Brian Poth and Nick Vargas of The Source LGBT+ Center interview local LGBT+ and allied community members in their small conservative, rural town of Visalia, CA.
On this episode of Queer Goggles, Nick Vargas talks with Joey Bachrach of Rainbow Hill Recovery. They share their own experiences with recovery from substance use disorders and how their journeys impact their current work. Joey talks about recovery resources for the LGBTQ+ community and offers words of hope for those looking to recover. Support the showQueer Goggles is just one of thirty programs and services of The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, CA. If you like what you heard today and are interested in supporting this work, go to thesourcelgbt.org/giving to make a donation. Thank you.
Tanya Tassi (she/her) speaks with Brian Poth about her important work in the LGBTQ+ movement. Currently the Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy for CenterLink, Tanya's advocacy and leadership helps community centers stay informed and gives them the tools to mobilize and make lasting change in their communities and the nation. Her former work with seniors at the LA LGBT Center inspires a new generation to step into caring for our aging queer community.To find out more about Tanya, go to tanyatassi.com and be sure to sign up for advocacy alerts from ActionLink, a program of CenterLink.Support the showQueer Goggles is just one of thirty programs and services of The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, CA. If you like what you heard today and are interested in supporting this work, go to thesourcelgbt.org/giving to make a donation. Thank you.
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we sit down with acclaimed photographer Aaron Jay Young to discuss his book Queen, a stunning collection of portraits featuring some of the world's most famous drag queens. Aaron shares insights from his time as a set photographer on RuPaul's Drag Race, his personal journey of healing, and his approach to creating spaces where his subjects feel safe, seen, and free to express their authentic selves.Explore Aaron's work at aaronjayyoung.com and aaronjayyoungstudio.com, follow him on instagram @aaronjayyoung, and purchase Queen at queenthebook.com.To see the incredible work Aaron created for The Source LGBT+ Center, visit our gallery at thesourcelgbt.org/james.Support the showQueer Goggles is just one of thirty programs and services of The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, CA. If you like what you heard today and are interested in supporting this work, go to thesourcelgbt.org/giving to make a donation. Thank you.
Author, artist, and actor Sean Hemeon joins Queer Goggles to share his incredible journey and discuss his upcoming memoir, The Good Little Drug Lord.From navigating life as a gay, Mormon college student to becoming a drug-dealing informant for federal agents, Sean's story is a gripping and cautionary tale of resilience, redemption, and gratitude. In this episode, Sean opens up about his struggles with addiction, the transformative power of recovery, and the hope that fuels his creative and personal life today.To learn more about Sean, his upcoming memoir, his art, and his acting career, visit seanhemeon.com or follow him on social media @sean_hemeon.Support the showQueer Goggles is just one of thirty programs and services of The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, CA. If you like what you heard today and are interested in supporting this work, go to thesourcelgbt.org/giving to make a donation. Thank you.
In this episode of Queer Goggles, hosted by Brian Poth, various perspectives converge on the vital importance of passing Proposition 3. The discussion includes insights from Ernesto Cuellar, the Northern California Coalition Manager for Yes on Prop 3, local military veteran Cheri Provancha, and community advocates Terry Stasio and Jim Reeves. Together, they explore efforts to remove discriminatory language from the California Constitution, the historical and ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, and the urgent need to protect and advance marriage equality for all Californians.To find our more about Prop 3 visit yesonprop3ca.comTo view voter guides and other resources go to thesourcelgbt.org/votePFLAGFreson.orgVisalia Pride Lions ClubSupport the show
Join Executive Director, Brian Poth (he/they), and Director of Development and Strategy, Nick Vargas (he/him) for an exclusive interview with Caroline Kingsbury (she/her) before her performance at Pride Visalia on October 12th! This is an amazing opportunity to hear from Caroline as she discusses her music, the landscape of queer art in the industry, the importance of supportive communities, and more.You don't want to miss Caroline's performance, so make sure to get your Pride Visalia tickets! October 12, 11:00AM - 4:00PM, Valley Strong Ballpark, Visalia CA. We'll see you there!Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, host Phae Lockwood (they/them) welcomes Executive Director Brian Poth (he/they) and Director of Development and Strategy Nick Vargas (he/him), co-founders of The Source LGBT+ Center. Earlier in 2024, Brian and Nick were announced as recipients of the esteemed James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award. In this conversation, they share the joy they felt accepting the Award in Sacramento, as well as the immense positive impact the Award has had on The Source LGBT+ Center.Brian and Nick also reveal some exciting details about The Source's biggest annual event, the highly anticipated PRIDE Visalia, including this year's theme, the incredible entertainment offerings, and an art installation the likes of which the Central Valley has never seen.Get tickets to PRIDE VisaliaSupport the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, host Phae Lockwood (they/them) welcomes guest Sarah Marquez (she/her), a Disability Justice Facilitator and Consultant, to discuss Disability Pride Month, disability justice, and its significance to the LGBTQ+ community.Sarah delves into the history the Disability Rights Movement and shares her journey as a queer, disabled person. This conversation explores the intersectionality of disability and LGBTQ+ identities, highlighting the importance of community-building and the ongoing fight for adequate care and access.Learn more about The SourceSupport the Show.
On this episode of Queer Goggles, join host Phae Lockwood (they/them) and guest Savino Perico (he/him) as they discuss the work of Kings Community Action Organization, which offers over 25 programs and services including childcare, food and nutrition assistance, housing and crisis support, and so much more. KCAO is one of many like organizations in the Community Action Agency Network, which was initiated by Lyndon B. Johnson 1960s to address poverty in the U.S. To this day, these agencies are a beacon of hope for the communities they serve, offering resources that many people don't know exist until they are in a position to need them. Join Phae and Savino as they delve into these vital services that impact the lives of so many individuals living in the Central Valley. Follow KCAO on Instagram: @kingscommunityactionorgLearn more about KCAO Become a volunteerSupport the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, join host Phae Lockwood (they/them) and guest M the Myth (they/them) as they dive deep into M's beautiful journey, from childhood dreaming to becoming the revolutionary Queer Pop artist they are today.M's accomplishments number many; they are a graduate of the Clinton Global Initiative University, where their project, The Wavy Awards, which aims to celebrate and uplift LGBTQIA+ artists, received special recognition. Their single "Speed of Life" was featured on Billboard's Queer Necessities playlist and they performed on Amazon Music's Twitch channel. They hold a Master of Music in Music Production and a Master of Arts in Songwriting, both from Berklee College of Music, and they are a graduate of the LA-based production school, Icon Collective.But this episode goes far beyond the surface, as M touches on the deeper aspects of being queer in the music industry, finding inspiration, the healing power of music, moving through trauma, and transmuting pain into love. Put on your Queer Goggles and tune in - you won't want to miss this.Follow M the Myth on Instagram: @mthemythLearn more: mthemyth.com & thewavys.org Support the show
Happy Holidays from The Source LGBT+ Center! On today's episode, we're introducing our new host of the Queer Goggles Podcast, Phae Lockwood, who will be taking the Queer Goggles ship over in the coming weeks! I know change is hard but we assure you that the podcast rests in capable hands. We are also excited to speak with The Source's Programs Manager, Alix Carranza, The Source's Youth Board President, Giselle, and the Youth Board's Secretary, Nikolas as part of our first panel episode. We will be discussing the LGBTQ+ experience of the Holiday Season, especially for queer youth, ways to cope with the stresses of the holidays, and our favorite queer holiday books and movies. Spoiler alert: a lot of them are not Christmas-themed!Support the show
It is a new season and we are starting it off by speaking with Jamie Brickhouse! Jamie Brickhouse is a published writer, comedic storyteller, TikTok sensation, podcast host, and public speaker. He's also the author of the critically acclaimed Dangerous When Wet: A Memoir of Booze Sex and My Mother. Come join us as we delve into Jamie's writing process, his messy journey to recovery, hilarious stories about his mother, and how he became a TikTok celebrity overnight. Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we're speaking with Mary Randol; artist, volunteer, and a person with over 37 years of recovery. In our conversation, we talk about Mary's journey through both substance use and mental health recovery, how coming out as Lesbian saved her life, and the importance of empathy towards oneself and those who society has disregarded. This is the last episode of this "Rainbow Recovery" season of Queer Goggles. Join us next season!If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at thesourcelgbt.org/recovery.Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we're speaking with Dr. Cory Jaques, the Program Director of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training Program. Dr. Jaques is a trained Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and also sits on The Source's board of directors. In our conversation, we talk about his extensive work within the community, how he views the state of LGBTQ+ competent Substance Use care in our region, and his hopes and ambitions for the future of psychiatry and treatment here in the Central Valley, especially as it pertains to adolescents and trans folks. If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at thesourcelgbt.org/recovery.Support the show
In this episode of Queer Goggles, we're talking with Dean Jackson, the Program Director of HIV Services at The Source LGBT+ Center. In our conversation, we go over the many, many things that the HIV Services Program provides, the misconceptions about HIV, Substance Use Disorder, and how they intersect. And we discuss the importance of having not only LGBTQ+ and HIV-specific supportive programs in place, but also the importance of emphasizing that everyone is welcome through the doors at The Source. "You don't have to be out to come in." If you'd like to know more about The Source's HIV Services Program OR sign up for a free testing appointment, you can find out more at thesourcelgbt.org/hiv. If you'd like to reach out to Dean Jackson directly, you can reach him at dean@thesourcelgbt.org. If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at thesourcelgbt.org/recovery. Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we're talking with Gabriela Vaca, the Youth Engagement Coordinator with the HEAL Project over at the California Health Collaborative. In our conversation, we discuss how the HEAL Project tackles youth substance use prevention with creativity and self-expression, their successes in passing local tobacco control policies, and the importance of encouraging youth leadership within prevention and advocacy work. If you'd like to know more about The HEAL Project you can follow them on Instagram at @heal.project. If you'd like to reach out to Gabriela Vaca directly, you can reach her at gvaca@healthcollaborative.org! If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at thesourcelgbt.org/recovery. Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we're sitting down with Erika Hawkyard, ex-librarian and current Youth Program Manager at The Source LGBT+ Center. We talk with Erika about The Source Youth Program's broad approach to prevention and education, her history before The Source, the main issues that impact our youth, and we even discuss the hit HBO show Euphoria. If you'd like to know more about The Source's Youth Program, please go to https://www.thesourcelgbt.org/youth or follow us on instagram @sourcelgbtyouth. If you'd like to reach out to Erika directly, you can reach her at erika@thesourcelgbt.org! If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at thesourcelgbt.org/recovery. Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we're talking with Jay Waterman, a certified substance abuse counselor and facilitator of several groups starting at Touchstone Recovery Center this June. We talk with Jay about his work at Touchstone, the importance of quality LGBTQ+ representation and competence in treatment, and the upcoming LGBTQ+ open support groups starting in Fresno. You can find more information about Jay Waterman and Touchstone Recovery Center here: touchstonerecoverycenter.com. The groups discussed are starting on June 8th in Fresno so be sure to get in contact with Jay Waterman at jay@touchstonerecoverycenter.com.If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at thesourcelgbt.org/recovery. Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we meet Tony Gomez, a certified drug and alcohol counselor 2 and facilitator of several of groups starting at The Source this year. In this episode, we'll talk with Tony about his story with Substance Use Disorder, his recovery, how he found The Source, and the importance of having LGBTQ+ prevention and treatment options. If you know someone who is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at http://thesourcelgbt.org/recovery.Support the show
On this episode of Queer Goggles, we meet Noah Deeds(he/him), Events and Program Manager at The Source LGBT+ Center. In this 4th season, Noah will be guest hosting, talking to important people in out community about Substance Use Disorder, recovery, and the importance of having LGBTQ+ prevention and treatment options. If you or someone you know is struggling with Substance Use Disorder please access our resources at http://thesourcelgbt.org/recovery.Support the show
On this episode we talk with Lorie Lewis Ham, local mystery writer and author of 6 books. Her latest book One Of Us is the first in a brand new mystery series featuring Fresno's famously queer and vibrant Tower District. For the past 11 years, Lorie has been publishing her online magazine Kings River Life and its sister website KRL News and Reviews. She also launched a mystery podcast called Mysteryrat's Maze featuring short stories and first chapters read by local actors. Lorie is the proud mother of two children and shares her experience as the mother of a transgender child. We want to thank Lorie for her support of The Source LGBT+ Center for the past 5 years. We hope you enjoy the show. Support local artists!!!Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Legendary LGBT+ Civil Rights Activist, Robin Johnston McGehee joins us to talk about activism and civil disobedience. Her story is inspiring and has pushed us to want to do more. Robin has fought for marriage equality, the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell, and the rights of LGBT+ people at the local, state, and federal levels. Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
On this episode, drag queen Juanita MORE! shares her experience of giving back to her community through drag, service, and Juanita's List. She is this year's Imperial Court SF's Empress. Nick Vargas and Priscilla McNamara find out what it takes to be royalty, baby! Sit back and enjoy. For more info on Juanita visit www.juanitamore.com.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Jeffery Robinson is a local legend, LGBT+ Activist, and community leader in Fresno, California. The Source met him when we participated in Fresno Rainbow Pride in 2016. But, did you know Fresno has been having Pride parades and festivals for more than 30 years? Jeffery has been at the center of the queer movement here in the Central Valley for decades. This hour-long episode recounts some of that rich and vibrant history. If you'd like to know more about Community Link, News Link, Qistory, and It's a Queer Thang... visit and support Fresno Rainbow Pride.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Priscilla McNamara has been performing for nearly 10 years in and around the Central Valley. On this episode, we talk with Priscilla about her beginnings, Queens of The South Valley, the importance of chosen family, and of course... supporting your local queens. COVID has hit the drag community hard, and we need to support our queens because they have always supported us. Priscilla can be found on all the socials:Facebook @prissymacattackInsta @yowasupchrisillaDon't forget to tip your queens: CashApp $prissymacattackSupport the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
On this episode, we talk with Peter Robertson, a local LGBTQ+ pioneer, advocate, philanthropist, and mentor to The Source about Fresno's rich queer history. He helped establish some of the most beloved LGBTQ+ organizations in the Central Valley: Bulldog Pride, Fresno Rainbow Pride, Reel Pride, and so much more. We hope you can see why we value his dedication, humility, and wisdom. Peter Robertson is our local LGBTQ+ history. To learn more about Peter and to support his causes, visit Fresno State.And to support The Source's programs and services visit thesourcelgbt.orgSupport the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Legendary LGBT Activist, Author, and lecturer Cleve Jones talks with us about the gay liberation movement, the AIDS Crisis, and surviving and thriving through a pandemic. Nick and Brian were introduced to Cleve through one of our Leadership Academy graduates, Joshua Sanchez. To learn more about Cleve, his work, his books, and more visit clevejones.comIf you like what you hear and want to support The Source LGBT+ Center in Tulare County, visit thesourcelgbt.orgSupport the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
On this episode of Queer Goggles, Dean Jackson discusses the Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Project for Opioid Use Disorder and Substance Use Disorder. During this 9 month project, The Source educated our community to reduce stigma and increase awareness for these life-saving treatment options for LGBT+ individuals. We talk with the team at Family Healthcare Network to see how they are addressing the Opioid Crisis, and Noah Deeds shares what The Source is doing to support folks with trauma-informed care. In Tulare County, there were many resources uncovered over the course of this project: Kaweah Delta's MAT Program in Visalia, Exeter, & Lindsay, Family Healthcare Network's MAT Program, and Bright Heart Health, which provides telemedicine for those seeking MAT services and accepts most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal. For more info visit https://www.brighthearthealth.com/ If you or someone you know is struggling with substances, please reach out for help. Recovery is possible. Visit thesourcelgbt.org/recoverySupport the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Scott Stabile joins us for this episode to talk about rest, reflection, and reframing during a global pandemic. Scott is an author, advisor, and friend to The Source. Nick and Scott explore self-care, awakening, and EFT. Dealing with fear and coping during this time takes presence, and Scott is an expert. To find out more about Scott and his work, visit scottstabile.com.This episode was recorded March 2020Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Nick Vargas talks with activist, author, and self-proclaimed #Selfcareslut Marta Miranda-Straub. She shares her tips for staying sane and spiritually fed during the pandemic. Marta even shares three excerpts from her new book "Cradled By Skeletons" available here at https://smpbooks.com/product/cradled-by-skeletons/This episode was recorded in March 2020.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Hey, friends! We are so excited to share with you this amazing interview with actor, activist, and producer Wilson Cruz. You probably know him from Star Trek Discovery, My So-Called Life, Party Monster, or his new AppleTV+ docuseries Visible: Out on Television. He's a dear friend of The Source and we talk about the importance of being visible, his work with GLSEN, and staying safe and sane during COVID-19.Recorded March 2020 Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
This episode, we catch up with Kathryn Hall, board member of The Source, PFLAG chapter president, pediatrician, and Source librarian. We talk about COVID-19, books, and documentaries. Since the pandemic, The Source has been closed to the public and our staff has been working from home. We host a virtual center online every week and interview special guests. This is one of those interviews. This interview was recorded in April 2020. Some of the information may be out of date.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Dean Jackson talks about what it's like to access services for people living with HIV in Tulare County. What are the barriers? How have treatments changed? What about prevention methods? Since The Source LGBT+ Center opened in May of 2016, HIV education, prevention, and services have been a top priority. Dean Jackson shares his personal story of how he combats HIV stigma with education and support to those who need it most.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
After reading an article about Ruth Coker Burks and her work with AIDS patients in the '80s and '90s, Nick reached out to this modern-day saint to see if she would be interested in sharing her story with The Source. She said, "YES"!!! In this talk, she shares how her work began, about the love and loss of thousands of men, death and dying, and the importance of keeping this history alive. Silence still equals death. Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Briauna Guerrero and Karigan Wann talk to us about their nonbinary identities, pronouns, gender roles, the trans umbrella and share their experience with accessing reproductive healthcare in Visalia, CA.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
This episode we talk with Max, Ace, Kristen, and Raquel about their experience accessing reproductive health in Central California. They discuss STI screenings, gender identity, as well as what it's like to hear, "no news is good news" when waiting for your results. Finally we hear from them about their favorite moments in our Leadership Academy and who inspired them this year. Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Jared Rubio is an out, gay, biracial, young man with a lesbian mom. Hear all about his coming out story, his experience in Leadership Academy, and what inspires him to be a leader in his small community in Central California.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Kiki Vela joins Queer Goggles to talk about her experience with Leadership Academy, her passion and advocacy with the LGBT+ community, the importance of transgender visibility, and access to health care for trans women of color in Tulare County. Kiki is a fierce leader, drag performer, and all around awesome advocate for the community.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
Meet Nick Vargas and Brian Poth from The Source LGBT+ Center in Visalia, CA. Nick and Brian will discuss their work with San Joaquin Valley Health Fund, Equity on The Mall 2019, Leadership Academy, PrEP, and changing the culture, policy, and systems in rural, conservative Tulare County.Support the show (http://paypal.me/thesourcelgbt)
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