Queer 101

Hey y’all — it’s Peppermint, and welcome back to Queer 101, the podcast where we talk queer history, queer culture, queer books, and the stories we definitely didn’t learn in school.Hugh is on his book tour (go grab My Bad for your summer reading list!), so this week it’s just me. And since it’s Pride Month, I wanted to revisit some of our most powerful conversations about activism, trans rights, and the queer leaders who shaped our movement.Because Pride didn’t start with a party. It started with a protest.In this episode, I reflect on:Why some queer stories get erased — even in the age of social mediaThe legacy of Marsha P. Johnson and why her full story mattersThe case of trans women like Alice Correa and how quickly names disappear from headlinesWhat activism really means — is it marching? organizing? living openly? all of the above?Why queer activism must stay connected to working-class strugglesThe truth about anti-trans rhetoric, especially around trans women in sportsAnd how capitalism influences politics, sports, and even our movementsAs we head toward the anniversary of Stonewall, this episode is about remembering where we came from, honoring the activists who fought before us, and recommitting to the work ahead.Because our history is not optional. It’s essential.Happy Pride. Stay proud. Stay loud. And keep fighting the good fight.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Summer School - classes are now in session, y’all.Before we get into it — yes, we’re going biweekly for the summer (because Pride season is Pride‑ing), but don’t panic. We’ll be back to weekly episodes before ya know it. In the meantime, I’m booked, busy, and SO honored to be serving as Grand Marshal New York Pride March, and season three of Survival of the Thickest wil be back. Hot queer summer energy only.Now — onto today’s ‘lesson’.Let me begin by saying I could not be more proud of co-host and friend the brilliantHugh Ryan. This week we are talking about his new memoir, My Bad: A Personal History of the Queer ’90s and Beyond — out today!! Also available as an audiobook read by Hugh himself (which I love).We get into why the 1990s were such a pivotal moment in queer history:- The shift from analog life to the early internet.- From queer invisibility to mainstream visibility post‑AIDS crisis.- From mega‑clubs and nightlife freedom to the always‑online world we live in now.Hugh shares a seventh‑grade classroom moment that shaped how he understood queerness, what it felt like to grow up queer in the ’90s, and how New York City nightlife became a sanctuary. We talk about queer isolation, remix culture, disappearing before social media (remember privacy?), and the complicated trade‑offs of mainstream acceptance.If you’ve ever wondered how the queer ’90s shaped the world we’re living in now — this one is for you.📚 Click here to order your copy of  My Bad now.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hey y’all. It’s me, Peppermint.This week on Queer 101, Hugh and I are doing what I call a real ‘Pep Talk’— because let’s be honest, the attacks on LGBTQIA+ people (especially trans folks) are escalating, organized, and intentional.We’re not imagining it.From the DOJ arguing that queer legal protections are somehow “anti‑Christian,” to the 197‑page blueprint to roll back Biden‑era LGBTQ+ policies, to a counterterrorism strategy that literally labels “transgender ideology” as a threat — we are watching a coordinated attempt to dehumanize trans people and strip away rights.And yes. We name it.We talk about:• Project 2025 and what it actually means for trans rights • The smear campaign around “transgender ideology” • Copycat ID laws like Mississippi’s targeting trans people • Schools like Smith College being investigated for admitting trans women • Pride censorship — including attempts to block tributes to Marsha P. Johnson • J.K. Rowling’s ongoing anti‑trans rhetoric and why it matters • Billionaire power, culture‑war distractions, and destabilization tactics • Why the Met Gala optics matter (hi Bezos 👀) • The “Ball Without Billionaires” calling out labor exploitationAnd most importantly — what we do about it. (Call the Govenor)Because this episode is not about doom.We are not powerless.We are organized.We are informed.And we are not going back.Let’s get into it.AND CALL THE GOVERNOR HOCHUL’S OFFICE 518-474-8398Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Okayyyy y’all Pride season is officially ON — and we are starting with a Queer 101 deep dive into the ICONIC ’90s downtown New York City queer nightlife scene that literally shaped mainstream culture.Yes. I said literally.Hugh the Historian and I get into how queer artists, trans pioneers, club kids, and AIDS activists built the culture everyone copies today.We’re talking:✨ Wigstock ✨ Ballroom culture ✨ Club Kids ✨ DIY queer fashion ✨ ’90s drag and nightlife performance ✨ AIDS activism ✨ The origins of Silence = DeathAnd of course we discuss Hugh’s new book “My Bad” (availabe now for pre-order).I share stories about the LEGENDARY Connie Fleming and Lina Bradford — from door culture to runways to George Michael’s “Too Funky.” Meanwhile, Hugh breaks down how over 120 interviews helped uncover the truth about how queer labor in downtown clubs fueled fashion, gender expression, political activism, and eventually… pop culture.Yes, Madonna. Yes, brands raiding the clubs. Yes, Giuliani cracking down on nightlife.And we also talk about something real: how much queer history was almost lost — because of AIDS, pre-digital culture, and systemic erasure.This episode is about queer history, trans visibility, Pride, activism, nightlife culture, and why what we create right now still matters.Because queer art doesn’t just reflect culture.It builds it!—------------------Click here to pre-order Hugh’s book “My Bad”Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week on Queer 101, Hugh the Historian and I are back — and whew. It’s been a heavy one.We’re breaking down a wave of anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ legislation, including Louisiana’s so‑called “Restoring Biological Truth Act” (HB 578) and what it actually means when lawmakers try to legally define sex as “observed at birth” and erase the word gender from state statutes.Because let’s be clear: When you remove gender from the law, you’re not just playing with language — you’re dismantling protections for transgender people.We also talk about Mississippi’s upcoming July 1 policy requiring law enforcement to report people to ICE if their ID doesn’t match their sex assigned at birth. That’s not random. That’s not accidental. Hugh and I unpack how trans rights and immigration enforcement are being deliberately linked — and how that impacts constitutional freedoms like speech, travel, protest, and assembly.This episode connects a lot of dots:Anti-trans laws in Louisiana and MississippiAnti-DEI policies and access to documentsICE reporting requirementsThe history of gender policing in AmericaHow immigration systems have long been used to enforce ideas about “productivity” and reproductionWhy free speech and protest rights are increasingly under pressureLike I said, it’s pretty heavy, y’allBUT because we always try to leave you with some light, we close with good news:Time’s 100 Most Influential People list includes Shannon Minter, Hillary Knight, and Alan Cumming — reminders that queer and trans excellence continues, even in difficult moments.This conversation isn’t just about trans rights. It’s about civil rights. It’s about free speech. It’s about who gets to exist safely and openly in this country.