Queer We Are

Can a film change the course of LGBTQ+ cinema forever? Join a celebration of Pride Month with a deep dive into the landmark film "The Boys in the Band." Brad Shreve and film historian Tony Maietta guide you through a spirited discussion on this pivotal work. Brad courageously shares his initial reservations about the film and why he decided to give it a second look, while Tony emphasizes the importance of acknowledging both its triumphs and shortcomings.

In addition, Brad and Tony discuss the unique challenges the actors and honor the courage it took for them to take on these roles in the mid-60s and reflect on the tragic toll of the AIDS crisis on the cast. This episode not only celebrates the film's cultural legacy but also pays tribute to the bravery and resilience of those who brought it to life.

This episode is from the Going Hollywood Podcast.

Going Hollywood podcast

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Showtime's "Fellow Travelers," visionary Ron Nyswaner joins Brad and Tony for a revealing conversation about the series' theme of a clandestine love story which unfolds amidst the tumult of historical events, such as the Red Scare led by Joseph McCarthy, This episode is from the Going Hollywood Podcast.

Going Hollywood Podcast

Vietnam War protests, the death of Harvey Milk and the AIDS crisis. Ron pulls back the curtain on the adaptation of Thomas Mallon's novel and has won critical acclaim, including a GLAAD Award.

In addition, Tony and Brad celebrate with Ron the profound performances of the cast, whose chemistry breathes life into the characters.  Ron sheds light on the inclusion of real-world locations, historical figures, and introducing significant black characters absent from the original novel to weave more authenticity to the series.

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Amidst the political upheavals post-2016, non-binary and transgender rights have found a fierce ally in Sasha Buchert with Lambda Legal. Sasha and Brad delve into the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ rights and representation. They shine a light on the progress made in the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals, while also addressing the challenges and discrimination by far-right groups, especially those faced by the trans and non-binary community. From the impact of local elections to the fight for gender-affirming care and the role of organizations like Lambda Legal, their conversation explores the complex and vital issues surrounding LGBTQ+ rights.

Stay in touch with Lambda Legal

Website: lambdalegal.org

Instagram: @lambdalegal

Facebook: /lambdalegal

TikTok: @lambdalegal

YouTube: /lambdalegal

Review your favorite charities: charitynavigator.org

Transcripts

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Imagine your life as a page-turner novel, filled with clandestine operations and transformative work across the globe. That's the reality for Timothy J. Smith, our guest, who has led a life as intriguing as the fiction he pens. Smuggling plays from Czechoslovakia, spending nights in African jails, narrowly escaping a perilous journey to Puerto Rico, Smith's real-life adventures make for an engaging and unpredictable conversation and his thrilling tales don't stop at his own experiences; they serve as the foundation for his novels.  We trace Timothy's journey from idealistic youngster to dedicated aid worker, an odyssey that has seen him influence both policy and people, shaping the Palestinian economy and founding the Tanzania Tree Project.

Timothy Jay Smith's Website
www.timothyjaysmith.com

Tanzania Trees Project

Order Istanbul Crossing

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Embark on a journey of self-discovery and inspirational leadership with Jim Fielding, the quintessential queer executive, who opens the pages of his life in "All Pride, No Ego." During his impressive corporate career, he has been president of Disney Stores and CEO of Clair's, but it's the deeply human experiences that shape his narrative. As we peek into Jim's personal journals that paved the way for his book, we uncover the profound influence of authenticity in both personal triumphs and professional endeavors. His story isn't only about climbing the corporate ladder; it's a lesson in finding one's identity amidst the towering expectations of society and the corporate world.

The conversation takes us through the corridors of Jim's past—from the art of retail perfection at The Gap to the enchanting leadership at Disney Store. We follow his path of coming out, the familial strains it initially caused, and the subsequent, heartfelt transformation into a network of support. Jim's personal anecdotes illustrate the struggles and victories of living authentically and how they profoundly enrich one's approach to leadership. We also celebrate the release of "All Pride, No Ego," a must-read for anyone on a quest for authenticity in life and leadership.

Purchase All Pride, No Ego:
All Pride, No Ego Book Page

All Pride, No Ego Website
allpridenoego.com

Jim on Instagram: @allpridenoego

Jim on LinkedIn:  /in/jamesdfielding/

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Unlocking your true self can be a journey fraught with challenge. But take a moment to imagine the liberation, the sheer joy of stepping into the world as the person you've always known you were. This is the captivating narrative we explore with Wendy Cole.

