The Layers of Us
by Amanda Wan
The Layers of Us is a podcast about identity, growth, and the stories that make us who we are. While we center and uplift voices from queer, BIPOC, and Asian communities, this space is for anyone with a layered story to tell. Through honest conversations, we explore where we’ve been, what we’ve carried, and who we’re becoming - one story at a time.
Episodes
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Owning Your Voice: Queerness, Healing & Growth with Shannon Burns
TW: SEXUAL ASSAULT In this episode, we sit down with Shannon Burns to talk about queerness, healing, and what it really means to own your voice while growing into the person you’re meant to be. Shannon opens up about her journey of self-discovery, navigating identity, and learning how to show up...
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Owning Your Voice: Bisexuality, Music & Growth with Megan Stoneson
In this episode, we sit down with Megan Stoneson, singer-songwriter, to talk about identity, empowerment, and what it really means to embrace your bisexuality while finding your voice in music. Megan opens up about her journey of self-discovery, navigating queer identity, and creating music that...
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Empowerment, Identity & Queer Late Blooming with Eva Bloom
In this episode, we sit down with Eva Bloom (they/them), a queer & trans late bloomer coach and international speaker, to talk about identity, empowerment, and what it really means to come into yourself on your own timeline. Eva opens up about their journey as a late bloomer, embracing their...
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Gay Painter, Jewelry Maker & Coming Out Story with Sabine Strauch
In this episode, we sit down with Sabine Strauch, a queer painter and jewelry maker, to talk about her coming out journey and how it’s shaped her creative path. Sabine opens up about embracing her identity, finding confidence through art, and building a brand that celebrates queerness and...
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Black Lesbian Storytelling, Showrunning & Building “ONE WOMAN” with Asia
In this episode, we sit down with Asia to talk about her journey as a Black lesbian woman and the stories she’s bringing to life as the showrunner of the hit drama series “ONE WOMAN.” Asia opens up about creating from a place of truth, building complex characters, and what it means to center…
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First WLW Heartbreak, Divorce & Rewriting Your Identity with Drew
In this episode, we sit down with Drew to talk about her first WLW heartbreak, navigating divorce, and what it really looks like to rebuild your life when everything you thought was certain falls apart. Drew opens up about being married, coming to terms with her sexuality, and the emotional...
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Marriage, Rewriting Your Story & the Bisexual to Lesbian Pipeline with Emily Larson
In this episode, we sit down with Emily Larson to talk about rewriting your story, navigating identity shifts, and what it means to live your truth publicly. As a lifestyle, LGBTQ+ and travel creator, Emily shares what it was like to once be married to a man and now be engaged to a woman, and how...
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Queer Creator Visibility, Acting Ambitions & the Bisexual-to-Lesbian Pipeline with Georgia Bridgers
In this episode, we sit down with Georgia Bridgers to talk about paving the way for queer creators, branching into acting, and navigating identity both online and offline. As a creator who’s helped shape queer visibility on the internet, Georgia shares what it’s really like to grow up publicly,...
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Coming Out, Autism Diagnosis & Showing Up Authentically Online with Keara
In this episode, we sit down with Keara to talk about her coming out journey, receiving an autism diagnosis, and what it really means to share your life on the internet. As someone who shows up honestly and openly online, Keara offers a powerful perspective on identity, self-discovery, and...
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Disability Advocacy, Accessibility & Living Blind with Beth
In this episode, we sit down with Beth, a disability advocate, accessibility connoisseur, and powerful voice challenging ignorance around blindness and disability. With the belief that blindness is a spectrum, and ignorance isn’t, Beth uses her platform to educate, disrupt misconceptions, and...
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Self-Love, Disability Advocacy & Life as a Paralympian with Allison Lang
In this episode, we sit down with Allison Lang, a content creator, speaker, model, Paralympian-level athlete with Team Canada’s Sitting Volleyball Team, and a powerful voice in disability advocacy. Born without her left leg and growing up navigating bullying, body-image struggles, and...
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Gender-Affirming Fashion, Trans Joy & Community Care with Rae - Found of Origami Customs
In this episode, we sit down with Rae (they/them) , founder of Origami Customs - a trans and gender-diverse clothing brand and community program built by queer and trans people, for queer and trans people. Rae shares what it’s like creating gender-affirming fashion that actually fits, building a...