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the headlines, this episode is for you. We break it down, connect the history, and remind you why staying informed matters.And let us know how YOU are feeling. We love to hear from you.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hugh and I are back with a spring check-in packed with LGBTQ+ news, queer Broadway buzz, and hopeful updates on trans rights.This week on Queer 101, we break down global political shifts, including Viktor Orbán’s loss in Hungary, and react to unexpected queer headlines like Grindr sponsoring part of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Then we dive into a major queer-forward Broadway season — from ballroom culture taking center stage in Cats: The Jellicle Ball to new works like Dog Day Afternoon, a show centered on funding gender-affirming care.We also spotlight Montana court decisions protecting gender-affirming care for trans youth and access to accurate identification documents, reflect on how Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS activism has evolved since the 1990s, and unpack ongoing anti-trans media narratives shaping public discourse.Plus, Hugh honors Peppermint’s historic Broadway milestone in Head Over Heels, and we preview Peppermint’s May 26 book release, share our latest LGBTQ book club picks, and talk about what’s next for Queer 101 this spring - holding onto hope, with our eyes wide openFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week on Queer 101, Hugh and I are reacting in real time to headlines that say everything about the moment we’re in.Caitlyn Jenner went on Fox News to complain about being impacted by Trump-era passport policies affecting transgender people.Dave Chappelle suggested that right-wing anti-trans rhetoric may have “gone too far.”But here’s the question:Who helped normalize that rhetoric in the first place?It’s an off-the-cuff conversation about how anti-trans jokes, media narratives, and influencer commentary don’t just stay online — they get cited in courtrooms, echoed in legislatures, and turned into policy.We break down:• How anti-trans rhetoric spreads from comedy specials to legislation • Why passport and ID restrictions create real safety risks for trans people • The surge of anti-trans bills targeting sports, bathrooms, healthcare, and legal recognition • How misinformation shows up in court cases and policy drafts • The broader effort to erase trans people from public life • Why some public figures are now walking back the very narratives they amplifiedThis isn’t just about culture wars. It’s about consequences.When rhetoric becomes law, people’s lives are affected.We also talk about genocide prevention warnings, conservative groups openly stating their end goals, and what it means for our community right now.And on a joyful note — I share the news that I’ve been named a Grand Marshal of NYC Pride. 🌈If you care about LGBTQ rights, trans rights, gender-affirming care, passport policy changes, or the future of queer visibility — this episode is for you.Now more than ever, showing up matters. GET INVOLVED!Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Okay y’all — this is Part Two of our activism conversation, and we’re zooming out.Because what’s happening right now isn’t random. It’s coordinated. It’s strategic. And it’s about control.On this episode of Queer 101, we start with the headlines — like new Olympic policies impacting trans athletes and the return of invasive sex testing in women’s sports — but we don’t stay there. We use that moment as a window into something much bigger.What happens when governments and institutions start deciding who qualifies as a “real” woman? Who gets healthcare? Who gets citizenship? Who gets protection?That’s where this conversation goes.We unpack how policies framed as “fairness” can quickly turn into widespread body policing — impacting not just trans people, but cis women and anyone who doesn’t fit narrow definitions of gender. When hormone levels and chromosomes become political tools, we all need to pay attention.And we talk about how fear-based narratives distort science, flatten nuance, and keep people reacting instead of thinking.But this isn’t just about sports.We connect the dots to:The broader wave of anti‑LGBTQ legislationHow capitalism and sponsorship culture silence dissentThe role of money in shaping politics and athleticsThe UN recognizing American chattel slavery as a crime against humanityWhich countries opposed that recognition — and why that mattersFood as a human rightBirthright citizenship debatesClass versus caste — and how systems decide who belongsBecause at the end of the day, this isn’t about one policy or one headline.It’s about who gets autonomy. Who gets dignity. Who gets to exist without being audited.I’m asking us to think bigger. To notice patterns. To recognize when “debate” is actually distraction. And to remember that solidarity has to extend beyond hashtags.This moment isn’t just about visibility. It’s about power.Talk about it.Get involved!Get Involved. Check out these amazing organizationsGender LiberationBlack Trans LiberationFree to Be Youth FoundationFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week on Queer 101, Hugh and I are marking International Trans Day of Visibility — not just as a celebration, but as a call to action.We start with some wins, because joy and recognition matter. Our Queer History Book Club is thriving. Caro De Robertis was just named a National Book Awards judge (as she should), and Tourmaline’s biography of Marsha P. Johnson is now a Lambda Literary Award finalist. We’re also shouting out new queer and nonbinary bookstores opening in Brooklyn. Our stories are being written, read, and protected. That’s powerful.But visibility isn’t just about being seen. It’s about being safe. It’s about being resourced. It’s about being free.So we dig into what queer activism actually means right now.It’s not just marches and megaphones. It’s art. It’s organizing. It’s infiltrating systems that weren’t built for us. It’s making sure working‑class queer and trans people have healthcare, housing, food, safety, and job security — not just rainbow branding once a year.We talk about rallies like Tax the Rich and the Doll Walk, and we look back at ACT UP to remember that activism has always been bold, strategic, and deeply intersectional. We connect history — from Oscar Wilde to today — and remind ourselves that queer existence has always disrupted systems of control.And then we get honest about what we’re facing.Anti‑trans policies — ID restrictions, healthcare bans, sports bans, Supreme Court cases — are not random. They’re connected. They’re about autonomy. About bodies. About who gets to decide who we are.We break down:The myth of trans athlete “advantage”Olympic bans and sex testing backlashDouble standards in football safetyHow sponsorships and capitalism silence activismFood and housing as human rightsBirthright citizenship parallelsClass versus caste — and why that matters to queer liberationBecause on International Trans Day of Visibility, we have to say this clearly:Visibility without protection is vulnerability. Visibility without policy change is performance. Visibility without action is not enough.We close by highlighting organizations doing real work — Gender Liberation, Black Trans Liberation, and Free to Be Youth — and by urging continued action beyond today.Trans people have always been here. Queer people have always organized. And our visibility has always been political.Get Involved. Check out these amazing organizationsGender LiberationBlack Trans LiberationFree to Be Youth FoundationFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

