Queer Talker

Ben Cicchetti
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Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversations, we explore themes of identity, authenticity, and the power of living boldly.

  1. Zelah Glasson: Big Brother, Identity, and the Reality of Being Trans on TV

    APR 21

    Zelah Glasson: Big Brother, Identity, and the Reality of Being Trans on TV

    In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with Zelah Glasson, known to many from Big Brother, for a raw and honest conversation about identity, visibility, and what it really means to live authentically. Zelah opens up about a chaotic childhood, being nearly kicked out of multiple schools, and the early signs of identity that showed up long before he had the language to understand them. From shouting “I’m a boy” on the playground to navigating years of confusion, suppression, and self-discovery, his journey is anything but straightforward.   They explore Zelah’s experience of realising he was trans later in life, and why his transition felt gradual rather than a single defining moment. He shares what it was like to finally feel at home in his body, and the impact that journey has had on how he sees himself today.   The conversation also dives into Big Brother, including the unexpected way Zelah ended up on the show, the pressure of being a trans person on national television, and the responsibility that comes with representing a marginalised community. He reflects on viral moments from the show, including being misgendered, and how he processed those experiences both in the house and afterwards.   They also discuss the role of politics in LGBTQ+ lives, why being “apolitical” isn’t always an option, and the importance of better, more everyday representation in media. This is a powerful, thoughtful and often surprising conversation about identity, resilience, and the reality of being visible in today’s world. Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    44 min
  2. Lee Knight: A Friend of Dorothy, The Oscars Journey and Queer Storytelling

    APR 7

    Lee Knight: A Friend of Dorothy, The Oscars Journey and Queer Storytelling

    In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with writer and director Lee Knight, the creator behind A Friend of Dorothy, to explore storytelling, identity, and what it means to grow up queer in a very different world. Lee opens up about his childhood under Section 28, growing up in an environment shaped by fear, shame, and silence, and how that experience shaped both his identity and his creativity. He shares powerful memories of navigating school life, hiding who he was, and the lasting impact of growing up in a time where being gay was framed as something dangerous.   The conversation dives into his journey from actor to writer and director, including the challenges of rejection, self-doubt, and finding the confidence to trust his own voice. Lee shares the story behind A Friend of Dorothy, from writing the script in lockdown to working with icons like Miriam Margolyes and Stephen Fry, and ultimately taking the film all the way to the Oscars.   They also explore the importance of queer storytelling, representation, and the emotional weight of seeing younger generations grow up with visibility that simply didn’t exist before. This is an honest, emotional and inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and learning to trust yourself in a world that often tells you not to. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:42 Queer Panic: Rapid Fire Questions 03:54 Childhood Reflections: The Eclectic Journey 06:59 Resilience and the Quest for Authenticity 11:58 The Impact of Media on Queer Identity 17:12 Discovering and Accepting My Queer Self 22:10 The Bumpy Road to A Friend of Dorothy 27:07 Trusting Your Inner Voice 28:53 The Journey of Creation 32:13 Working with Icons 36:57 Capturing Authentic Moments 41:40 The Oscar Experience 53:50 Looking Ahead: Future Projects 56:11 Advice to the Younger Self Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    1h 1m
  3. Joseph Harwood: Gender, Makeup, Identity and the Reality of Social Media

    MAR 24

    Joseph Harwood: Gender, Makeup, Identity and the Reality of Social Media

    In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with Joseph Harwood, one of the original beauty creators and a true pioneer in online content, to explore identity, creativity, and the evolution of social media. Joseph shares his extraordinary journey, from growing up in a strict church environment and navigating life as an androgynous young person, to becoming one of the first creators to build a career through makeup and digital platforms. He opens up about being scouted as a model, working internationally at a young age, and how discovering makeup became a powerful tool for expression, transformation, and storytelling. They dive deep into the early days of YouTube, when creativity came before algorithms, and unpack how social media has shifted from a space of individuality to one driven by conformity, performance, and debate. Joseph offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on how platforms, algorithms, and monetisation have shaped both visibility and the experience of LGBTQ+ creators online.   The conversation also explores Joseph’s unique relationship with gender and identity, why he resists labels, and how his experiences have shaped a more fluid, human-first perspective on self-expression. He reflects on how differently people treat you based on appearance, and why authenticity matters more than ever in a world obsessed with categorisation.   They also discuss mental health, resilience, and the importance of building a life beyond social media metrics, alongside practical advice for young LGBTQ+ people navigating identity, creativity, and career. This is a raw, insightful and at times provocative conversation about individuality, creativity, and what it really means to live authentically. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Game: Getting to Know Joe 03:55 Childhood and Upbringing: Shaping Identity 07:01 Understanding LGBTQ+ Awareness and Expression 09:59 Modeling Journey: From Scouting to Experiences 12:55 Makeup as Art: Creative Expression and Identity 16:03 Building a Career in Makeup: Community and Innovation 21:07 Navigating Gender Identity in the Beauty Industry 25:35 The Importance of Legal Protections for the LGBTQ+ Community 28:19 The Evolution of Social Media and Its Impact 35:01 Mental Health in the Age of Social Media 39:28 Advice for the Younger Generation and LGBTQ+ Youth Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    43 min
  4. Lee Peart: Comedy, Identity, and Finding Yourself Through Humour

    MAR 10

    Lee Peart: Comedy, Identity, and Finding Yourself Through Humour

    In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with comedian, writer, and podcaster Lee Peart. Lee shares the journey that led him from navigating multiple identities at school to finding confidence and connection through stand-up comedy. Growing up balancing different versions of himself, Lee talks openly about humour becoming both a shield and a way to explore who he really was. From discovering comedy to embracing life on stage, Lee reflects on how performing helped him step into his identity as a gay man and build the confidence he once struggled to find. The conversation also explores the role of queer mentorship, the importance of seeing people further along the journey, and the impact figures like Matthew Shepard had on shaping queer history and visibility. This is a conversation about identity, humour, resilience, and the power of finding the space where you can finally be yourself. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic Rapid Fire Questions 09:39 Exploring Childhood and Identity 16:14 First Awareness of LGBTQ+ Representation 21:22 The Role of Humor in Identity 27:59 Journey into Comedy 37:00 Navigating Different Spaces 40:11 Podcasting and Wine Demystification 45:06 Advice for Younger LGBTQ+ Individuals Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    48 min
  5. Linus Karp: Princess Diana, Gwyneth Paltrow & Creating Queer Joy On Stage

    FEB 24

    Linus Karp: Princess Diana, Gwyneth Paltrow & Creating Queer Joy On Stage

    In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with writer, performer and Awkward Productions co-founder Linus Karp. From viral fringe shows to West End transfers, Linus has built a reputation for bold, chaotic and wildly intelligent queer theatre. But beneath the comedy is a deep understanding of identity, satire and what it really means to take up space as a queer creative. Linus shares the journey from a leaky shipping container at the Edinburgh Fringe to sold-out runs and five-star reviews. He talks about creating work like Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story and Gwyneth Goes Skiing, and why parody can sometimes say more about culture than seriousness ever could. We explore queer visibility in comedy, the difference between poking fun and punching down, and how working creatively with his husband has shaped both his art and his life. This is a conversation about ambition, irreverence, collaboration and building a body of work that refuses to behave. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic 03:01 Childhood and Early Influences 05:43 Passion for Pop Culture 08:37 First Awareness of Queerness 11:36 Navigating Queerness and Authenticity 14:32 Theater Journey and Awkward Productions 17:50 Creative Process and Show Development 20:42 Marriage and Collaboration with Joseph 23:35 The Edinburgh Fringe Experience 26:31 Queer Culture and Political Context 29:40 Pressure of Success and Future Projects 32:38 Humor and Audience Connection 35:33 Performing in the U.S. and Cultural Differences 38:44 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth 41:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti Credits: Photo Credit: Dax Smith - https://www.instagram.com/the.photosmith/

    51 min
  6. Miss Tess Tickle: From Small-Town Survival to Drag, Visibility & Changing Minds

    FEB 10

    Miss Tess Tickle: From Small-Town Survival to Drag, Visibility & Changing Minds

    In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with drag artist, educator, and community force Miss Tess Tickle. Growing up queer in a small mining village in County Durham, Tess shares what it was like to survive bullying, Section 28, and a total lack of representation. From hiding parts of herself to finding joy, confidence, and purpose through drag, this is a powerful story about staying when it would have been easier to leave. Tess opens up about coming out to her parents, the moment that changed everything, and why visibility in small towns matters just as much as visibility on television. She also talks candidly about drag beyond Drag Race, working in tough straight venues, and using comedy, education, and compassion to change minds. We also explore Tess’s incredible community work through The Angel Trust, how drag became a tool for education and safeguarding, and why she believes we should not have to come out at all. This is a conversation about resilience, representation, chosen family, and being the person you needed when you were younger. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic 04:30 Growing Up LGBTQ+: Challenges and Realizations 07:25 The Impact of Representation in Media 10:23 Coming Out: Personal Stories and Family Reactions 13:24 Finding Acceptance and Love 16:28 The Journey into Drag: A New Identity 19:16 Visibility and Community Engagement 26:05 The Journey into Drag 27:18 Life as a Drag Queen in the UK 31:59 Education Through Performance 37:08 Inspiration from Icons 43:03 Fighting for Acceptance in the Community 51:10 Empowering the Next Generation Learn more about the Angle Trust Website - https://www.angeltrust.co.uk  Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    56 min
  7. Jude Guaitamacchi: Non-Binary Visibility, Recovery, and Rebuilding a Life with Purpose

    JAN 27

    Jude Guaitamacchi: Non-Binary Visibility, Recovery, and Rebuilding a Life with Purpose

    In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Jude Guaitamacchi, non-binary activist, writer, and co-founder of Trans Solidarity Alliance. Jude opens up about growing up without the language to understand their identity, navigating trauma and addiction, and the long road to recovery and self-acceptance. They reflect on homelessness, survival, and what it means to rebuild a life when everything falls apart. The conversation also explores non-binary visibility, the emotional toll of activism, and why community care matters just as much as resistance. Jude shares powerful insights on leadership, allyship, and how queer people can protect themselves while still fighting for change. This is an honest and deeply human conversation about identity, resilience, and learning to stay when everything tells you to disappear. Chapters 00:00 Queer Panic 04:33 The Impact of Music and Media on Identity 07:25 Celebrating Unsung Heroes in the Queer Community 10:27 Childhood Challenges and the Search for Identity 13:12 Understanding Queerness and Representation 16:09 Authenticity and the Journey of Self-Discovery 19:10 The Role of Trauma in Shaping Activism 22:26 Prioritizing Self-Care in Activism 28:58 Embodying Love and Self-Care 31:03 The Birth of the Trans Solidarity Alliance 33:16 Navigating Political Activism 38:51 Visibility and Representation in Media 45:56 Brands and Allyship in the Current Climate 51:46 Coping with Scrutiny and Online Trolls 57:07 Advice to Younger Generations Learn more about the Trans+ Solidarity Alliance: Website - https://www.transsolidarityalliance.com/  Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    1 hr
  8. Michael Gunning: Coming Out in Sport, Representation, and Finding Your Olympic Moment

    JAN 13

    Michael Gunning: Coming Out in Sport, Representation, and Finding Your Olympic Moment

    Michael Gunning is a former elite swimmer, LGBTQ+ advocate, and one of the most important voices at the intersection of sport, race, and identity. In the first Queer Talker episode of 2026, Michael joins Ben Cicchetti for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about growing up feeling different, navigating elite sport as a queer mixed-race athlete, and the long journey toward living authentically. Michael reflects on overcompensating to fit in, the damaging stereotypes he faced in swimming, and how being told “Black people can’t swim” became fuel rather than a barrier. He opens up about suppression, resilience, and the mental toll of hiding parts of yourself in highly competitive environments. The conversation explores the importance of representation, the impact of seeing figures like Tom Daley come out in sport, and why visibility still matters in 2026. Michael also shares what it meant to come out publicly, the overwhelming mix of support and hate, and how that moment reshaped his life and sense of purpose. We also talk about retirement from elite sport, identity beyond the pool, body image, pressure, and what it means to redefine success after stepping away from a career that once defined you. This is a thoughtful, hopeful episode about resilience, self-acceptance, and learning that being different is not a weakness but a superpower. Chapters 00:00 Hopes and Dreams for 2026 04:18 Queer Panic 07:24 Childhood and Identity 10:19 Coming Out and Its Impact 13:20 Pride and Community 16:17 The Role of Swimming in Resilience 19:18 Representation in Sports 20:01 Embracing Authenticity in the Entertainment Industry 20:46 The Importance of Being Your True Self 21:50 Isolation and Connection in Elite Sports 23:05 Coming Out: A Transformative Experience 24:50 Navigating Public Perception and Personal Identity 26:25 The Transition from Elite Athlete to Everyday Life 28:06 The Reality of Retirement: Adjusting to Life After Sports 30:10 Maintaining Competitive Spirit Beyond the Pool 32:34 Advice to Younger Self and LGBTQ+ Youth Connect with Ben Cicchetti: Website - https://www.queertalker.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti

    36 min
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About

Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversations, we explore themes of identity, authenticity, and the power of living boldly.

Information

  • Creator
    Ben Cicchetti
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ben Cicchetti
  • Show Website
    Queer Talker

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