Charlie Craggs: Joy, Authenticity & Fighting Back

Charlie Craggs is an award-winning author, activist and the creator of Nail Transphobia, the campaign that used free manicures to start conversations about trans lives.In this episode of Queer Talker, Charlie joins Ben Cicchetti for one of the most honest and uplifting conversations yet.Together they discuss growing up, bullying, finding authenticity, the importance of representation, why Nadia Almada changed Charlie’s life, and why humour can be one of the most powerful forms of activism.Charlie also reveals exclusively that Nail Transphobia is returning, shares details of her next book, and explains why she refuses to let anyone take away her joy.They also discuss:Growing up as a queer childBeing bullied at schoolNadia Almada and Big BrotherFinding authenticityNail TransphobiaTrans rights in 2026Social media and activismStanding up for yourselfWhy joy is an act of resistanceA funny, emotional and incredibly empowering conversation.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Queer Panic00:26 First album and music memories01:21 Lip sync song choice and queer media favorites01:59 Favorite queer icons and representation03:06 Meeting Nadia Almada and her impact08:27 Nadia Almada’s victory and representation09:07 Young Charlie’s understanding of gender and identity11:01 Media treatment of trans people over decades13:28 Trans rights and societal progress16:48 Trans men in society and bathroom debates21:23 Authenticity and self-acceptance journey23:36 The Nail Transphobia campaign’s origins and impact35:32 Upcoming book and advocacy plans45:31 Advice to younger self and resilience48:18 Protecting joy and handling negativity50:30 Closing remarks and gratitudeConnect with Ben Cicchetti:Website - https://www.queertalker.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchettiTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti