Hello, Queernundrum listeners! Get ready to dive into a world of magic, music, and meaningful storytelling as we explore the highly anticipated Wicked movie, set to hit theaters in 2024. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this two-part adaptation of the Broadway phenomenon promises to reimagine Oz like never before.

Join us as we discuss the star-studded cast, dazzling costumes, and the emotional depth of the Wicked story. We’ll also unpack its connections to The Wizard of Oz and explore why Wicked resonates so deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, from its themes of otherness and acceptance to its campy theatricality and celebration of chosen family.

So, grab your broomstick—or your bubble—and let’s soar into the enchanting world of Wicked!

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! This week, we’re diving into the heartfelt and hilariously relatable world of Somebody Somewhere, the HBO series that’s redefining small-town life and queer representation on screen. Inspired by the life of comedian and cabaret performer Bridget Everett, Somebody Somewhere follows Sam, a woman navigating grief, rediscovery, and connection in her Kansas hometown.

Join us as we unpack the show’s themes of chosen family, resilience, and the joy of finding your voice. We’ll also highlight the standout performances from Bridget Everett, Jeff Hiller, and Murray Hill, and discuss why this series resonates so deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.

Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s celebrate the beauty of Somebody Somewhere.

Somebody Somewhere is an HBO comedy-drama series that follows Sam (played by Bridget Everett), a woman in her 40s living in her small Kansas hometown, struggling to find her place after the loss of her sister.

We dive into Bridget Everett’s personal touch, queer representation in small-town America, themes of grief and self-discovery and why Somebody Somewhere Matters.

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! This week, we’re bringing you a dynamic episode that spans the worlds of classic cinema and modern politics. We’ll explore the life and legacy of James Whale, the openly gay director of Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein, whose work revolutionized horror films and gave us timeless stories that reflect the struggles of outsiders.

Then, we’ll shift gears to discuss President Joe Biden’s long-standing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, from his early advocacy as a senator to his groundbreaking policies as president. Join us as we connect the dots between art and activism, showcasing how visibility and allyship create lasting change.

Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s dive into this inspiring journey from Hollywood to the White House.

Episode Highlights:

James Whale – Hollywood’s Master of Monsters:

• Explore Whale’s groundbreaking work in cinema, including his iconic films Frankenstein (1931) and Bride of Frankenstein (1935).
• We how Whale’s identity as an openly gay man may or may not influenced his storytelling, particularly the themes of otherness, societal rejection, and resilience.

Joe Biden – An Ally in Action:

• Highlight Biden’s pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ advocacy, including his early opposition to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and his public support for same-sex marriage in 2012.
• Explore his presidency’s accomplishments, such as the executive order extending federal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and his administration’s efforts to pass the Equality Act.
• Celebrate Biden’s appointments of LGBTQ+ leaders like Pete Buttigieg and Dr. Rachel Levine, showcasing his commitment to representation and inclusion.

Connecting Art and Activism:

• We discuss how James Whale’s films and Joe Biden’s policies both represent a fight against societal exclusion and the power of embracing one’s authentic self.
• Highlight the shared message of resilience and progress, from Whale’s subversive cinematic themes to Biden’s legislative efforts to ensure dignity and equality for all.

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! This week, we honor the lives and legacies of two monumental figures in LGBTQ+ history: Matthew Shepard, whose tragic death became a turning point in the fight against hate crimes, and Frank Kameny, a trailblazing activist who dedicated his life to fighting systemic discrimination.

Join us as we reflect on the events that shaped their lives, the challenges they faced, and how their stories continue to inspire the fight for equality and justice. From the heartbreaking loss of Matthew to Frank’s tireless activism, this episode is a poignant reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that lies ahead.

Episode Highlights:

1. Matthew Shepard – A Tragic Catalyst for Change:

• Learn about Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old University of Wyoming student, whose brutal murder in 1998 shocked the nation and brought attention to the pervasive violence faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Explore the creation of the Matthew Shepard Foundation by his parents, Judy and Dennis Shepard, and its mission to promote equality, safety, and dignity for all.
• Discuss the landmark Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, signed into law in 2009, and how it expanded protections against hate crimes in the United States.

1. Frank Kameny – A Pioneer for LGBTQ+ Rights:

• Delve into the life of Frank Kameny, a Harvard-educated astronomer who became one of the first openly gay activists in the U.S. after being fired from his federal job in 1957.
• Highlight Kameny’s key achievements, including his fight against the federal ban on LGBTQ+ employees, his co-founding of the Mattachine Society of Washington, D.C., and his role in challenging the American Psychiatric Association to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness.
• Reflect on Kameny’s slogan, “Gay is Good,” and how it helped shift societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ pride and visibility.

Quotes to Ponder:

• “Every time we tell Matthew’s story, we chip away at hate.” – Judy Shepard
• “Gay is Good.” – Frank Kameny
• “Matthew Shepard’s life reminds us of the cost of hate, while Frank Kameny’s legacy reminds us of the power of activism to fight it.”

Call to Action:

• Support Their Causes: Consider donating to the Matthew Shepard Foundation and other organizations fighting for LGBTQ+ equality and safety.
• Engage with Us: Share your thoughts on the legacies of Matthew Shepard and Frank Kameny. How do their stories inspire you to take action? Join the conversation on our social media platforms.

Resources and Further Reading:

• Matthew Shepard Foundation: [Link]
• Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act: [Link]
• Frank Kameny’s Papers at the Library of Congress: [Link] and Link

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! This week, we’re diving into the lives of two trailblazing figures who’ve left indelible marks on their fields and on history: Aaron Copland, the legendary composer who defined the "American sound" in classical music while navigating life as a queer man, and Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress who is reshaping the future of American politics.