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Being on The Queer Ultimatum, Girly Lesbian Energy & Speaking Up with Marita Prodger
In this episode, we sit down with Marita Prodger, reality TV personality from The Queer Ultimatum, creator, and proud girly lesbian. 🌈 Marita opens up about her experience on the show, what it taught her about love and visibility, and why she believes being vocal as a queer woman matters more…
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Balancing Culture, Queerness & Public Love with Jason Suerte
In this episode, we sit down with Jason Suerte, a Queer Filipino creator and storyteller who’s passionate about amplifying LGBTQ+ and Asian voices. Jason opens up about what it was like growing up gay in the Asian community, navigating family expectations, and learning to love authentically in a...
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Trauma-Conscious Coach Empowering Queer, BIPOC & Neurodivergent Healing with Jemarc Axinto
In this episode, we sit down with Jemarc Axinto, a Trauma-Conscious Coach dedicated to helping Queer, BIPOC, and Neurodivergent beings recover from trauma, unlock their creativity, and live authentically. Jemarc’s work bridges healing and empowerment, guiding others to reconnect with their truth...
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Argentine-American Actor and Comedian Breaking Barriers with Zoe Marín
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Zoe Marín, an Argentine-American theatre artist, comedian, and artistic producer whose work explores identity, creativity, and the power of laughter. Zoe is part of the sketch troupe Small Friend Tall Friend and serves as the Artistic...
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Filipino, Queer, and Unapologetically Herself with Erika Casupanan
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Erika Casupanan, a Filipino immigrant, queer late bloomer, and the first woman of color to win Survivor. Erika is a keynote speaker, storyteller, and award-winning podcaster who empowers underestimated audiences through vulnerability,...
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Queer, South Asian, and Speaking Out with Alyy Patel
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Alyy Patel, a queer South Asian activist who explores issues of identity, community, and systemic oppression. Alyy shares their experiences with anti-Brown racism in lesbian communities, the challenges of coming out as a second-generation...
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Exploring Gender & Voice Identity with Renée Yoxon
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Renée Yoxon, a nonbinary singer, songwriter, physicist, and voice teacher who helps trans and nonbinary people create speaking voices they love. Renée shares their journey of gender exploration, what gender-affirming voice coaching is…
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Trans & Non-Binary Identity and Inclusion with Cal Campos
TW:SUICIDAL IDEATION / DEPRESSION TALK . In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Cal Campos, a trans and non-binary Filipino creator and advocate. Cal shares their experience navigating identity at the intersections of queerness and culture, what inclusion really means, and why...
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Queer Fashion & Identity with Stylist Courtney Davila
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Courtney Davila, a stylist and advocate for queer expression in fashion. Courtney shares her journey of embracing their identity as a lesbian, exploring the queerness of fashion, and using style as a tool for creativity and…
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Trans Masc Identity, Creative Resilience, and Building Peace & Power: Jasper’s Story of Music and Community
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Jasper, a trans masc singer and the owner of Peace & Power, a shop dedicated to community and self-expression. Jasper shares his story of embracing trans masc identity, finding resilience through creativity, and building spaces that…
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Conservative Town, Queer Identity, and STEM Success: Kelsey Miller’s Story of Resilience
In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Kelsey Miller - a proud queer woman in STEM who grew up in a conservative Midwest town. Kelsey shares her story of navigating small-town expectations, coming into her identity, and stepping into the professional world as an out and...
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Queer, Creative, and a Mom: Alex Ott’s Story of Redefining Parenthood
What does it mean to parent, create, and build community outside of traditional boxes? In this episode of The Layers of Us, Amanda sits down with Alex Ott — a queer San Diego native, solo mom, and founder of Chrome City Creative Studio and The Blank Table, an underground supper club rooted in...
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More Stories, Deeper Layers
We’re back — and we’re peeling back more layers than ever. In this special relaunch episode of The Layers of Us, I’m sharing the heart behind our rebrand, the vision for where we’re headed, and why this space matters now more than ever. From the stories we’ll tell to the voices we’ll uplift,...
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Sydney Cason | Telling stories through travel, queerness, and creativity
In this episode, I sit down with Sydney — a queer content creator, solo traveler, and her WLW group trips — to chat about her journey navigating identity, building a brand online, and the freedom that comes with traveling alone. We dive into how she blends storytelling, community, and...
