This episode is completely profound, occasionally profane, and filled with phrases you won't soon forget! Though Nebraska State Senator Megan Hunt described herself in the episode as "the Diet Coke of LGBTQ Community," she's so much more. She is the woman in the arena that Teddy Roosevelt would have thrilled over. She overcame internalized stigma, to live her life and advocate for others in a way that envisions a world where everyone can be free to live without having to justify who they are. And she's willing to fight for it. In the interview we discuss the challenges of self-discovery, the complexities of coming out, and how these experiences have shaped Senator Hunt's confident approach to both personal and political life.
​"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt in 1910

An inspiring conversation with Geoffrey Winder, a dedicated activist who has spent over two decades empowering LGBTQ youth and developing a model of co-leadership. In this episode, Geoffrey shares his journey from high school activism to leading transformative movements within the LGBTQ community. He discusses the importance of queer magic, the evolving identities of LGBTQ youth, and the necessity of building inclusive systems that support future generations. Geoffrey's insights highlight the ongoing need for solidarity and the power of community-driven change and his vision for a more inclusive world offers hope and inspiration for listeners.​

What does leadership development look like to those at the beginning of their journey? We thought we'd understand by talking to Ashton Mota, 19 and Kai Farr, 21 but they've already been on a leadership path for a long time. Ashton and Kai share their inspiring and transformative journeys as advocates and as GenderCool Project Champions. From introducing the President at the White House to navigating the challenges of coming out at a young age, they discuss the pivotal moments that shaped their identities and reflect on the ongoing need for education and acceptance. Join us for an enlightening conversation that underscores the significance of love, support, and the relentless pursuit of self-discovery.

From rural West Virginia, Brad Hoylman-Sigal was encouraged to read widely by his mother. In his local library he found a dream, a place that exudes freedom and where he could be accepted, New York City. Determined to wind up where he belonged, he embarked on a path of academic excellence and service in government. Beginning his term in the State Senate as the only out LGBTQ+ Senator, he developed and expansive view of how to lead, served as an ally inside and outside the queer community, and passed over 200 bills pushing New York to the #1 spot on several lists for LGBTQ+ equality. His dream is still a work in progress as he pushes to ensure greater representation in politics.

A few years ago, we found a dearth of information about LGBTQ+ leaders in print. So did Layla McCay, psychiatrist, founder of the Centre for Urban Design and Mental Health, and author of Breaking The Rainbow Ceiling. Layla captured the experiences of LGBTQ+ leaders in the workplace to examine what was holding them back from making it to the top. Not only did she uncover hidden barriers, but also some surprising leadership strengths that came from the journeys of her contributors. In this episode we glimpse into Layla's personal journey and explore the LGBTQ+ leadership discoveries in her book.

Jim Fielding, author of All Pride, No Ego, former CEO, retail and media veteran, and current partner at Archer Gray, contains multitudes. Jim, Jimmy, James, and JD are just some of the names he's been called and all are a part of who he is as a successful executive who has faced personal and professional challenges on the way to finding his authentic self. In our conversation we cover how Jim integrated his many aspects, the advice he'd give to his younger self, how to test for critical leadership skills, found family at work, queer aging, and so much more. Jim may be a complicated unicorn, but that's given him a lot of wisdom to share!

As a Senior Advisor to the U.S. Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons, it's no surprise that Reggie Greer thinks big. Learning from an early age to be empathetic to those around him, despite his challenges existing at the intersection of being a black, queer, disabled man from a religious household, Reggie moved rapidly to positions where he could drive positive change. His work to bring people into the process, prevent disillusionment in government, and move folks from apathy to allyship is inspiring. Always one to find the silver lining despite the color of the clouds, Reggie's visibility as a public servant and beacon of optimism brings light to dark places.