We fought for LGBTQ visibility. So why does it feel more dangerous now?In this episode of Queer 101, I sit down with historian Hugh Ryan to talk about the current state of LGBTQ rights in the United States — from anti-trans legislation and drag bans to the political strategy behind “protect the children” rhetoric.We unpack how attacks on trans healthcare, queer education, and media representation are shaping a new phase of the culture wars. We discuss how funding tied to women’s rights, Black communities, feminism, and transgender advocacy is being targeted — and what that means for the future of LGBTQ organizing.Why are universities quietly altering queer archival language? Why are film and TV companies feeling pressure around LGBTQ representation? And what happens when Pride becomes dependent on corporate sponsorship?This conversation goes beyond outrage. We explore practical strategies for LGBTQ resilience — including mutual aid, community organizing, reducing social media outrage cycles, and rebuilding in-person queer infrastructure.If you care about queer visibility, trans rights, LGBTQ politics, and the future of Pride, this episode is for you.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This episode of Queer 101 is personal.Hugh and I start by talking about survival — because right now, that’s not dramatic. It’s real. Self‑promotion, community support, showing up for each other… these aren’t cute extras. They’re how we stay alive in a moment when anti‑trans policies are escalating in very coordinated ways.We break down what’s actually happening — from efforts to end gender‑affirming care for trans people in prison, to attacks on IDs and birth certificates, to bathroom bans, to provisions tied to the SAVE Act that Trump is pushing Congress to pass. People love to call these “culture war” issues. But let’s be clear: when you mess with someone’s documents, healthcare, or safety, that’s not culture. That’s material harm.I also say what I feel — that a lot of Democratic leadership and the consultant class seem afraid of anger. But anger is not the enemy. Anger is information. Anger can be fuel. The question is: are we organizing it?We shout out the few politicians who are actually showing up — like New York’s Eric Botcher — because accountability goes both ways.Then we zoom out. Hugh brings in the history of prisons — how they function as tools of control, forced labor, and a continuation of slavery. We talk about abolition not as a buzzword, but as a question of bodily autonomy. If trans liberation means anything, it has to include people behind bars.This episode is about connecting the dots. Trans rights. Prison systems. Political strategy. Survival.And yes, we end with a call to action — call your senators to oppose the SAVE Act. Support the legal and grassroots groups helping trans folks get documents and care. Don’t just scroll. Do something.I’m not interested in being quiet. I’m interested in us being free.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hey y’all it’s me, Peppermint- This week Hugh and  step away from their usual queer art and literature focus to process an escalating political moment hitting queer people—especially trans communities. We discuss Shia LaBeouf invoking a “gay panic/Twinkie defense” after violence at Mardi Gras, connecting it to long-standing excuses for harm against queer and trans people. Then the conversation turns to Kansas revoking driver’s licenses for trans residents, the risks of disenfranchisement ahead of the election, and broader moves around voter ID, passports, prisons, and forced detransition; highlighting institutions preemptively “falling in line,” including Vanderbilt ending gender-affirming surgical services for trans adults, and describe a chilling effect in museums avoiding queer exhibitions. People, voting every four years is NOT ENOUGH. I urge you to organize locally, learn from AIDS-era models like ACT UP, prioritize issues when voting, reject corporate influence, and share community strategies for resistance and hope.We CAN do this!!!Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week on Queer 101, we’re digging into something that keeps coming up: how does queer underground culture — the worlds we build for survival and joy — end up in the mainstream?Hugh and I start with the Pride flag drama at Stonewall, because it’s a perfect example of the tension we’re living in. Queer culture is visible, marketable, everywhere. Queer rights? Still debated. Still contested.Stonewall itself shows the shift. What began as resistance led by trans people and street queens becomes a national monument, a symbol, a brand. That’s the pipeline: underground → subculture → spectacle → commodity.We see it in nightlife. Our bars and clubs were laboratories for gender, fashion, music, language. We created culture for each other. Then it gets discovered, exported, and sold back to everyone else. Visibility expands — but ownership gets complicated.From the East Village art scene to Madonna to Rent, queer creativity goes national. It always does. The question is what happens to the people who made it once the mainstream cashes in.Because capitalism loves queer culture. It just doesn’t always love queer people.Let’s get into it. 💖Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hey y’all, it’s me, Peppermint! This week on Queer 101, Hugh and I are recording from the middle of a literal New York snowstorm — and let’s just say… the weather isn’t the only thing spiraling.We’re giving our own LGBTQ+ State of the Union, breaking down what’s actually happening right now: attacks on gender-affirming care, threats to marriage equality, institutions folding under pressure, and the constant chaos that makes last week’s crisis feel like ancient history.I also share my personal red lines — what feels non‑negotiable for me as a trans woman — and we talk about what it means to hold institutions accountable when their red line always seems to be money.Bundle up and press play. 💕Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week on Queer 101, Hugh (my resident historian-in-chief) and I are back in our Sister Outsider era — and baby, we are not keeping it cute.We pick up where we left off with Audre Lorde and the idea of the erotic as power — not shame, not scandal, not something to clutch pearls over — but something potentially liberating. And from there? Oh, we go there.Using the reactions to Heated Rivalry (yes, that one 👀) and the very real experiences of trans women being fetishized, we unpack how the Overton window around sexuality, morality, and public accountability has shifted since the 1970s.Because let’s be honest — what’s considered “scandalous” today feels wildly inconsistent.We talk about:The gap between puritanical moral outrage and the lack of consequences for powerful men named in the Epstein filesHow accountability seems to depend on which political team you’re onWhy conspiracy movements like QAnon thrive during economic anxietyAnd how scapegoating marginalized communities becomes a convenient distractionSpoiler: neither political party is fully meeting the moment. And “just vote harder” is not a complete strategy.We get into what I call “bearable fascism,” why electoral politics alone won’t save us, and how Audre Lorde’s insistence on rejecting silence, shame, and respectability politics feels more urgent than ever.For me, this episode is about remembering that organizing matters. Community matters. Your internal compass matters. And survival under oppression requires more than vibes — it requires intention.New episodes drop every Tuesday, and if you want to see my face while I get fired up, the full video version is on my YouTube channel.Come join the conversation. Bring your brain. And maybe a highlighter.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