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Hannah Sophia Siddiqui | A Journey Inward Through Astrology, Healing, and Self-Discovery!
Hi friends! In this episode, we're joined by Hannah Sophia Siddiqui to explore the powerful intersection of psychology, spirituality, and astrology. From understanding the inner workings of the mind to aligning with your higher self, Hannah shares her personal journey and insights on how we can…
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KYIEMA | Finding Her Voice Through Her EP ‘Hold Me Softly’
Hi friends! In this episode, we're joined by KYIEMA to talk all things music, growth, and the release of her debut EP Hold Me Softly. From writing songs in her bedroom to crafting a sound that's tender yet powerful, KYIEMA opens up about her journey as an artist, the emotions behind her first...
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Alison Cohen | Meditation, Inner Peace & Coaching with Intention!
Hi friends! In this episode, we're joined by Alison Cohen—mindfulness coach, meditation guide, and wellness advocate—for a grounding conversation on what it really means to live mindfully. We dive into her journey from hustle to healing, the power of presence, and how mindfulness can be a...
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Pam Muller | Unlocking the Mysteries of Dreams: Lucid Dreaming, Sleep Paralysis & More!
Hi friends! In this episode, we're joined by Pam Muller to explore the fascinating world of dreams. We dive deep into what dreams really are, how they connect to our subconscious, and the science behind lucid dreaming. Pam shares insights on how to become aware in your dreams, techniques to…
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Lauren House | Real Estate, Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry & Owning Your Confidence!
Hi friends! In this episode I’m joined by Lauren House and we dive into the reality of working in real estate—balancing deals, handling unexpected challenges, and standing your ground in a male-dominated industry. From dealing with clients to building unshakable confidence, we’re getting real…
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Madison Rutherford | Releasing Her Second Poetry Book - a poet's muse: a guide to loving and losing
Hi friends! In this episode I’m joined by Madison Rutherford—a poet, writer, and creative soul who just released her second poetry book, a poet’s muse: a guide to loving and losing. Whether you’re a poetry lover, a writer in the making, or just someone who appreciates raw, emotional storytelling,...
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Rachael Vassar | Overcoming Weight Loss Resistance & Restoring Energy!
Hi friends! In this episode, I sit down with Rachael, an online holistic health coach, to uncover the root causes of weight loss resistance and low energy—and how to heal them naturally. Rachael shares her expert insights on balancing hormones, improving digestion, and making sustainable…
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Kate Van Horn | Tarot, Healing, and the Journey to Spiritual Freedom!
Hey friends, in this episode, we're joined by the amazing Kate Van Horn, a professional psychic reader and author, who takes us on a journey through the world of tarot, energy healing, and spiritual growth. Kate shares her wisdom on how to live an empowered, intuitive life and offers practical…
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Elyce Arons | Building Culturally Relevant Businesses & Empowering Women Through Fashion and Leadership!
In this episode, we’re joined by Elyce Arons, CEO and Co-Founder of Frances Valentine, the brand she co-founded with the late Kate Spade. Elyce shares her journey of building a successful and culturally relevant business, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating the…
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Courtney Croucher | Building Confidence Through Sobriety, Pilates and Empowerment!
Hi friends! In this episode we're joined by Courtney , who shares her powerful journey of sobriety and how it’s shaped her work as an empowerment coach and Pilates instructor. Discover how combining sobriety, Pilates, and personal coaching can lead to a life of transformation, confidence, and...
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Ava Nouri | Navigating Boundaries, Mindful Healing, and Intentional Living!
Hi friends! In this episode, I’m joined by Ava to dive into balancing multiple roles, setting boundaries, and taking a holistic approach to health. Ava opens up about her personal journey of setting boundaries with social media and jumps into exploring how these practices impact our wellness,...
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Ana Cordera | Creating Meaningful Careers & Healthy Relationships in Your Twenties!
Hi friends! In this episode, I’m joined by Ana, the creator of Theory & Practice, a podcast and newsletter focused on helping twenty-somethings create meaningful careers and purposeful relationships. Ana shares practical tips and mindset shifts on how to be more intentional in both work and love....
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Rachel Houtteman | Navigating a Gluten-Free Lifestyle and Embracing Her Queerness
Hey friends! In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel Houtteman, a passionate advocate for living authentically, both in terms of a gluten-free lifestyle and embracing your queer identity. Rachel opens up about her personal journey of navigating the challenges of food sensitivities while also...
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Veda Leclerc | Diving into Hormones, Cycle Syncing & Gut Health!
Hey friends! In this episode, I’m joined by Veda to explore the fascinating connection between hormones, cycle syncing, and gut health. Veda shares expert insights on how aligning with your body’s natural rhythms can boost energy, enhance mood, and improve overall well-being. From practical...
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Tiffany Lynn and Hilary Sisolak | The Co-Founders of Park Hill Studios on Creativity, Collaboration, and Empowerment!
Hey friends! In this episode, we sit down with Tiffany and Hilary, the dynamic co-founders of Park Hill Studios. Tiffany, a talented photographer, and Hilary, a visionary floral and event designer, share how they turned their creative passions into thriving businesses. Together, they co-own three...
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Melissa Carrington | Empowering Women, Real Estate Success & the Importance of Building Community!
Hey friends! In this episode we sat down with Melissa Carrington, a powerhouse in real estate and women’s empowerment. As a mother of two, Rookie of the Year, and Hamilton 40 Under 40 Honoree, Melissa has built an incredible career in just three years. She’s the co-founder of the Steel City…
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Alex Freitas | The Process of Building a $100k+ Business & Using Pinterest as a Powerful Business Tool!
Hi friends! In this episode, we chat with Alex Freitas about the journey to building a $100k+ business and how Pinterest became a game-changing tool in the process. Alex shares actionable tips for entrepreneurs, insights on leveraging Pinterest for growth, and the mindset shifts that helped scale...
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Vic Carnevale | Being Authentically Yourself, Growing Your Online Platform & Dealing with Negativity!
Hi friends! In this episode, we sit down with Vic Carnevale to explore what it truly means to be authentic online. Vic shares her insights on building a genuine, engaged platform, tips for navigating growth in the digital space, and her approach to handling negativity with confidence. From…
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Katherine Fitzgerald | Providing Free Search & Rescue Services and Advocacy for Families of Missing People at Murphy's Mission!
Hi friends! In this powerful episode we’re joined by Katherine Fitzgerald, the inspiring founder of Murphy's Mission! Katherine shares her journey and passion for providing free search and rescue services for families of missing persons, along with the vital advocacy work her organization does....
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Alex Mufson | How Our Human Design Affects our Business, How Powerful our Views Are and Putting Money in the Right Hands!
Hi friends! This week on the pod we're joined by Alex Mufson, a trailblazing Human Design expert and the visionary Founder and CEO of Rêv, on a mission to disrupt conventional business by bringing humanity to the forefront. Alex is passionate about channeling resources toward change-makers and...
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Katharine Quinn | Working on Broadway, Being a Social Media Manager & Owning a Business!
Hey friends! In this episode, we're joined by Katharine Quinn, a dynamic social media manager for Gatsby on Broadway and a successful business owner! We dive into her experience working behind the scenes in the high-energy world of Broadway, the ins and outs of managing social media for a major...
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Brittany Leonard | Working as a General Counsel How to Network Online and Building a Business!
Hey friends! In this episode, we're joined by Brittany Leonard, a seasoned General Counsel and legal expert. We dive into her journey in the legal world, what it’s like to work as a General Counsel, and how she’s built a thriving business alongside her career. Brittany shares her top tips for...
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Sarah Tract | Designing Playful, Livable, and Personal Interiors in the Heart of NYC
Hey friends! In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Tract, founder of Sarah Tract Interiors, a New York City-based residential interior design studio. At just 26 years old, Sarah has built a reputation for creating playful, livable, and deeply personal spaces that reflect the unique personalities...
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Jessie Gabriel | Gender Equity, Capital Access, and Protecting Your Ownership
Hey friends! In this episode, we're joined by Jessie Gabriel and we dive into the critical topics of gender equity in capital markets, protecting ownership as a founder, and navigating the complex world of startup fundraising. We discuss how women entrepreneurs and non-binary founders can secure...
About this show
The Layers of Us is a podcast about identity, growth, and the stories that make us who we are. While we center and uplift voices from queer, BIPOC, and Asian communities, this space is for anyone with a layered story to tell. Through honest conversations, we explore where we’ve been, what we’ve carried, and who we’re becoming - one story at a time.
Hosted by
Amanda Wan