Out Loud & Laughing

Bryan Ruiz and Jon Ruiz

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

    Alexander-Ali Dalipi - The Balance Between Owning Your Own HR-Tech Business & Spilling All the NSFW (After-Hours) Tea

    In this episode, Alexander Ali Dalipi shares his journey from Wall Street to founding HR1 Systems, navigating the challenges of being a queer leader in corporate America, and balancing his personal identity with professional success. Tune in for insights on leadership, authenticity, and building a thriving business. Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/nycculater/ Visit HR1 Systems: https://hr1systems.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alexander Ali Dalipi and his journey 02:02 Early career on Wall Street and initial challenges 04:04 Founding HR1 Systems and the entrepreneurial leap 08:57 Navigating identity and workplace culture as a queer leader 13:58 Lessons learned from building a diverse and inclusive company 20:00 Balancing personal life, travel, and leadership 22:59 Advice for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders 26:59 The importance of authenticity and having a massive heart 29:57 Final thoughts and connecting with Alexander online queer leadership, entrepreneurship, HR technology, authentic leadership, corporate culture, LGBTQ+ in business, startup journey, personal branding, diversity and inclusion, business growth 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

    Alexander-Ali Dalipi - The Balance Between Owning Your Own HR-Tech Business & Spilling All the NSFW (After-Hours) Tea
  2. 3d ago

    Kevin John: Belting Out Loud – Authenticity, Rejection, and Radical Self-Love

    In this episode, Kevin John shares his journey from childhood to becoming a versatile performer, discussing the challenges of coming out, the impact of American Idol, and his musical inspirations. He offers insights into staying authentic, the power of self-belief, and the importance of representation in the entertainment industry. More About Kevin John: linktr.ee/Kevinjohn https://www.instagram.com/kevinjohnmusic/ https://www.tiktok.com/@kevinjohnmurray YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kevin John's Journey 01:09 Kevin's Childhood and Love for Singing 02:16 Inspiration from Jennifer Hudson and Musical Theater 04:19 Moment of Realization and Advice from Dad 06:49 Coming Out and Family Relationships 08:58 Hesitation in Bringing Full Self to Performances 10:26 American Idol Experience and Growth 12:21 Legacy, Representation, and Dolly Parton 14:35 Behind-the-Scenes on American Idol 15:29 Chaotic Moments on a Moving Cruise Ship Stage 17:22 Kevin's Music Inspirations and Recent Releases 19:45 Viral Moments and Disney Connections 25:55 Favorite Shower or Bath and Personal Grooming 26:56 Performance Style: Belting or Smooth Runs 27:09 Legacy and How Kevin Wants to Be Remembered Kevin John, music journey, coming out, American Idol, authenticity, representation, performance, LGBTQ+ —-- 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

    Kevin John: Belting Out Loud – Authenticity, Rejection, and Radical Self-Love
  3. Sep 3

    Stewart Taylor: Dark Summer Zombies, James Dean, and a Dog Cameo That Stole the Show

    In this episode, Stuart Taylor shares his journey from a bright pop star to exploring darker, more personal themes in his music, inspired by icons like James Dean and Lana Del Rey. We discuss his creative process, the making of his latest single Dark Summer, and his openness about his identity and artistic evolution. Website: https://www.stewarttaylorofficial.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imstewarttaylor/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5eBGNCXlI0K8yocyrViIlo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiDaHe770n5WWUDFTOarY6Q YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Stewart Taylor and his artistic journey 01:49 From pop star to darker, industrial pop sound 04:00 The importance of authenticity and personal stories in music 06:54 Inspiration behind Dark Summer and its themes 11:05 The making of the Dark Summer music video 13:02 James Dean's influence and personal connection 17:06 Creative process and happy accidents in production 20:56 Stewart's openness about identity and personal stories 24:06 Final thoughts and upcoming projects music, dark pop, artistic evolution, James Dean, LGBTQ+, songwriting, music video, creative process, personal stories —-- 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

    Stewart Taylor: Dark Summer Zombies, James Dean, and a Dog Cameo That Stole the Show
  4. Sep 1

    Kirstie Nicole: Redefining Leadership and Activating the Power of Authentic Storytelling

    In this episode, Kirstie Nicole shares her journey from content creator to media entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and building community. She discusses her work with She Comes with Baggage Media and the Amastara friendship app, highlighting how embracing baggage and identity can foster genuine connections and leadership. Kirstie Nicole's journey from content creator to media entrepreneurThe importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadershipHow her media company amplifies diverse and queer storiesThe creation and impact of the Amastara friendship appThe role of baggage and identity in personal and professional growthBuilding community through storytelling and shared experiencesThe significance of representation and diversity in mediaBalancing work, mental health, and personal life as a leaderYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kirstie Nicole and her work 01:00 Kirstie shares her journey from content creator to media CEO 02:00 The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership 02:59 Creating community through storytelling and shared experiences 07:00 The origin and mission of the Amastara friendship app 10:58 How identity and representation influence leadership and media 14:52 Balancing work, mental health, and personal growth 19:48 The future of queer representation in media 22:59 Building impactful media platforms and community spaces 25:00 Quick fire: personal preferences and mindset insights 31:05 Final thoughts: Dreaming big and staying authentic media entrepreneurship, authenticity, vulnerability, community building, queer representation, leadership, storytelling, friendship app, mental health, diversity, Kirstie Nicole, She Comes with Baggage, She Comes with Baggage Media —-- 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

    Kirstie Nicole: Redefining Leadership and Activating the Power of Authentic Storytelling
  5. Aug 27

    Meet Joseph Lucido | Building a Career, Brand, and Life Without Curating Perfection

    Google product strategist by day, jet-setting creator by night, Joseph Lucido is living the kind of double life most people only daydream about. But behind the glossy travel photos and iconic party stories is a sharper question: how do you build a life that is ambitious, visible, and still actually yours? (instagram.com/joseph.lucido) Joseph opens up about balancing nearly eight years at Google with more than a decade as a content creator, and why he stopped trying to maintain a perfectly curated persona online. He shares how his social media evolved from college-athlete followings and modeling gigs into a more honest, more fun version of himself - one that reflects his real life instead of an edited fantasy. We break down the realities of building a personal brand while working a demanding corporate job, including the discipline it takes to make time for creativity, the boundaries that matter when your life is your content, and why today’s audiences reward people who are hot, funny, and relatable - not just polished. Joseph also takes us inside some of his most unforgettable travel experiences, from World Pride in Amsterdam and Berlin Pride’s wild underground scene to the chaotic, hilarious, and occasionally jaw-dropping reality of Atlantis gay cruises. If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens on those boats, this conversation pulls back the curtain with stories you will not hear anywhere else. At its core, this episode is about more than travel and nightlife. It’s about choosing authenticity over perfection, learning how to protect your energy, and building a life that reflects both your ambition and your heart. Perfect for anyone juggling a career, a side hustle, and the pressure to show up online - or anyone who simply wants a wildly entertaining conversation with someone who has truly lived. Joseph Lucido is a product strategist at Google and a long-time creator known for his travel, nightlife, and lifestyle content. He brings the rare perspective of someone who is equally at home in corporate strategy meetings and on the front row of a festival or Pride party. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Joseph Lucido's Life and Career 02:04 Balancing a Corporate Job at Google with Content Creation 03:54 Evolving Social Media Boundaries and Authenticity 07:04 Travel Adventures: Pride Events and International Experiences 11:58 The Culture and Vibes of Gay Cruises and Parties 19:57 Stories from Gay Cruises: Fun, Boundaries, and Experiences 26:03 Deep Dive into Berlin and Amsterdam Pride Celebrations 33:03 Personal Insights: Drive, Heart, and Living Boldly social media, travel, gay culture, cruising, Google, content creation, Pride, international travel, boundaries, lifestyle, Joseph Lucido —-- 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

    Meet Joseph Lucido | Building a Career, Brand, and Life Without Curating Perfection
  6. Aug 25

    Meet Alexander Stefanini | How a therapist built a sanctuary for trans and queer healing

    Trans and queer people are being asked to survive a hostile climate while still finding a way to heal, transition, and stay whole. Licensed therapist and Arrive Therapy founder Alexander Stefanini shares what actually helps: sanctuary, community, laughter, and care that meets people where they are (ArriveTherapy.com) This conversation goes far beyond headlines and rhetoric. Alexander opens up about building a practice rooted in safety for trans, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ clients, and why an intentional space matters from the very first phone call to the waiting room to the therapy room itself. He also shares how his own life as a trans parent, adopted child, and former kid raised in a religious missionary family shaped the way he thinks about belonging, resilience, and care. Why Arrive Therapy was created as more than a clinic and more like a community centerHow political fear and media narratives are showing up in real people’s mental healthThe myths about trans identity that keep getting repeated, and what’s actually trueWhy not every trans person wants the same transition path, and why that mattersHow humor can unlock breakthrough moments in therapy without minimizing the workAlexander also talks candidly about protecting his own peace, staying grounded as a therapist and advocate, and why support systems can change outcomes in a profound way. If you’ve ever wanted a clearer, more human conversation about trans joy, trans care, and what real affirmation looks like, this one will stay with you. Alexander Stefanini is a licensed therapist and the clinical director of Arrive Therapy, a practice focused on trans, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ mental health support. He’s known for creating affirming spaces that center community, safety, and authentic arrival. Essential listening if you care about trans rights, mental health, chosen family, or building spaces where people can finally exhale and be themselves. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 00:00 Introduction to Alexander Stefanini and Arrive Therapy 01:47 Alexander's journey from religious upbringing to therapy 04:58 The organic growth of Arrive Therapy and its mission 08:00 Impact of sociopolitical hostility on mental health 11:03 The importance of community and physical safe spaces 12:50 Common misconceptions about trans identities 16:01 The bravery and resilience of trans individuals 18:58 Protecting mental health and finding joy in activism 21:57 Alexander's personal practices for maintaining peace 24:53 The role of laughter and lightness in therapy 27:58 The symbolism of neon and the meaning of Arrive Therapy 29:00 Closing remarks and where to find Alexander online LGBTQ+ therapy, trans community, mental health, safe spaces, resilience, Arrive Therapy, community support, mental health advocacy, Alexander Stefanini —-- 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

    Meet Alexander Stefanini | How a therapist built a sanctuary for trans and queer healing
  7. Aug 20

    Revealing What Asexual Looks Like – From HighFashion Modeling to NYC Pride Grand Marshal with Yasmin Benoit

    Most people assume the fashion and modeling worlds are rooted purely in sexuality and male gaze—Yasmin Benoit challenges that with her radical authenticity and activism. As the first openly asexual grand marshal at NYC Pride and a trailblazing figure in alternative fashion, she turns societal expectations upside down, revealing how visibility can be a powerful act of liberation. But what happens when a space built on hypersexualization is navigated by someone who simply doesn’t see sex or desire the same way? In this episode, Yasmin shares her raw journey from an unpopular, heavy metal-loving kid in England to an international model and fierce activist transforming perceptions of identity and representation. She discusses how her choice to attend an all-girl school was a protective instinct, fueling her understanding of her own boundaries even before she knew the labels. We break down the misconceptions about asexuality—how it’s often misunderstood, stereotyped, and ultimately erased in mainstream media—and how Yasmin’s viral campaign, “This is what asexual looks like,” sparked a global movement that’s unlearning shame and inspiring countless individuals to embrace their true selves.You'll discover: The surprising ways Yasmin navigates the hypersexualized fashion industry while staying true to her identityHow her activism sparked the framing of asexuality as a valid, visible experience in diverse communities worldwidePractical strategies for protecting your mental health when constantly being called to educate othersThe importance of authentic representation—not just for visibility, but for shifting societal narratives and lawsWhy diversity in media and industry isn’t just a trend—it's a necessity for genuine inclusionThis episode isn’t just about Yasmin’s stunning career or her activism—it’s about unlearning societal programming, reclaiming your own voice, and choosing joy on your own terms. Whether you’re navigating your own identity or fighting to create space for others, Yasmin’s story offers a blueprint for authenticity, resilience, and radical love. Yasmin Benoit is an international model, award-winning actor, research fellow at King’s College London, and activist for asexual and LGBTQ+ visibility. She’s transforming how we see identity—one bold act at a time. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yasmin Benoit 03:01 Yasmin's Origin Story and Early Life 06:05 Navigating School and Identity 09:01 Entering the Modeling World 12:00 The Impact of Asexuality and Activism 15:03 The Burden of Being an Educator 18:01 Fun and Games: This or That 21:02 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Yasmin Yasmin Benoit, Asexuality, LGBTQ+ activism, Diversity, Representation, Modeling, Viral Campaign, This is what asexual looks like, Pride, Mental health —-- 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

    Revealing What Asexual Looks Like – From HighFashion Modeling to NYC Pride Grand Marshal with Yasmin Benoit
  8. Aug 18

    The Anatomy of Confidence – Shedding Small-Town Shame for NYC, Jockstraps, & 16-Hour Days with Zane Kazan

    Most people think of the adult entertainment industry as a realm where passion and ambition clash with shame and stereotypes. Zane Kazan, a trailblazing actor, content creator, and founder of Helio Menswear, shatters that misconception by unapologetically owning his sexuality while aiming for mainstream greatness. In this candid conversation, he reveals how he's balancing bold business ventures, a sex-positive brand, and the relentless pursuit of his dreams — all without sacrificing authenticity. You’ll discover how Zane built his empire while working 16-hour days launching his menswear line, overcoming marketing challenges with Meta’s strict policies, and using his extensive knowledge to rebrand and amplify his reach across nine platforms. He shares the secret to maintaining a positive attitude through setbacks, including tens of thousands lost and industry chaos, by reading voraciously and always aspiring to be the smartest person in the room. We also break down Zane’s unique approach to owning his identity: embracing his body, unlearning shame, and turning radical self-love into both his personal and professional power. His story isn’t just about success — it’s about redefining what it means to be unapologetically you in a world eager to box people in. Perfect for anyone craving motivation with real talk, this episode offers fierce inspiration and practical tactics to own your truth and level up on your terms. X: @ZaneKazan Instagram: @zane.kazan TikTok: @zane_kazan Instagram: @heliomenswearco Website: Helio Men’s Wear (heliomenswear.com) YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OutLoudAndLaughing?sub_confirmation=1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zane Kazan 01:10 A Day in the Life of Zane 02:12 Early Influences and Entering the Industry 04:07 Balancing Ambition and Authenticity 06:00 Goals and Challenges in Business 07:25 The Importance of Continuous Learning 09:11 Embracing Sexuality and Body Positivity 11:02 Behind the Scenes of Adult Content Creation 12:27 Future Aspirations and Rebranding 14:29 This or That: Quickfire Questions 19:21 Closing Thoughts and Social Media Links Zane Kazan, adult entertainment, sex positivity, branding, entrepreneurship, social media, mental health, hustle, authenticity —-- 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

    The Anatomy of Confidence – Shedding Small-Town Shame for NYC, Jockstraps, & 16-Hour Days with Zane Kazan

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.

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