On this episode of Queer 101, Hugh Ryan and I are not tiptoeing around queer history — we’re diving straight in. We’re talking about why queer literature still matters, why Audre Lorde remains required reading, and why the erotic is way more than what people are comfortable admitting.Lorde taught us that the erotic is power. Period. Not something shameful. Not something to be watered down. And definitely not something to be controlled by people who benefit from our silence. We get into how desire can be liberating, how fetishization shows up when power is uneven, and why marginalized bodies are so often desired and disciplined at the same time.From there, we fast‑forward to today and take a sharp look at how queer relationships are being packaged in mainstream media. Using Heated Rivalry as our case study, we break down what actually feels erotic, what feels performative, and why authenticity still makes people nervous.We also talk sports, visibility, and courage — giving flowers to openly gay Olympian Connor McDermott‑Mostowy and reminding athletes everywhere that allyship isn’t passive. If you’re on a team, you’re responsible for the culture.This episode is sexy, smart, political, and personal — because queer desire has always been revolutionary, whether people were ready for it or not.Listen closely. This one has a bit of a bite.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:

Hey y’all, it’s  Peppermint — and on this episode of Queer 101, Hugh and I are doing what queer people have always done best: connecting history to the mess we’re living in right now.We start with Audre Lorde’s Sister Outsider — newly reissued, still devastatingly relevant, and frankly doing laps around half the conversations happening today. Audre wasn’t here for respectability politics, and neither are we.Then I take you inside the Supreme Court, where I recently sat through hearings on trans athletes in sports. Yes, I was in the room. Yes, it was as wild — and revealing — as you’d imagine. We talk about how these cases aren’t really about sports at all, but about power, control, and who gets to exist comfortably in public life.We get into the systemic targeting of trans people, how anti‑trans legislation doesn’t just hurt trans folks (spoiler: cis women are already catching the backlash), and why bodily autonomy is always the first thing up for debate when fear runs the show.Along the way, we pull in feminist history, revolutionary poets, and Audre Lorde’s timeless reminder that silence does not protect us — it just protects the systems hurting us.This episode is about intersectionality, resistance, and speaking up, even when it’s uncomfortable. Especially when it’s uncomfortable.Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hey y’all—it’s me, Peppermint 💅🏽 and welcome back to Queer 101. In this episode, I’m joined by my partner in queer crime, Hugh the Historian, and honey… we are digging deep. Like “Hollywood secrets buried under a studio lot” deep.We dive into the shadowy, fascinating, and sometimes infuriating hidden histories of queer culture—especially in old Hollywood, where being LGBTQ+ was very much a don’t ask, don’t exist situation. We unpack Michael Kresky’s book Sick and Dirty, which chronicles a time when queer folks were everywhere in the industry… just not allowed to be seen. Closets had closets, okay?From there, we spill the tea on queer coding in film—how villains, side characters, and “odd” personalities were often the only places queer energy was allowed to live onscreen. Hugh breaks it down historically while I’m sitting there like, “Wait… so that’s why every fabulous villain felt a little too familiar?”We also get into the real power players—the closeted figures who wielded enormous influence while benefiting from systems that oppressed the very community they were part of. Yes, we’re talking Roy Cohn, Liz Smith, and the complicated, messy reality of survival, power, and exploitation in systems that weren’t built for us.And listen, this isn’t just a history lesson—it’s about how culture, politics, and power all intertwine, and how queer people have always been navigating that web, whether out loud or in the shadows. We reflect on how oppression works systemically, how visibility can be both dangerous and revolutionary, and why understanding this history matters right now.So buckle up, grab your popcorn, and get ready to learn, laugh, and maybe side‑eye Hollywood just a little harder.Timestamps00:00 Welcome to Queer 10101:03 Queer Coding: The Subtext Was Loud05:35 Why So Many Villains Felt… Familiar10:53 Closets, Power, and Complicity15:08 Systems of Oppression & Queer Survival22:17 Final Thoughts, Community Love & Birthday VibesFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hey