OUTTAKE VOICES™ (Interviews)

Chrystina Obleschuk, Director of Programs at the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about their free Health Summit that takes place on June 3rd at the Mack Experience Center in Allentown, PA. The Summit will feature expert speakers and findings from their LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment Survey taken by thousands of participants in 2024 covering many aspects of health and well-being from mental health to basic needs for our community. To kick off the summit Keynote Speaker Tommy Walcott-Lee a queer public health scholar, educator and advocate will address bringing together LGBTQ health, human rights and global justice. Special featured speakers will include (ret) Admiral Rachel Levine, MD who has not only been a pioneer for health in the state of Pennsylvania as Secretary of Health and Physician General but also for the nation at large having served as the 17th Assistant Secretary for Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In addition Adrian Shanker founding Executive Director of Bradbury-Sullivan will speak who went on to serve in the Biden-Harris Administration as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health Policy and Senior Advisor on LGBTQI+ Health Equity at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and previously served as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS. Adrian has also edited two anthologies “Bodies and Barriers: Queer Activists on Health” and “Crisis and Care: Queer Activist Responses to a Global Pandemic”. There will be panels as well with crucial information and guidance to assist LGBTQ orgs with policies, advocacy, grant writing and funding in these challenging times. We talked to Chrystina about what she hopes to accomplish with Bradbury-Sullivan Health Summit and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Chrystina Obleschuk, MPH in her role at Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center oversees the Center's programming, including health promotion campaigns, PA LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment, advocacy, community-building groups and youth programming. Chrystina has her Master's in Public Health from Boston University and her BS in Biology and Public Health from Muhlenberg College. Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center creates a vibrant LGBTQ community in Pennsylvania through arts, health, youth, training and Pride programs.                         For More Info…  LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Author Sarah Schulman talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her new book “The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity” published by Penguin Random House. Schulman is a longtime social activist from the fight for abortion rights in post-Franco Spain to NYC's AIDS activism in the 1990s to campus protest movements against Israel's war on Gaza and beyond bringing her own experience growing up as a queer female artist in male-dominated culture industries. In these challenging times as our democracy is at a moral crossroad, this must-read book couldn't be more timely. For those who seek to combat injustice, solidarity with the oppressed is one of the highest ideals yet it does not come without complication. In this searing yet uplifting book Sarah delves into the intricate and often misunderstood concept of solidarity to provide a new vision for what it means to engage in this work and why it matters. Here in America with this new administration we're beginning to understand and realize that the only people that will save us from this authoritarian regime are ourselves. Drawing parallels between queer, Jewish, feminist and artistic struggles for justice Schulman challenges the traditional notion of solidarity as a simple union of equals arguing that in today's world of globalized power structures true solidarity requires the collaboration of bystanders and conflicted perpetrators with the excluded and oppressed. Currently in America we are learning that action comes at a cost and it is not always as effective as we would like it to be but doing nothing is far more dangerous. We talked to Sarah about these current issues and her inspiration for writing “The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity”.  Sarah Schulman is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, nonfiction writer and AIDS historian. Her books include The Gentrification of the Mind, Conflict Is Not Abuse and Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987–1993 and the novels The Cosmopolitans and Maggie Terry. Schulman's honors include a Fulbright in Judaic Studies, a Guggenheim in Playwriting and honors from Lambda Literary, the Publishing Triangle, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, the American Library Association and others. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, New York, Harper's Magazine, The Atlantic, The Nation, The New Republic, The New York Times and The Guardian. Schulman holds an endowed chair in creative writing at Northwestern University and is on the advisory board of Jewish Voice for Peace.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Activist Cathy Marino-Thomas talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the current state of our LGBTQ community especially with our transgender, intersex and non-binary American citizens being targeted by the new administration. Most recently the National Park Service has deleted references to transgender and queer people by removing the “TQ” part of the LGBTQ acronym from the Stonewall National Monument website that launched a massive rally in NYC on Valentines Day.  Marino-Thomas who is one of the rally organizers stresses to our audience that this is no time to stay at home. We need to show up and speak out and not allow 50 years of LGBTQ civil rights progress be ripped away with executive orders attempting to erase our history and our community. The new administration is trying to scapegoat our community in an attempt to distract the country to what is really happening to all of our freedoms. This isn't the first time our LGBTQ community has been targeted by an administration's hatred and lack of understanding of who we are. When Republican Dwight Eisenhower was elected President he issued Executive Order 10450 in 1953 that revoked Truman's Executive Order 9835 of 1947 and dismantled Truman's Loyalty Board Program. This resulted in 5,000 federal gays and lesbians to be fired in government that began the Lavender Scare witch hunt of the 1950's and continued until 1975. We talked to Cathy about what can we do to ensure our LGBTQ community moves forward in the current Trump administration and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Cathy Marino-Thomas spent many years with the Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) Buddy Program visiting people afflicted with HIV/AIDS and assisting them with daily chores, advocacy and information. She worked on the issue of marriage equality since 1998 serving as Executive Director of Marriage Equality NY for 3 years (2005 - 2008) and Board President for 6 years. After merging Marriage Equality NY with Marriage Equality USA 2011 she served as Co-President of Marriage Equality USA for 3 years until retiring in 2014. Cathy has spoken all over the country about the rights, privileges and obligations that protect families only through the right to civil marriage. Currently Cathy is proud to be a board member of the Stonewall Democrats of New York as well as Gilbert Baker Foundation which has joined forces with the ACLU to fight more than 60+ US communities who have banned the Rainbow Flag the global symbol of LGBTQ equality that was recently banned from federal buildings by the new administration. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Author Molly Booker talks with with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her new must-read memoir “Magic In The Mess” available on 10/10 Press. In these challenging times it's crucial to know you're not alone in navigating through your personal struggles no matter what they might be. By sharing her own intimate account the memoir opens with the vivid moment that epitomized her inner turmoil symbolizing the chaos she sought to hide from the world reminding us all that life's “mess” is often where the magic begins. Booker masterfully illustrates her inspirational story in this candid exploration of identity, resilience and self-acceptance taking the readers on a journey of transformation and healing. With raw honesty and unfiltered vulnerability Molly shares the challenges of navigating a world filled with societal expectations, gender norms and personal upheaval. From her childhood struggles with perfectionism and belonging to her adult quest for authenticity and love “Magic In The Mess” invites readers to discover their strength amid life's messiness. Booker writes, “The road ahead may still be uncertain but in the chaos I find the opportunity for rebirth. The journey continues, not as a quest to escape failures but as a celebration of resilience and self-discovery. As the sun sets on the landscape of my past I welcome the darkness as a canvas for a new dawn. The alchemy of transformation begins and I carry the lessons of my messy magic into the unfolding chapters of my life.” As we enter into 2025 this memoir could not be more timely in our unfathomable world. We talked to Molly about what she hopes to accomplish with her memoir “Magic In The Mess” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Molly Booker is a passionate author, speaker and advocate for authenticity, self-discovery and mental health. As a suicide prevention advocate and champion for the LGBTQ community, Molly's background in ministry and personal journey resonate deeply with many. She shares her story to inspire others to embrace their true selves and find joy in life's messiness.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Alexis Stratton talks about the new book “Trans Kids, Our Kids” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ co-authored with Adam Polaski and Rev.Jasmine Beach-Ferrara from the Campaign for Southern Equality and released by Ig Publishing. In these unprecedented times “Trans Kids, Our Kids” provides a narrative look into the challenges facing our transgender young people. This is especially crucial after the recent GOP presidential campaign distorted and targeted transgender issues to regain control of the White House. The new book provides a truthful blueprint addressing trans youth issues by taking a storytelling approach in capturing how people all across the country are meeting the moment to support, protect and live in solidarity with transgender youth and their families. The book is based on more than 50 interviews with transgender youth, their parents and the medical providers, advocates and faith leaders who are leading the fight against the wave of discriminatory legislation that has flooded statehouses since 2022. One primary focus of “Trans Kids, Our Kids” is the attack on trans youth's access to gender-affirming care. Less than two years ago there weren't any states that had such bans in effect. Currently there are now 26 states that have bans or restricted transgender youth from accessing hormone therapy with the issue coming before the Supreme Court in the case United States v. Skrmetti with oral arguments on December 4th. Campaign for Southern Equality (CSE) through their Trans Youth Emergency Project have supported more than 1,000 families of transgender youth in navigating healthcare bans. Since the launch of the project in 2023 CSE has distributed more than $600,000 in direct emergency grants to families and community partners across 26 states. We talked to Alexis about what they hope to accomplish with “Trans Kids, Our Kids” and their spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Alexis Stratton has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC. and their stories and essays have appeared in storySouth, Hayden's Ferry Review, Matador Review and Oyez Review among other publications. In 2022 Alexis' chapbook “Anywhere Else but Here” was published by Fjords Review and in 2023 won the James River Writers' and Richmond Magazine's Best Unpublished Novel Contest. Alexis lives in Richmond, VA. and works as a freelance writer and an LGBTQ rights advocate. Campaign for Southern Equality is based in Asheville, NC. promoting full LGBTQ equality across the South. Their work is rooted in commitments to equity in race, gender and class. Through their Trans Youth Emergency Project they support families of trans youth who are impacted by anti-transgender healthcare bans in the South. All royalties from book sales of “Trans Kids, Our Kids” will benefit this project.  For More  Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Filmmaker Marco Calvani talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about “High Tide” his feature film debut that stars Marco Pigossi (Lourenço) as a Brazilian undocumented immigrant adrift Provincetown in the late summer. The film is about a young man coping after a break up & left adrift in Ptown with his travel visa running out. Lourenço then meets Maurice a Black American & a romance evolves. Though Maurice's comes with a circle of friends he's is also quite aware he's the minority in a predominantly white queer tourist mecca. Pigossi gives a haunting performance steeped in melancholy & raw pain but delivers moments of openness, optimism & joy with an affective portrait of the depths LGBTQ men experience seeking meaningful connections. As the summer season fades & with his unexpected romance with Maurice together the two reconcile the pasts they've left behind & pursue their uncertain futures. The film distributed by Strand Releasing premiered at South by Southwest & was released in NYC earlier this month followed by an expansion to Los Angeles & will begin a run at Waters Edge Cinema in Provincetown & Coolidge Corner Theater in Brookline, MA on Friday November 1st. The stellar cast also includes James Bland as Maurice, Marisa Tomei as Miriam, Bill Irwin as Scott, Sean Mahon as Bob, Mya Taylor as Crystal, Bryan Batt as Todd, Todd Flaherty as Leslie, Karl Gregory as BJ & João Santos as Dimo with a haunting score by Sebastian Plano.  Marco Calvani is an Italian playwright, director, filmmaker, translator & actor. Trained as an actor since he was a teenager Calvani made his debut as a playwright in 2002 with Quasi commissioned by the European Social Forum. Prior to his first feature film High Tide which had its world premiere at SXSW in March 2024 he wrote & directed the short film The View from Up Here starring Melissa Leo & Leïla Bekhti based on his eponymous play originally commissioned by The Actors Studio & directed by Estelle Parsons. As of 2020 Marco  is in a relationship with Brazilian actor Marco Pigossi. LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Activist Rev. Irene Monroe talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about appearing in our issue driven non-partisan VOTE PSA Campaign we've launched on social media and beyond to get the VOTE OUT. As early voting has begun in states across the country OUTTAKE MEDIA™ has spearheaded this timely and compelling VOTE PSA Campaign to bring our LGBTQ community and marginalized grassroots groups together about the importance of voting. Not only will this campaign get people to vote it will also address our issues. Whether you're Christian, Muslim, Catholic, Jewish, Indigenous or LGBTQ we need to come together now or possibly lose our rights. In our VOTE PSA Rev. Monroe addresses these issues including women's rights and the rise of hate crimes as we head into a presidential election questioning our Democracy. The campaign is directed by C. Fitz (Queen Sugar, One Perfect Shot), West Coast producer Lissa Forehan (More Beautiful for Having Been Broken) and performing the closing tagline song “Vote For A Working America” is Broadway/Cabaret Diva Ann Hampton Callaway. Produced in the historic Calderwood Studio at WGBH in Boston we want to thank our GBH team including Terry Quinn Director of Studio Operations, Phil Reilly Set Design and Lighting Director, Howard Powell Cinematographer, Beth Godlin Lillis Post Production Manager, Editor Deb Holland and Juan José Cadena Duenas Studio Operations Manager. This is a full circle experience for Executive Producer Charlotte Robinson who began her stellar career at WGBH as assistant to Paula Apsell, Senior Executive Producer Emerita NOVA at GBH. We talked to Rev. Irene Monroe about the significance of this VOTE PSA Campaign and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.    Rev. Irene Monroe graduated from Wellesley College and Union Theological Seminary at Columbia University and served as a pastor at an African-American church in New Jersey before receiving her doctorate at Harvard Divinity School as a Ford Fellow. She was instrumental in Union United Methodist Church a predominately African American church in Boston's South End becoming a Reconciling Congregation first in New England. Monroe's syndicated religion columns appear in Bay Windows, Cambridge Chronicle, Dig Boston, Curve and in several cities across the country and in the UK and Canada. Monroe is the Boston voice for Detour's African American Heritage Trail and History UnErased. Monroe is a founder and now member emeritus of several national LGBTQ Black and religious organizations and currently can be heard on the podcast and standing Boston Public Radio segment “All Rev'd Up” on WGBH-FM. WATCH VIDEO    LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES  

