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2025 GLAAD Hangouts Archive

Find transformative conversations surrounding culture and community on-demand below.

#GLAADHangouts series consists of thought-provoking and impactful dialogues between GLAAD and notable guests, influencers, and community leaders who are working to create greater LGBTQ representation and accelerate LGBTQ acceptance.

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GLAAD Hangouts with Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Elvis Lopeti — 5/27/25 – Join Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Elvis Lopeti, celebrating AAPI Heritage Month and diving into Elvis’s journey from Ōtāhuhu to the global stage—from dancing with the Royal Family to lighting up Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty runway. They’ll talk about creativity, fame, friendship, and what it means to stay grounded in joy and self-expression. It’s going to be a feel-good convo full of laughs, insight, and inspiration

GLAAD Hangouts with Craig Watutu Tian and Ginger Yifan Chen — 5/26/25 – Join Craig Watutu Tian and Ginger Yifan Chen, as Ginger shares how they use genre—sci-fi, horror, and satire—to challenge systems of power and center queer, immigrant, and BIPOC narratives. From organizing local film screenings in San Francisco’s Mission District to writing work that pushes creative boundaries, Ginger brings radical imagination and grounded activism to everything they do.

GLAAD Hangouts with Craig Watutu Tian and Marshawn Norris — 5/23/25 – Join Craig Watutu Tian and Marshawn Norris, as Marshawn opens up about life as a Blasian gay creative—reflecting on his Filipino upbringing, coming out alongside a gay brother, and navigating the beauty and complexities of identity and self-expression. He also shares the story behind his 15-year relationship and how love, authenticity, and vulnerability have grounded his personal and creative journey. From dancing in LA to evolving into acting, modeling, and storytelling,

GLAAD Hangouts with Craig Watutu Tian and Posh Miles, Thursday, May 22, 2025 — 5/22/25 – Join Craig Watutu Tian and Posh Miles during AAPI Heritage Month, Posh brings his passion for food, community, and cultural storytelling to the kitchen with a live cooking demo — showing us how Thai cuisine can be a bridge between people, traditions, and identities. From stunning five-course private dinners to the joy of everyday meals, Posh shares how food can be a powerful tool for connection and liberation.

GLAAD Hangouts with Eric L. Cox, Dr. Brian Issac Marshall and Jerry Ivery, Jr., Wednesday, May 21, 2025 — 5/21/25 – Join Eric L. Cox, Dr. Brian Issac Marshall and Jerry Ivery, Jr., together they discuss the urgency of mental health equity and what it means to center healing justice in practice, not just in theory. Dr. Marshall and Jerry share how MashUp! goes beyond offering resources — providing brave spaces, therapeutic tools, and holistic practices that help people live as their full, integrated selves. From tackling shame and stigma to reclaiming cultural wellness practices, MashUp!’s work reminds us that being forced to fragment our identities is a mental health crisis — and that wholeness is our birthright.

GLAAD Hangouts with Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Kween Kong, Tuesday, May 20, 2025 — 5/20/25 – Join Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Kween Kong, as Kween Kong opens up about being the first Samoan queen to compete on RuPaul’s Drag Race and representing the Indigenous Fa’afafine community on a global stage. She shares her journey as a mother—to both her biological children and her House of Kong—and the deep importance of chosen family in queer culture. With heart and honesty, Kween speaks to the role of tough love in the queer community and how her activism continues to shape everything she creates.

GLAAD Hangouts with Craig Watutu Tian and Truc Minh Vo, Thursday, May 15, 2025 — 5/15/25 – Join Craig Watutu Tian and Truc Minh Vo, as Truc shares how he’s navigated the intersections of being first-generation Vietnamese American, queer, and creatively driven—both in life and in the world of fashion and brand storytelling. From collaborating on projects like Beyoncé’s adidas x IVY PARK to mentoring at his alma mater Howard University, Truc brings a bold, grounded approach to identity and authenticity. He speaks on the power of leaning into your intersections as sources of strength and creativity, and how community, collaboration, and visibility are essential to making space for marginalized voices in any industry.

