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Queer Talker

Ben Cicchetti

Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversations, we explore themes of identity, authenticity, and the power of living boldly.

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  • 26 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 48 min
  • English

Episodes 26

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  • #24
    January 13 · 35 min

    Michael Gunning: Coming Out in Sport, Representation, and Finding Your Olympic Moment

    Michael Gunning is a former elite swimmer, LGBTQ+ advocate, and one of the most important voices at the intersection of sport, race, and identity. In the first Queer Talker episode of 2026, Michael joins Ben Cicchetti for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about growing up feeling different, navigating elite sport as a queer mixed-race athlete, and the long journey toward living authentically. Michael reflects on overcompensating to fit in, the damaging stereotypes he faced in swimming, and how being told “Black people can’t swim” became fuel rather than a barrier. He opens up about suppression, resilience, and the mental toll of hiding parts of yourself in highly competitive environments. The conversation explores the importance of representation, the impact of seeing figures like Tom Daley come out in sport, and why visibility still matters in 2026. Michael also shares what it meant to come out publicly, the overwhelming mix of support and hate, and how that moment reshaped his life and sense of purpose. We also talk about retirement from elite sport, identity beyond the pool, body image, pressure, and what it means to redefine success after stepping away from a career that once defined you. This is a thoughtful, hopeful episode about resilience, self-acceptance, and learning that being different is not a weakness but a superpower. Chapters 00:00 Hopes and Dreams for 2026 04:18 Queer Panic 07:24 Childhood and Identity 10:19 Coming Out and Its Impact 13:20 Pride and Community 16:17 The Role of Swimming in Resilience 19:18 Representation in Sports 20:01 Embracing Authenticity in the Entertainment Industry 20:46 The Importance of Being Your True Self 21:50 Isolation and Connection in Elite Sports 23:05 Coming Out: A Transformative Experience 24:50 Navigating Public Perception and Personal Identity 26:25 The Transition from Elite Athlete to Everyday Life 28:06 The Reality of Retirement: Adjusting to Life After Sports 30:10 Maintaining Competitive Spirit Beyond the Pool 32:34 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth 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

    • Transcript
  • #23
    Dec 30, 2025 · 50 min

    Lewis Oakley: Bisexual Visibility, Identity, and Owning the In-Between

    In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Lewis Oakley, one of the UK’s most visible bisexual voices and a passionate advocate for representation, visibility, and belonging. Lewis opens up about growing up bisexual in a world that often struggles with nuance, where identities are pushed into boxes and the “in-between” is misunderstood or erased altogether. He reflects on the challenges of being openly bisexual, from stereotypes and disbelief to the pressure to constantly justify your identity. Together, Ben and Lewis explore why bisexual visibility matters, how language shapes acceptance, and what it means to show up authentically in spaces that are not always designed for complexity. Lewis also speaks candidly about confidence, self-acceptance, and the responsibility that comes with being visible for others who are still finding their voice. This is a conversation about bisexuality, visibility, and the power of being seen exactly as you are. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions 04:22 Childhood Insights and Early Realizations 07:34 First Experiences in LGBTQ Spaces 10:34 Coming Out and Self-Discovery 13:47 The Complexity of Bisexual Identity 16:32 Navigating Bisexuality in Relationships 19:22 The Impact of Celebrity Influence on Bisexuality 22:40 Visibility and Representation of Bisexuals 25:27 The Reality of Love and Relationships 27:39 The Struggles of Bisexual Identity 29:36 Creating a Resource: The Book Journey 33:38 Navigating Loneliness in Bisexuality 36:41 Parenting and Advocacy: A Personal Perspective 42:17 Media Representation and Its Impact 47:20 Advice for the Younger Generation Connect with Lewis Oakley: Linktree - https://linktr.ee/lewyoaks 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

    • Transcript
  • #22
    Dec 16, 2025 · 41 min

    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

    • Transcript
  • #21
    Dec 2, 2025 · 41 min

    Mark Bittlestone: Comedy, Grief, Queer Identity and Finding His Voice

    In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with comedian Mark Bittlestone whose sharp wit, queer storytelling and emotional honesty have made him one of the most exciting voices in British comedy. Mark opens up about growing up in 1990s Southwest London where homophobia was woven into the everyday language around him, even in an otherwise loving home. He reflects on spending a decade in the closet, the fear of being gay that shaped his early years and the moment he finally allowed himself to come out and breathe. He also shares how devastating loss shaped him. Mark lost his mum shortly before his A levels and his dad shortly before his university finals. He talks about how grief transformed his understanding of life and how comedy became both a coping mechanism and a calling. Ben and Mark dive into authenticity, dating, Grindr mishaps, the power of teasing straight men in comedy clubs, and the complicated pressure queer comedians feel to stop talking about their identity even when it is central to their story. Mark also reflects on falling into comedy, getting fired from teaching, building confidence through social media, touring his show I Need a Straight Guy, and figuring out what comes next as he enters the next phase of his career. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions 04:16 Embarrassing Dating Stories 07:16 Proudest Career Moments 10:13 Childhood Influences on Identity 13:15 Awareness of Queerness and Family Dynamics 17:21 Coming Out and Authenticity 20:22 Navigating Loss and Grief 25:33 The Role of Comedy in Coping 27:47 Journey into Comedy 31:02 Queerness and Performance 32:29 Touring Experience and Audience Interaction 36:22 Using Platform for Advocacy 38:14 Future Aspirations and Reflection 39:11 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth 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

    • Transcript
  • #20
    Nov 18, 2025 · 50 min

    Lord Chris Smith: Britain’s First Openly Gay MP, Section 28 & Fighting for Equality

    In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Lord Chris Smith — Britain’s first openly gay male MP, the world’s first openly gay cabinet minister, and a pioneering voice for LGBTQ+ equality in politics. Chris reflects on the moment in 1984 when he stood on stage in Rugby and came out publicly, becoming the first openly gay MP in British history, and the courage it took to do so in a hostile climate. He shares his perspective on Section 28, the chilling effect it had on young LGBTQ+ people, and the long fight to overturn it. We also discuss his achievements as Secretary of State, from making national museums free for all to helping pass landmark LGBTQ+ legislation under Tony Blair’s government, as well as his later decision to speak publicly about living with HIV and the extraordinary phone call he received from Nelson Mandela afterwards. From his student days in Edinburgh and Cambridge, to becoming Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, Chris has consistently broken barriers and left a lasting legacy. His story is one of courage, resilience, and hope — a reminder of how far we’ve come and the work still to be done for true equality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history, politics, and the power of visibility. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions 03:21 Proud Moments in Politics 05:52 Understanding Childhood and Identity 09:38 Journey into Politics 11:00 Coming Out as the First Openly Gay MP 18:09 Reactions in Parliament 20:07 The Impact of Section 28 26:02 Becoming the First Openly Gay Cabinet Member 27:41 Legislative Changes for LGBTQ Rights 32:18 The Importance of Diversity in Leadership 34:29 Going Public with HIV Status 41:48 Role as Chancellor of Cambridge University 45:32 Reflections on the Current Trans Community Climate 47:43 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ Youth 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

    • Transcript
  • S1 · E19
    Nov 4, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min

    Jaxon Feeley: From Prison Officer to Trans Advocate and Doing it Scared

    In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Jaxon Feeley, former prison officer, public speaker, and trans advocate, for a powerful and deeply human conversation about courage, visibility, and doing it scared. Jaxon opens up about his life before and after transition, from working in the prison service to walking back through the gates as “Mr Feeley.” He shares how he found the strength to come out publicly, the moment he told his family they could have “a dead daughter or a living son,” and why he believes fear and bravery can exist in the same breath. From battling stigma to embracing authenticity, Jaxon’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and relentless hope. His mantra, “do it scared,” is a reminder that courage does not mean being fearless; it means showing up anyway. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire 03:35 Childhood and Early Identity 08:42 Transitioning and Authenticity 13:21 Family Dynamics and Support 18:32 Working in a Prison Environment 23:22 Reality TV Experiences 28:38 Living Authentically in the World 34:10 The Intensity of Reality TV 34:56 Balancing Multiple Roles 37:08 Finding Daily Happiness 39:11 Navigating Loneliness in the Spotlight 41:39 The Importance of Social Media Breaks 43:27 The Thrill of Hunted: A Unique Experience 56:06 The Impact of Representation in Media 59:17 Introducing 'Fear Proof': A New Book 01:03:38 Advice for the Younger Self 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 Connect from Jaxon Feeley: Website - https://jaxonfeeley.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jaxryderfeeley

    • Transcript
Showing 21–26 of 26 episodes