Mariah Hanson, founder and producer of The Dinah the most renowned annual music festival for queer women that's celebrating its 33rd year and takes place September 25th through September 29th in Palm Springs, CA talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. The Dinah is continuing its legend with a show-stopping entertainment line-up at one of Palm Springs' most historic hotels the Margaritaville formerly The Riviera. This glamorous venue will host The Black and White Ball in the Grand Ballroom Friday night September 27th with award-winning artist Lauren Jauregui the multi-platinum Cuban American singer-songwriter and former member of girl group Fifth Harmony. Then on Saturday night September 28th performing at The Hollywood Party is the multi-talented Brooklyn native Iniko who will take center stage as a proud non-binary artist. Iniko uses their music on behalf of the queer community after rising to fame in 2018 and amassing a huge following on TikTok crossing the 4 million follower mark. Iniko's songs “The King's Affirmation” and “Jericho” achieved viral success by reaching over 25 million Spotify streams. That success led to a nomination for Outstanding Music Artist at the 2024 GLAAD Media Awards and a Billboard chart debut. Also bringing glitz and glamour to the Dinah's Hollywood Party is Lauren Sanderson. Of course during the daytime there will be The Dinah's legendary pool parties showcasing a string of galvanizing queer emerging performers. Whitney Peyton the multi-Billboard-charting, Grammy Award Winning contributing rapper, songwriter and performer will kick off the pool party weekend series Friday afternoon September 27th. The Dinah will also present world-famous DJs, go-go dancers, red carpet events with celebrity guests, dance parties, meet & greets and so much more. We talked to Mariah about what she hopes to accomplish with The Dinah this year and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Mariah Hanson continues to utilize The Dinah as a platform to mobilize our LGBTQ community around humanitarian and social issues especially during this crucial election year. An exemplary community leader she has single-handedly revolutionized her industry, overturned tradition and raised the bar on female achievement with an event that is entirely produced by women for women. OUTTAKE MEDIA has been a proud Media Sponsor of The Dinah for the last eight years.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Transgender acrobat Toni Cannon talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about Circus Bella's show "WOW!" that celebrated its 15th annual Circus in the Parks Season in San Francisco, CA. This fabulous exhilarating show that launched last month delighted and astonished audiences of all ages. "WOW!" offered a modern twist on one-ring circus and captivated a blend of circus enchantment and madcap mayhem. Circus Bella's diverse troupe of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers and clowns from the Bay Area and beyond performed to the lively tunes of Rob Reich and the 6-piece Circus Bella All-Star Band. Circus Bella thrives in its mission to produce and present high-quality Circus Arts entertainment accessible to all audiences. Their vision is to be a classical circus attuned to the present. They pursue excellence in a modern one-ring circus combining past traditions with forward-thinking sensibilities and flair. Circus Bella honors diversity and universal human potential as a proud member of the multinational circus community. In celebrating the beauty of circus art they delight in unifying people with experiences that cross age, culture and language barriers with joyous performances. Circus Bella new show "WOW!" was written and directed by Abigail Munn with music composed by Rob Reich and costumes by Autumn Adamme. We talked to Toni about what he hopes to accomplish performing with Circus Bella and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Toni Cannon is consistently working on finding new ways to express himself through acrobatics. He finds the challenge thrilling and very relatable to life's challenges. Toni started his circus career later in life however that didn't stop him from diving deep into his newfound love and passion. He has been lucky enough to train under some great coaches like Master Lu Yi and Dominik Wyss learning disciplines like Chinese pole, partner acrobatics and Hand-to-hand. He has been a part of some amazing companies and productions like Topsy Turvy Circus and Circus Bella where he also performs during their Winter Big Top Spectacular “Kaleidoscope” coming in December.    For More Info…  LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

LGBTQ Filmmakers at the 26th annual Provincetown International Film Festival talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ in this exclusive audio montage that took place at the Boatslip Resort & Beach Club in Provincetown, MA. First we talked to director Stephen Soucy about his documentary “Merchant Ivory” that pulls back the curtain on the fascinating lives of filmmakers Ismail Merchant and James Ivory. Their unique partnership on and off the camera produced 43 groundbreaking films over 4 decades that left an indelible mark on the LGBTQ and arthouse cinema. The documentary features interviews with Vanessa Redgrave, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Helena Bonham Carter and many others who were lucky enough to move in the orbit of Merchant and Ivory's fabulous filmmaking. Next we chatted with director Fawzia Mirza and producer Andria Wilson Mirza about their feature film “The Queen of My Dreams”. The film is about a Pakistani Canadian woman who has had a strained relationship with her parents since coming out as lesbian and undergoes an emotional journey after the sudden unexpected death of her father. Her grief plunges her into a Bollywood-style examination of her family's past and present. Then we talked with director Taylor James, actor Kanoa Goo and producer Katie White about their short film “ILY, BYE” about when an unemployed, down on her luck woman (Megan Stalter) gets a life-changing job opportunity but she can't seem to get her foot out of her mouth long enough to get her foot in the door.    Next we talked to Tyler C. Peterson about his short film “Stan Behavior” about a drag queen (Ginger Minj) embarking on a quest for better workplace rights but finds herself in a dicey situation when her new lawyer (Yvonne Zima) a tone-deaf straight woman is revealed to be a drag super stan. Then we talked with director Sarah McCarron and music producer Rascal Miles about their short film “The Bend” about a trans man migrating from Tennessee to Minneapolis who gets stranded in rural Wisconsin and encounters a fisherman. We then chatted with director Marco Calvani about his feature film “High Tide” that was shot in Provincetown about an undocumented Brazilian immigrant searching for purpose when he encounters Maurice creating a memorable tribute to love and loss. We concluded our conversation with veteran producer Christine Vachon who produced the 2023 Oscar nominated film “Past Lives” about what films she has coming down the pike. We also talked with all the filmmakers about their spin on our LGBTQ issues as we approach the crucial 2024 presidential election.    The Provincetown Film Society, Inc. (PFS) is a non-profit year-round organization and home of the Provincetown International Film Festival. PIFF creates a unique international platform for the west and east coast entertainment industry to experience the diversity and community of Provincetown. PFS is also dedicated to showcasing the work of acclaimed and emerging directors, producers and actors.  For Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Filmmaker Kristen Lovell talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the historic Stonewall Riots Reenactment that takes place on June 29th at the Stonewall National Museum, Archives & Library in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The reenactment is part of a floor to ceiling interactive Stonewall Inn Bar installation that runs now through September 2nd 2024 before kicking off a national tour. Lovell of HBO's “The Stroll" will portray Gay Liberation Activist Marsha P. Johnson for the reenactment. Johnson was one of the prominent figures in the Stonewall uprising of June 28th 1969 when police raided the establishment resulting in arrests, riots and fire sparking the global LGBTQ human rights movement. Johnson was a founding member of the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) and co-founded the radical activist group Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) alongside close friend Sylvia Rivera. For the first time NYC's iconic Stonewall Inn will become a nationwide traveling time machine and the set of the historic Stonewall New York Experience reenactment on Saturday June 29th from 4:30P to 7P with local police and other community members playing a role in the reenactment. Visitors are also asked to dress in their 1960s best and consider wearing gender bending clothing which was illegal in 1969. The Stonewall New York Experience was created to remind us all how important bars like the Stonewall Inn and bar culture are to our LGBTQ community. Many of these establishments were a safe haven, others a place to forge friendships, find love and enjoy the freedom of acceptance. As the beloved Stonewall Inn burned to the ground the Stonewall Riots ignited a united front to ban together, to fight together for the indelible human rights that unfortunately many take for granted. We talked to Kristen about what she hopes to accomplish with this historic Stonewall Riots reenactment and give us her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Kristen Lovell is a trans rights activist, filmmaker and former sex worker. After experiencing homelessness as a teenager in NYC during the late 1990s and early 2000s she went on to work for various organizations advocating for the rights of trans people and sex workers. After studying filmmaking at Lincoln Center she went on to co-direct the documentary film “The Stroll” currently streaming on MAX based in part on her experiences. For over 50 years the Stonewall National Museum, Archives & Library in Fort Lauderdale has tirelessly fought to tell the stories of our LGBTQ community ensuring it holds its place in the historic record. For More Info…  LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Alison Burgos talks about the 23rd anniversary of Girls In Wonderland with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ that takes place May 30th through June 3rd in Orlando, Florida. Girls In Wonderland was founded in 2000 by the trio Amy Alonso, Yesenia Leon and Burgos the women behind Pandora Events. This powerhouse lesbian event production company from South Beach has created and produced some of the hottest LGBTQ soirées and music festivals in the US. In a little over two decades the iconic event has become a force on its own with over 10,000 attendees coming from near and far representing all colors of the rainbow and taking over a 700-room resort. The event brings together some of the most influential LGBTQ artists, celebrities, athletes, influencers and changemakers from around the country including Leisha Hailey, Kate Moennig, Fortune Feimster and Chante Wayans to name a few. This year's event kicks off with a Welcome Happy Hour on Thursday May 30th from 6P to 8P for a mix and mingle with live music by Deb Hundseder followed by the Traffic Jam opening party with special guest DJs Pat Pat, Dlux & Zehno. Friday begins with the Wet Pool Party with Chloe Star performing live, followed by Citizen Jane performance at the L-Lounge Happy Hour and then comedian Kristin Key takes the stage who has appeared at The Improv and on the series Last Comic Standing and Bring the Funny. Friday concludes with Snow Tha Product performance and then the Afterhours Afterglow Party. There will be more epic pool parties and fabulous events throughout the weekend. We talked to Alison about what she hopes to accomplish with Girls In Wonderland this year and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Alison Burgos has been a luminary in celebrating lesbian culture, creating spaces like Girls In Wonderland in Orlando, Aqua Girl and the Women's White Party. Alison's role in advocacy is as dynamic as her event planning. She was a guiding force on the National Advisory Council for the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) and takes on leadership roles as the Vice Chair of the Kindred Pride Foundation. Pandora Events commitment to advocacy continues donating over $30,000 each year to support our LGBTQ community including Aqua Foundation for Women, HRC, Care Resource, NVEEE and the National LGBTQ Task Force.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Press conference with LGBTQ leaders, legal experts, civil rights leaders and student advocates that Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ attended about the new Title IX rule. The U.S. Department of Education published its final regulatory updates that clarify Title IX protections for LGBTQ students, student survivors of sexual assault and pregnant and parenting students. Consistent with the reasoning of the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark Bostock v. Clayton County decision in 2020 the Department now clarifies that harassment on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or sex characteristics violates Title IX's mandate for federally funded schools to prohibit sex discrimination. In March 2021 President Biden issued Executive Order 14021 beginning the process of undoing the Trump administration's harmful actions undermining Title IX and protections for LGBTQ students and sexual assault survivors. In this virtual press briefing Shiwali Patel, Director of Justice for Student Survivors and Senior Counsel, National Women's Law Center conducted this intimate informative session joined by Brandon Wolf, Human Rights Campaign, National Press Secretary, Olivia Hunt, National Center for Transgender Equality Policy Director, Kenyora Parham, End Rape on Campus CEO, Kel O'Hara, Equal Rights Advocates Senior Attorney, Emily Bach & Andrew Davis who are student organizers with Know Your IX A which is a project of advocates for youth and concluded with Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, GLSEN's Executive Director.  As we celebrate this important milestone to protect our LGBTQ youth there's still much more work to be done. Schools have also been hampered by extremist efforts at the state and local level to target LGBTQ youth especially transgender, nonbinary and gender-expansive youth. This year alone we're already dealing with more than 470 anti-LGBTQ bills introduced in state legislatures nationwide mostly targeting our transgender youth. The new Title IX Ruling also does not protect the rights of transgender athletes to play and be part of a team. Every student including LGBTQ students should have equal access to educational opportunities throughout the entirety of their school experience. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Author Rossi talks about her new memoir “The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews” with  Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. “The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews” is published by She Writes Press and filled with fabulous rich characters, hilarious dialogue taking the reader on a ride into a secretive oppressive Jewish Orthodox world and beyond to be released on April 23rd. Rossi grew up in New Jersey where she was expected to just marry a nice Jewish boy and to be a good kosher Jewish girl but by the age of 16 the rebellious Rossi was more interested in exploring the punk rock scene of the 80's and her sexuality. Then her adventure seeking days came to a screeching halt when her parents kidnapped her and dumped her with a Hasidic rabbi known for reforming wayward Jewish girls in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Rossi was forced to relinquish her pink hair and Sex Pistols T-shirt for maxi skirts and long-sleeved blouses in this repressive, misogynistic culture straight out of the nineteenth century where she endured not only bone-crushing boredom but also outright abuse and violence. Fortunately Rossi knew there was a better future for her as she broke free from her oppressors and made her way to NYC where she thrived. Beginning as a bartender the opportunity arose in the catering industry as she talked her way into any cooking job she could get. Rossi a self-taught chef and self-made entrepreneur ended up launching The Raging Skillet one of the most sought-after catering companies in NYC that Zagat dubbed as “the wildest thing this side of the Mason-Dixon Line”. We talked to Rossi about her inspiration for writing “The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Rossi is the catering director, owner and executive chef of The Raging Skillet for over three decades. She has earned a reputation as the go-to company for out-of-the-box catering and weddings. The Raging Skillet has been voted one of New York's Top Five Wedding Caterers by The Knot from 2009 through 2023. Her first memoir, “The Raging Skillet: The True Life Story of Chef Rossi” was published by The Feminist Press in 2015 and turned into a stage production “Raging Skillet” by playwright Jacques Lamarre that toured nationally. Currently Rossi has written two full-length plays, a number of one-act comedies, a one-woman stage adaptation of Queen of the Jews and numerous screenplays.        For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Ann Hampton Callaway talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her upcoming performance with the Boston Gay Men's Chorus (BGMC) on March 16th at Jordan Hall in Boston, MA at 8P. The concert entitled "Melodies for a Movement" will highlight the "Tyler's Suite" that sheds light on the devastating impact of cyber-harassment and bullying that our LGBTQ youth continue to face. Tyler Clementi was the accomplished violinist who took his life in 2010 after being cyber-bullied by his Rutgers roommate for being gay. This powerful performance will feature a suite in nine movements for chorus with a solo violin performance dedicated to the memory of Tyler Clementi. The "Tyler's Suite" was created under the leadership of Composer Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) and explores the voices and experiences of Tyler and his family through the music of eleven of today's top composers including Ann Hampton Callaway. "Melodies for a Movement" will also feature a cabaret set by Callaway one of America's most gifted and prolific artists. Through the stirring composition of "Tyler's Suite" and the mesmerizing performance by Ann Hampton Callaway this fabulous concert event will evoke empathy, foster understanding and promote acceptance. Especially in these difficult times with over 600 anti LGBTQ bills in states across the country, women's rights continue to be on the chopping block, antisemitism and hate crimes on the rise all as we head toward the 2024 presidential election. We talked to Ann about what she hopes to accomplish with her music and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Ann Hampton Callaway is one of America's most gifted artists in pop and jazz. A leading champion of the great American Songbook she's made her mark as a singer, pianist, composer, lyricist, arranger, actress, educator, TV host and producer. Voted by Broadway World as “Celebrity of the Year” and two years in a row as “Best Jazz Vocalist” Ann is a born entertainer. She is best known for Tony-nominated performance in the hit Broadway musical “Swing!” and for writing and singing the theme song to the hit TV series “The Nanny.” Her latest CD “Finding Beauty, Originals Volume 1” premiered number 1 in Jazz on Amazon. Currently Ann is working on “Finding Beauty, Originals Volume 2”. The Boston Gay Men's Chorus founded in 1982 is one of New England's largest and most successful community-based choruses consisting of over 200 voices. "Melodies for a Movement" honors Tyler Clementi's memory while igniting the flame of positive change to build a world where every individual is cherished for exactly who they are.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Jason A. Rodriguez talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ at the 2024 National LGBTQ Task Force Creating Change Conference that took place in New Orleans, LA. Creating Change is the foremost political, leadership and skills-building conference for our LGBTQ social justice movement. There are also fun events especially when Jason A. Rodriguez the talented dancer/actor from the hit FX series “Pose” presented a workshop on the history, importance and elements of Vogue. This year's conference theme was “Queer Power, Action & Joy” and Jason delivered the joy conducting workshops on New Way Vogue. Jason who played Lamar on “Pose” also served as the movement coach for all three seasons. Currently Rodriguez conducts New Way Vogue classes at the Ailey Studios in NYC. The workshops Jason led at the Creating Change Conference gave the attendees an opportunity to learn the three styles of Voguing. Stretch and precision are key to New Way Vogue allowing the voguers to show off contorted and flexible poses with precision and grace. It's all accomplished by learning arm controls to show off your control of creating lines, shapes, illusions and face framing movements to the beat of the music in addition to poses, floor work, cat walks, duck walks and dips. Jason also served as one of the judges at the Conference's “Agents of Change –A Night of a Thousand Stars Mini-Ball” which presented professional and novice Voguers to strut their stuff down the runway. We talked to Jason about his inspiration to carry on the Voguing tradition and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Jason Anthony Rodriguez is a Dominican-American born and raised in Washington Heights in New York City. He was trained in voguing by Benny Ninja, Dorit Koppel and Kevin Wynn. Besides being a series regular on “Pose”, Jason also guest-starred on HBO's The Deuce as Enrico. Rodriguez has taught vogue in various institutions throughout the states as well as internationally in Dominican Republic, Vienna and Japan. Next year's Creating Change Conference will take place in Las Vegas, NV January 22nd to the 26th, 2025. We want to thank New Orleans and Company for sponsoring our coverage of the 2024 National LGBTQ Task Force Creating Change Conference.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Peaches Christ, San Francisco's own drag impresario and filmmaker talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her upcoming northeast tour of “Idol Worship: An Evening with Mink Stole and Peaches Christ”. Coming off their sold-out San Francisco shows they'll be kicking off their northeast Queer theatre tour in Salem, MA on February 14th Valentine's Day at 7:30P presented by Salem Horror Fest and Cinema Salem. If you're a fan of John Waters' films, Divine, drag history or cult movies you don't want to miss this fabulous event. This heartfelt cabaret show starring living legend and cult film icon Mink Stole alongside Christ who have been close friends for 2 decades will include an evening of storytelling, film clips and performance in a wildly entertaining and uncensored exposé that is as hilarious as it is revealing. The tour then continues on to the Columbus Theatre, Providence, RI on February 15th at 8P, NYC at the Green Room 42 570 Tenth Avenue February 16th & 17th, Punch Line Philly, Philadelphia, PA February 18th and concludes in DC at The Comedy Loft on February 20th. Mink Stole is an original Dreamlander the term for John Waters' cast and crew regulars across his 50+ years as a filmmaker. Mink has co-starred in every single Waters film dating back to his notorious 1967 short “Roman Candles”. She then created the iconic characters of Connie Marble in “Pink Flamingos”, Taffy Davenport in “Female Trouble” and Dottie Hinkle in “Serial Mom” to name a few. Peaches and Mink will share her decades of cult filmmaking on this intimate tour and more. We talked to Peaches about what she hopes to accomplish with “Idol Worship: An Evening with Mink Stole and Peaches Christ” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Peaches Christ is the alter- ego of writer/director Joshua Grannell whose infamous movie events are self-produced at the Castro Theatre and regularly draw over 1,000 attendees to each new production before they tour. Events have featured special guest stars John Waters, Cloris Leachman, Patricia Quinn, Nell Campbell, Linda Blair, Bruce Campbell, Apollonia, Barry Bostwick, Pam Grier and more. Grannell is the writer and director of the feature film “All About Evil” the award-winning dark comedy gore film stars Natasha Lyonne, Thomas Dekker, Cassandra Peterson, Mink Stole and Peaches Christ herself. Peaches Christ has been featured in the films Milk, I Am Divine, Diary Of A Teenage Girl, Mansfield 66/67, Tura!, Scream Queen: My Nightmare On Elm Street, You Don't Nomi and more. “Idol Worship: An Evening with Mink Stole and Peaches Christ” tickets prices vary with VIP tickets including a post-show meet & greet in a private room and a photo with Mink & Peaches, priority seating in the front rows of the theatre and a signed commemorative event poster.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Cathy Renna, Communications Director for the National LGBTQ Task Force talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the upcoming Creating Change Conference that takes place Wednesday January 17th to Sunday January 21st at the Hilton Riverside in New Orleans, LA. Creating Change is the foremost political, leadership and skills-building conference for our LGBTQ social justice movement. This year's 36th annual conference theme is “Queer Power, Action & Joy” and Kierra Johnson, National LGBTQ Task Force Executive Director will deliver the opening State of the Movement plenary. Raquel Willis the award-winning activist, author and media strategist dedicated to Black transgender liberation will emcee and host the conference. Creating Change continues its long tradition of presenting compelling keynote speakers, presentations, annual awards and more than 100 workshops and caucuses. This year's Indigenous Leadership Award Honoree will be presented to Jean-Luc Pierite, scholar, advocate and founder of InDigiFab (Tunica-Biloxi). There will also be fun events including special guest Jason Rodriguez the talented dancer/actor from the hit Fox series Pose who will be presenting a workshop on the history, importance and elements of VOGUE. Other fun events will include Gayme Night, Opening Cruise and the Agents of Change Masquerade Ball. Then Big Freedia the nationally recognized hip-hop artist, TV personality and larger-than-life ambassador of New Orleans Bounce music will be dancing her way to Creating Change to perform at the closing plenary. Since 1988 Creating Change has created networking opportunities and inspiration for thousands of committed people to develop and hone their activist skills. We talked to Cathy about what she hopes to accomplish at this year's Creating Change Conference and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Cathy Renna has been part of the National LGBTQ Task Force's extended family for decades. Renna is a veteran in the communications industry and serves as the Principal of Target Cue an LGBTQ+ focused communications consultancy. Since her time at GLAAD through the 1990's Cathy has executed her particular expertise in crisis and strategic communications. She played a central role in shaping nearly all major issues affecting our LGBTQ community from the beating death of Matthew Shepard in 1998 to the fight for marriage equality and the repeal of “Don't Ask Don't Tell”. In her 30 years of media relations and activism experience Cathy has garnered placements in every major media outlet in the U.S. and internationally including The New York Times, USA Today, The Associated Press, BBC and the Washington Post. Renna lives in Montclair, New Jersey with her wife Karen. She is the proud Mom of Mars who attends HSPVA High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, TX. The National LGBTQ Task Force recognizes that COVID-19 remains an ongoing public health concern and complies with all local and federal regulations at their in-person events.  For More Info…. LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Rev. Richard Emmanuel talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about The Church, a non-profit organization established in 1968 in East Gloucester, MA that is dedicated to raising individual and collective consciousness while increasing spiritual awareness. We called on Emmanuel a visionary and dedicated political activist to give us his brutally honest spin on where our world may be headed in 2024. With religious wars raging in Middle East and the war in Ukraine among others, we are faced with a global humanitarian crisis. Emmanuel addresses the fact that Christianity, Judaism and Islam are at war with one another causing a younger generation to become both weary of global conflict and wary of hierarchical institutions. Currently in this country we're under attack by white national domestic terrorists as we fend off over 600 anti LGBTQ bills in states across the country, women's rights are on the chopping block and antisemitism is on the rise all as we head into the 2024 election. Since 1968 Emmanuel has questioned the uncomfortable truths that the western religions are for the most part a perpetuation of conformity to the patriarchal myth that males are superior to the females of the human species. Richard also addresses the human experience as a life cycle of four stages. The cycle mirrors the planetary earth seasons consisting of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter as the four phases of being human as in childhood, young adulthood, middle age and elder-hood. We talked to Rev. Emmanuel about how we can regain a sense of humanity in a world spiraling downward and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Rev. Richard Emmanuel is a provocateur who creates both concept iconography and multimedia assemblages in 2d and 3d. His work is an exploration of consciousness with great emphasis drawn from the ancient civilizations on this planet and the “aboriginal dream” which spawned these ancient narratives. The practical use of his concepts and “designed environments” have been used in international corporate communications and exhibits. His work has shown at the Baltimore Visionary Art Museum. As a consultant he has envisioned for major international corporations and has had work installed at the American Visionary Art Museum and the Smithsonian Air-Space Museum. Richard understands that the greatest task is to teach each generation the quest for “what is truth?” Emmanuel sees the path and agrees with the greatest of ancient teachers that “one can only point the way” and above all “know thy self”. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Laury A. Egan talks about her latest novel “The Firefly” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. “The Firefly” published by Spectrum Books begins as an LGBTQ coming-of-age novel set in 1964 and evolves into a woman's lifelong journey to find fulfillment in both love and career. The story begins with Robin Bennet at fourteen who has been left to fend for herself at a lakeside rental after her parents argue and leave the premises each believing the other has remained with their daughter. Robin then discovers someone has been sleeping in the house and stealing food. That night Robin observes a beautiful blond girl who magically appears on the dock dancing to the light of a lantern. The next day Kieran a fifteen-year-old charming intruder invites himself to dinner. It turns out that he is the brother of the beautiful blond girl Stella who magically appeared on the dock the night before and after he departs the “Firefly” returns. This time Robin is brave enough to approach her leading to Robin's first kiss but in the morning Stella has disappeared. Robin's quest to find her is then cut short when Teresa her mother returns canceling their summer holiday on the lake. With Robin's attempt to find her new friends ending in vain she returns home but never forgets that night of passion on the lake. As she enters adulthood pursuing her dream of becoming an architect she continues to explore her sexuality as she struggles to fulfill her lost desire for Stella. We talked to Laury about her inspiration for writing “The Firefly” and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Laury A. Egan is the author of thirteen books of fiction. Her stories and poems have appeared in 85 literary journals and in multiple anthologies. Two full-length poetry volumes Snow, Shadow, a Stranger and Beneath the Lion's Paw were issued in limited edition as were two chapbooks Presence & Absence and The Sea & Beyond. Egan is also a fine arts photographer, a former book designer and a reviewer for The New York Journal of Books. She lives on the northern coast of New Jersey.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES  

Executive Producer Paula S. Apsell talks about her new documentary “Resistance - They Fought Back” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. The film is having its World Premiere at the Boston Jewish Film Festival November 2nd and  9th. “Resistance - They Fought Back” explores the misinformation that Jews went to their deaths like sheep to the slaughter during the Holocaust. Actually Jews fought back in more than sixty armed rebellions including six in death camps and thousands of Jewish partisans in forests of Europe. Through interviews with historians, survivors and their families the film belies a long-held myth and shines a new light on a lost chapter of history. Apsell co-directed this relevant and timely film with Kirk Wolfinger after a documentary they made for the PBS NOVA series in 2016 which she helmed for 35 years. Told by survivors, their children and expert witnesses from the U.S, Israel and Europe “Resistance - They Fought Back” is a revelation based on extensive research of how the Jews of Europe fought back. It uncovers evidence of non-violent methods which served as crucial tools of resistance and evolved into Jewish armed revolts in ghettos, forests and death camps even as the odds of success were alarmingly small. Today almost eighty years after the Holocaust this story remains largely unknown to the general public. It is important to understand this genocide that wiped out two-thirds of European Jews especially with the global rise of antisemitism, hatred and denial of the Holocaust itself. We talked to Paula about what she hopes to accomplish with “Resistance - They Fought Back” and as a fierce ally her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Paula S. Apsell spent 35 years as the Senior Executive Producer of the PBS NOVA science series responsible for more than 650 documentaries in the sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine which won every major broadcasting award including the Emmy; the Peabody; the duPont-Columbia University Gold and Silver Batons and an Academy Award nomination for Special Effects. She has been recognized with numerous individual awards including the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Emmy of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Currently she is CEO of Leading Edge Productions, Inc., a 501(c)(3) public charity. “Resistance: They Fought Back” is currently being screened at the Boston Jewish Film Festival and numerous screenings globally and is distributed by Abramorama.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ talks with 14 celebrity women on The Dinah's Red Carpet for its legendary Black & White Ball and Hollywood Party in Palm Springs, CA. We had a blast chatting with these fabulous women about their music, what they hope to accomplish with their work and how they're coping in these challenging times.  First we talked with Black Box headlining the Friday night Black & White Ball who is passionate about bringing back the 80's dance sound and talked about the importance of forums like The Dinah bringing people together. Next we spoke to XANA a new rising star on the pop scene who performed at Sunday's Pool Party who's currently on her first American tour and recording a new album. Then we chatted with singer-songwriter Ariana Castelli who released her first single “Love is Love” a few years ago and performed at The Dinah with Keeana Kee. Then we talked with The Dinah's DJ's Mo, Alex D and China G who are all committed to creating a safe place for women to party and thrive. Next we chatted with Phem one of the most prominent new queer indie singers who performed poolside and just concluded a world tour with Avril Lavigne. Then we chatted with influencer Divinity Ray an LA-based content creator, dancer and hair stylist with a passion for beauty, fashion and mental health. Concluding Friday night's Red Carpet was Oomy Oomy The Dinah's Emerging Artist Winner also known as "Porno" a trailblazing force in the realm of futuristic feel-good funk.    Then for Saturday night's Red Carpet at the infamous Hollywood Party we talked to Chef K a private chef who spent the last several years working on the margins of the Kardashians and is now stepping into her own celebrity chef status. Then we caught up with Mackenzie Lansing a French-American television and film actress who was cast in the Hunger Games prequel and “Mare of Easttown” alongside Kate Winslet. Next we chatted with Latvian-born New York based lesbian fashion model turned pop star Keeana Kee who performed at the Sunday Pool Party. Then Rose Garcia from the Showtime docuseries “The Real L Word” talked about her 27th year at The Dinah after beating stage 3 ovarian cancer last year. Rose is now advocating for people to get tested and also shared how practicing meditation helped to get through it. We concluded our Red Carpet coverage with rapper and songwriter Princess Nokia who headlined The Dinah's Hollywood Party. When asked what she wanted to accomplish with her music Princess Nokia stated, “I want people to feel like they are wonderful, amazing and free and I hope that my music always inspires people to feel awesome and feel relatable.”  For Info…  LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES  

Mariah Hanson, founder and producer of The Dinah talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the most renowned annual music festival for queer women that's celebrating its 32nd year and takes place September 20th through September 24th in Palm Springs, CA. The Dinah is continuing its legend with a show-stopping all-female entertainment line-up at one of Palm Springs' most historic hotels The Margaritaville formerly The Riviera. This glamorous venue will host The Black and White Ball in the Grand Ballroom Friday night September 22nd with Doechii one of today's most magnetic rappers who will take centerstage as the headliner. Doechii rose to prominence in 2021 with the viral Tik Tok success of her song "Yucky Blucky Fruitcake" and earlier this year appearing on the Billboard Hot 100 with her single “What it is (Block Boy)”. The Dinah mix on Friday night will also feature Black Box who has been keeping millions of fans dancing beneath disco balls and neon lights for 3 decades. Then on Saturday night at The Hollywood Party Princess Nokia the electrifying gender nonconforming queer NY Rapper and newest star to be is set to deliver an explosive headlining performance. After nearly a decade as a leader and icon for outsiders and misfits the New York-born Puerto Rican MC, singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, style icon, actress and activist Princess Nokia continues to speak up and speak out. Of course, during the daytime there will be The Dinah's legendary pool parties showcasing a string of galvanizing queer emerging performers. FYI don't miss The L-Word Pool Party on Saturday September 23rd as Phem one of the most prominent up-and-coming queer indie genre-defying singers will be performing poolside to get your swim on. Throughout the festivities The Dinah will also present world-famous DJs, go-go dancers, red carpet events with celebrity guests, dance parties, meet and greets and so much more. We talked to Mariah about what she hopes to accomplish with The Dinah this year and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Mariah Hanson continues to utilize The Dinah as a platform to mobilize our LGBTQ community around humanitarian and social issues especially in these challenging times. An exemplary community leader she has single-handedly revolutionized her industry, overturned tradition and raised the bar on female achievement with an event that is entirely produced by women for women. OUTTAKE MEDIA has been a proud Media Sponsor of The Dinah for the last seven years and we'll be onsite broadcasting all the festivities this year for our global LGBTQ audience.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Randy Roberts talks about his new show “Aging Dis-Gracefully” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. “Aging Dis-Gracefully” is currently at the Post Office Cafe and Cabaret now through August 29th in Provincetown, MA. We caught his fabulous new show last week and were thoroughly entertained with his theme of divas who refuse to grow old gracefully including impeccable performances from Cher, Bette Midler and more. However what makes Roberts show so outstanding is how he brings his own voice to the party. This is not a lip sync show but a Virtuoso performing in drag. Then when he concluded his show performing “The Music of the Night” from The Phantom of the Opera in his own persona we were blown away especially thinking about the controversy all drag artists are facing in this country with the politicizing of their performances. In Key West, Florida where Randy has performed at the La Te Da Cabaret for 25 years they no longer allow anyone under 18 years old to attend even though Randy's show is totally appropriate for all ages. In “Aging Dis-Gracefully” he does address Florida being ground zero with the current culture wars specifically drag artists under attack. Yet Roberts manages to address the issue flawlessly with a tribute to Governor DeSantis in a parody entitled “He's DeSantis” to the song “It's De-Lovely” and a moving rendition of the LGBTQ power anthem “Color Out of Colorado.” We talked to Randy about his inspiration for his new show “Aging Dis-Gracefully” and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Randy Roberts is an actor, singer, director and world-renowned female impersonator entertaining audiences for over 30 years. Hailing from Norfolk, VA he started in community theater and found a niche in female impersonation. First in small bars and clubs and then touring the country in the review “Masquerade a La Cage”. During this run he caught the eye of the producers of the long running Las Vegas drag revue “Boy-Lesque” at the Sahara Hotel and Casino. Roberts was also featured on the tenth season of NBC television's “America's Got Talent” and appeared on ABC television's “One Life To Live” as “Cher”. Randy made his film debut in the award-winning indie film “Any Day Now” starring Alan Cumming, Garret Dillahunt and Frances Fisher. Randy is currently celebrating his 25th year headlining in the Crystal Room Cabaret at La Te Da in Key West, Florida and in Provincetown at the Post Office Cafe and Cabaret where he is currently performing. Upcoming performance dates include September 22nd at the Sun Festival in Rehoboth Beach, DE & September 14th, 15th and 16th at the Crazy Coqs in London, UK.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Jason Stuart and Mitch Hara talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the second season of their must-watch comedy series “Smothered” currently available on all major streaming services including Amazon, Apple, DirecTV and Revry. Jason Stuart (The Birth Of A Nation) and Mitch Hara (Mutant Olive) have co-written, co-starred and co-produced this series about a longtime gay couple that can't stand each other but can't afford to get divorced. With the success of the first season that was named one of the best comedy series by Amazon and was nominated for the Spotlight Award at the Indie Series Awards Jason and Mitch have upped their game. Season 2 of “Smothered” boasts an impressive cast of guest stars that include Amanda Bearse (Married w/ Children/Bros), Jai Rodriguez (Bros/Queer Eye), Carole Ita White (Laverne & Shirley), Armand Fields (Queer as Folk) and more. “Smothered” second season follows the boomer-aged gay couple Randy and Ralph who still can't stand each other and still can't afford to get a divorce so they attempt to salvage their hideous relationship in therapy hell before they kill each other and everyone else. Both Stuart and Hara were also nominated for Best Actor and the series for Best Digital Series at the Queerty Awards. “Smothered” season 2 is directed by acclaimed theatre director Carlyle King who is making her Television début. We talked to Jason and Mitch about what they hope to accomplish with Smothered and their spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Jason Stuart is one of the most prolific character actors who's also an outrageous openly gay stand-up comedian. With over 150 credits his film work includes “The Birth Of A Nation” “Tangerine”, “Love Is Strange”, “Gia”, “Kindergarten Cop” and “Vegas Vacation” among his fan favorites. His TV work has wowed audiences with guest roles on such shows as “Sleepy Hollow”, “Entourage”, “The Closer”, “It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia”, “House”, “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Will & Grace” among others. Recently he won The Indie Series Award for Best Actor In a Comedy Series for the first season of “Smothered”. Jason also serves as the National LGBTQ Co-Chairman of the SAG-AFTRA LGBTQ Committee a role he co-created in 2004. For More Info… Mitch Hara is an actor/writer/director who joined the acclaimed Actors Studio when he was just 19. Mitch won Best Actor Award for his portrayal of “Sister Coco Call-Me- Ishmael” a mental-patient-drag-queen-nun. He also co- wrote and directed Joe Manganiello in “One Night Stand.” Hara's award-winning solo show “Mutant Olive” is currently playing to sold out houses in LA and is currently touring globally with rave reviews. For More Info…  For More Info... LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Latina filmmaker Sue Zarco Kramer and cast members of “Swipe NYC” talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the dramedy featurette that has already won film festival awards across the country. First we talked to Sue and the film's star Lisa Edelstein (House, Girlfriends Guide to Divorce) who plays Syd a newly divorced empty nester who throws herself into the vulnerable, scary, sexy world of online dating. Each date serves as a metaphor of Syd picking up the broken pieces of her life and regaining her sense of sexuality, confidence, empowerment and independence. Along the way she encounters her stellar cast of supporting actors including Richard Schiff (Wakanda Forever, The Good Doctor, The West Wing) and Bridget Moynahan (Blue Bloods, I Robot) among others. We also had the opportunity to get their spin on the current WGA Writer's Strike and address our LGBTQ issues. Then we talked to Richard Schiff who plays Steve about how he got involved in the film and what he hopes to accomplish with his career. Next we chatted with Angela Wong Carbone who plays Jane and David Kelsey who plays Luke about their roles and how David would like to see “Swipe NYC” developed into a streaming series. The film is also produced by Kelsey along with Bridget Moynahan, Heather Sederquist, Cheryl Bayer and Sue Zarco Kramer. Filmmaker Sue Zarco Kramer is a graduate of UCLA Film School. She graduated winning the coveted Jim Morrison Award for Outstanding Direction and Writing. Kramer has written for almost every studio and made her feature directorial debut with her original feature "Gray Matters" which pays homage to 1940's screwball comedies with one big bang of a modern twist. The film starred Heather Graham, Tom Cavanagh, Alan Cumming, Sissy Spacek, Bridget Moynahan and Molly Shannon in the romantic comedy about a brother and a sister who fall in love with the same woman. "Gray Matters" not only closed the 2007 Santa Barbara Film Festival but was chosen as the Spotlight Film of The Hamptons Film Festival. "Gray Matters" has remained on the top 25 Netflix list of "gay and lesbians hits" of all time. “Swipe NYC” premiered at The Beverly Hills Film Festival in April 2023 winning the best audience award and will be in San Francisco at the Jewish film festival on July 29th & August 4th winning the coveted freedom expression award. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES  

LGBTQ Filmmakers and activists at the 25th annual Provincetown International Film Festival talk with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. First we spoke with director Sophia Castuera and writer Ali Edwards about their first feature film “August At Twenty-Two” that's receiving a lot of buzz and will be available on most VOD streaming outlets next month. The film is about actress Cal (played by Edwards) who is floundering after college and is shocked to discover that her childhood soulmate has a serious girlfriend Em (Lilli Kay) who Cal unexpectedly falls in love with. “August At Twenty-Two” is an evocative and deeply felt portrait of young artists struggling to find their way in their craft and their lives. We also talked to Sophia and Ali about their inspiration for creating this film and their spin on our LGBTQ issues. Next we chatted with producer Fermin Rojas and director Mike Syers about their short film “There Are Things To Do” about LGBTQ activist and author Urvashi Vaid who passed away last year. Vaid was an outspoken immigrant, lesbian and woman of color who was an LGBTQ superhero and believed in human rights for all people. Urvashi led the charge in shaping the modern-day LGBTQ rights movement as Executive Director of National LGBTQ Task Force from 1989 to 1992 to founding LPAC the first lesbian Super PAC raising millions of dollars for candidates who are committed to social justice. The film chronicles her life in Provincetown and 34-year relationship with partner/wife comedian Kate Clinton who inspired her call to action resulting in achieving equality for our LGBTQ community. We concluded our montage with director Sam Shahid whose documentary “Hidden Master: The Legacy of George Platt Lynes” uncovers the life and work of photographer George Platt Lynes. Best remembered for his dazzling celebrity and fashion photographs of the 1930's and 1940's, Lynes was forced to keep his male nude photos hidden from the public. Shahid hopes his film will help reclaim this gifted artist's full legacy and lasting influence as one of the first openly gay American artists.  The Provincetown Film Society, Inc. (PFS) is a non-profit year-round organization and home of the Provincetown International Film Festival. PFS is dedicated to showcasing new achievements in independent film and honoring the work of acclaimed and emerging directors, producers and actors.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Andrew Peterson, Director of Programming of the Provincetown International Film Festival that takes place June 14th to June 18th in Provincetown, MA talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. PIFF is celebrating its 25th year with over 100 films that include diverse BIPOC and LGBTQ filmmakers as well as wildly talented first-time filmmakers along with PIFF's longstanding commitment to gender parity. The opening night film will be “Cora Bora” starring Megan Stalter and directed by Hannah Pearl Utt. Written by Rhianon Jones “Cora Bora” follows the story of Cora a messy millennial and struggling musician. When she goes home to Portland to win her girlfriend back Cora realizes there's a lot more than her love life that needs salvaging. As we announced earlier Stalter will receive the festival's Next Wave Award this year. “Theater Camp” from directors Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman is set to close the festival. It tells the story about staff members of an upstate New York theater camp who must band together when their beloved founder falls into a coma. Also honored this year will be Bruce LaBruce with the Filmmaker on Edge Award, Billy Porter the Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor will be honored with this year's Excellence in Acting Award and along with Megan Stalter, writer, director and actor Julio Torres will receive the Next Wave Award. There will also be lots of fabulous special events and parties. We talked to Peterson about what he hopes to accomplish at the 25th annual Provincetown International Film Festival and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Andrew Peterson has served as the Director of Programming for the Academy Award Qualifying Provincetown Film Festival for the last 21 years. Peterson is also the Executive Director of FilmNorth one of the largest filmmaker service organizations in the country. Previously he was Vice President of Production for Werc Werk Works where he co-produced Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman's “Howl”, Todd Solondz's “Life During Wartime”, Jill Sprecher's “Thin Ice” and Lawrence Kasdan's “Darling Companion”. Andrew holds an MFA from New York University Graduate Film School and has taught filmmaking at Macalester and Middlebury Colleges. The Provincetown Film Society, Inc. (PFS) is a non-profit year-round organization and home of the Provincetown International Film Festival. PFS is dedicated to showcasing new achievements in independent film and honoring the work of acclaimed and emerging directors, producers and actors. This is our 16th year covering PIFF for OUTTAKE MEDIA™.  For Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Alison Burgos, Co-Founder and Vice President of the KindRED Pride Foundation talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the launch of “Red Shirt Pride Day” an annual global movement on the first Saturday of June to get a million LGBTQ individuals and allies to wear a red shirt not only in celebration of Pride Month but as a message of “KindRED” spirit in these challenging times. The link between red and Pride originated in 1991 when Disney cast members and the Central Florida LGBTQ Community decided to meet socially on the first Saturday in June in front of the Castle at Magic Kingdom. They wore red t-shirts as an expression of pride and to identify their “kindred spirits” since they had only met on a bulletin board and never in person. “Gay Disney” flourished and quickly grew to be one of the largest LGBTQ annual gatherings in the world. The growth was in part the result of the national exposure brought on by the protests of far-right groups threatening to boycott. The LGBTQ community responded in droves and year after year have journeyed to Disney World Resorts from around the world. Red is also the first color of the rainbow flag and stands as a symbol of life and passion. Burgos hopes to start a yearly worldwide tradition with Red Shirt Pride Day building connections with LGBTQ communities and allies around the world as a sign of solidarity for those who believe in diversity, inclusion, equality, safe expression and kindness. The KindRED Pride Foundation will inaugurate its Red Shirt Campaign at the official kickoff of Pride Cup the annual LGBTQ multi-sport competition held during Gay Disney weekend that takes place June 1st to June 4th in Orlando, Florida. We talked to Alison about what she hopes to accomplish with Red Shirt Pride Day and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  KindRED Pride Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization whose mission is to support the endeavors of like-minded charities for the education, promotion and celebration of Diversity, Inclusion, Equality, Safe Expression and Kindness. The organization is aligning with national, regional and local non-profits who provide valuable resources to fight bullying, teen homelessness, HIV services and legal/business/housing services to the LGBTQ community.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Boze Hadleigh talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about his fabulous new book “Game Show Confidential” published by Lyons Press and distributed by the National Book Network. At a time when books are being censored across the country this must-read LGBTQ inclusive book covers a fascinating history of the game show genre. Since first appearing on radio broadcasts in the 1930's to the current phenomenon dominating our broadcast culture, game shows continue to draw huge audiences. We especially saw an insurgence of this popular programming during COVID providing TV audiences with its “feel good” entertainment. “Game Show Confidential” describes the evolution of the game show with its larger-than-life producers and hosts as well as the scandals that have rocked it from time to time. Back in 1954 the FCC tried to ban television game shows but the Supreme Court disagreed. Then came the 1958 game show scandals that led to a Congressional investigation into the rigging of game shows which director Robert Redford zeroed in on in the film "Quiz Show". During that time an interesting fact was ex contestant and child star Patty Duke appeared before a Congressional investigating committee and broke down crying admitting she'd been coached by adults to lie. “Game Show Confidential” also addresses the misogyny, bigotry and homophobia that have dominated the genre until recently. Though we now have women hosting primetime games show like Jane Lynch, Ellen Degeneres and Elizabeth Banks, when Betty White was set to host a 1960's game show, ABC vetoed having a female host. We talked to Boze about his inspiration for writing “Game Show Confidential” and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Boze Hadleigh has published 29 books primarily on show business that are all LGBTQ inclusive though they're not all gay-themed. Hadleigh is the #1 author on our LGBTQ presence in the entertainment industry especially Hollywood. The Los Angeles Times dubbed him a "pop culture phenomenon." Hadleigh holds a Master's in journalism, speaks five languages and won on the TV game show "Jeopardy!" Boze's LGBTQ inclusive titles include Hollywood Gays, The Lavender Screen, Sing Out!, Broadway Babylon, Celebrity Lies!, Marilyn Forever, An Actor Succeeds, “Hollywood Lesbians: From Garbo To Foster, Inside the Hollywood Closet: A Book of Quotes and currently Game Show Confidential.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

David Zimmerman, Publisher of Boston Spirit Magazine and a fierce LGBTQ ally talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the 15th Annual LGBT Executive Networking Night on May 17th in Boston, MA. This year's event will feature keynote speaker Jonathan Knight the popular HGTV star and “New Kids On The Block” member. Knight is both a local and LGBTQ icon capturing the hearts of millions of fans with his incredible farmhouse renovations on HGTV's “Farmhouse Fixer” and during his Grammy-nominated career in pop music with NKOTB. As keynote speaker Jonathan will share his story and celebrate his remarkable career. The evening promises to be a fabulous night of networking, mingling and making valuable connections with the Greater Boston LGBTQ corporate professional community and business leaders. The event will take place at the Marriott Boston Copley Place Ballroom from 6P to 9P. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, share insights and build lasting relationships. There will also be a special presentation by the LGBT History Project on the history of the LGBTQ community in the region. Since its founding in 2006 Boston Spirit Magazine has become an indispensable resource for Boston's LGBTQ community covering a wide range of topics including business, arts and entertainment, travel, health and wellness and more. Boston Spirit Magazine is dedicated to producing high-quality content that informs, educates and inspires its readers. We talked to Zimmerman about what he hopes to accomplish with the 15th Annual LGBT Executive Networking Night and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  David Zimmerman launched Boston Spirit Magazine 17 years ago after a stellar career in both public relations and advertising. For nearly 20 years David worked at both the Boston Business Journal and Boston Magazine. The 15th Annual LGBT Executive Networking Night on May 17th at the Marriott Boston Copley Place Ballroom is an opportunity to network with other LGBTQ professionals from the Greater Boston area and meet with over 50 exhibitors. Many of the attending exhibitors are hiring so if you are in the market for a new career be sure to bring business cards. There will also be fabulous free appetizers and a cash bar with your $15 cover (cash or check only) at the door.  For More Info & RSVP… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Victoria Kirby York, Director of Public Policy & Programs for the National Black Justice Coalition talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. Since 2003 the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) has been America's leading national civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black LGBTQ people including people living with HIV/AIDS through coalition building, federal policy change, research and education. Their mission is to end racism, homophobia, LGBTQ bias and stigma. NBJC supports Black individuals, families and communities in strengthening the bonds and bridging the gaps between the movements for racial justice and LGBTQ equity. Recently NBJC unveiled its Federal Policy Agenda for the 118th Congressional Term offering its recommendations for urgently needed action to address pressing public policy issues facing our Black LGBTQ community ensuring their freedoms and equal protection under the law. NBJC is prioritizing three policy pillars this legislative session addressing Awareness, Access and Accountability. Black LGBTQ Americans represent a significant subset of Black families with over one million people (3.7 percent of all Black Americans) identifying as LGBTQ. The community's challenges are compounded partly by the stigma and marginalization resulting from social constructions of race, normative gender and sexuality. NBJC will also continue to fight and campaign for the Equality Act, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, the Student Loan Debt Relief Act, the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act of 2019 and several Biden-Harris Administration executive actions. We talked to Victoria about what she hopes to accomplish at NBJC and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Victoria Kirby York is responsible for leading NBJC's advocacy and action strategies to maintain the org's position as a recognized public-policy leader especially concerning Black trans, queer and non-binary/non-conforming people, families and communities as well as other multiple marginalized communities. Previously she served as the Deputy Director for the Advocacy & Action Department at the National LGBTQ+ Task Force where she managed the policy, organizing and faith team to queer advocacy around faith, equity and democracy. For over 20 years Victoria has been working in a variety of capacities regarding a number of progressive issues and candidates as well as in the private sector.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Carine de Mesmaeker, the creator and founder of Velvet Ibiza talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the fab all-inclusive five-day party for LGBTQ women that takes place May 2nd to May 7th at Cala Martina in Ibiza, Spain. De Mesmaeker rents out the entire resort so there's no need to venture anywhere, the party is literally on your doorsteps. Velvet Ibiza is an all-inclusive five-day and five-night party which includes transportation from the airport, a bungalow, meals, activities, all parties and drinks until around 10:30P. Celebrating its 7th year Velvet Ibiza attracts a vast international crowd with LGBTQ women traveling from all over the globe for one big giant celebration for our community. From the pool parties, sports tournaments, yoga classes, club nights and now the infamous duck race to the top queer female DJs from Europe and America dropping the sickest beats, Velvet Ibiza has it all. This year Velvet Ibiza is focusing on single women adding speed dating to the mix. All the dance parties and special events take place at the host hotel Cala Martina located in the historical Hippie Market one of the few places in Ibiza where you can still find the retro hippie essence. It was founded in 1973 and for that reason it is currently the largest and oldest market on the island. A second hotel Paraiso Beach right next to Hotel Cala Martina has also been retained as well so there's no reason to go anywhere unless of course you want to go shopping, head to the beach or explore the island. We talked to Carine about her inspiration for creating Velvet Ibiza and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Carine De Mesmaeker is the mastermind behind Velvet 69 one of Europe's biggest queer Women's Party in Brussels, Belgium founded in 2010. Since 2015 Velvet Ibiza has made history being the first ever queer women event held in the small Balearic Island famously known for its LGBTQ friendly culture, its vibrant nightlife scene and celebrity sighting. Carine has been producing parties in bars and clubs since the early 80s. She owned and operated her own club “Gate” from 1999 to 2004. Her goal is to create a safe space for queer women and to throw amazing parties. Velvet Ibiza the all-inclusive 5-day and 5-night event is becoming a holy ground for queer women who continue to descend on this fabulous isle to enjoy one the most life changing and bonding experience.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Emma Chinn, Special Projects Coordinator at Campaign for Southern Equality and a proud LGBTQ Tennessean talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. Recently Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed into law 2 LGBTQ discriminatory bills that go into effect on July 1, 2023. First is HB/SB 9 that bans drag performances from taking place on any public property in the state as well as in any location where people under 18 could be present. This law unfairly places male or female impersonators in the same adult cabaret performance category as topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers and strippers. The second Bill signed into law was HB/SB 1 that bans lifesaving medical care for transgender youth under the age of 18. Although legal groups including the ACLU of Tennessee have announced intentions to challenge the law in court young people who have begun accessing gender-affirming hormone therapy or puberty blockers prior to July 1st will be able to access care until March 31st 2024 at which time this care will no longer be available in Tennessee. Prior to the passing of Tennessee's anti LGBTQ legislation Chinn co-authored a report entitled “Coming of Age as an LGBTQ Southerner: Family, Faith, Education & Health” detailing the life and health experiences of LGBTQ Tennesseans. The research found that approximately 84% of transgender respondents from Tennessee reported that when they were under the age of 18 having access to gender-affirming care was important to their overall well-being. Yet among respondents who reported currently using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) only 18% reported using HRT prior to the age of 18 and only 5% reported using hormone blockers prior to the age of 18. We talked to Emma about Tennessee's aggressive attack on our transgender community and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Emma Chinn in addition to her work with the Campaign for Southern Equality is currently a Master of Public Policy student at the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs. Her thesis is based on the effect state policies have on LGBTQ Tennesseans. Southern Equality based in Asheville, North Carolina promotes full LGBTQ equality across the South. Their work is rooted in commitments to equity in race, gender and where everyone is free to be who they truly are and love who they truly love.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Annise Parker, President and CEO of the LGBTQ Victory Fund and LGBTQ Victory Institute talks with  Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the importance of endorsing openly LGBTQ political candidates for local, state and federal elective offices. Currently there are 1200 openly LGBTQ people serving in offices across America but we need at least 30,000 to come close to leveling the political scope in this country. The LGBTQ Victory Fund works to achieve this goal and sustain equality by increasing the number of openly LGBTQ elected officials at all levels of government while ensuring they reflect the diversity of those they serve. We all know how successful the religious right has been in stacking the political field against our community. Now is the time to support LGBTQ candidates in their quest to advance our progressive values. To be considered for endorsement by the Victory Fund and Victory Institute candidates must be openly LGBTQ, pro-choice and support an individual's right to privacy. It's also crucial that they support the rights of transgender individuals, demonstrate community support and have a realistic plan to win. Candidates must additionally demonstrate support of federal, state or local efforts to advance LGBTQ civil rights through the legislative or regulatory process and demonstrate support of federal, state or local efforts to safeguard privacy and reproductive freedom. Victory Fund was founded in 1991 by LGBTQ activists and donors who recognized the success of EMILY's List at attracting attention and support for women candidates for public office and applied the success of this model to advance equality for our LGBTQ community. We talked to Annise about what she hopes to accomplish at the Victory Fund and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Annise Parker is the first former elected official to lead the Victory Fund and Victory Institute after serving six years as a Houston City Council member, six years as City Controller and six years as Mayor of Houston becoming the first openly LGBTQ mayor of a major American city. In the private sector Annise spent 20 years working in the oil and gas industry including 18 years with Mosbacher Energy Company. She also co-owned “Inklings” a lesbian/feminist bookstore for 10 years. Mayor Parker and her wife Kathy Hubbard have been together since 1991 and are advocates for adoption with three daughters, a son and three grandchildren.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Virginia (Ginny) Apuzzo who served as Executive Director of the National LGBTQ Task Force from 1982 to 1986 talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. The Task Force is the country's oldest LGBTQ advocacy group celebrating 50 years of advancing freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. This milestone year will recognize and celebrate the Task Force's rich history of driving progress within the LGBTQ community from its early days lobbying the American Psychiatric Association to remove homosexuality as a mental illness and advocating for AIDS funding to longstanding campaigns to Queer the Census, Queer the Vote, work for trans rights, fight for reproductive justice and bringing an intersectional approach to the LGBTQ movement. The celebration kicks off this month with their Creating Change Conference from Friday February 17th to Tuesday February 21st in San Francisco, CA at the Hilton Hotel Union Square. This year's theme is “The State of the Movement: Our Past. Our Present. Our Future”. Creating Change is the foremost political, leadership and skills-building conference for our LGBTQ social justice movement. The event will include speakers Angelica Ross, activist X Gonzalez and more. Then the 50th celebration will continue next month in Miami Beach, Florida at the 30th Annual Winter Party Festival with this year's theme “Live Free Play Hard Give Back” that takes place Wednesday March 1st to Tuesday March 7th. Other events related to the 50th celebration will include the Task Force Gala on October 22nd, its premier annual celebration of South Florida's LGBTQ community with more details to be announced as they are confirmed. We talked to Ginny about what it was like when she led the National LGBTQ Task Force in the 1980's and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Virginia "Ginny" Apuzzo became a nun in 1967 at the Sisters of Charity in the Bronx and left the convent in 1969 after the Stonewall riots. During the 1970s she became a member of the Coordinating Committee of the Manhattan Women's Political Caucus and earned a Master of Science in Urban Education from Fordham University. In 1978 she co-founded the Lambda Independent Democrats and ran for the New York State Assembly. In 1979 she served as the assistant commissioner for operations in the New York City Department of Health and became a strong advocate for people with AIDS. She then served as executive deputy of the New York State Consumer Protection Board and as the vice chair of the New York State AIDS Advisory Council. She was also President of the New York State Civil Service Commission and Commissioner of the New York State Department of Civil Service. In 1996 she became the Associate Deputy Secretary of Labor at the United States Department of Labor and in 1997 she became the Assistant to the President for Management and Administration under the Clinton administration. In 2007 she began serving on the Commission on Public Integrity where she worked until her retirement. The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. They are building a future where everyone can be free to be their entire selves in every aspect of their lives.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Craig Coogan talks about his new documentary "Music Triumphs Homophobia" with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ that's available on Amazon Prime Video. The film chronicles the impact of the Boston Gay Men's Chorus (BGMC) as they perform for audiences in New England and around the world. Using archival material, news footage and interviews “Music Triumphs Homophobia” documents how a small Boston-based chorus became global cultural ambassadors educating people about LGBTQ lives and encouraging acceptance and respect for our LGBTQ community. Written and directed by multiple award-winning filmmakers Michael Willer and Craig Coogan the film is scored with original compositions by Chad Weirick BGMC's Principal Accompanist and Assistant Music Director and features choral cover performances of songs by Katy Perry, Janet Jackson, Andrea Day, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Stephen Schwartz and Benji Pasek. Since 1982 BGMC has created musical experiences to inspire change, build community and celebrate difference. It's a mission that has brought BGMC to some unlikely venues including a Congregational Church in rural Vermont, Worcester's College of Holy Cross, Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, conservative Catholic-dominated Poland, a kibbutz by the Dead Sea, a university parking lot in Istanbul and the shores of South Africa. In South Africa the city of George welcomed BGMC for a free community concert as part of its inaugural Pride celebration. The invitation by George's city council was marred when George Mayor Melvin Naik took to the airwaves to lambaste BGMC and the city's support for its LGBTQ residents. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa responded by inviting BGMC to join him for the country's annual Youth Day march where he personally greeted each member of the chorus and publicly welcomed them to South Africa. We talked to Coogan about what he hopes to accomplish with "Music Triumphs Homophobia" and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Craig Coogan served as Executive Director of the Boston Gay Men's Chorus from 2012-2022. Currently he is the Interim Executive Director of the Seattle Choruses. Coogan's expertise is in developing strategies and programs to help LGBTQ and other nonprofit organizations achieve their operational and artistic goals. A graduate of Syracuse University he brings experience in both the for-profit and non-profit arenas. Craig has also produced independent films, award-winning documentaries and acclaimed original plays that tell the LGBTQ experience.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Writer-filmmaker and fierce LGBTQ ally Joe Gantz talks about his new book “A Secret I Can't Tell” available on Carpenter Hill Publishing with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. Originally published in 1983 the nonfiction book was the only record of American gay and lesbian headed household family life during the heyday of the homophobic Moral Majority. In republishing the book Gantz revisits the families 40 years later with new interviews and a new unparalleled look at how far we've come and underscores how close we are to returning to a dark past. In Florida in 1977 a county ordinance was passed which banned discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodation based on sexual orientation. After Anita Bryant's successful “Save Our Children” campaign which demonized gays and lesbians the law was overturned and it launched a wave of repeals of civil rights for gays and lesbians in other states. Though in 2020 the United States Supreme Court finally ruled that 1964 Civil Rights Act protects LGBTQ employees from discrimination based on sex our LGBTQ community is still dealing with over 300 discriminatory bills this year alone including Florida's recent “Don't Say Gay/Trans” law that has made 2022 the worst year ever for legislative attacks on LGBTQ people. The updated 2022 version contains fascinating new interviews with some of the children who are now adults in their 50s with children of their own. The new foreword written by Scott Gatz founder and CEO of Q.Digital tracks the effects of keeping their parents' relationships a secret in a time when it was dangerous to be out particularly as a gay or lesbian parent who could lose custody of their kids. The book shows that parents also struggled coming out to their children without any community or legal support or even representation in the media at that time. The secrecy these families had to maintain forced the kids into a kind of a closet along with their parents and the effects lasting for decades. We talked to Joe about his inspiration for republishing “A Secret I Can't Tell” and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Joe Gantz is an Emmy-winning writer and documentary filmmaker known for examining personal stories with honesty, humor and depth. He is the producer of Taxicab Confessions which was on HBO for 16 years as well as many feature length documentaries including American Winter, Ending Disease and The Race to Save the World.  For More Info... LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Dale Dickey talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her new film “A Love Song". It's now streaming on Paramount+, Showtime and Hulu after premiering at Sundance in 2022 and distributed by Bleecker Street and Stage 6 Films. It's a gorgeous film rated as one of the ten best in cinematography for 2022 shot by Alfonso Herrera Salcedo and written, directed, produced and co-edited by Max Walker-Silverman in his feature directorial debut. “A Love Song” is about two childhood sweethearts Faye (Dale Dickey) and Lito (Wes Studi) now both widowed who share a night by a lake in the mountains. Reuniting after 40 years the pair share childhood memories make small talk and shelter together from loneliness. The film also features Michelle Wilson (Jan) and Benja K. Thomas (Marie) as a lesbian couple contemplating marriage. Love Song is Dickey's first leading role in a feature film. Dale Dickey is a superbly talented veteran character actor of film, television and the theater with over 60 film credits. Her career spans decades including recent recurring roles on the TNT comedy-drama series “Claws”, appearing in the Netflix miniseries “Unbelievable”, we loved her recurring role in the Amazon series “A League of Their Own” and appearing in such films as “Hell or High Water”, “Leave No Trace”, “Bloodline” and “Flag Day”. Last summer at the Provincetown International Film Festival where she was being honored with the Excellence in Acting Award we talked to Dale about “A Love Song” and as a fierce LGBTQ ally her spin on our issues. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Dr. Jason Peplinski, Commissioner of the Greater Los Angeles Softball Association (GLASA) and Co-Executive Director of the Sin City Classic Sports Festival  talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about their event that takes place January 12th to 15th in Las Vegas, Nevada. GLASA created the Sin City Classic in 2008 as an LGBTQ softball tournament meant to provide a safe and competitive atmosphere for LGBTQ athletes. Over the past 16 years the tournament has grown into the largest annual LGBTQ sporting event in the world including 24 sports and approximately 10,000 athletes and fans. As the Sin City Classic continues to grow and evolve this year they're adding two new competitions: pickleball one of the fastest growing sports globally and sand volleyball. Hosted at the Flamingo Las Vegas GLASA remains committed to creating the best experience possible for a diverse roster of dedicated athletes who participate and the fans and allies who come to enjoy the festival. The Sin City Classic Sports Festival kicks off with the Opening Night Registration Party held at the Flamingo Las Vegas. Competitions and nightly social events then take place around the city with the weekend culminating in the Closing Night celebration to be held at the LINQ Promenade's Brooklyn Bowl as a way to celebrate the weekend's activities. The festival will also be presenting the second annual Ken Scearce Leadership Award. The award was created in 2022 to honor the memory and legacy of Ken Scearce the Executive Director of the festival who passed away in 2021. The award recognizes athletes, leaders, coaches, referees and other volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to promoting the value and importance of LGBTQ sports. We talked to Jason about what he hopes to accomplish at this year's Sin City Classic Sports Festival and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Dr. Jason Peplinski began his stellar teaching career in Lancaster, California. In 2004 he accepted a job as the Assistant Principal of Royal High School and from there he served as Principal of Abraham Lincoln School in Simi (2004-07), Moorpark High School in Moorpark (2007-09) and then Santa Susana High School from 2011-13. He then became Director of Educational Services at the Simi Valley Unified district office and was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. In October of 2014, Dr. Peplinski was named Superintendent of the Simi Valley Unified School District. In June of 2022 Dr. Peplinski retired from his superintendency with the Simi Valley Unified School district and began a full-time faculty position with California Lutheran University. The Sin City Classic Sports Festival takes place annually in Las Vegas Nevada over Martin Luther King weekend with presenting sponsor Lexus as well as Caesar's Entertainment, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Piranha Nightclub, the Los Angeles Dodgers, AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority.  For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICE

Sarah Shoffner the new Executive Director of the Boston Gay Men's Chorus (BGMC) talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about their upcoming holiday concert series entitled “Joyful & Triumphant & Gay.” Founded in 1982 this fabulous 200+ voice ensemble is presenting their first live holiday concert since 2019. Upcoming performances under BGMC Music Director Reuben Reynolds are December 16th, 17th and 18 at New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall in Boston, MA. The title of the show is a tribute to Dean X. Johnson the accompanist and assistant director of the New York City Gay Men's Chorus (NYCGMC) who died of AIDS in 1998 at age 42. Johnson composed “Joyful and Triumphant!” with fellow NYCGMC member Jeff Baron at the height of the AIDS crisis in 1992. “Joyful & Triumphant & Gay” opens with the traditional French carol “Sing We Now of Christmas” and features classics like Bruckner's “Ave Maria” and “Locus iste” alongside modern holiday fare that includes Cyndi Lauper's “Christmas Conga”, “A Place Called Home” from “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” and Kylie Minogue's “Christmas Isn't Christmas 'Til You Get Here.” The concert will also feature two pieces by American composer Jacob J. Narverud including “Sisi Ni Moja” which means we are one in Swahili and a performance of the powerful “Ukrainian Bell Carol” as a reminder of the horrible human costs of war and our capacity for joy despite them. The chorus will also debut a new suite by BGMC Principal Accompanist and Assistant Music Director Chad Weirick which draws on classic carols and Christmas music to reflect his experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. We talked to Sarah about what she hopes to accomplish with BGMC and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Sarah Shoffner joined BGMC as Executive Director in September 2022. Sarah's expertise is in developing strategies and programs to help arts and other nonprofit organizations achieve their operational and artistic goals. Shoffner most recently served as Boston Ballet's Benefactors' Circle Development Officer. Previously she served as BGMC's Engagement Manager for six years where she modernized the organization's development systems including ticketing processes and launched the Ovation Society, BGMC's donor loyalty program. In addition to the leadership roles Shoffner has held in nonprofit arts organizations Sarah holds a Master of Science in Arts Administration from Boston University and two degrees from the University of South Florida in Business Management and Dance Studies. BGMC's fabulous holiday show “Joyful & Triumphant & Gay” celebrates the season with traditional favorites, modern classics and just lots of gay camp fun. For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICE  

Filmmaker Kimberly Peirce talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her award-winning film “Boys Don't Cry” that was featured on the second season of Turner Classic Movies series “Reframed”. “Reframed” addresses famous/classic films that may have been controversial when they were released due to their themes like homophobia, misogyny, racism etc. The series that aired throughout November also took a look at pioneering LGBTQ films from an historical perspective. Each film is shown along with a discussion from film experts about these issues. Peirce co-hosted the show with Ben Mankiewicz who engaged in a conversation about how this 1999 breakthrough film raised awareness to the lives of our transgender community and the discrimination they faced that unfortunately continues today. “Boys Don't Cry” was directed by Kimberly and co-written by Peirce and Andy Bienen. The film is a dramatization of the real-life story of Brandon Teena played by actress Hilary Swank who won a Best Actress Oscar for her performance. The story is about a trans man who attempts to find love in Nebraska but falls victim to a brutal hate crime perpetrated by two male acquaintances. The film co-stars Chloë Sevigny who was nominated for Best Supporting Actress as Teena's girlfriend Lana Tisdel. We talked to Kimberly about what she hopes to accomplish with her work and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Kimberly Peirce received a BA from the University of Chicago and an MFA from Columbia University Graduate Film. She also graduated from Sundance Institute's Writing, Directing & Producing Labs. Her unflinching debut feature “Boys Don't Cry” earned numerous honors and was inducted into the Library of Congress as a National Treasure in 2020. Her second feature “Stop-Loss” was released by Paramount Pictures in 2008. In 2013 she directed a remake of the horror film “Carrie”. Kimberly is a Governor of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences and a National Board member of the Directors Guild of America. Recently she co-founded the first ever DGA LGBTQ+ Committee to expand the rights, representation and protections of LGBTQ+ people at the DGA and the industry.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICE

Erin McHugh talks about her new must-read book “Pickleball Is Life: The Complete Guide to Feeding Your Obsession” with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America. It's easy to learn but impossible to master making it the sports craze that's sweeping the nation. Nearly 5 million people nationwide have picked up their paddles and taken to the court. In her new book McHugh highlights the rules and the fun of the game in a fabulous user-friendly handbook published by HarperCollins and illustrated by Jackie Besteman. “Pickleball Is Life” is the first book of its kind celebrating the wild and wonderful world of pickleball taking the readers on a journey from the sport's quirky origins to its modern-day cult following. Erin shares a vast pickleball history and knowledge including etiquette tips, a DIY court, obscure rules and pointers for good-natured trash talk. Along the way with its visual graphs and illustrations you'll be inspired to get on board to the current trend that has embraced everyone of all ages and attracted a huge celebrity following. Erin also includes interviews with members of the three founding families from Bainbridge Island, Washington who are still very much involved in the sport and its growth. People of all athletic abilities and backgrounds have fallen in love with pickleball but it's also an excellent way to exercise, interact and socialize with others something we're all craving now more than ever. We talked to Erin about her inspiration for writing her new book and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Erin McHugh is the author of 30 books of humor, inspiration, trivia, children's, history and LGBTQ topics. A former publishing industry executive she has worked for various publishers and was Executive Vice President and Creative Partner at Franklin Spier the publishing advertising agency. McHugh also has enjoyed a second career as a Barnes & Noble bookseller in New York City, a judge in Barnes & Noble's national Discover Great New Writers program and the moderator of a popular local book group. A devoted pickleballer Erin was recently featured on a CBS Saturday Morning segment about the sport. “Pickleball Is Life: The Complete Guide to Feeding Your Obsession” shares the passion behind this global sport sensation.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICE

Cathy Renna Communications Director for the National LGBTQ Task Force talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about joining forces with Equality Florida and Equality Texas to fight anti-LGBTQ extremism ahead of midterms including a new election animated ad campaign. The ads are adapted from an innovative campaign developed by Wide Angle Research inviting voters to fight extremism and fight for our freedoms. Equality Florida is targeting Governor DeSantis for his repeated attacks against our LGBTQ community, especially highlighting his signing of the vicious "Don't Say Gay" legislation and his repeated attempts to censor school curriculums and ban books. Equality Texas is focusing their efforts on Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for his anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and promises to defend the Supreme Court with any law criminalizing sodomy enacted by the Legislature. The ads are in English markets and also target Latino audiences with Spanish subtitles. These ads raise awareness around the increasingly aggressive attacks on our LGBTQ community and communities of color including legislation that bans hundreds of books and censors curriculum covering slavery or mentioning LGBTQ people. As extreme politicians strip away freedoms by banning abortions even in cases of rape and incest they're also working to criminalize and charge parents with child abuse simply for supporting their transgender child. Renna also talked about the National LGBTQ Task Force “Queer The Vote” campaign that builds grassroot efforts in key battleground states to inform voters of the crucial issues they're facing in the midterm elections as well as driving LGBTQ people and allies to the polls. We talked to Cathy about what she hopes to accomplish with these campaigns and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Cathy Renna has been part of the Task Force's extended family for decades. Renna is a veteran in the communications industry and serves as the Principal of Target Cue and LGBTQ focused communications consultancy. Cathy has played a role in shaping nearly all major issues affecting the LGBTQ community from the beating death of Matthew Shepard in 1998 to the fight for marriage equality and the repeal of “Don't Ask Don't Tell” to the increasing visibility of trans and non-binary people. She also worked with the team that coordinated historic coverage for the 50th anniversary of Stonewall in 2019 with NYC Pride. Renna lives in Montclair, New Jersey with her wife Karen and is the proud Mom of Mars who attends HSPVA High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas.  For More Info…  LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Cheryl Osimo, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition talk with  Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the 25th anniversary of their premier fundraising event the Lesbians and Friends LGBTQ Dance Party For Prevention that takes place in person at Club Café in Boston on October 22nd from 6P to 9:30P and virtually via Zoom. This year they're honoring the event's founder Attorney Susan Wilson. Osimo stated, "Susan is a true humanitarian, scholar, visionary and friend to MBCC and all of those who have been touched by breast cancer. I don't know of anyone who excels beyond Susan in the spirit of service and leadership – she is truly a remarkable person." Funds raised from the Party for Prevention help support MBCC's education programs designed to provide our communities with vital health information on ways to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in the products they use and in the environments in which they live, learn and work. MBCC is the only breast cancer non-profit working closely with a research and sister organization Silent Spring Institute to investigate preventable environmental causes of the disease. This work is funded through annual fundraising events like the upcoming Lesbians and Friends LGBTQ Dance Party For Prevention. The in-person Dance will be held at Boston's best LGBTQ venue Club Café with DJ Andrea spinning and there will also be a dance lesson from OUT to Dance's founder and director Liz Nania. We talked to Cheryl about what she hopes to accomplish with her work at MBCC and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.    Cheryl Osimo is a fierce LGBTQ ally and devoted breast cancer activist and advocate since 1991 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 41. She has been a catalyst in raising public awareness of the possible environmental links to breast cancer. Her commitment to breast cancer prevention and awareness benefits women worldwide. Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition is the leading breast cancer organization dedicated to preventing the environmental causes of breast cancer through community education, research advocacy and changes to public policy. Tickets for the in-person Club Café 21 years or older event are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. Student tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door for 21 years or older with a student ID. Tickets for the virtual event are $20 via Zoom. For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ talked with The Dinah's all-female celebrities on the Red Carpet at the legendary Black & White Ball and Hollywood Party in Palm Springs, CA in this exclusive audio montage. We had a blast chatting with these fabulous women about their music, what they hope to accomplish with their work and how they cope in these challenging times.  First we talked with singer-songwriter Cassidy King who has built a reputation as a solo artist with her singles “Professional Smiler” and “Wasted”. Then we spoke to singer songwriter Riela who is the daughter of Cuban and Panamanian immigrants about performing at The Dinah. Next we spoke to entrepreneur Nik Kacy creator of footwear and accessories for all gender identities who was attending The Dinah for the 20th time. Then we chatted with Jeopardy! winner Amy Schneider about how she would like to see more federal protections for our LGBTQ community. Next we talked with content provider Breanne Williamson who is working on her first feature film after her short film "Coming Out" gained over 2 million views. Then we caught up with Rose Garcia from the Showtime hit “The Real L Word” about the importance of LGBTQ visibility. We were thrilled to talk with Taylor Dayne 80s pop icon who was headlining the Black & White Ball about her music and upcoming projects. Up next was Mariah Hanson founder and producer of the 31st Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend and her partner Maureen Vanderpool, Director of Special Education at Sonoma Valley Unified School District. Then we chatted with Canadian rapper Haviah Mighty who co-headlined the Black & White Ball.  Next we talked with rapper Siya followed by queer pop sensation Zolita. Then we chatted with reality stars Cuppie, Haley Grable and Brianna Murphy from the hit lesbian series “Tampa Baes” currently on Amazon Prime. Next we talked with singer-songwriter IV4 who has signed with Warner Records followed by Siena Liggins who is one of Billboard's Top Ten new LGBTQ artists of the year. Then DJ Alex D talked about spinning at The Dinah followed by the fabulous artist Melanie Posner who also appears on the hit lesbian reality series “Tampa Baes”. We concluded our coverage with singer songwriter Fletcher who headlined The Hollywood Party and just released her debut album “Girl Of My Dreams” on Capitol Records. (Photos by Marilyn Rosen)  For More Info…   LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Cory Silverberg talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about his new children's sex education book “You Know, Sex” that's aimed at kids aged 10 to 14. “You Know, Sex: Bodies, Gender, Puberty And Other Things” is the first thoroughly modern sex ed book for any child navigating puberty and adolescence. Silverberg is a certified sex educator and former chair of sexuality educator certification for the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. He's created this fabulous manual that's presented in a comic book genre illustrated by Fiona Smyth. This 400-page comprehensive work looks at sexuality, body differences, reproduction, hormones and development with an emphasis focusing on our LGBTQ teens and also addresses power, pleasure and how to be a decent human being. This is Silverberg and Smyth's fourth collaboration following their other publications including “The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability”, “What Makes a Baby” and “Sex is a Funny Word” all available on Seven Stories Press. In “You Know, Sex” Silverberg focuses on young people's thoughts and experiences exploring sex. Cory also includes chapters on body autonomy, disclosure, stigma, harassment, trauma, consent, boundaries and safety as well as puberty and reproduction that includes trans, non-binary and intersex bodies experiences and more. Fiona Smyth illustrations include racially and ethnically diverse characters providing an inclusive cross-disability experience that makes “You Know, Sex” a book for every kind of young person and every kind of family especially in these challenging times when the mere discussion of sexual orientation is being banned in states across America. We talked to Cory about what he hopes to accomplish with his timely new sex education book and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Cory Silverberg was raised in the 1970s by a children's librarian and a sex therapist and grew up to be a sex educator, an author and queer person. Cory received a master's degree in education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. Illustrator Fiona Smyth was inducted into the Doug Wright Awards' Giants of The North Canadian Cartoonist Hall of Fame alongside Alootook Ipellie in 2019. She teaches illustration and cartooning at OCAD U and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Cory and Fiona's collaborations have been honored by ALA Stonewall Book Award and 2016 Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children's Non-Fiction.  For More Info…   LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Travis Shumake the first openly gay professional drag car racer who made his national racing debut during the Menards National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Nationals at Topeka's Heartland Motorsports Park last month talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™. Shumake in partnership with Visit Topeka and Pride Kansas crossed the NHRA Nationals finish line in a Pride Kansas-themed dragster to represent the state's inaugural week-long Pride celebration that happens in Topeka September 17th to 24th. His 24-foot, 4,000-horsepower, nitromethane burning rocket also featured a modern geometric rainbow hood and matching rainbow parachutes. As a second-generation racer Travis grew up in competitive shifter-kart racing with his father Tripp Shumake who was a nationally renowned Funny Car racer who also competed in the NHRA. Last February Travis fully committed to the sport has spent the last several months finalizing his sponsorship opportunities and completing his vehicle licensing making him eligible to race at NHRA-sanctioned tracks and national events. One of those new sponsors is Grindr the gay dating app and when $8,000 of safety gear was stolen from Shumake's pit Grindr stepped up and replaced the equipment. Shumake states that at 280 MPH he's proud to be turning heads and raising eyebrows with Grindr as a partner and to represent our LGBTQ community in this sport that draws 30 million American drag racing fans each year. He's also especially proud to serve as a role model for our LGBTQ youth. We talked to Travis about what he hopes to accomplish with his drag car racing career and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Travis Shumake was born into a family forged at the racetrack. “Tripp” Shumake was a dominant force in Funny Car in the 70s and 80s winning multiple NHRA titles. His mother Susie was a mechanic and a member of the Arizona Drag Racing Hall of Fame in her own right. Tripp and Travis kept the family tradition alive racing competitive shifter karts until Tripp's death in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident in 1999 when Travis was just 15 years old. Travis stayed close to racing always hoping he'd find a way into the driver's seat. Then earlier this year he declared his intentions to challenge the status quo and continue the family legacy in drag racing while bringing visibility to the LGBTQ+ racing community. As a single foster parent and longtime advocate for homeless youth Travis hopes his passion for the next generation will open new channels of corporate social responsibility and educate a new segment of sports fans to the importance of equity and inclusion.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Mariah Hanson, founder and producer of the legendary Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend talks to Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about celebrating The Dinah's 31st year that takes place September 21st through September 25th in Palm Springs, CA. The Dinah is continuing its legend with a show-stopping all-female entertainment line-up and has moved to one of Palm Springs' most historic hotels The Margaritaville formerly The Riviera. Built in 1959 this newly renovated establishment will serve as party central infamous for its role of drawing iconic celebrities like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Sammy Davis Jr. and Sonny and Cher. This glamorous venue will host The Black and White Ball in the Grand Ballroom Friday night September 23rd with 80s pop idol Taylor Dayne who is exclusively bringing her full band to put on a rare and unique show for Dinah goers. Also headlining the Friday night event will be Haviah Mighty who just won a Juno for “Best Canadian Album of the Year” and is now on her way to take the U.S. by storm. Then on Saturday night Fletcher one of the most electrifying queer artists to burst onto the scene is taking centerstage at The Hollywood Party also in the fabulous Grand Ballroom. Of course it wouldn't be The Dinah without the next level of epic pool parties. The weekend pool parties will be highlighted with exclusive live performances by four exciting emerging queer artists Zolita, IV4, Cassidy King and Siena Liggins who are making themselves role models as visible members of our LGBTQ community. DJs spinning throughout The Dinah this year will include DJ Leslie Ortiz, DJ Alex D, DJ Gracy D, DJ China G and DJ Tatiana. We talked to Mariah about what she hopes to accomplish with The Dinah this year and her spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Mariah Hanson has continuously utilized The Dinah as a platform to mobilize our LGBTQ community around humanitarian projects and social issues. An exemplary community leader she has single-handedly revolutionized her industry, overturned tradition and raised the bar on female achievement with an event that is entirely produced by women for women. OUTTAKE MEDIA has been a proud Media Sponsor of The Dinah for the last six years and we'll be attending all the festivities this year. Note: In compliance with the City of Palm Springs COVID safety protocol, all attendees, entertainers and staff are required to show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test result or proof of full vaccinations to attend the festival.   For More Info & Tix… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES  

Darwin Del Fabro, Brazilian actor and musician talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about the new horror film “They/Them” (pronounced “They Slash Them”) he's featured in. The slasher film is written and directed by John Logan and produced by Blumhouse Productions. “They/Them” had its world premier at the Outfest film festival in Los Angeles last month and will have its streaming premier on Peacock beginning August 5th. “They/Them” is a queer empowerment story set at a controversial LGBTQ conversion camp and stars Kevin Bacon as Owen Whistler the camp director, Carrie Preston as Dr. Cora Whistler Owen's wife, Anna Chlumsky as nurse Molly and joined by seven campers played by Theo Germaine, Quei Tann, Anna Lore, Monique Kim, Darwin, Cooper Koch and Austin Crute. The campers come from all different backgrounds. Kim (Anna Lore) and Stu (Cooper Koch) come from affluent families and are reluctant to address their sexual orientations. Then there's Quei Tann's Alexandra who faces being disowned by her family unless she successfully completes the camp's regiment and Toby (Austin Crute) who negotiated a free trip in trade for his stay as camper Veronica (Monique Kim) attempts to work through her bisexuality while Gabriel (Del Fabro) wants to feel accepted after being bullied for so long. As the camp's methods become increasingly more unsettling the campers must work together to protect themselves especially when an axe murderer begins covertly claiming victims and they must figure out if perhaps this butchering culprit could be one of them. We talked to Darwin about what he hopes “They/Them” will accomplish and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Darwin Del Fabro is a proud queer Brazilian actor and musician. In Rio de Janeiro Darwin was featured in the original Brazilian productions of “Shrek The Musical”, “Fiddler On The Roof”, “The Wizard Of Oz” and appeared in the hit Brazilian soap opera "Ligações Perigosas" (based on Les Liaisons Dangereuses) and “Novo Mundo.” Darwin has recorded three albums including the cast recording of the Irving Berlin revue "Be Careful, It's My Heart", "Darwin Del Fabro in Rio” and the recently released “Darwin Del Fabro: Revisiting Jobim.” Currently he is working as a producer on another film with writer/director John Logan and very excited about his personal and professional journey that brought him to this moment with the network premier of “They/Them” now streaming on Peacock.    For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

Artist Jumper Maybach talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about his mission to be a part of the solution to help end hate, bullying and intolerance globally. Jumper believes that a person's trauma defines the individual. Maybach's journey came to a head in 2010 after suffering decades of emotional abuse and being marginalized for his sexual orientation. He found himself on the brink of an emotional precipice which was instrumental and vital to his healing process by releasing his pain as well as his joy into his artwork. The art is a constant evolution of color and complete abandonment of the paint. The complexity of the abstract style comes from deep within. Jumper is unashamed to teach the world a lesson in compassion. His art is a beacon for ending hate, bullying and intolerance in the world. Maybach's art is about turning darkness into light. Not long after Jumper began his career as an artist he started to receive national and international recognition for his work. In 2013 Jumper held his first gallery show which ultimately led to an invite to attend Art Dubai 2013 as a VIP guest. Jumper exhibited in Dubai, UAE in 2015 and in 2017 at the prestigious Alliance Française. It was there that he received a documentary film opportunity and was dubbed the Jackson Pollock of the 21st century. Now Maybach has partnered with 4 distinct companies in an effort to expand their product line across multiple consumer retail segments as well as bring new audiences to the brand and mission. The companies are BIG LOViE, Ahdorned, OPR Eyewear and V. Fraas with retail products launching now through September 2022. We talked to Jumper about what he hopes to accomplish with his work and his spin on our LGBTQ issues.  Jumper Maybach (born Ben Workman) is an American artist originally from Corpus Christi, Texas. Jumper appreciates the opportunities he has been given and is committed to giving back to multiple organizations through both financial and artistic contributions. He and his partner David Sanford actively support GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign, the Matthew Shepard Foundation, AIDS Foundation Houston and the Trevor Project in addition to many other local and national charities.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES