LGBTQ&A

Duane Michals has never followed the rules. The pioneering photographer, now 92 years old, says, "Because I didn't learn the photo rules it was very easy for me to abandon them. You're either defined by the medium...well, I redefined the medium." Duane talks about discovering his love for photography in the 1950s, not looking down on commercial work, his half-century-long relationship with his partner, and why talking about "art" makes him want to vomit. To see all of the photos that Duane talks about, come check out our Substack. And if you're able, becoming a paid Substack subscriber is also the best way to support our work. Click here to do that. Thank you to everyone who has subscribed. This show wouldn't be able to continue without you. This is a part of our special series, The LGBTQ+ Elders Project. If you want to recommend an elder, come find me on Substack or social media (@jeffmasters1). And if it’s someone who isn’t well-known, it's most helpful if you can share as much info as possible. LGBTQ&A is hosted and produced by Jeffrey Masters.

Hi! We're coming back! On February 27th! And we're continuing our special series, The LGBTQ+ Elders Project. I can't wait for you to hear it. For more info, come check out our Substack. Do you know an amazing elder and want to hear from them on the show? Come find me on Substack or social media (@jeffmasters1) and let me know. I'd love to hear all about them. Ok, I'm off to finish editing the first episode. Love you!! Bye!!!

Amy Ray, member of the Indigo Girls, discusses the band's legacy, coming out in the '90s, and the lasting power of their hit 'Closer to Fine'. They reflect on their enduring musical partnership of 35 years, the magic of making music together, and how their openly gay identity influenced their songwriting. They also express admiration for Brandy Carlile and her impact on the LGBTQ+ community.

Darcelle XV, the world's oldest drag queen, and Poison Waters discuss the history and resilience of Darcelle's drag venue in Portland, its success and evolution, and the unique creative partnership between Darcelle and Roxie. They also talk about the future of the club and the sense of community it fosters.

Dr. Charles Silverstein, author of The Joy of Gay Sex, discusses his involvement in removing homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses. They also explore the challenges faced in writing the book and the influence of fathers on sexual development in gay culture. The podcast touches on changes in sexuality, legal barriers to gay parenting, and progress made by younger generations.

Shatzi Weisberger, lifelong activist and affectionately known as The People's Bubbie, shares her experiences as a political lesbian, her activism, and her perspective on dying. She reflects on her journey as a death educator and discusses societal expectations, friendship, and her career evolution.

Angela Davis, feminist author and activist, discusses sustaining and evolving movements, focusing on the importance of political struggles over individual identities. She reflects on her support for the gay liberation movement and campaigns against gender violence. The podcast explores the framing of conversations about abolition, recent wins and setbacks in the movement, and the historical significance of the women's house of detention in queer history.

Broadway veteran and long-term survivor of HIV, André De Shields, discusses his career, typecasting, and his Tony Award-winning role in Hadestown. He reflects on his journey towards self-acceptance, confronts mortality and the Methuselah Code, explores the concept of breaching the impossible, delves into the desire for romantic relationships, and discusses intimacy, aging, and representing black man majesty.

Colton Haynes, Actor, discusses barriers faced by queer actors in Hollywood and going back into the closet while acting on hit shows like Teen Wolf and Arrow. The podcast also explores topics such as the challenges of being closeted in Hollywood, the speaker's early sexual experiences, struggles with alcohol addiction and appearance, and the strength of the queer community.

Gloria Allen, the legendary figure in Chicago's trans community, shares her journey of coming out in the 1960s, the transformative support of her family, and the impact of her charm school on LGBTQ+ youth in Chicago. Mama Gloria, a documentary about her, is now streaming on PBS.