Out Loud & Laughing

Bryan Ruiz and Jon Ruiz
  • 4.9 (9)
  • Society & Culture
  • Weekly

Presented by Out.com / Out Magazine Out Loud & Laughing is a hilarious, heartfelt, and unapologetic podcast hosted by queer cousins Bryan Ruiz and Jon Ruiz. Bringing their distinct comedic chemistry and shared family history to the mic, Bryan and Jon offer a fresh, unfiltered look at life, love, relationships, and everything in between. Through a sharp comedic lens, they dive headfirst into today's hot topics, essential life lessons, and the messy, beautiful highs and lows of growing up queer. Hosted by two proud queer cousins, our show uses laughter as a compass to navigate navigating identity, culture, and the unique challenges of the LGBTQ+ experience. Together with equalpride—the ultimate home for LGBTQ+ media—we are on a mission to build a community where identity and humor intersect. We’re here to inspire bold self-expression, deep connection, and plenty of side-splitting laughs. With laughter as their guide, Bryan and Jon create a welcoming space that fosters connection, self-expression, and pure, unapologetic joy. Whether you are tuning in for the wild stories, the sharp humor, the deep relatability, or a mix of all three, this is the show that celebrates living life as your truest, most authentic self—out loud and laughing.

  1. 1d ago

    Danny Pintauro | Who’s the Boss Now? Overcoming Tabloids, Stigmas & Hollywood Rejection

    He was in millions of living rooms for eight years as Jonathan Bauer on Who's the Boss. Now Danny Pintauro is auditioning in a industry that doesn't know what to do with someone this open. Hosts Jon and Bryan sit down with him for a warm, funny, and honest conversation. When the National Inquirer outed Danny in 1997 while he was at Stanford, it took the moment out of his hands. He shares how he took the wheel back: the letters from people who say his coming out kept them alive, the family and friends he had already told, and the parents who worried most about his career. He also reveals where the harshest criticism came from, and it wasn't who you'd expect. We learn… Why Rocky Horror Picture Show was his secret signal into the queer worldWhat happened when he went public about HIV, including an article titled "What to Do with the Problem of Danny Pintaro"Why he believes gay people can be so hard on each other in publicThe reality of acting at 50 who looks younger: one acting job in four years and 56-plus auditions, and the small win that came with feedbackThe little joys that carry him and his husband through busy schedules and rising costsThen it's a round of "This or That," Danny's the Boss edition. Hear him pick a side on 80s sitcoms, scruff, chest or butt, speedo or board shorts, handcrafted miniatures or vintage, and why he'd rather be the umpire than pitch or catch. He also shares a candid take on Heated Rivalry and casting straight actors in gay roles.Out Loud and Laughing: Chosen Family is hosted by Jon and Bryan, who bring plenty of laughs and shared nostalgia for growing up queer in the 80s and 90s.Essential listening if you grew up watching Danny, if you are tired of hiding parts of yourself, or if you need a reminder that perseverance is the whole game.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Daniel Pintauro's Life and Career 01:59 Growing Up in Hollywood and Early Influences 03:57 Experiences of Outing and Public Scrutiny 05:58 The Power of Community Support and Letters of Hope 07:59 Challenges of Acting at 50 and Staying Relevant 10:00 Living with Intention and Embracing Authenticity 12:03 Balancing Personal Life, Advocacy, and Career 13:55 Humor, Joy, and Simple Pleasures in Life 16:01 The Importance of Perseverance and Self-Compassion 18:09 Fun Rapid-Fire Questions: This or That 19:59 Final Thoughts and Words of Inspiration Danny Pintauro, Who's the Boss, Jonathan Bauer, queer podcast, coming out, HIV advocacy, Hollywood actor, 80s nostalgia, LGBTQ interview, chosen family YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1: —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Danny Pintauro | Who’s the Boss Now? Overcoming Tabloids, Stigmas & Hollywood Rejection

  2. 6d ago

    Arden Myrin from Christmas at the Kringles and Free Bert

    Comedian and actor Arden Myrin joins us for a funny, candid conversation about finding success without shrinking who you are. After decades in comedy, Arden shares what it felt like to see herself on a Times Square billboard—and why staying true to her quirky, authentic self helped her get there.Arden takes us behind the scenes of Christmas at the Kringles, the horror-comedy she made with Tom Lennon, including the improvisation and on-set moments that had the cast laughing. Learn more at https://www.kringlesmovie.com/ and purchase tickets today! She also talks about her work on Mad TV and Chelsea Lately, her time on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and the time she and Lance Bass tried to get on The Amazing Race as Team Razzle Dazzle.The conversation turns personal as Arden reflects on growing up feeling different, embracing the parts of herself she once tried to hide, and finding belonging through chosen family. It’s a joyful reminder that the qualities we think make us “too much” can be exactly what makes us memorable.If you love comedy, entertainment stories, reality TV, and conversations about authenticity and belonging, this episode is for you. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Arden Myrin’s career milestones and Times Square billboard 05:04 Protecting your magic in a business that wants you to fit in 09:41 The Amazing Race plan with Lance Bass 13:11 Making Christmas at the Kringles with Tom Lennon 16:47 On-set improvisation, Rachel Bilson, and holiday chaos 19:35 RuPaul’s Drag Race and being embraced by queer fans 21:24 Feeling different, showing up authentically, and chosen family 24:14 Christmas songs, reality-TV loyalties, and playful hot-seat questions 30:49 Looking ahead with pride, resilience, and hope 32:11 The 18-day, low-budget making of Christmas at the Kringles Arden Myrin, Arden Myrin interview, Episode 180 Arden Myrin, comedian interview, actress interview, Christmas at the Kringles, Christmas horror comedy, Tom Lennon, Mad TV, Chelsea Lately, RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Amazing Race, Lance Bass, comedy podcast, LGBTQ+ podcast, chosen family, being authentic, Hollywood career, behind the scenes comedy —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Arden Myrin from Christmas at the Kringles and Free Bert

  3. Oct 27

    Claybourne Elder | The Heart, the Gay Jazz Album, and the Villain He Wants to Play

    Broadway performer and The Gilded Age actor Claybourne Elder joins Out Loud and Laughing for a warm, candid conversation about queer artistry, creative independence, and the stories we choose to tell.Claybourne shares the inspiration behind his solo album, If the Stars Were Mine—a personal project shaped by the lullaby he sings to his son. He talks about reimagining classic songs through a gay jazz lens, producing the album himself, and learning to trust his creative instincts when support fell through. The conversation also explores his role as John Adams in The Gilded Age and why he wanted to move beyond familiar stereotypes of queer characters. Claybourne discusses his acting process, his love of playing villains, his Broadway work, and how he encourages people to take practical steps to support the causes they believe in.Expect heartfelt stories, theater talk, laughs, and a reminder that the legacy that matters most may be the way we show up for the people we love. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Clay Elder and his career 02:38 Clay's pivotal moment from violin to acting 04:27 Growing up in Utah and early influences 06:16 Creating 'If the Stars Were Mine' and its themes 08:11 Overcoming self-doubt in the creative process 11:18 The grassroots journey of producing his album 14:25 Portrayal of LGBTQ characters in historical context 15:42 The importance of character development and imagination 20:02 Standing up for community and social issues 22:01 Fun rapid-fire: Broadway, music, and personal preferences 27:35 Reflections on legacy: voice vs. heart Claybourne Elder, Claybourne Elder interview, Claybourne Elder podcast, Out Loud and Laughing, The Gilded Age actor, John Adams The Gilded Age, Broadway actor interview, Little Shop of Horrors Broadway, If the Stars Were Mine album, gay jazz album, LGBTQ+ representation in television, queer actors, queer storytelling, Broadway and television, creative independence, producing a solo album, actor creative process, global human rights advocacy —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Claybourne Elder | The Heart, the Gay Jazz Album, and the Villain He Wants to Play

  4. Oct 20

    Ben McDonnell | The Gay Cowboy from Traitors Spills Everything from Fat Shots, Giga Yachts – to “Identifying as Petite.”

    Pumpkin spice at the wrong time, giga yachts, Ozempic, and Christmas trees in October - this one is pure chaotic gay energy in the best possible way. Ben McDonnell joins Bryan and Jon for a brutally funny catch-up that starts with The Traitors and somehow ends with elite-level holiday planning, reality TV fantasies, and a conversation about what we’re actually putting in our bodies. Ben, who’s currently on The Traitors, opens up about life as a faithful, what he’d do on the show, and why he’s absolutely here for strategy, drama, and the wardrobe. The trio also gets candid about GLP-1 shots, body image, trainer culture, and the very gay math of time vs. money when it comes to fitness. You'll also hear about Ben’s summer on a “giga yacht” with a helicopter, Bryan and Jon’s 10-year anniversary in Spain, their glamorous villa in the hills of Barcelona, and the not-so-glamorous reality of keeping kids believing in Santa. Along the way, they get into fake meat, chicken trauma, reality competition shows, and why Vanna White may have the easiest job in America. This episode is equal parts hilarious, unfiltered, and weirdly wholesome. If you love pop culture, queer banter, reality TV, and conversations that bounce from nonsense to sincerity without warning, this is your sign to hit play. Ben McDonnell is the host of It's Been a Week and a contestant on The Traitors, known for his sharp humor and effortlessly chaotic energy. Bryan and Jon are the hosts of Out Loud and Laughing, bringing the quick wit, relationship banter, and community-centered perspective that makes this episode feel like catching up with your funniest friends.Perfect for listeners who love messy group chat energy, gay pop culture commentary, and the kind of episode that makes a Friday feel like a vacation. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:18 Ben's Reality TV Experience and Show Involvement 02:39 Favorite Shows and Watching Strategies 04:00 Ozempic and Weight Loss Stories 05:12 Medical Trends and Body Image 06:55 Farm Life and Ethical Eating 09:01 Travel Adventures in Greece and Europe 12:40 Summer Vacation and Greek Islands 14:59 Luxury Yacht Experiences and Family Connections 16:58 Wedding Anniversary and Celebrations 22:01 Upcoming Projects and Industry Events 23:30 Voting for Podcast Competition and Community Engagement 25:00 Holiday Preparations and Family Traditions 28:01 Elf on the Shelf and Holiday Magic 29:58 Favorite Game Shows and Celebrity Hosts 33:00 Legacy Hosts and TV Careers 36:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans Out Loud and Laughing, Ben McDonnell, The Traitors, The Traitors contestant, LGBTQ podcast, gay podcast, queer pop culture, LGBTQ conversation, reality TV, reality competition shows, celebrity podcast interview, gay friends podcast, Ozempic conversation, GLP-1 weight loss, body image, fitness culture, giga yacht, luxury yacht vacation, Greece and Italy travel, Spain anniversary trip, holiday traditions, Elf on the Shelf, pumpkin spice season, funny podcast conversation —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Ben McDonnell | The Gay Cowboy from Traitors Spills Everything from Fat Shots, Giga Yachts – to “Identifying as Petite.”

  5. Oct 15

    Dan Jinks | Movies That Matter From American Beauty to Milk & the Man Behind the Movies

    Hollywood producer Dan Jinks joins us to share how he built an Oscar-winning career by championing original stories—and why he never saw being gay as a limitation in an industry full of gatekeepers.From a theater-obsessed kid dreaming of show business to producing films that made a lasting cultural impact, Dan reflects on the experiences that shaped his career and his creative instincts. He takes us behind the scenes of Milk, including the challenges of getting the film made, why Sean Penn was pivotal to the project, and how the cast came together.Dan also shares a memorable moment from the set of American Beauty, what he looks for in a script today, and why originality and characters that move him still matter. We talk about the challenges facing LGBTQ+ stories in Hollywood, the audience response to Heated Rivalry, and the movie musical Dan still hopes to bring to life.Plus, Dan joins us for a playful round of “This or That: The Producer’s Cut.” In this episode: Dan’s path from theater kid to Oscar-winning producerThe story behind making MilkLGBTQ+ visibility and belonging in HollywoodWhat makes a script stand outA behind-the-scenes moment from American BeautyDan’s dream of producing a big-screen musicalIf you love filmmaking, queer representation, and the stories behind iconic movies, this conversation is for you. Dan also recommends checking out Down with Love. Dan Jinks Instagram: @danjinks YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dan Jinks and his career 01:55 Dan's early passion for theater and show business 03:51 Hiding and discovering his sexuality through acting 05:37 Making Milk and the challenges of bringing LGBTQ+ stories to the screen 09:00 Navigating Hollywood as an out gay producer 11:10 Representation and casting in Hollywood 13:57 The artistry behind American Beauty and memorable scenes 16:59 What drives Dan to choose projects 19:03 Obstacles for LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream cinema 22:09 Future projects and the desire for original storytelling 23:30 Fun rapid-fire questions: preferences and personal insights 28:04 Closing thoughts and where to follow Dan Jinks —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Dan Jinks | Movies That Matter From American Beauty to Milk & the Man Behind the Movies

  6. Oct 13

    On & David Mekahel | Bearing It All from Love to Business and the Briefs-Brand Behind Their Success

    What does it take to build a life, a relationship, and a creative empire together? On and Dave join us for a candid conversation about queer love, entrepreneurship, and staying unapologetically themselves.The couple shares how they balance working and living together, what they’ve learned from building their apparel brand, and why patience matters when growing a business. They also talk about turning real-life experiences into music, their podcast Boys Bear Talk, and the story of how they first met.In this episode, we get into: How On and Dave keep their relationship strong while collaborating on multiple projectsThe evolution of their apparel brand and the customer feedback shaping its designsWhy building a business takes patience, persistence, and confidenceHow Dave’s songwriting helps On bring personal, lived experiences to his musicThe conversations about queer masculinity, body image, and relationships behind Boys Bear TalkWhy they hope to be remembered first for their love storyFrom business lessons to playful “This or That” questions, On and Dave bring honesty, humor, and plenty of chemistry to the conversation. Boys Bare Talk: https://open.spotify.com/show/7L5aN0YxdTxz0ySjbUj5LV David Mekahel Instagram: @davemekahel On Mekahel Instagram:@iamonmekahel YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to On and Dave's Creative Partnership 01:11 Getting Personal: Off-Clock Life and Routines 03:11 On Growing Up Independent and Building Grit 04:30 The Secret to Working Together and Maintaining Love 05:42 Launching Mounderware and Evolving the Brand 08:12 Surprising Discoveries in Apparel Design 11:14 Vulnerability and Authenticity in Podcasting 15:21 How They Met and Their Love Story 17:44 Overcoming Boundaries as Queer Entrepreneurs 22:25 Future Plans: Fashion Shoots and Brand Vision 23:21 Legacy: Love Story or Empire? —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    On & David Mekahel | Bearing It All from Love to Business and the Briefs-Brand Behind Their Success

  7. Oct 8

    Jake Graf | The Leading Man Who Wrote His Own Damn Script

    Jake Graf had to write his own role in life—and then turned that same determination into films, activism, and a family story the world rarely gets to see. From growing up under Section 28 in Britain to becoming a trans filmmaker, actor, and advocate, this conversation explores visibility, survival, and the courage to live authentically. Jake joins Bryan and Jon Ruiz to talk about knowing he was a boy from an early age, searching for representation, and finding hope after meeting another trans man. He reflects on transitioning at 28, building a life and family with his wife Hannah, and why it’s never too late to start living as yourself. Jake also shares how he made his short film XY on a tiny budget—and how hearing from trans viewers around the world showed him the power of seeing yourself represented on screen. He discusses acting in Colette alongside Keira Knightley, the ongoing need for trans male representation in film and television, and what fatherhood has taught him.The conversation balances difficult realities with joy, honesty, and laughter, including a quickfire round to close. Jake Graf is a British director, actor, and activist. Find him on YouTube at youtube.com/user/Jakerson55 and on Instagram at @jake_graf5 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest overview 01:02 Jake's childhood in London and early signs of creativity 02:06 Growing up under Section 28 and its effects on LGBTQ+ youth 03:04 Jake's realization of being a boy and early self-expression 04:57 Reflecting on the last decade: joy, love, and challenges 07:52 The rise and regression of trans visibility in media 08:39 Advice for trans people starting their journey later in life 13:14 Creating the short film XY and its significance 19:10 Authentic trans representation in film: working on Colette 23:30 The current state of trans representation in media 23:53 Parenthood and lessons learned from raising children 31:49 Finding joy in quiet victories and hope for the future Jake Graf, Jake Graf interview, trans visibility, transgender representation, trans filmmaker, trans director, queer cinema, LGBTQ stories, LGBTQ podcast, queer family, trans fatherhood, trans activism, trans stories, XY short film, Colette film, chosen family, Out Loud and Laughing, LGBTQ representation —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Jake Graf | The Leading Man Who Wrote His Own Damn Script

  8. Oct 6

    Ginger Minj | The Minj, The Myth, The Legend: Spells, Sisters & Showbiz

    Ginger Minj has upcoming appearances to put on your calendar: she’ll perform a Winifred Sanderson cabaret at Anthem in Orlando, and celebrate her Broadway EP, The Broads Way, at New York City’s 54 Below on November 10. Ginger says the 54 Below show will feature live singing, live music, and special guests, with tickets already going fast. Join Jon and Bryan for a conversation with the drag superstar that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious. Ginger looks back on growing up in Leesburg, Florida, and finding a home onstage from the time she was a baby. She talks about her lifelong connection to musical theater, the creative path behind The Broads Way, and why she’s embracing her inner theater kid more fully than ever. Ginger also shares what makes her friendship with Jujubee so meaningful: their willingness to be honest with each other, hold each other accountable, and show up when it matters. With warmth and candor, she reflects on sobriety, self-discovery, and learning to appreciate all the different parts of herself.From Broadway standards and cabaret plans to the meaning behind her “Glamour Toad” spirit, Ginger brings plenty of wit, wisdom, and heart. It’s an episode about finding your place, owning your story, and making room for others to belong, too. Website: gingerminj.com 54 Below Tickets: 54below.org/artists/ginger-minj Hokus Pokus Live: www.hokuspokuslive.com/ Big Gay Cabaret: eventbrite.com/e/the-big-gay-halloween-cabaret-starring-ginger-minj-tickets-2000082113442 Ginger Minj's new EP, The Broad's Way, arriving November 6. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ginger Minj and her career 02:00 Ginger Minj’s childhood in Leesburg, Florida 03:54 Growing up on stage and early influences 07:01 Her journey through sobriety and mental health 10:01 Creating her Broadway EP and musical inspirations 12:00 The importance of authenticity and self-love 14:57 Friendship with Juju B and the drag community 18:00 Reflections on drag persona and self-acceptance 21:00 Her experiences on RuPaul's Drag Race and All Stars 10 24:01 Upcoming projects and performances 28:10 This or That: The Glamour Toad Edition 34:00 Closing remarks and upcoming events —-- Visit us at www.OutLoudAndLaughing.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7obVHRF8knOr0WUMOZLJnM Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTk63DP29cMR3QjT_xkkHygIX2MZi1c9

    Ginger Minj | The Minj, The Myth, The Legend: Spells, Sisters & Showbiz
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Presented by Out.com / Out Magazine Out Loud & Laughing is a hilarious, heartfelt, and unapologetic podcast hosted by queer cousins Bryan Ruiz and Jon Ruiz. Bringing their distinct comedic chemistry and shared family history to the mic, Bryan and Jon offer a fresh, unfiltered look at life, love, relationships, and everything in between. Through a sharp comedic lens, they dive headfirst into today's hot topics, essential life lessons, and the messy, beautiful highs and lows of growing up queer. Hosted by two proud queer cousins, our show uses laughter as a compass to navigate navigating identity, culture, and the unique challenges of the LGBTQ+ experience. Together with equalpride—the ultimate home for LGBTQ+ media—we are on a mission to build a community where identity and humor intersect. We’re here to inspire bold self-expression, deep connection, and plenty of side-splitting laughs. With laughter as their guide, Bryan and Jon create a welcoming space that fosters connection, self-expression, and pure, unapologetic joy. Whether you are tuning in for the wild stories, the sharp humor, the deep relatability, or a mix of all three, this is the show that celebrates living life as your truest, most authentic self—out loud and laughing.

Information

  • Creator
    Bryan Ruiz and Jon Ruiz
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    185
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Out Loud & Laughing

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