Join us as we explore their groundbreaking achievements, the challenges they faced, and their lasting legacies for the LGBTQ+ community. From Copland’s timeless compositions to McBride’s advocacy for equality and inclusion, this episode is a celebration of resilience, courage, and the power of representation.

Episode Highlights:

Aaron Copland – The American Sound:

• Explore how Aaron Copland’s music, including iconic works like Fanfare for the Common Man and Appalachian Spring, captured the essence of American identity.
• We discuss Copland’s life as a gay man in the 20th century and how his outsider perspective influenced his groundbreaking compositions.
• And reflect on Copland’s progressive politics, his brush with McCarthy-era scrutiny, and how his music continues to inspire generations.

Sarah McBride – A History-Making Trailblazer:

• Celebrate Sarah McBride’s recent election as the first openly transgender member of Congress, representing Delaware in the U.S. House of Representatives.
• Highlight McBride’s journey from her advocacy with the Human Rights Campaign to her historic speech at the Democratic National Convention in 2016.
• Dive into McBride’s legislative priorities, including LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare access, workplace equity, and reproductive freedom.

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Episode Description:

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! Today, we’re bringing you a special episode that highlights two incredible individuals from different eras, both of whom have left their marks on queer culture and art: Chappell Roan, the rising pop sensation with a flair for queer anthems, and Dirk Bogarde, a pioneering actor who used his career to challenge societal norms and expand LGBTQ+ representation in cinema. Though their stories come from different corners of the entertainment world, both are connected by their courage, creativity, and commitment to authenticity.

Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s dive into the bold beats and boundary-breaking moments of Chappell Roan and Dirk Bogarde!

Episode Highlights:

1. Chappell Roan – Queer Pop Star in the Making:

• We explore Chappell Roan’s rise as an independent queer pop artist and how she’s used her platform to celebrate LGBTQ+ liberation.
• Her breakout single "Pink Pony Club" has become an anthem of queer joy and self-discovery, offering a safe space for young LGBTQ+ individuals to feel seen and accepted.
• Discuss her commitment to creating safe, inclusive environments at her concerts, where fans are encouraged to celebrate their identities and feel empowered.
• Highlight Chappell’s activism and philanthropy, including her collaborations with LGBTQ+ organizations like The Trevor Project, focusing on mental health and queer youth support.

1. Dirk Bogarde – The Original Boundary Breaker:

• We dive deep into Dirk Bogarde’s extraordinary career, from his early roles in British comedies to his groundbreaking performances in socially conscious films like Victim (1961).
• Bogarde’s portrayal of a barrister blackmailed for his homosexuality in Victim was revolutionary, as it tackled LGBTQ+ issues at a time when homosexuality was still illegal in the UK.
• Explore his later work with directors like Joseph Losey and Luchino Visconti in films such as The Servant and Death in Venice, where he continued to push boundaries around sexuality, class, and human desire.
• Discuss how Bogarde's private life, including his close relationship with Anthony Forwood, reflected the complexities of being a gay man in a less accepting era, and how his courage paved the way for more honest portrayals of LGBTQ+ lives in cinema.

Call to Action:

• Engage with Us: What do Chappell Roan and Dirk Bogarde mean to you as trailblazers for queer representation in their respective fields? Join the conversation on our social media platforms and share your thoughts!
• Support Queer Artists: Consider streaming Chappell Roan’s latest music or revisiting some of Dirk Bogarde’s most iconic films. Supporting queer art keeps the legacy of these boundary-breakers alive.

Resources and Further Reading:

• Chappell Roan’s: NBC New Article
• The Trevor Project and LGBTQ+ Mental Health Resources: [Link]

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! Today, we’re bringing you an episode that celebrates two men from very different worlds, both of whom have left a lasting impact on LGBTQ+ rights and representation: Robert Reed, the beloved father figure from The Brady Bunch, and Tim Walz, the current Governor of Minnesota and an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ equality and social justice. While Robert Reed was the dad we grew up watching, keeping the Brady kids in line, Tim Walz is the dad we need—leading the charge for LGBTQ+ rights, philanthropy, and equality in modern-day America.

Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and join us as we dive into their contributions, their impact, and what they mean to the LGBTQ+ community.

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Pop Icons and Vampire Vibes: Taylor Swift’s Philanthropy and What We Do In The Shadows

Welcome back to another fabulous episode of Queernundrum! This week, we’re diving into two seemingly different yet equally fascinating topics: the philanthropic efforts of global superstar Taylor Swift and the wildly entertaining, queer-friendly TV show, What We Do In The Shadows. Get ready to explore how Taylor Swift uses her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and give back to communities in need, and how a comedy about vampire roommates has become a surprising hit among queer audiences. Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and join us for a fun and insightful ride!

Episode Highlights:

1. Taylor Swift’s Philanthropy and Support for LGBTQ+ Rights:

• Discover how Taylor Swift evolved from country darling to pop icon and outspoken ally for the LGBTQ+ community.
• We’ll discuss her powerful song “You Need to Calm Down,” which became an anthem for LGBTQ+ pride and advocacy, and her public support for the Equality Act.
• Learn about Taylor’s significant donations to LGBTQ+ organizations, including GLAAD and how her philanthropy extends beyond LGBTQ+ issues to support education, disaster relief, and more.

What We Do In The Shadows: A Queer Delight in the Dark:

• Get ready to laugh as we dive into the hilarious and quirky world of What We Do In The Shadows, the TV series based on the cult-favorite film by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement.
• We’ll explore the show’s unique blend of comedy and horror, its clever satire of modern life, and why it resonates with queer audiences.
• An how Holly has not seen the show...

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren