Treasures of Queer Salem

Today we are talking Geli Heller (she/her) who is a high school girls rugby coach in Salem Oregon. She uses her skills from her day job as a juvenile probation officer to better serve and mentor youth in the community. Her enthusiasm for rugby extends past her coaching role as she is a player herself on the Salem Attack Owls Womens+ team, bringing laughter and enthusiasm to all who know her.

Brooke (she/her) is a freelance graphic designer in Salem. She has a passion for connecting with her community and finding ways to uplift those around her. She focuses her work on local nonprofits and small businesses. Her passion project, Proud Salemander, celebrates the joys of Salem.

Today we talk with Hannah Wood(she/they), a singer/songwriter from Salem, OR. Her debut album, Hello to a Woman, was nominated for Best Pop, Synth, or Contemporary Album at the 2025 PNW Music Awards.

Today we're talking with Dani (they/she). They are a Latine nonbinary transfemme and community activist. She is a board member with Rainbow Youth, a member of the Crafty Coyotes, and a leader in community initiatives like the Salem Pride and Resource Center. Dani enjoys playing tabletop RPGs as a GM and play as well as enjoys creating new things with her different skills. Content Warning: Religious Trauma, Immigration Trauma, and Mention of Physical/Emotional Abuse.

Today Nix and Wolfie talk to Tyra(she/her) a 45 year old transwoman who came out less than two years ago. She discusses what happens when you grow up without Queer role models, transitioning at middle age and how its important that Queer owned businesses are established in Salem. 

Resources:

The Gender Dysphoria Bible: https://genderdysphoria.fyi/en/

Mochi Mayhem: https://www.instagram.com/mochimayhemyum/

Today we're talking to our friend Steve(he/him)!  He's ready to share his journey to our community. He brings the wisdom and resources he's picked up along the way. 

Several of the Resources Steve mentioned can be found here: https://www.craftycoyotes.org/partner-organizations

Special Podcast! 

The Salem Pride Block party is next week! This is not a drill! All hands to-

A-hem. Today we're joined by Mathew Oldfield(he/him) and Rowan Craig(he/they) the president and vice president of Salem Pride to talk about the Salem Pride Block party and encourage all of you to go! 

Click: https://salemcapitalpride.org/pride-parade-and-block-party/ for more details.  

This episode is proudly sponsored by Capital Pride. 

Today we chat with Tate(they/them) who is the director of the Safehaven for Queer students at Chemeketa  Community College here in Salem. Nix and Tate bond over their shared religious upbringing while Tallow is very confused by this strange upside down world they both escaped.  

Listen in to join in on the fun!

Meet Moss Elana Lynn (they/them), a queer activist who works on queer issues, healthcare and criminal justice. Together we explore how anyone can get involved and influence the going ons in the Oregon Capitol. We also discuss just how many pets Moss has. 

Resources shared: 

The City of Salem Human Rights Commission: https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/boards-commissions/salem-human-rights-commission

 Get involved by talking to your local representative: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/FindYourLegislator/legislator-lookup.html

Keep tabs on the city: https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/city-council-mayor/city-council-meetings

Today Craig shares the ups and downs of federal employment in our turbulent era for LGBTQ+ rights and attitudes. Craig is an avid traveler and currently lives in Oregon with his husband, Edison, and their two fur-babies: Mochi and Uni. Craig has successfully managed several multimillion-dollar portfolios that drive operational and policy changes that align with equity-driven goals.