The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina

Pride House Media
  • 5.0 (22)
  • FASHION & BEAUTY

Welcome to The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie and Lina, a new weekly podcast hosted by DJ/activist Lina Bradford and fashion legend Connie Fleming, the show offers unprecedented access to the icons, secrets, and untold stories that shaped queer culture. Lina and Connie are both trailblazing women of transgender experience, with deep backgrounds hosting and performing in NYC’s most storied clubs—and pioneering on fashion runways. They bring their knowledge, stories, and relationships to “The Cutting Up,” offering audiences a backstage pass to authentic conversations that can only happen between true friends and industry legends. “The Cutting Up” goes deep on fashion, music, activism, and identity.

  1. 3D AGO

    Glam, Grit & Glisten: Our Convo with Wilson Cruz

    Baby… this episode? A whole mood. Wilson Cruz dropped into The Cutting Up and we started where all important conversations start: backstage glam. Because if we’re going to talk about surviving late-stage capitalism and political chaos, we’re at least doing it moisturized. But don’t get it twisted — the kiki got real. We talked about what it means to trust timing in a career that’s feast‑or‑famine. Wilson’s been in this game for decades, and instead of spiraling when the phone isn’t ringing, he’s cocooning. Nurturing his artistry. Sharpening his activism. Staying ready so he doesn’t have to get ready. And yes, we got into the work. From campaigning in the tri-state area to his role as board chair of GLSEN (now Glisten — hello rebrand), we talked strategy, chapters, and the upcoming National Student Climate Survey. Because protecting queer kids is not a side quest. It’s the mission. We unpacked voter regret. Misinformation. Immigration fear tactics. Political distraction. The way they keep trying to divide and conquer like it’s 1992 and we haven’t read a book. But here’s the thing — we are not despairing. We are organizing. Locally. Intentionally. In community. Wilson also gave us tea on new indie projects, theater work, and a play about radicalization (timely much?). We talked about what it means to be a working artist when the industry feels morally… wobbly. How do you build when diversity is backsliding? You build by us. For us. And through it all? Protect your peace. Escape the algorithm. Touch grass. Fortify your local LGBTQ center. Stay curious. Stay dangerous. Stay moisturized. This episode is glam and grit. Fishbowl chaos and acceptance speech gratitude. We laughed. We vented. We plotted. And as always — we’re cutting up, but we’re not playing. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    53 min

  2. MAR 12

    Our First Times: Crushes, Chaos & A Married Man

    This week’s kiki starts creamy… but quickly turns into a full-blown “the first time I…” chaos! . Yes, we open with creamsicles, Charlie perfume, and a head-to-toe cream moment (because aesthetics matter). But the real meat of this episode? Our firsts. We play a rapid-fire game of: First crushFirst best friendFirst heartbreakFirst album that changed our personalityFirst celebrity crush (problematic? nah!)First concertFirst time getting in troubleFirst fight (and why Webster Hall still owes us emotional damages)Some of it is sweet. Some of it is savory. Some of it explains a lot about who we are today. We talk about cursive handwriting pressure, Barbie manifestation energy, therapy jokes, parody songs that ruined our lives, and the very specific personality trait of always being the one who “does it.”  And yes, a neighborhood meet-cute with a hot bearded man… who turned out to be married with a situation.  This episode is nostalgic, chaotic and emotional. Because once you unpack your firsts, you realize they shaped everything. Like, subscribe, comment and review- xoxo 💫✨ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    35 min

  3. MAR 5

    Kiki, Chaos & Crisco (Yes, THAT Crisco): Backstage with Connie & Lena

    Oooh Sugar, we are back and bring you a peek “backstage” - it’s  unfiltered, off-the-rails and spiritually protected, okay?? Because why did we start the episode spraying “Go Away Evil” like we were cleansing demons… and almost took ourselves out in the process. I nearly gagged. Connie was no help. Pure chaos from the jump. Then we get into these MEN… Listen, we are not here to be fetishized. We are not here to be gaslit. And we are definitely not here for “so… what surgeries have you had?” over appetizers. I said what I said. We talk full disclosure, safety, comfort, and whether someone is actually OUT and emotionally available — or just curious and confused. There’s a difference. And somehow — because it’s us — the conversation spirals into: Toe pic preferences (don’t ask)Proper dick pic etiquette (there are rules, gentlemen)Late-night text delusionWild club memoriesFake sponsors like Grindr, PornHub, and Crisco (Crisco, if you’re listening… call us)There’s even a Crisco slip‑n‑slide story that probably shouldn’t have made the final cut. But here we are. By the end, we’re talking Q-tips, tickle bottles, veggie alternatives, zodiac animals, spirit animals… and drawing sharks for absolutely no reason. It’s messy.  It’s loud.  It’s inappropriate.  It’s even a bit educational. But it is 100% pure cutting up! So, buckle up, Sugar and prepared for the cackle! Like, subscribe, comment and review- xoxo 💫✨ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    19 min

  4. FEB 26

    Psychic Tea & Protection Spells

    Hey Sugar, we’re back! 💋 This week on The Cutting Up, Connie and I start with a cute little backstage kiki — you know, just casually spiraling from Diane Freis dresses and YSL fantasy to vintage perfume memories and our retro TV crushes. As one does. But then… the energy shifts. I start talking about listening to that inner voice (because mine does not whisper, she announces), grounding in nature, and this magical fog-meets-sunlight moment I had on a mountain that felt like the earth itself was texting me back. Add in a visit to Gina (aka Chicklet) and her new farm, and suddenly we are fully in our psychic era. Connie also opens up about how cleansing rituals, visualization, sage, sea salt, and spiritual tools helped carry her through breast cancer treatment — which is powerful and beautiful and very real. And then… the fishbowl. Which means chaos. We debate curses vs. mantras, freezer binding spells (protection only, relax), past lives, twins being telepathic, premonitions that actually came true… and yes, I make Connie confess to the love potions that WORKED. There is also an absolutely unhinged detour involving crabs. I will not be elaborating here. Basically: fashion nostalgia, psychic downloads, spiritual protection, a little chaos, and a lot of laughter. Like, subscribe, cleanse your doorway, and come back next week 💫✨ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    53 min