y’all, it’s me Peppermint 💋 and welcome back to Queer 101! This episode is one of those “once you see it, you can’t unsee it” conversations—because we’re talking all about queer coding in pop culture. And yes… it’s been happening forever.This week Hugh Ryan, and I break down how queerness has been sneaking into movies, books, and TV for decades—especially back when being openly queer was a hard no thanks to censorship, moral panics, and a whole lot of pearl‑clutching. So what did creators do? Oh, they got creative.We get into Hollywood history and how queerness was often hidden in plain sight through gestures, voices, fashion, and vibes. Then we jump straight into Disney, because let’s be honest—the villains were serving. From Scar’s theatrical drama in The Lion King to Ursula’s larger‑than‑life fabulousness in The Little Mermaid, we talk about why so many of us clocked those characters immediately—even as kids.But it’s not just about being queer-coded; we also unpack how queerness and racial coding often overlapped, reinforcing stereotypes and shaping how audiences understood “otherness.” It’s layered, it’s complicated, and yes—it had real cultural consequences.We also look beyond film into literature, where queerness has long lived between the lines, and we ask the big question: now that we can be more open, why are we still relying on subtext?By the end, Hugh and I share our hopes for a future where queer characters don’t have to hide in villains, metaphors, or side‑eyes—and where authenticity doesn’t require decoding. And of course, we want to hear from you, so I invite you to share your thoughts, your favorite coded characters, and what you want us to tackle next on Queer 101.Because if the subtext was loud back then? Baby, the text deserves a microphone now.Timestamps00:00 Welcome back to Queer 10101:09 How Hollywood Learned to Code Queerness03:38 Disney Villains: The Real Gay Icons07:11 How Queer Coding Shaped Culture10:19 Race, Queerness & “Otherness”17:44 Queer Stories Between the Lines29:06 Imagining a Future Without Coding29:46 Final Thoughts & Call to ActionFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected], Ursula, and the Queer History of Disney, Hollywood & Pop Culture

Hey y’all, it’s me, Peppermint, and on this episode of Queer 101, Hugh and I are ringing in the New Year the only way we know how: chatty, curious, and a little bit queerly chaotic.We kick things off swapping New Year’s stories — who rested, who partied, who intended to journal but absolutely did not — and then get into the real question: Do queer people even do resolutions the same way? (Spoiler: yes, but gayer.)From there, we dive headfirst into one of my favorite topics: queer coding in the media — aka all the gay stuff they didn’t teach us in school but definitely snuck into movies anyway. I get especially excited talking about Michael Koresky’s book Sick and Dirty, which peels back the glittery curtain on Hollywood from the 1930s–60s and shows how queer creators and characters survived under censorship by being clever, coded, and just a little scandalous.Of course, we don’t stay in the past too long. We also discuss modern queer media, from buzzy shows like Heated Rivalry to the current state of queer visibility on TV. What’s working? What feels forced? And what makes us scream “FINALLY!” at our screens?We also get real for a moment about the political climate and why representation still matters — especially when queer stories are often the first to be questioned, cut, or “rebranded.” But don’t worry, we balance the heaviness with joy, laughter, and personal reflections on the queer-coded characters that helped shape us before we even had the words for ourselves.Before we wrap, we invite you into the conversation: 💬 What queer-coded characters did you clock way before everyone else? 📚 What should we read or watch next? 📺 What makes queer representation feel authentic to you?Come for the media analysis, stay for the laughs, and leave knowing you’re part of a long, fabulous lineage of queer storytelling.

New year, fresh vibes, same big conversations — but with hope, glitter, and a little more wiggle room.Hugh and I chat about power, belonging, and what happens when queer folks stop waiting for a seat at the table and just build a better party.Yes, we talk history. Yes, we talk growth. But mostly we’re talking about finding your people, making room for each other, and stepping into the new year knowing we’re stronger (and cuter) together.Rolling into this next chapter with community, curiosity, and a whole lot of optimism.Cheers to what’s coming. Wishing you all a very happy and healthy new year. Follow us at:@peppermint246@hughoryanWrite to us at:[email protected]

