The Power of Showing Up: Building Queer Community with Pony Lee Mustgrave

What happens when you mix scissors, stories, and queer magic? You get Folklore—a radically warm and inclusive salon built by community, for community.In this heartfelt episode of My Therapist is Out!, host Renae Johnson (they/them) sits down with artist, stylist, and community organizer Pony Lee Musgrave (he/they). From cutting hair to cutting through social norms, Pony shares their journey of creating Folklore, a queer-affirming space rooted in softness, storytelling, and collective resilience.TakeawaysBuilding intentional spaces that celebrate queer identityThe emotional labor and joy of community careWhy vulnerability is a superpower, not a weaknessHonoring our queer ancestors and holding space for our historyThe small, everyday rituals that keep us connected and groundedLeadership involves vulnerability and allowing oneself to fall apart.Community support is crucial during times of crisis.Local actions can lead to significant change.Honoring queer ancestors is essential for future generations.Storytelling helps preserve queer history and culture.The Butch Barber chair symbolizes a connection to queer activism.Queer Moment of Joy Guest: Hannah @hanxperez and Mandoh @MandohGuest Bio : Pony Lee Musgrave(they/he) is born and raised in East LA, Pony is a multidisciplinary Artist , barber, leather Person and owner of Folklore Salon & Barber. Pony has had an active part of community organizing for the Los Angeles Queer community since 2009.Salonfolklore.comIG: folklore.laNew Project: The restoration of Nancy Valverde’s Barber Chair . Known as The Butch Barber of East LA who was jailed and harassed by LAPD for wearing men's clothing. This project will have  a collection of performances, stories of resistance and queer perseverance while rebuilding the chair. All archived. Maybe a book? Who knows. Here is her history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nancy_ValverdeHost Bio: Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion.In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Events Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, and celebrate. They also host the podcast My Therapist is Out!, exploring mental health through a queer lens.As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping providers with the tools to do the same.To find more from us visit:Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.comInstagram: @openspacetherapycollective TikTok: @openspacetherapy Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisoutYouTube: @openspacetherapycollectiveKeywords: queer community, leadership, resilience, activism, Folklore, Butch Barber chair, LGBTQ+ history, community building, personal journey