  5. FEB 19

    Love Bombs & Trash‑Bag Exits: The Dating Red Flags We Missed

    🚩 If he says “I don’t really give compliments…” baby, that’s your cue. 🚩 This week on The Cutting Up, we’ve got outfit breakdowns, supermodel nostalgia, and mental Versace campaigns. But then we unpack our prophetic dreams and talk about men who should’ve been sent packing. We get into red flags we ignored, love bombing, men who order for you at dinner like we’re on Mad Men, and that very specific “you owe me” hint after they pick up the check. And what about the man who wasn’t over his ex? Intuition turned into receipts, confrontation, and a trash‑bag exit with dignity intact. We also talk about transparency, being upfront, protecting your peace, and why full disclosure saves everyone time. Especially when it comes to dating as a woman of transgender experience. No confusion. No surprises. No nonsense. Plus a really beautiful full‑circle moment with Connie and her mom that honestly made us emotional. Stop romanticizing red flags. Girl! They are red for a reason. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    50 min

  6. FEB 12

    Connie & Lina’s Valentine’s Day Survival Guide

    Okay Sugar, it’s Valentine’s Day and we are serving opinions and giggles. This episode is basically a heart‑shaped box of chaos. First up, dating apps that test my patience, then subway crushes that live rent‑free in our minds. What are the romantic gestures that actually matter? And why honesty in relationships is non‑negotiable , even when it’s awkward. We answer your questions, overshare a bit (#toetrix), and sprinkle in sisterly banter like it’s our love language. Whether you’re coupled up, single by choice or circumstance, or in a full‑blown situationship, this one’s for you. Light a candle, pour a drink, and let’s romanticize ourselves for once. 💅💖 Check out the “Heavenly Bodies” podcast! https://www.youtube.com/@TheHeavenlyBodiesShow  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Hair by Mariah Molina. Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    29 min

  7. FEB 5

    Cutting Up with the Cosmos: David Odyssey Reads Lina & Connie

    On this episode of The Cutting Up, we went full cosmic with David Odyssey from Heavenly Bodies. Honey, that’s a crossover! And it felt magical, grounding, and just plain fun. We started out reminiscing (yes, The B‑52s DID come up 💃) before diving into what was really in the air: astrology, tarot, and the energetic shifts happening both collectively and personally right now. David led us through powerful tarot readings that opened up conversations about authenticity, transformation, love, and self‑discovery, and honestly… the cards did not hold back, Sugar. We pulled cards that sparked some real talk around connection, boundaries, self‑worth, and what it means to show up fully for ourselves and each other. From The Two of Cups to The Wheel of Fortune, the messages felt timely, affirming, and full of possibility. We also looked ahead at the astrological energy of the year, talked about Aries season strength, and how to stay grounded while embracing new beginnings. We loved how open, affirming, and hopeful it all felt. It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t have to be heavy. Spirituality can be playful, and community really is where the magic happens. Check out the “Heavenly Bodies” podcast! https://www.youtube.com/@TheHeavenlyBodiesShow  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Hair by Mariah Molina. Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    1h 1m

  8. JAN 29

    Hollywood, Casting & Life as a Trans Actress

    This week on the pod, Connie and I are doing what we do best: talking fashion, reliving auditions we absolutely should have booked, and unpacking the absolute circus that is today’s news cycle. We get into door‑knocker earrings (obviously), guilty pleasures, iconic roles, and the very real gymnastics trans actors have to do just to exist in Hollywood. We’re joined by the fabulous Matthew Breen, who helps us connect fashion, media, and those unforgettable NYC nightlife moments (yes, Jackie’s 60, we see you). From MTV memories to club chaos, TikTok trends, bottle service nonsense, and why House of Style still deserves a comeback — it’s all here. Think: fashion talk, career flashbacks, nightlife lore, and unfiltered banter — aka a backstage pass to our brains. Press play, grab a snack, and don’t forget your accessories, Sugar. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutting-up-a-kiki-with-connie-lina/id1849020008 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/200MOk48TaLRPLQvzx2UK0?si=6499dd094f704a10 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-the-cutting-up-a-kiki-wit-303161901  Write to us at Kiki@TheCuttingUp.com And follow us on instagram: @TheLinaBradford @TheRealConnieGirl @PrideHouseMedia The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina is a Pride House Media production. Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen. Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond. Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit.   Production Design by Darryl Dickens.  Hair by Mariah Molina. Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.

    50 min
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5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie and Lina, a new weekly podcast hosted by DJ/activist Lina Bradford and fashion legend Connie Fleming, the show offers unprecedented access to the icons, secrets, and untold stories that shaped queer culture. Lina and Connie are both trailblazing women of transgender experience, with deep backgrounds hosting and performing in NYC’s most storied clubs—and pioneering on fashion runways. They bring their knowledge, stories, and relationships to “The Cutting Up,” offering audiences a backstage pass to authentic conversations that can only happen between true friends and industry legends. “The Cutting Up” goes deep on fashion, music, activism, and identity.

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