Hey y’all,  grab your cocoa and your cutest fuzzy socks because this episode of Queer 101 is basically a queer holiday special—with me, Peppermint, serving yuletide realness and Hugh the Historian sprinkling in the facts like he’s the Mariah Carey of academia.We’re talking all things queer holidays: the traditions we made up, the ones we borrowed, and the ones we refuse to participate in (sorry, straight people—your office Secret Santa is chaotic). I share how I make Christmas deliciously queer, fabulously meaningful, and just messy enough to feel authentic.We also get real about holiday loneliness, chosen family magic, and how to slay gift‑giving without selling your kidneys to afford it. Yes, we answer your listener questions—yes, they are adorable—and yes, I absolutely go on a tangent about Cher and queer holiday culture because… would it even be Queer 101 if I didn’t?We dream up a Christmas‑themed gay bar (someone please fund this), talk stocking traditions, tea obsessions, the perfect Christmas Eve gifts, and the joy of giving back to LGBTQ+ orgs during the season that’s supposed to be about love, not capitalism.Think of this episode as your queer holiday survival guide—with jokes, nostalgia, community love, and just enough peppermint spice to keep things interesting.Your peppermint‑flavored timestamps:• 00:00 — Welcome to Queer 101: Holiday Edition • 01:06 — Holiday Reflections & Queer Spaces (bring on the glitter) • 01:52 — Our Family Traditions & Pep’s Christmas Prep • 06:30 — Volunteering & Community Love • 08:51 — Cher: Patron Saint of Queer Christmas • 15:45 — Navigating Holiday Drama (’tis the season!) • 19:34 — Non‑Traditional Holiday Movies We Actually Watch • 20:54 — Peppermint’s Holiday Love Letter • 22:16 — Sip, Sip, Gay: Supporting the Community with Moody Teas • 22:34 — Tea Enthusiasm (wild, chaotic, joyful) • 22:45 — Perfect Christmas Eve Gifts • 23:09 — Our Dream: A Christmas‑Themed Gay Bar • 25:28 — Stockings, Traditions & Fabulous Nonsense • 30:01 — Listener Qs: Queer‑Inclusive Traditions • 30:54 — Listener Qs: Holiday Loneliness • 34:07 — Listener Qs: Meaningful Gift‑Giving • 36:15 — Listener Qs: Supporting LGBTQ+ Organizations • 37:54 — Wrapping Up the Year with Love & Lip GlossClick here and get 10% off  Peppemints Trancendence Tea Click here to pre-order Hugh’s new book “My Bad”Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week, Hugh and I dive right into ou chat about one of my absolute favorite topics: how queer folks and other marginalized communities turn exclusion into empowerment. You know me — if society tries to shut a door, I’m already sashaying through a window.We kick things off by talking about what happens when marginalized people — especially queer and trans folks — get pushed out of mainstream spaces. Spoiler: we don’t just survive, we build our own dazzling little universes. From the chosen‑family magic of queer nightlife to mutual‑aid networks that pop up like wildflowers in a sidewalk crack, we find ways to lift each other up when the world tries to push us down.Hugh and I also get into the history of drawing lines from the so‑called “witches” of old Europe to modern‑day queer youth. And let me tell you, once you start tracing these threads, you see how often people on the margins develop perspectives, creativity, and resilience that the rest of the world could really stand to learn from.I want to invite everyone listening to take a moment — yes, even you multitasking on the subway — to think about how we move forward together in these wild times. Because even when things feel heavy, our communities have always had the power to transform struggle into something fierce, loving, and revolutionary.And if you want the play‑by‑play…00:00 — I introduce the episode and warm up the mic 00:58 — We jump into queer spaces, exclusion, and finding home 02:03 — A whirlwind tour through historical and current marginalization 03:24 — How oppression sparks resistance and reinvention 08:23 — Community, chosen family, and mutual aid 11:44 — Celebrating the power and wisdom of marginalized voices 23:01 — Ad break: Transcendence Tea (darling, the blend is divine) 24:44 — Dreaming bigger: future paradigms and closing thoughts 30:00 — Outro, credits, kisses, and a winkClick here and get 10% off  Peppemints Trancendence Tea Click here to pre-order Hugh’s new book “My Bad”Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

In this week’s episode, Peppermint and Hugh Ryan explore the vibrant intersection of queer identity and spirituality—a part of queer history that’s often overlooked or misunderstood. They celebrate queerness as an essential thread in the fabric of human culture, diving into everything from holiday‑season consumerism to the deep historical roots of gender variance across the world.Together, they unpack how spirituality has always played a role in queer life, highlighting traditions and practices that honor and uplift queer and trans people, reflecting on the importance of language, culture, and community.Ultimately, this episode is a reminder of the power of self‑creation, the resilience of queer existence, and the long, rich history that proves queerness isn’t going anywhere—because it’s always been here.Click here for more information or to purchase Peppemints Trancendence Tea Click here to pre-order Hugh’s new book “My Bad”Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

In this episode of Queer 101, Peppermint and Hugh are spilling all the Thanksgiving tea—yes, the gravy‑soaked, chosen‑family, pass‑me-a-biscuit kind. They share their own little holiday traditions, the ones that make Thanksgiving feel fabulously queer and beautifully communal. They also dive into the messy, complicated history of the holiday, because honey, you can’t serve a feast without serving some truth.Peppermint chats about my plans with her family (both the born and the chosen), my ride‑or‑die favorite Thanksgiving dishes, and the gratitude I’m feeling for our fierce, resilient queer community—especially with everything going on in the world. We’re celebrating queer resistance, queer joy, and the communities that keep us going.And of course, they share a bit about their latest projects—Hugh’s new book My Bad: A Personal History of the Queer Nineties and Peppermint’s very own Transcendence tea blend. Trust me, they both pair perfectly with a cozy holiday vibe.(both linked below.) 00:00 Introduction to Queer 10100:49 Holiday Season and Thanksgiving Plans01:39 Thanksgiving Traditions and Reflections08:47 Games and New Traditions11:35 Expressions of Gratitude18:24 Closing Remarks and AnnouncementsClick here for more information or to purchase Peppemints Trancendence Tea Click here to pre-order Hugh’s new book “My Bad”Follow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

In this episode of Queer 101, hosts Peppermint and historian Hugh Ryan explore the fascinating crossroads of queer history, spirituality, and witchcraft. They begin by unpacking the Supreme Court’s recent refusal to hear a challenge to same-sex marriage — a reminder that the fight for equality is always evolving.Amid the discussion, the two celebrate Hugh and his partner’s 15th anniversary, reflecting on love, resilience, and community before diving into their latest book club pick: Bargain Witch by Brooke Palmieri. This collection of essays weaves together queer identity, history, and magic — making complex ideas accessible, empowering, and deeply relevant to today’s queer experiences.From historical witch trials to modern manifestations of spiritual autonomy, Peppermint and Hugh spotlight how queer people have always used faith, ritual, and resistance to reclaim power. The episode invites listeners to consider what spiritual liberation looks like — and why queer voices are so vital in reimagining it.Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, share, and join future conversations, as Queer 101 continues to uncover how the past informs the fight for freedom, identity, and joy today.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Queer 10101:21 Recent Wins and Ongoing Struggles04:28 Celebrating Personal Milestones05:40 Book of the Month: Bargain Witch10:52 Historical and Modern Witchcraft20:11 Connecting Witchcraft to Queer History24:51 Conclusion and Next Week’s PreviewFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

This week on Queer 101, Peppermint and Hugh, the historian with the receipts, are diving into the untold layers of queer history you probably didn’t learn in school. 🌈They talk in depth about resilience, resistance, and what it really means to hold onto hope. And as always their conversation takes some unexpected and exciting turns — from the results of the New York mayoral election to celebrating the wins of immigrant leaders making real change.Pep and Hugh also get real about ongoing battles for equality, the importance of self-initiation, and how we can all break free from the boxes society tries to put us in. It’s smart, heartfelt, and a whole lot of fun — exactly what Queer 101 does best. 💖00:00 Introduction to Queer 10101:22 Deep Dive into George Takei's Memoir01:54 Reflections on Recent Elections03:17 Challenges to Democracy and Equality05:33 Historical Oppression and Resistance14:12 Personal Stories of Resistance20:13 Reflecting on Historical Injustices21:02 Connecting Global Struggles23:38 Celebrity Activism and Crushes27:13 The Closet and Societal Expectations34:01 Political Hypocrisy and Elections36:51 Book Club Announcement38:47 Podcast Wrap-Up and FarewellFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

In this episode, Peppermint and Hugh the Historian take you on a heartfelt journey through queer history and LGBTQ+ culture, blending humor, honesty, and reflection. They dive into the powerful stories of the past and present — including touching moments from George Takei’s memoir It Rhymes with Takei, which explores the realities of Japanese American internment, his experiences as a closeted actor in Hollywood and ultimates and LGBTQ+ Activist.Peppermint and Hugh also share personal stories about their first crushes, the challenges queer celebrities face in the entertainment industry, and the ongoing fight for visibility, intersectionality, and equality.Tune in for uplifting insights, emotional truths, and powerful reminders of why queer voices and activism matter. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation to keep celebrating queer history together. 🌈00:00 Introduction to Queer 10101:14 Recap of Last Week's Episode with George Takei02:23 Comic-Con and Queer Representation in Comics05:53 Personal Stories: First Crushes and Early Queer Experiences12:57 Celebrity Crushes and Queer Representation in Media18:01 Impact of Queer Celebrities on Personal Identity21:21 Celebrity Rumors and Scandals22:14 Impact of Celebrity Behavior on Public Perception24:04 Changes in Celebrity Culture and Coming Out25:19 The Role of Internet and Reality Celebrities26:43 Challenges and Hypocrisy in Celebrity Coming Out28:28 Advocacy and Activism in the Queer Community34:50 Intersectionality in Activism36:51 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts38:48 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionFollow us at:@peppermint247@hughoryan@pridehousemediaWrite to us at:[email protected]

In this deeply compelling episode of Queer 101, hosts Peppermint and Hugh Ryan dive deep into the intersection of LGBTQ+ history and culture with none other than the legendary George Takei, live from NYC Comic-Con.Takei opens up about his childhood experiences in Japanese internment camps during WWII, the challenges of living in the closet, and his transformation into a leading LGBTQ+ activist. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, he shares how resilience shaped his life, advocacy and activism for marriage equality and civil rights, offering powerful insights into both queer history and the ongoing fight for equality. This episode sheds light on George Takei’s incredible legacy and the importance of sharing these stories with new generations.Episode Highlights:00:00: Introduction to Queer 10101:26: George Takei at NYC Comic-Con02:21: Takei’s Life Journey05:36: Reflections on Japanese Internment Camps11:51: George Takei's They Called Us Enemy graphic memoir39:48: LGBTQ+ Activism and Civil Rights46:02: Marriage Equality StruggleFollow us at: @peppermint247 and @hughoryanWrite to us at: [email protected]

In this episode of 'Queer 101,' hosts Peppermint and Hugh dive into the rich history of queer trailblazers. They discuss the importance of recognizing unsung heroes in queer history, such as Keoshi Kuromiya, Sylvia Rivera, and local icons like Marti Gould Cummings, Queen Jean and David Lisa. The conversation branches into contemporary issues, including the fight for access to gender-affirming care and the ongoing need to celebrate and remember the lives and contributions of queer individuals. Listeners are encouraged to engage and share their own icons in queer history.00:00 Introduction to Queer 10101:32 Reflecting on Marsha P. Johnson03:19 Unsolved Mysteries and Queer History06:50 Modern Queer Icons and Activists08:42 Honoring Local Queer Icons12:37 Trailblazers in Queer Politics14:14 Community Activism and Support16:15 Recognizing Queer Icons and Their Impact20:49 Historical Erasure and the Fight for Recognition24:34 The Impact of Media on Historical Narratives25:28 The Reality of Trailblazers26:33 Economic Disenfranchisement and Survival28:12 Kevin Bacon's Financial Struggles29:59 Sex Work as a Means of Survival34:12 Gender Affirming Care and Historical Perspectives40:15 The Importance of Queer Memory and Archiving42:02 Honoring Queer Icons43:28 Conclusion and Call to ActionFollow us @peppermint247 and hughoryan

