and co-founder of Trans Solidarity Alliance.

Jude opens up about growing up without the language to understand their identity, navigating trauma and addiction, and the long road to recovery and self-acceptance. They reflect on homelessness, survival, and what it means to rebuild a life when everything falls apart.

The conversation also explores non-binary visibility, the emotional toll of activism, and why community care matters just as much as resistance. Jude shares powerful insights on leadership, allyship, and how queer people can protect themselves while still fighting for change.

This is an honest and deeply human conversation about identity, resilience, and learning to stay when everything tells you to disappear.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic

04:33 The Impact of Music and Media on Identity

07:25 Celebrating Unsung Heroes in the Queer Community

10:27 Childhood Challenges and the Search for Identity

13:12 Understanding Queerness and Representation

16:09 Authenticity and the Journey of Self-Discovery

19:10 The Role of Trauma in Shaping Activism

22:26 Prioritizing Self-Care in Activism

28:58 Embodying Love and Self-Care

31:03 The Birth of the Trans Solidarity Alliance

33:16 Navigating Political Activism

38:51 Visibility and Representation in Media

45:56 Brands and Allyship in the Current Climate

51:46 Coping with Scrutiny and Online Trolls

57:07 Advice to Younger Generations

Learn more about the Trans+ Solidarity Alliance:

Website - https://www.transsolidarityalliance.com/ 

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

Michael Gunning is a former elite swimmer, LGBTQ+ advocate, and one of the most important voices at the intersection of sport, race, and identity.

In the first Queer Talker episode of 2026, Michael joins Ben Cicchetti for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about growing up feeling different, navigating elite sport as a queer mixed-race athlete, and the long journey toward living authentically.

Michael reflects on overcompensating to fit in, the damaging stereotypes he faced in swimming, and how being told “Black people can’t swim” became fuel rather than a barrier. He opens up about suppression, resilience, and the mental toll of hiding parts of yourself in highly competitive environments.

The conversation explores the importance of representation, the impact of seeing figures like Tom Daley come out in sport, and why visibility still matters in 2026. Michael also shares what it meant to come out publicly, the overwhelming mix of support and hate, and how that moment reshaped his life and sense of purpose.

We also talk about retirement from elite sport, identity beyond the pool, body image, pressure, and what it means to redefine success after stepping away from a career that once defined you.

This is a thoughtful, hopeful episode about resilience, self-acceptance, and learning that being different is not a weakness but a superpower.

Chapters

00:00 Hopes and Dreams for 2026

04:18 Queer Panic

07:24 Childhood and Identity

10:19 Coming Out and Its Impact

13:20 Pride and Community

16:17 The Role of Swimming in Resilience

19:18 Representation in Sports

20:01 Embracing Authenticity in the Entertainment Industry

20:46 The Importance of Being Your True Self

21:50 Isolation and Connection in Elite Sports

23:05 Coming Out: A Transformative Experience

24:50 Navigating Public Perception and Personal Identity

26:25 The Transition from Elite Athlete to Everyday Life

28:06 The Reality of Retirement: Adjusting to Life After Sports

30:10 Maintaining Competitive Spirit Beyond the Pool

32:34 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth

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

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Lewis Oakley, one of the UK’s most visible bisexual voices and a passionate advocate for representation, visibility, and belonging.

Lewis opens up about growing up bisexual in a world that often struggles with nuance, where identities are pushed into boxes and the “in-between” is misunderstood or erased altogether. He reflects on the challenges of being openly bisexual, from stereotypes and disbelief to the pressure to constantly justify your identity.

Together, Ben and Lewis explore why bisexual visibility matters, how language shapes acceptance, and what it means to show up authentically in spaces that are not always designed for complexity. Lewis also speaks candidly about confidence, self-acceptance, and the responsibility that comes with being visible for others who are still finding their voice.

This is a conversation about bisexuality, visibility, and the power of being seen exactly as you are.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions

04:22 Childhood Insights and Early Realizations

07:34 First Experiences in LGBTQ Spaces

10:34 Coming Out and Self-Discovery

13:47 The Complexity of Bisexual Identity

16:32 Navigating Bisexuality in Relationships

19:22 The Impact of Celebrity Influence on Bisexuality

22:40 Visibility and Representation of Bisexuals

25:27 The Reality of Love and Relationships

27:39 The Struggles of Bisexual Identity

29:36 Creating a Resource: The Book Journey

33:38 Navigating Loneliness in Bisexuality

36:41 Parenting and Advocacy: A Personal Perspective

42:17 Media Representation and Its Impact

47:20 Advice for the Younger Generation

Connect with Lewis Oakley:

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/lewyoaks

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

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with drag performer, community builder, and cultural force Jessica L’Whor, also known as Miss Jessica, to explore drag as identity, resistance, and care.

Jessica reflects on growing up in a deeply sheltered Catholic household, navigating queerness through religious guilt, and the long journey toward self acceptance. She speaks openly about coming out later in life, unlearning shame, and what it took to finally embrace who she is today.

From her beginnings in the Denver drag scene to becoming a full time performer for over a decade, Jessica shares the realities of sustaining a creative career without television backing, the business discipline behind longevity, and why consistency matters more than viral moments.

The conversation also dives into the creation of Miss Jessica, her all ages and family friendly drag persona. Jessica explains why visibility for queer youth is vital, how drag story times and school visits became part of her mission, and what it means to create safe, affirming spaces for children and families in a climate where drag is increasingly politicised.

Ben and Jessica discuss chosen family, queer elders, touring across the United States, and the responsibility that comes with having a large platform. Jessica is candid about balancing joy and escapism with activism, and why being a soft, visible presence can be just as powerful as outrage.

This is a conversation about drag as art, drag as care, and the importance of being the person you needed when you were younger.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions

06:36 Childhood and Early Influences

11:42 Understanding Queerness and Family Dynamics

16:25 The State of Drag and LGBTQ+ Community

20:49 Jessica's Journey into Drag

21:31 Longevity in Drag Performance and Community Support

23:19 Empowering the Next Generation of Drag Artists

25:55 Creating Family-Friendly Drag Experiences

28:24 The Role of Visibility and Representation

30:55 Building an Authentic Online Presence

34:10 The Intersection of Art and Activism

37:21 Advice for the Younger Generation

Connect with Jessica L’Whor:

Website - https://www.jessicalwhor.com

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

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

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

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with comedian Mark Bittlestone whose sharp wit, queer storytelling and emotional honesty have made him one of the most exciting voices in British comedy.

Mark opens up about growing up in 1990s Southwest London where homophobia was woven into the everyday language around him, even in an otherwise loving home. He reflects on spending a decade in the closet, the fear of being gay that shaped his early years and the moment he finally allowed himself to come out and breathe.

He also shares how devastating loss shaped him. Mark lost his mum shortly before his A levels and his dad shortly before his university finals. He talks about how grief transformed his understanding of life and how comedy became both a coping mechanism and a calling.

Ben and Mark dive into authenticity, dating, Grindr mishaps, the power of teasing straight men in comedy clubs, and the complicated pressure queer comedians feel to stop talking about their identity even when it is central to their story.

Mark also reflects on falling into comedy, getting fired from teaching, building confidence through social media, touring his show I Need a Straight Guy, and figuring out what comes next as he enters the next phase of his career.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions

04:16 Embarrassing Dating Stories

07:16 Proudest Career Moments

10:13 Childhood Influences on Identity

13:15 Awareness of Queerness and Family Dynamics

17:21 Coming Out and Authenticity

20:22 Navigating Loss and Grief

25:33 The Role of Comedy in Coping

27:47 Journey into Comedy

31:02 Queerness and Performance

32:29 Touring Experience and Audience Interaction

36:22 Using Platform for Advocacy

38:14 Future Aspirations and Reflection

39:11 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth

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

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Lord Chris Smith — Britain’s first openly gay male MP, the world’s first openly gay cabinet minister, and a pioneering voice for LGBTQ+ equality in politics.

Chris reflects on the moment in 1984 when he stood on stage in Rugby and came out publicly, becoming the first openly gay MP in British history, and the courage it took to do so in a hostile climate. He shares his perspective on Section 28, the chilling effect it had on young LGBTQ+ people, and the long fight to overturn it.

We also discuss his achievements as Secretary of State, from making national museums free for all to helping pass landmark LGBTQ+ legislation under Tony Blair’s government, as well as his later decision to speak publicly about living with HIV and the extraordinary phone call he received from Nelson Mandela afterwards.

From his student days in Edinburgh and Cambridge, to becoming Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, Chris has consistently broken barriers and left a lasting legacy. His story is one of courage, resilience, and hope — a reminder of how far we’ve come and the work still to be done for true equality.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history, politics, and the power of visibility.

Chapters

00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions

03:21 Proud Moments in Politics

05:52 Understanding Childhood and Identity

09:38 Journey into Politics

11:00 Coming Out as the First Openly Gay MP

18:09 Reactions in Parliament

20:07 The Impact of Section 28

26:02 Becoming the First Openly Gay Cabinet Member

27:41 Legislative Changes for LGBTQ Rights

32:18 The Importance of Diversity in Leadership

34:29 Going Public with HIV Status

41:48 Role as Chancellor of Cambridge University

45:32 Reflections on the Current Trans Community Climate

47:43 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ Youth

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

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