Embarking on a gender transition at the age of 65, Wendy has walked the path of self-discovery and acceptance. She doesn’t shy away from delving deep into her own experiences. From the initial inklings of feeling different, to the pivotal decision-making moments of dressing and surgery, Wendy opens up about her voyage. But this journey isn’t just Wendy's, it's a journey shared by many others. Wendy helps guide others through their own paths of self-realization.

Wendy Cole's website:  wendycolegtm.net

Wendy on Instagram:  @wcole212

Wendy on Facebook:  /wendycolegtm

Wendy on YouTube:   @wendycole8326

Wendy on LinkedIn:  /wendy-cole-gtm

Transcripts

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Ever found yourself captivated by a story that perfectly blends heartache with humor? That's what you're in for. Join Brad as he sits with Jiggs Burgess, a queer playwright from Texas and the first winner of the Del Shores Foundation writer's search. They explore his deeply touching play, "The Red Suitcase," and how it has moved audiences. In addition, they delve into the themes of resilience and humor in the face of tragedy,

Jiggs shares his personal journey growing up gay in a small town in West Texas and his bright future as a playwriter.

Jiggs Burgess' Website: playsbyjiggs.com

Del Shores Foundation: delshoresfoundation.org

Details on December showings of "Wounded" in Los Angeles

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Talented documentary filmmaker Luchina Fisher dives into her powerful and emotional short film called "The Dads," which centers around the stories of five fathers who have transgender children. Joining them on a transformative fishing trip is Dennis Shepherd, the father of Matthew Shepherd, a gay man who was tragically murdered twenty-five years ago. This short film, available on Netflix, may only be twelve minutes long, but it leaves a lasting impact. Luchina takes us through the journey of these fathers and the challenges they face, yet despite the struggles, the film carries a message of love and resilience.

Website: luchinafisher.com

Luchina on Instagram: @luchinafisher

Transcripts

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Get ready to time travel with Tony Maietta, a seasoned actor, writer, and host, who will be our guide through classic Hollywood. Unearth the gems and unravel the mysteries around the charming Cary Grant as we explore his career highs, the many faces he donned, and the enigma of his personal life. Join us as we step into the shoes of a Hollywood gossip columnist of yesteryears and examine how Hollywood moguls used this to their advantage, and sometimes, their peril.

We take a walk down the memory lane of the golden era of cinema, dissecting the dynamics of being a movie star versus an actor, and how popularity often trumps merit during the Academy Award voting process. Be prepared to dive deep into the romantic saga of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, a tale encompassing raw passion, unspoken emotions, and an enduring platonic bond.

Get set for a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving theater and home viewing experiences, and how this shift has affected the way we perceive and enjoy films.  So, buckle up for an enthralling ride into the enchanting world of classic Hollywood with our beloved guide, Tony Maietta.

Links:

Website: tony-maietta.com

Instagram: @tcm.too

Facebook: tonymaietta1

YouTube: @tonymaietta7899

Amazon: Tony Maietta

Transcripts

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The American National LGBTQ+ Museum's Executive Director, Ben Garcia, gives us a snapshot of the upcoming landmark as it blossoms to an exciting reality. We delve into the remarkable journey to open a physical museum in New York City in 2026, along with eight dynamic traveling exhibitions set to bring LGBTQ+ history and experiences right on people’s doorsteps across America.

As we wander the virtual corridors of the museum-to-be, Ben unveils the thoughtfully curated exhibitions that will grace the hallways and the memorial space planned to honor members of the LGBTQ+ community who have passed. We also navigate the streets of New York City, painting a vivid picture of why this city, rich in diversity and steeped in LGBTQ+ history, is the perfect choice for the museum's location. Ben also shares about the strong bond forged with the New York Historical Society and the incredible tide of funding support from numerous organizations and government levels.

But this isn't just about a museum; it’s about activism and advocacy. Ben opens up about his personal story of coming out and how it has shaped his commitment to activism. We explore how this museum project is a crucial part of the broader battle for LGBTQ+ equality and how each of us can extend our support.

Where follow Ben Garcia and the museum:

Website: americanlgbtqmuseum.org

Instagram:  @lgbtq_museum

Facebook:  /theLGBTQmuseum

YouTube:  @americanlgbtqmuseum

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ben-gray-garcia/

X (Twitter):   @LGBTQ_Museum

Transcripts

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