In this episode of Queer 101, hosts Peppermint andHugh the Historian dive deep into the portrayal of queer culture and individuals in media. They explore the evolution of queer representation, starting from early cinema's influence, the effect of the Hays Code, to the rise of documentaries. They highlight important films such as 'The Queen', 'Queen at Heart', and 'Paris is Burning,' discussing their significance in portraying the real experiences of queer individuals, especially trans women. The episode also touches on personal anecdotes and the broader impact of these representations on society. Join them as they discuss the crucial role of film in shaping societal perceptions of queerness and the continuous struggle for authentic representation.00:00 Introduction to Queer 10101:33 Mentorship and Community Involvement03:45 Bartering and Communal Living05:17 Queer Representation in Film11:51 Impact of the Hays Code17:35 Documentaries and Early Queer Films20:10 Survival Strategies in Queer Communities20:39 Trans Representation in Media21:28 Gender Expression in Film and TV25:13 Impact of McCarthyism on Queer Culture26:11 Hollywood's Control Over Queer Narratives27:13 Queer Documentaries and Their Significance34:51 Christine Jorgensen: A Trans Pioneer36:42 The Evolution of Queer Representation40:52 Final Thoughts and Future DiscussionsIf you want to explore some of the films we discussed in this episode here are some of our favorites:DisclosureThe QueenQueens at HeartParis is BurningSome Like It HotScream Queen: My Nightmare on Elm StreetEnigmaVenenoThe Christine Jorgensen StoryCalL Her SavageFollow us at:@peppermint246@hughoryanWrite to us at:[email protected]

In this episode of Queer 1 0 1, hosts Peppermint and Hugh take you on an inspiring journey through queer history, shining a spotlight on the incredible legacy of Marsha P. Johnson. From her pivotal role in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights to her enduring impact on queer culture, this deep dive celebrates Marsha’s courage and contributions to the movement.But it doesn’t stop there—this episode explores the powerful connection between music and queer liberation, discussing how queer icons and their art have inspired generations. Peppermint and Hugh reflect on the evolution of queer culture through the decades, including groundbreaking moments in queer gender expression, performance, and resistance.Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or someone curious about the rich tapestry of queer experiences, this episode is a MUST!Episode Highlights:00:00 – Welcome to Queer 1 0 1: Intro and updates.01:00 – Recap of the book club discussion (and some great queer reads!).01:54 – Marsha P. Johnson: A look at her life, legacy, and activism.05:19 – Triumphs and struggles of queer icons across history.15:56 – Special preview: George Takei at ComicCon—don’t miss it!19:06 – The role of music in queer liberation and its cultural impact.26:56 – Gender expression in the 80s and 90s: Flirting with fashion and identity.27:37 – How performance became a powerful tool for liberation.29:02 – Historical oppression and the coded ways queer people connected.30:44 – Marsha P. Johnson’s lasting legacy and her role in the Stonewall Uprising.32:33 – The complicated legacies of queer icons: A nuanced look.34:27 – The unique struggles of queer artists in the music industry.45:21 – Celebrating queer icons and their influence on culture today.50:45 – Closing thoughts: A call to action and reflection.Follow us at:@peppermint246@hughoryan

In this episode of Queer 101, hosts Peppermint and Hugh the Historian delve into queer history and culture, focusing on the recent interview with Tourmaline about her bestselling biography of Marsha, the first biography writtend about LGBTQ+ icon, Marsha P. Johnson. They discuss the importance of recognizing Marsha's contributions to the queer community, her practice of dreaming and resilience, and the historical and modern intersections of trans identity and drag culture. Peppermint and Hugh also reflect on their personal experiences in queer spaces like the iconic Tunnel nightclub, emphasizing the role of community and joy in liberation. 00:00 Introduction to Queer 10100:52 Recap of Last Week's Interview with Miss Tourmaline01:37 Marsha P. Johnson: A Legacy of Dreaming and Activism04:33 Exploring Gender Identity and Drag Culture06:19 Historical Context and Mainstream Representation21:08 The Importance of Queer Spaces and Community32:14 Conclusion and Call to ActionFollow us at:@peppermint246@hughoryanWrite to us at:[email protected]

In the inaugural episode of ‘Queer 101’ weekly podcast, hosts Peppermint and Hugh the Historian introduce their exciting new weekly podcast. While wthey are evolving, their dedication to uncovering queer history, culture, and experiences remains at the heart of everything they  do. Peppermint and Hugh are thrilled to create a space that dives into queer life's past, present, and future, emphasizing just how important it is to preserve and celebrate queer stories.In this introductory episode, they share how the podcast will explore queer books, feature interviews with authors, and offer insights into various aspects of queer life. Most importantly, Pep and Hugh invite you, their listeners, to actively participate and join them on this journey. So, let’s get started!  And remember to subscribe, like, comment and give us a review. It really helps other people discover the show.00:00 Welcome to Queer 10100:58 Meet Your Hosts: Peppermint and Hugh02:32 The Importance of Queer History04:55 Podcast Format and Content06:22 Exploring Queerness and Humanity10:14 Favorite Interviews and Books11:53 Join the Conversation12:45 Conclusion and CreditsFollow us at:@peppermint247@hugh0ryanOr write to us at:[email protected]