The LGBTQ Experience

The LGBTQ Experience podcast defines queer life and discusses pop culture. Its primary goal is to inform curious listeners about the LGBTQIA+ community. Topics include mental health, labels on sexuality, erasure, and activism. Listeners also hear about queer history and current events from rotating student hosts.

Along with interviewing fellow students, the hosts review Heartstopper. The award-winning British coming-of-age series tells the fictional story of Charlie Spring. He's a young student who falls in love with his classmate. Critics and viewers acclaimed the series for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQIA+ people. It was one of the ten most-watched series two days after Netflix released it. The podcast discusses the characters, story, and soundtrack. How is it making gay history today? What impact will it have on children and teens?

Author Sophie Labelle joins the podcast for "The Facts and Lies of Being Transgender." The writer's webcomic, Assigned Male, explores growing up as a transgender child. Labelle is also an activist for transgender civil rights. The hosts analyze the meaning of terms like drag queen and nonbinary. Umbrella terms, like gay and queer, include so many other identities within it. The show explains why people must recognize the complexity of these identities.

In one episode, guest Keira talks about not fitting within any labels. Keira, the podcast's social media manager, considers herself "unlabeled." Being unlabeled means that someone chooses not to label their sexuality. The hosts celebrate that "Unlabeled" is a legitimate identity. Keira and others can enjoy Pride Month while proclaiming their identity.

There are many American gay icons today, including Queer Eyes' Jonathan Van Ness and journalist Eric Marcus. Musical artists like Beyoncé celebrate queer figures. Places like New York City are a beacon for those seeking the freedom to be themselves.

Today's many LGBTQIA+ podcasts help educate people. From Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang's Las Culturistas to Cameron Esposito's Queery, listeners have many options. The LGBTQ Experience joins these queer podcasts in exploring essential questions and definitions. New episodes may come out about once a month.