GLAAD Hangouts with Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Austin Matautia Tuesday, May 13, 2025 — 5/13/25 – Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Austin Matautia, as Austin opens up about growing up in a proud volleyball family, his journey through collegiate and professional athletics, and navigating identity and representation as a queer Pacific Islander athlete on and off the court. Austin shares the highs and hurdles of his athletic career—including recovering from a major injury, playing through the pandemic, and supporting Team USA’s women’s national team on their road to Olympic qualification.

GLAAD Hangout with Shar Jossell and The Spellman Twinz May 9, 2025 — 5/9/25 – Shar Jossell and The Spellman Twinz will talk about the Spellman Twinz’s explosive new single and video “YUM YUM,” their upcoming Brazilian funk-inspired album, and their next drop, “DINERO.” They also open up about their inspiring journey from a turbulent upbringing in Northern California to viral stardom, queer liberation, and musical triumph.

GLAAD Hangout with JJ Dobbins and Craig Watutu Tian May 8, 2025 — 5/8/25 – Join JJ Dobbins and Craig Watutu Tian as JJ opens up about growing up in a mixed-race household with a Filipino mother and Black father, and the journey of learning to embrace the parts of himself that didn’t always feel celebrated. Through candid reflection, JJ dives into breaking generational barriers, navigating identity, and the quiet power of healing from cultural norms that no longer serve us. As someone passionate about wellness, storytelling, and honoring his roots, JJ shares how he’s building new traditions, reclaiming identity, and staying grounded in both self-expression and community care.

GLAAD Hangout with Eric L. Cox, Ian L. Haddock, Joelle Bayaa-Uzuri Espeut and Jordan J. Edwards May 7, 2025 — 5/7/25 – Join Eric L. Cox, Ian L. Haddock, Joelle Bayaa-Uzuri Espeut and Jordan J. Edwards as the group discusses the importance of approaching mental health through an intersectional lens. The conversation dives into the urgent need for healing justice and the power of community-led mental health spaces. They reflect on navigating grief, survival, HIV stigma, and the weight of representation while centering joy, creativity, and collective care as tools for resistance and renewal.

GLAAD Hangout with Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Dezi Bartley May 6, 2025 — 5/6/25 – Join Kristian Fanene Schmidt and Dezi Bartley as Dezi shares her powerful journey, from her roots in Cedar City, Utah, to her work as a fierce fa’afafine performer and voice in the Pasifika trans community. The conversation dives into her pageantry experiences, navigating the fishing industry, and dealing with political hurdles while staying true to her roots. Dezi also offers advice for the next generation of beauty queens, inspiring strength, grit, and resilience.

GLAAD Hangouts - GLAAD Hangouts with Ahmad Maksoud and Iman Le Caire, Tuesday, April 29, 2025 — 4/29/25 – Ahmad Maksoud and Iman Le Caire explore the complex difference between migrants and asylum seekers, the emotional trauma and courage it takes to leave home, and how Trans Asylias identifies urgent needs and supports trans individuals in exile—from crisis to resettlement and beyond. Iman shares a story of hope about a trans woman now thriving at the Sorbonne, and explains the process behind her tireless advocacy.

GLAAD Hangouts with Mike Brown, Xunami Muse, YawnyBlew and Je’Vel, April 29, 2025 — 4/29/25 – Join Mike Brown, Xunami Muse, YawnyBlew and Je’Vel as they dive into the release of NDA: New Drag Age, Xunami’s highly anticipated debut album, and the artistry, collaboration, and community behind it. This is a celebration of music, magic, and a bold new chapter in drag.

GLAAD Hangouts with Ahmad Maksoud and Iman Le Caire April 24, 2025 — 4/24/25 – Ahmad Maksoud and Iman Le Caire discuss the history and erasure of queer identity in the Middle East, the emotional and cultural challenges trans individuals face in exile, and how Iman’s work through Trans Asylias provides safety, resources, and community for transgender asylum seekers. This powerful conversation also touches on the HIV/AIDS stigma in Middle Eastern communities and the importance of advocating for dignity, healing, and visibility in every corner of the world.

GLAAD Hangouts with Shar Jossell and Damez April 23, 2025 — 4/23/25 – Shar Jossell and Damez discuss Damez’s new album “Never Satisfied”, the release of the “Adore” music video, and his fresh merch line. They dive into the thought, intention, and culture behind Damez’s visual storytelling and the significance of representation in art. The conversation also touches on the tragic passing of Damez’s friend and video co-star Maliek “Wyatt” Danridge, a heartfelt tribute and reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in our communities.

GLAAD Hangouts with Ahmad Maksoud and Haroun Bahi April 22, 2025. — 4/22/25 – Ahmad Maksoud and Haroun Bahi will discuss Haroun’s impactful work at AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the global reach of AHF’s programs, and the crucial need for accessible healthcare in underserved regions, particularly in the South. This conversation highlights the importance of healthcare equity and how public health efforts are improving lives around the world.

GLAAD Hangouts with Ahmad Maksoud, Bashar Makhay and Mirna Haidar April 21, 2025 — 4/21/25 – Ahmad Maksoud, Bashar Makhay and Mirna Haidar will discuss the impact of immigration law on marginalized communities, the power of grassroots organizing, and what it means to create spaces of belonging. In celebration of Arab-American Heritage Month, this conversation honors community resilience, joy, and collective care.

GLAAD Hangouts with Kyle Price and John Settles, April 18, 2025 — 4/18/25 – Kyle Price and John Settles, whose latest short film fear not explores the intersection of HIV advocacy and faith in the Black queer community. Funded by the GILEAD COMPASS Initiative and released on April 7, 2024, fear not centers the voices of those living with HIV and the power of faith-based affirmation.

GLAAD Hangouts with Kyle Price and J. Monroe, April 16, 2025. — 4/16/25 – Kyle Price and J. Monroe are diving into Monroe’s powerful body of work spanning fine art, fashion, media, and legacy-building. From Reflecting Beauty to Hulu’s Exposure, his storytelling bridges personal identity and cultural revolution. We’ll also explore his latest exhibition A Reawakening, which honors the 100-year legacy of the Harlem Renaissance through community-centered events like the Legacy Through Music Jam Session and a Valentine’s Affair for Black love.

GLAAD Hangouts with Ahmad Maksoud and Diya Dabash, April 15, 2025 — 4/15/25 – Ahmad Maksoud and Diya Dabash together will dive into Diya’s journey of using comedy, storytelling, and personal style to challenge norms, uplift marginalized voices, and reimagine community on her own terms. From navigating diaspora to building joyful resistance online, this conversation is full of laughter, insight, and deep care.

GLAAD Hangouts with Shar Jossell, TS Madison and Dominique Morgan April 10, 2025 — 4/10/25 – Shar Jossell is joined by TS Madison and Dominique Morgan. They’ll be discussing the powerful launch of the TS Madison Starter House—a first-of-its-kind re-entry and housing initiative designed to support Black Trans women engaged in sex work. This is more than a conversation—it’s a celebration of Black Trans brilliance, liberation, and radical care.

GLAAD Hangouts with Ahmad Maksoud and Layan Elwazani, April 8, 2025 — 4/8/25 – Ahmad Maksoud and Layan discuss their shared cultural lineage, the radical act of storytelling, and how performance can hold both memory and imagination. Together they reflect on Layan’s solo show “ten days ago”, the power of claiming our stories authentically, and the ways they’ve found belonging through art, friendship, and the things that can’t quite be put into words.

GLAAD Hangouts with Victor Jackson and Tracey Pickett, April 4, 2025 — 4/4/25 – Victor Jackson and Tracey Pickett will dive into the heart of the show—exploring themes of resilience, joy, and the beauty of life’s ever-changing flow. They’ll share insights on the creative process, the incredible lineup of musicians, and the inspiration behind this intimate evening of music. April Showers is a celebration of life’s highs and lows, inspired by the changing seasons, and you won’t want to miss this conversation!

GLAAD Hangouts with Syd Xtravaganza and LORDMAN 007, March 29, 2025 — 3/29/25 – Syd Xtravaganza and LORDMAN 007will have an electrifying conversation on the evolution of ballroom culture, the West Coast scene, and the power of trans visibility in creative and activist spaces. They’ll also dive into the highly anticipated Trans Day of Visibility Ball happening Sunday, March 30th, where ballroom legends, trans icons, and allies will gather to celebrate resilience, artistry, and community through competition.

GLAAD Hangouts with Eva Reign and Ms. Boogie, March 28, 2025 — 3/28/25 – Eva Reign and Ms. Boogie explore the power of music as activism, the significance of trans representation in hip hop, and the importance of documenting the presence of Black trans women in rap.

GLAAD Hangout with Amanda W. Timpson and Anna DeShawn, March 27, 2025 — 3/27/25 – Tune in as Amanda W. Timpson and Anna DeShawn discuss Bobbie Lea Bennett, a trans disability rights activist who, in 1978, fought for Medicare to cover gender-affirming surgery, leading to major policy changes. In honor of International Trans Day of Visibility, they’ll explore Bobbie’s legacy and the ongoing fight for trans rights, especially for disabled trans individuals.

GLAAD Hangout with Victor Jackson and JeRonelle, March 25, 2025 — 3/25/25 – Victor Jackson and JeRonelle dive into music, artistry, and identity, discussing the power of Black queer voices in the industry, the impact of R&B as a genre, and what’s next for JeRonelle—including the release of his new EP Jaded Lover.

GLAAD Hangouts with Eva Reign and DJ LiKWUiD, March 24, 2025 — 3/24/25 – Eva Reign and special guest DJ LiKWUiD are diving into the power of music as activism, the significance of QTBIPOC representation in the arts, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces in entertainment.

GLAAD Hangouts with Anna DeShawn and Amanda W. Timpson discuss Jeanne Córdova — 3/20/25 – Join Amanda W. Timpson and Anna DeShawn, as they discuss the legendary Jeanne Córdova—a Catholic nun turned activist and writer who founded The Lesbian Tide, the first U.S. lesbian periodical to reach a national audience. This Women’s History Month, we honor her extraordinary legacy in the fight for lesbian visibility and her lasting influence on the West Coast LGBT movement.

GLAAD Hangouts with Shar Jossell, Neverending Nina and 2AM Ricky, March 19, 2025 — 3/19/2025 – Shar Jossell, special guests Neverending Nina and 2AM Ricky dive into their empowering new collab single T4T—an anthem celebrating love, respect, and unity between Trans Masc & Trans Femme communities. From the song’s inspiration to the creative process, we’ll explore how music can amplify voices, foster connection, and spark real change.

GLAAD Hangouts with Eva Reign and Jayae Riley Jr. - March 18, 2025 — 3/18/25 – Join Eva Reign and Jayae Riley Jr. as they celebrate Women’s History Month, this conversation highlights the visibility of Black Queer and Trans women in media and storytelling. Eva and Jayae will dive into Jayae’s journey, the power of Trans artists in entertainment, and the impact of authentic Black Trans representation in theater and film.

GLAAD Hangouts with Shar Jossell and Hailie Sahar - March 17, 2025 — 3/17/25 – Shar Jossell and Hailie Sahar be diving into Sir Lady Java’s powerful legacy, her recent memorial service, and the upcoming biopic that will bring her incredible story to life. Plus, we’ll explore Hailie’s remarkable career—from Pose to Good Trouble—and her impactful work as an advocate and entrepreneur.

GLAAD Hangouts with Anna DeShawn and Amanda W Timpson, March 13 2025 — 3/13/25 – Join Amanda W. Timpson and Anna DeShawn as they celebrate Women’s History Month by spotlighting the legendary Ma Rainey—the “Mother of the Blues” whose powerful voice and unapologetic queerness paved the way for generations of artists. Her 1928 song Prove It On Me boldly hinted at her love for women, making her a pioneer of LGBTQ+ visibility in music.

GLAAD Hangouts with Eva Reign and Desi Hall — 3/11/25 – Eva Reign and Desi Hall will be diving into the importance of mindfulness in leadership, strategies for avoiding burnout, and how Desi is using her platform to make wellness accessible, justice-driven, and deeply rooted in community.

GLAAD Hangouts with Anna DeShawn and Amanda W. Timpson — 3/6/25 – Join Anna DeShawn and Amanda W. Timpson for Women’s History Month. They’re highlighting the incredible Isabel Pell—a bold, trailblazing lesbian woman who defied all odds as a WWII resistance fighter. They’ll be talking about her story and so many other incredible women whose legacies deserve to be known.

GLAAD Hangouts with Eva Reign and Gail Bean — 3/4/25 – Eva Reign and Gail Bean discuss Gail’s latest role in Harlem, her passion for telling authentic Black stories, and how she’s using her platform to uplift and mentor the next generation of Black creatives through Dream Above the Influence.

GLAAD Hangouts with Braxton T. Fleming and Dani LaLonders — 2/26/25 – Braxton T. Fleming and Dani LaLonders will dive into the power of representation, innovation, and the impact of authenticity in gaming and entrepreneurship—exploring how their work is reshaping industries and creating space for marginalized voices.

GLAAD Hangouts with Twiggy Pucci Garçon and George M. Johnson — 2/24/25 – Twiggy Pucci Garçon and George M. Johnson will be diving into the power of Black queer storytelling, advocacy, and media representation—exploring how their lived experiences have shaped their work in literature, film, and movement-building. They’ll discuss the impact of HIV on Black LGBTQ+ communities, the fight against book censorship, and how visibility in entertainment can drive real social change.

Tuesday February 11th -GLAAD Hangout with Chef Joya - Cook With Me Session — 2/11/25 – Chef Joya will guide us through making a mouthwatering Vegan Oyster Mushroom or Cauliflower Po’ Boy, while sharing her inspiring career journey as a Black queer woman in a male-dominated industry. From her Southern roots to global influences, she blends creativity, culture, and bold flavors in every dish, all while staying true to her mission of making veganism accessible and exciting for Black and brown communities.

Friday February 7th - GLAAD Hangout with JohnerriO Scott host and Timothy Webb as special guest — 2/7/2025 – une in as Johneri’O Scott and Timothy Webb discuss the importance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, its significance in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and the power of education, awareness, and community support. Together, they’ll explore how we can continue to raise awareness, challenge stigmas, and empower our communities. Don’t miss this important conversation as they dive into the impact of HIV, share personal insights, and provide resources to make a difference.

Thursday February 6th - GLAAD Hangout with Shar Jossell host and Roya Marsh as guest — 2/6/2025 – Tune in with Shar Jossell as Roya Marsh reflects on the themes of her book savings time and on her journey, the power of self-love, and why poetry is both a revolution and a home.

GLAAD Hangouts with Kyle Price and Lester Matthews — 1/28/25 – Join Kyle Price and Lester Matthews. Lester has been a pioneer in Black queer media, reshaping narratives with groundbreaking content like “The Circle”, one of the first Black queer reality series online. They will also dive into his latest visionary project, “Saint Peter”—a futuristic mystery drama set in 2077 that recently premiered in New York. The film follows Peter, a controversial author, as he uses advanced technology to uncover the truth behind an attempted murder in his past.

GLAAD Hangout with Kyle Price and Rylic Alexander — 1/14/25 – In this heartfelt conversation, Kyle Price and Rylic Alexander dive into Rylic’s journey as a Black queer artist, his creative process, and his brand-new album BOY, which drops TODAY!

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