Welcome to our summer interview series. This week Anna DeShawn is in conversation with Brandon Wolf. Brandon is a pulse survivor, advocate & recent author. Since surviving Pulse where he lost two of his best friends his life has never been the same. He took that tragedy and became an activist for gun safety and LGBTQ rights. Today, he is the press secretary for Equality Florida in the midst of the hate storm that is Ron DeSantis. We talk about how he’s finding hope right now, what life looks like for queer folks in Florida and of course his new book “A Place for Us”.
00:00 – Welcome to the Queer News podcast
1:41 – Top queer news stories
5:45 – Tap into the mental health services provided by the Cook County Department of Public Health
The Queer News team is changing it up for the next couple of months so we have a little more time to enjoy the summer, our families, and rest. We hope you enjoy these conversations with some really wonderful queer folks doing good in the world. Those are the stories we want to amplify here on Queer News.
During the interview series we won’t leave queer news stories on the sidelines either. Anna will provide brief commentary about the top one or two queer news stories happening that we should be following. Not full stories but know we are still closely following the queer news feeds. You can always follow Anna on social media to stay up to date.
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In this week’s episode of the Queer News podcast, Anna DeShawn engages in a compelling conversation with Brandon Wolf. Brandon is a pulse survivor, advocate, and author, whose life took a drastic turn after surviving the tragic Pulse nightclub shooting. Losing two of his best friends in the attack, he transformed his grief into activism, becoming a vocal proponent for gun safety and LGBTQ rights. Currently serving as the press secretary for Equality Florida, Brandon finds himself navigating the turbulent political landscape led by Governor Ron DeSantis. Together, they discuss finding hope amidst adversity, the experiences of queer individuals in Florida, and Brandon’s newly released book, “A Place for Us.”
Anna and Brandon explore the resilience that emerges from tragedy, highlighting the power of turning pain into action. Brandon’s personal journey as a pulse survivor and his unwavering commitment to advocacy demonstrate the strength of his resolve. Despite the challenges posed by the current climate of hate perpetuated by Ron DeSantis, Brandon shares how he remains hopeful and draws strength from fighting for equality and justice.
The conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by queer individuals in Florida. From discriminatory legislation to the complexities of navigating social and political landscapes, Brandon provides valuable insights into the realities of being queer in the state today. Through his work with Equality Florida, he continues to advocate for change, making a profound impact on the lives of LGBTQ individuals.
Additionally, Brandon introduces his new book, “A Place for Us.” This poignant memoir invites readers to embark on a journey through his personal experiences, offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of a pulse survivor turned advocate. It stands as a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community.
As the episode concludes, listeners are left inspired by Brandon Wolf’s unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society. His story serves as a beacon of strength and resilience within the LGBTQ community. Through activism, advocacy, and sharing his personal experiences, Brandon continues to lead the way for change in Florida and beyond. Be sure to tune in to this enlightening conversation and explore the transformative power of hope and activism in the face of adversity.
Transcript
Family, it’s your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn and this is the Queer News summer interview series. I’m changing it up for summer so I can take a little break from the research and script writing and avoid the dreaded podfade. We only get a month ½ of sunshine here in Chicago and I’m trying to enjoy every moment. As you know we aren’t leaving our top queer news stories on the cutting room floor or anything like that. I’ll be sharing stories you should know before we jump into the interview for the week.
Before I get into this week’s episode, did y’all enjoy the conversation last week? UNAPOLOGETIC: Being Black and Queer in Podcasting. I want to give another thank you to Kris & Shana of the Bad Queers podcast and Tre’vell of the FANTI podcast. If you missed the conversation you can listen here on the feed or watch it on The Qube’s YouTube channel. Link in the show notes.
Now for the top queer news stories. First up, Da Brat & Judy welcomed their baby boy True Legend Harris-Dupart. Yes they did. True came into the world on Thursday, July 6th at 8:30 pm. He weighed in at 7lbs 8oz. People magazine got the exclusive again and we couldn’t be more happy for them growing their family. I know I’ve enjoyed watching Brat & Judy’s motherhood journey together. From misscarriage, to surgery scares, to IVF. I mean Brat is 49 and just gave birth to a healthy baby boy. They have been on a journey together and showing all of us that family is possible for us too.
In other news, Jay Z’s mom Gloria Carter married her partner of many years Roxanne Wilshire. We all came to know Jay Z’s mom was fam in his 2017 track “Smile”. The stars were in the building too. The whole family, Beyonce, Jaz, Kelly, Tina, Tyler & my fav Robin Roberts. Congratulations y’all.
Then finally, if you’re looking for a good documentary to get into this week I recommend you checking out The Stroll. The Stroll directed by Kristen Lovell is a Sunday Jury Award-winning documentary currently playing on HBO Max and Hulu. The doc looks at the history of New York’s Meatpacking District told from the perspective of trans sex workers who lived and worked there. They recount the violence, policing, and gentrification that led to a movement for transgender rights. Def go check it out.
You may have noticed that I didn’t have any political news and that’s because me & our guest this week is Brandon Wolf talk about it plenty. Brandon Wolf; pulse survivor, advocate & recent author. Since surviving Pulse and losing two of his best friends his life has never been the same. Today, he is the press secretary for Equality Florida in the midst of the hate storm that is Ron DeSantis. We talk about how he’s finding hope right now, what life looks like for queer folks in Florida and of course his new book “A Place for Us”.
Interviewing is where I started back in November of 2009 on Blogtalkradio. What a time. I’m sure I was talking to myself and I moved away from interviews for the Queer News podcast so it’s been really nice to be in conversation with folks again in this way. So stay close we are going to take a quick break for our sponsors and then we’ll be back with Brandon. I really hope you enjoy it. Till next week, peace.
Are you ready for the podcast tour of the year?
The Qube Podcast Listening Tour – where Black & Brown podcasts come alive, unheard voices are amplified, and community is celebrated. With our first ever Qube Tour, you’ll be part of something extraordinary. Picture this: you’re surrounded by like-minded folks, all connected through the power of shared stories and a love for podcasts.
Immerse yourself in the audio world with our noise canceling surround sound silent headphones. Discover podcasts created and produced by BIPOC & QTPOC creators, each offering a distinct and powerful voice that deserves to be heard.
Family, do not miss this opportunity to network, discover new shows, and engage with audio content in a whole new way.
Join us on Saturday, July 15th in Brooklyn with the Black Podcasters Association Summer Social. Then Sunday, July 16th in Manhattan at PodStream Studios with DCP Entertainment. Then Saturday, July 22nd in Silver Spring. Be part of this ground-breaking event that’s redefining the podcasting landscape. Purchase your ticket now at theqube.app/tour and secure your spot today.
If you enjoyed what you heard. Rate & review us inside your favorite podcast app. This podcast is written & produced by Anna DeShawn. Podcast editing by Xperience J of Shhh! Jus’ Listen Media. And brought to you by E3 Radio. Your number #1 Queer radio station playing queer music & reporting on queer news in high rotation.
Sources
Da Brat Is a Mom! Rapper and Wife Jesseca Welcome Baby Boy (Exclusive)
