Jessica L’Whor: Drag, Visibility, and Building Safe Spaces for Queer Youth

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with drag performer, community builder, and cultural force Jessica L’Whor, also known as Miss Jessica, to explore drag as identity, resistance, and care. Jessica reflects on growing up in a deeply sheltered Catholic household, navigating queerness through religious guilt, and the long journey toward self acceptance. She speaks openly about coming out later in life, unlearning shame, and what it took to finally embrace who she is today. From her beginnings in the Denver drag scene to becoming a full time performer for over a decade, Jessica shares the realities of sustaining a creative career without television backing, the business discipline behind longevity, and why consistency matters more than viral moments. The conversation also dives into the creation of Miss Jessica, her all ages and family friendly drag persona. Jessica explains why visibility for queer youth is vital, how drag story times and school visits became part of her mission, and what it means to create safe, affirming spaces for children and families in a climate where drag is increasingly politicised. Ben and Jessica discuss chosen family, queer elders, touring across the United States, and the responsibility that comes with having a large platform. Jessica is candid about balancing joy and escapism with activism, and why being a soft, visible presence can be just as powerful as outrage. This is a conversation about drag as art, drag as care, and the importance of being the person you needed when you were younger. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions 06:36 Childhood and Early Influences 11:42 Understanding Queerness and Family Dynamics 16:25 The State of Drag and LGBTQ+ Community 20:49 Jessica's Journey into Drag 21:31 Longevity in Drag Performance and Community Support 23:19 Empowering the Next Generation of Drag Artists 25:55 Creating Family-Friendly Drag Experiences 28:24 The Role of Visibility and Representation 30:55 Building an Authentic Online Presence 34:10 The Intersection of Art and Activism 37:21 Advice for the Younger Generation Connect with Jessica L’Whor: Website - https://www.jessicalwhor.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jessicalwhor/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jessicalwhor Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti