The Gay Pro: Empowering Gay Business Professionals

Kyle Turner a distinguished freelance writer and editor from Brooklyn, NY. Known for his unique insights on queer film, his work has been featured in publications like Slate, NPR, GQ, and the New York Times.

Kyle's work delves into the intricate crossroads of pop culture, film studies, and queer theory, painting a vivid picture of LGBTQIA+ culture's impact in cinema. His new book titled "The Queer Film Guide: 100 Great Movies that tell LGBTQIA+ Stories," is a comprehensive exploration of queer narratives within some of the most impactful films in history.

This episode delves into Kyle's writing career, how the Queer Film Guide came to be, and his insightful predictions for the evolving landscape of queer film.

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Check out Lex's website for more queer content: Omaralexis.com

Dr. Laura McGuire (they/them) is an expert in sexual health education, and an author, who is paving the way for organizations to build safer, and more inclusive environments for everyone. Dr. McGuire talks to us today about their work in sexual health education, and building a trauma-informed workplace -- both as a care expert, and a consultant for businesses and academic settings.

We discuss what it means to be trauma-informed, and how businesses / organizations can benefit from becoming conscientious about navigating trauma and sexual identity. We also discuss Dr. McGuires books, covering topics like consent and sexual misconduct. Learn more about Dr. McGuire and their work by visiting their website: http://drlauramcguire.com/

Read Dr. Laura McGuire's books:

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In this episode, we meet Rob Volpe -- CEO of Ignite360 -- a market research firm focused on insights, strategy, and creative storytelling. We talk about how to build empathy, and how we can approach empathy with intention. Not only in the workplace, but in our queer spaces as well.

He is the author of Tell Me More About That: Solving the Empathy Crisis One Conversation at a Time, in which he recounts his experiences in the field to illustrate his 5 Steps to Empathy, and teaches you how you can build your empathy muscle.

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With all of the newly coined buzzwords and business models surrounding Web3, NFTs, and more, it’s clear that the only way to successfully navigate this new digital world is by getting back to the basics.

What is Web3, and how does it work? Let’s review these Web3 basics and learn how you can leverage its new digital tools.

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NFTs ignited a revolution in the way we think about digital ownership, and projects employing Creative Commons (CC0) public domain are poised to change the game once again.

Let's discuss what exactly is Creative Commons? And how are NFT projects using them? Additionally, what value does CC0 offer NFT collectors that's different from traditional media licenses?

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Nathan Harding is an intuitive abstract artist known for his vibrant abstract paintings, which draw inspiration from his life experience. He has been working to make NFTs a part of his art. This episode will give us an inside look at Nathan’s process, how he’s bridging the gap between fine art and NFTs, and the mistakes he’s made along the way. Follow Nathan Harding on Twitter @NathanHarding

Purchase Nathan's art on his website at Nathan-Harding.com

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Rather than copy/paste the shortcomings of the Web 2.0 internet we know today, why not build a more inclusive, and more queer digital world. This is Web3. Here are four things you can do TODAY to help bring more queer representation to the future of the internet.

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Layer 2 (L2) is an emerging solution for scaling the Ethereum blockchain that is quickly gaining popularity among artists, collectors, and gamers. It is efficient at getting YOU significantly lower gas fees, and much faster transaction times than mainnet Ethereum. Let's take a closer look at what Layer 2 is, why it matters, and what platforms you should be keeping an eye on.

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Web3 community tokens are changing the way you make money online. Whether it's playing a video game, trying out new platforms, or supporting community initiatives, tokens harness the power of social capital and turn it into financial gain for members of online communities. What are community tokens? What are some examples, and how can we use them? Let's review and see how we can use community tokens to make money online. __

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There is a new wave of artists making money in the art world, and they are doing so by selling their artwork as NFTs. Not only is digital art now much easier to sell, but NFTs are rethinking the dynamics of supply and demand. Let's talk about how artists are making a living with NFTs, and the benefits this new blockchain technology brings to digital content.

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You may have heard that the internet is "getting an upgrade." Well, it's true! Web3 is the next generation of the internet, and it's going to change the way you use it. Not only will we see unprecedented changes like true digital ownership of online property such as content, imagery, and domains, but users will regain control of their own data, and see enhanced security online. Let's explore what exciting changes Web3 will bring!

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More and more brands are starting to realize the power of community to build loyalty, expand word-of-mouth, and ultimately drive sales with customers. But what are the different types of communities out there? And what does a successful one look like? Let’s talk about that and explore the power of community.

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The Summer of NFTs is in full swing and exploding. Artists are making more money than they ever thought possible, and many are trying to cash in on this modern Wild West gold rush. Queer artists are just starting to build their own niche in NFTs, and it's on us to support them! Here are three LGBT NFT artists that are making incredible art and could use our support.

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Queer Olympians have seen unprecedented representation at this year's Tokyo Olympic Games, but there is still a TON of hate and discrimination making its way into legislation. There have been a huge number of new, anti-trans bills seeking to ban trans-women from competing in women's sports. This is an issue affecting women all over the world and has no place in the world of sportsmanship. Let's talk about the Olympics, and some of the misinformation surrounding trans-women in sports, and why it is important to reject bioessentialist rhetoric that is masquerading as science.

Referenced sources:

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I got to sit down with my good friend Derek, an entertainment professional here in LA, and talk to him about how COVID has impacted nightlife, the entertainment industry, and social relationships.

Additionally, whether it's an age gap or income gap, queer couples frequently defy norms; so how should they split the bill? Grab a glass of wine and let's chat about what financial equity should look like in gay relationships.

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This June, take pride in more than just your queer identity. Luis Baez is an expert in helping QBIPOC entrepreneurs build businesses they can be proud of. With over 14 years of experience at some of the world's most distinguished companies like Google, LinkedIn, Tesla, and Uber, Luis is a seasoned expert in Sales and Marketing. He has taken these experiences to create the Sales Huddle -- a business program taking all of the secrets he learned in Silicon Valley to help you build your own business.

Luis talks about what it was like being the only Hispanic, LGBTQIA+ person in the room in these tech board meetings, and how he navigated a corporate world that didn't always value his experiences.

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I've seen a lot of buzz on queer Twitter and TikTok lately from some vocal Gen-Zers talking about straight-washing pride. Specifically, talking about how Pride "should be family-friendly." Friendly to whose families? More so, is kink at Pride truly "predatory?" Let's talk about why Gen-Z has got it all wrong, and why sexual liberation BELONGS at pride!

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Hey, it's Lex! Believe it or not, you CAN make friends on Grindr. You can even build valuable, professional relationships by networking on there, too. Many gay guys are already growing their Instagram followings and building personal brands by driving traffic from their Grindr and Tinder profiles, to their branded pages. ("I'm not on here a lot.. message me on IG." Oh look, his profile is private and he's got 25K followers. WHAT a coincidence.)

Aside from traffic though, dating apps are unique social engagement tools that can connect you to people of all ages and backgrounds. It's worth learning something, especially from members of our elder gay community who have decades of experience in a variety of fields.

Check out all the different functionalities that apps like Grindr have to help you network and build valuable relationships that can teach you about business, finance, entertainment, or even land you a job! 

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Pages like @GaysOverCOVID on Instagram have come to the forefront of the conversation by exposing gay men for COVID unsafe behaviors like circuit parties, holiday gatherings, and hookups.

While I do not endorse these behaviors I’ve got to say that I for one, am OVER @GaysOverCOVID. Let’s talk about the difference between SHAME and ACCOUNTABILITY, and how these public shaming pages are doing a lot more harm than good to our community.

Referenced:

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This podcast was originally broadcast on YouTube, recorded in April 2020.

Hey, it's Lex! Our LGBTQIA+ workers, elders, and youths, must be supported in this crisis. With all of the talk about COVID-19 and its economic impact, it was refreshing to take part in a conversation about COMMUNITY SUPPORT with LGBT+ marketing experts at Target10, which is a queer marketing agency.

Their founder and president, Matt Tumminello, reviewed consumer and market research to highlight the impacts COVID-19 has on the gay community, and what brands can do about it.

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With any kind of job search whether it’s a part-time job or a full-time career, there is going to be a LOT of rejection. But ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how you can dust yourself off, learn from it, and keep moving forward until you find the job that’s right for you. Find out what things you should be doing to not only overcome job rejection, but also to increase your chances of finding a job by optimizing your search process.

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Adam Eli is a writer and community organizer based in New York City. He identifies as queer, and is of Jewish heritage, advocating for the empowerment of intersectional minorities. His latest book, The New Queer Conscience, is a pocket-sized, 30-minute read, which outlines what he believes is our moral imperative as queer people to come together and advocate for each other anywhere in the world. He calls this the “Global Queer Conscience” and summarizes it in just one phrase: “Queer people anywhere are responsible for queer people everywhere."

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Britt East is a Seattle-based inspirational speaker and the author of A Gay Man's Guide to Life. In this episode, Britt & Lex sit down to talk about his latest book, (now available on Amazon) and how Britt's unique experiences and advice can help gay & straight men alike get down to the business of improving their lives. Britt provides insight into the mind, body, and spirit, and has over 20 years of experience in personal growth and development modalities such as the 12 Steps, non-violent communication, yoga, and more. Britt East is also a seasoned expert in ecommerce and digital solutions and provides insight into finding your career passion.

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Queer people everywhere have a responsibility to denounce the horrific state of American law enforcement, and their unjust targeting and murdering of our Black and colored siblings.

George Floyd was savagely murdered this past Monday by a white officer while three others stood by and watched. Unrest has triggered riots, and violent confrontations throughout the country, and Queer people must show up and act out in solidarity.

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Today's Contemporary Queer is Landon Richie; a transgender boy from Texas, only 17 years old, and already making waves in the Southern queer community in the United States. He has spoken out at rallies and protests against anti-LGBT legislation, and has also been featured online by RollingStone as a leader changing the landscape for queers in the Deep South. Most notably, however, he is one of the GenderCool Project’s youth champions, advocating for the advancement of LGBT youths in sports, music, and the arts.

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It’s a pretty typical stereotype: Hop on Instagram and you’ll be greeted with so many ultra-hot gay couple pages, posting updates about their latest trip to Mykonos, matching Teslas, and meal prepping with their Equinox trainers. But why are gay guys so rich? How did they get here? And why is EVERY GAY GUY and his father taking trips to Mykonos? Research published on Psychology Today may have the answer.

Source:

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In this new, digital-first world, resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, companies are navigating uncharted territory by going fully remote and inadvertently causing overwork and burnout at your organization. Let's chat work from home guilt, business meeting optimization, and compassion for those in quarantine. __

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Rose Bates is a lesbian woman in the music industry, paving the way for queer artists in the United Kingdom. Her music has been featured on radio stations across the UK, and she is passionate about empowering other queer women to find their voice. She has a new single "Young God" that you can now stream on Spotify. Check out her website: http://rosebatesofficial.com/ Follow her on Instagram: http://instagram.com/MissRoseBates Stream Rose Bates' music: http://linktr.ee/RoseBatesMusic

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Election Day is March 3rd! Maebe A. Girl is the VERY FIRST drag queen to be elected to public office in the US, and is serving as a council member for the city of Silver Lake in Southern California. She is now running for Congress against incumbent Adam Schiff, to represent District 28.

Maebe completes all of her civil duties in full drag; as she is passionate about representation for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and is completely upending what it looks like to be a politician in the United States.

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Sean the Star Emperor is an anomaly in the music industry that is sending shockwaves across space and time. He is the embodiment of what happens when you take the status quo, do the COMPLETE opposite, then make a big song and dance about it all the while destroying heteronormativity.

Inspired by the glam of the 80’s and influenced to the tune of artists like Enya, Michael Jackson, and Fleetwood Mac, Sean The Star Emperor is as much a musician and artist as he is a masterful showman. Sean will be performing on February 27th, 2020 at Bar Lubitsch in West Hollywood, CA. Check him out on Eventbrite!

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Join me as I chat with Deon Griffin, a Los Angeles based actor, model, writer, director, model -- you name it! Deon has worked on a several commercials, auditioned for TV programs, and written many of his own works. He has modeled for brands like Hollister and Clean & Clear, and gives us insight into the industry, his experience as a gay man in film and modeling, and how his race comes into play as a Black man. __

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Many organizations have strong commitments to building diverse and dynamic workplaces, but fail in the execution by falling into old habits, and old ways of thinking when it comes to recruitment. In order to cultivate leaders from all walks of life, many organizations need to fundamentally rethink their approach to talent acquisition, and begin to prioritize candidates who exhibit more than just years on a resume. Let’s jump in and see exactly how effective recruitment leads to cultural and neurological diversity, and jumpstarts business success.

Referenced Articles:

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Edafe Okporo is an incredible leader and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, but also for the rights of refugees in the United States. A businessman, writer, and refugee himself, Edafe has lived an incredibly accomplished and extraordinary life.

Join me in a compelling conversation with Edafe about his life in Nigeria as a gay man, his asylum in the United States and new life as an entrepreneur, and his thoughts on the importance of storytelling and how it can change the world.

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The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIERs) is a Nigerian non-profit organization that upholds and promotes human rights for all Nigerians through advocacy, empowerment, and education. TIERS is dedicate to fighting discrimination against and marginalization of sexual minorities in Nigeria. Donate and show your support for our LGBTQIA+ siblings in Nigeria!

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Despite marriage equality being achieved in 2015 here in United States, as many as 50% of affected LGBTQ workers are unaware! There are TONS of workplace benefits now available to you and your family that you should take advantage of.

Referenced Articles:

Leader's Edge: "Equal Benefits for All" Leader's Edge: "Equal Benefits for All" cutting HRC's HEI

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Not only is Grindr app quickly becoming a national security concern, but there are also talks of emerging competitors like Facebook Dating, and where exactly an application like Grindr will fit in the future of dating apps. Let's chat and review the role of dating apps in our community, and what the future may hold.

Referenced Articles:

Axios: "Exclusive: Grindr to stop sharing HIV status with third parties" BuzzFeed: "Grindr Is Letting Other Companies See User HIV Status And Location Data" Financial Times: Grindr revives IPO plan after US security panel drops opposition The Guardian: "Grindr: app's president says marriage is 'between man and woman" The Guardian: "Fitness tracking app Strava gives away location of secret US army bases" New York Times: "Grindr Is Owned by a Chinese Firm, and the U.S. Is Trying to Force It to Sell" PinkNews: "Facebook dating app: Grindr says tech giant doesn’t understand needs of LGBT people"

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Nivea is the latest brand seeing backlash after some anti-LGBT allegations -- even losing partnership with FCB, the brand's marketing agency for over 100 years. Let's review the article from Ad Age, and talk big business, executive leadership, and the role of agencies in promoting equality.

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Big businesses at Pride. Good or bad? I think it's a great idea, but maybe you disagree. Let's discuss! There are even some tools out there like the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index that can help us formulate educated opinions.

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I stumbled upon an article by an incredible LGBTQIA+ business thinker, Kitt Carpenter, who is a professor of economics at Vanderbilt. Previous studies have shown gay men have made consistently LESS than straight men, but now we earn more! I break down the article and supply some of my own thoughts as well as research I've found by other great thinkers in the LGBTQIA+ space.

Here are some great human rights organizations, as promised!

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