As the popularity of podcasts continues to explode, there is more choice than ever when it comes to finding a new episode to keep you entertained at the gym or awake on the early morning commute. If you can dream it up, there is likely a group of friends gathered around a microphone chatting about […]
As the popularity of podcasts continues to explode, there is more choice than ever when it comes to finding a new episode to keep you entertained at the gym or awake on the early morning commute. If you can dream it up, there is likely a group of friends gathered around a microphone chatting about it.
Alongside the usual news and politics shows, however, a new wave of diverse voices has emerged to tell unheard stories of culture, change, identity, and humour. These podcasts capture a sense of our modern world and deliver vital exposure to minority identities across the airwaves.
With this in mind, The Mind Map has put together a list of five unmissable podcasts featuring the voices and perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals speaking above the noise. Wrap your ears around interviews with queer people at the centre of pop culture, discover inspirational stories from the worlds of sport and parenting, or join in with general comedic mischief to keep things lighthearted.
Discover some of the best LGBTQ+ voices in podcasting below.
Hosted by best friends Tobin Low and Kathy Tu, Nancy uncovers everyday stories from LGBTQ+ Americans navigating the queer experience both past and present. Created at WNYC Studios – the production powerhouse behind renowned podcasts like 2 Dope Queens, Serial, and Radiolab – the podcast has been critically-acclaimed for its heartfelt approach and vivd storytelling. Featuring interviews with queer-identified pop culture stars like actress Lena Waithe, while also exploring queer history in the United States and the everyday issues that matter most to LGBTQ+ people, Nancy covers queer culture from all areas.
The Mind Map recommends: Series 2, Episode 17 – Return to Ring of Keys
This new podcast from BBC Radio Jersey explores the issues facing LGBTQ+ people in the world of sport, from football and boxing to baseball and wheelchair basketball. Guest include athletes, journalists, managers, allies, and even entire club teams as they discuss their own relationship with identity, inclusion, and the sport that they love. Past episodes have featured conversations with sports journalism icon Clare Balding, United States Women’s National soccer team coach Jill Ellis, and LGBTQ+ hockey club The London Royals.
The Mind Map recommends: The One with Clare Balding
Calum McSwiggan on FUBAR Radio
YouTube star Calum McSwiggan takes over FUBAR Radio every Wednesday at 6pm for a hilarious show that explores LGBTQ+ identity through comedy and outrageous chat. Past episodes have seen Calum discuss queer representation in the media, the art of drag, and LGBTQ+ activism in the UK. The show has also featured special guests including actress Rose McGowan, the cast of hit Netflix series Sex Education, and Calum’s fellow YouTube creators Hannah Witton and Jessica Kellgren-Fozard. Listen live on FUBAR Radio or download the show as a free podcast each week.
The Mind Map recommends: Episode 64 – Rowan Ellis & Anick
This series from Seattle-based mother Marlo Mack explores the complexities of raising a transgender child at a time when intolerance and inequality faced by trans people only continues to increase. The podcast gives a raw and honest account of the challenges mother and daughter face as they attempt to explore what being a girl really means. How to Be a Girl has received acclaim from worldwide audiences, receiving the title of ‘Best International Podcast’ at the British Podcast Awards as well as being named as a finalist for the prestigious Peabody Awards.
The Mind Map recommends: Episode XVI – How to Be a (Teen) Girl
Hosted by comedian and actress Cameron Esposito, Queery features interviews with leading queer names in pop culture as they discuss their relationship with identity, sexuality, and equality. Previous guests who have sat down with Cameron include Brooklyn 99 actress Stephanie Beatriz, drag star Trixie Mattel, journalist and activist Dan Savage, and queer pop icons Tegan and Sara Quin. The podcast is a perfect blend of careful insight, refreshing honesty, and humour.
The Mind Map recommends: Episode 86 – SOAK