Teaching While Queer: Advocacy, Community, and Resources for LGBTQ+ Educators. - podcast cover

Teaching While Queer: Advocacy, Community, and Resources for LGBTQ+ Educators.

Unfiltered, radical conversations at the intersection of queerness and education.


Feeling isolated in your school, department, or campus? You’re not alone. Teaching While Queer brings together LGBTQ+ educators and activists to talk about identity, inclusion, burnout, book bans, drag in the classroom, and finding joy while fighting for justice.


Hosted by Bryan Stanton (they/them)—a former Teacher of the Year turned theatre pedagogy nerd—this podcast centers storytelling as a survival tool and offers support, strategy, and solidarity for queer educators everywhere.


New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.


🎧 Start with episode 139. "5 Ways Queer Educators Can Build Inclusive Classrooms Without Burning Out"

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

69. The Impact of Queer Acceptance at a Young Age in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how growing up queer in a multicultural environment shapes one's identity and career?In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Vinh Phillips Ingvason Nguyen (he/him), who navigated life as a queer person with a complex cultural background. Vinh's unique experiences of being adopted from Vietnam, raised in Sweden, and coming out at a young age offer valuable insights into the intersection of identity and education. If you're grappling with how t......

Aug 15, 202417 min

68. Using your Lived Experiences to Enhance Your Teaching As An LGBTQ Educator

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever wondered how diverse life experiences shape the way we teach and create in the world of theater?In this episode, Wilfred Paloma (he/him) shares his unique journey from growing up in extreme poverty in the Philippines to becoming a dynamic force in American arts education. He dives into how his personal experiences as a queer individual and educator inform his approach to teaching, particularly in navigating anti-queer behavior and fostering inclusive learning......

Aug 13, 202453 min

67. The Transformative Power of Personal Identity in Schools for LGBTQ Educators

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how growing up queer in the heartland shapes one’s journey as an educator? Discover LiLi’s (she/they) compelling story from Topeka to Seattle and back, as they navigate identity, community, and teaching.In a world where queer voices often face marginalization, LiLi’s experience resonates deeply. From navigating the shadows of the Westboro Baptist Church to finding a supportive trans community in Seattle, their journey highlights the importance of creating inc......

Aug 08, 202433 min

66. The Impact of Representation and Visibility for LGBTQ+ Folks in Education

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how educators can create safer spaces for queer students? Join us as we dive into a conversation with Phil Vilar (they/them), a theatre teacher from Dallas, Texas, who shares their journey and insights on navigating identity and inclusion in education.In today's episode, we explore Phil's experiences growing up as a queer student in New York and how those experiences shaped their approach as an educator. Discover how Phil's journey highlights the ongoing chal......

Aug 06, 202429 min

64. How You Can Push Through LGBTQ Attacks in Conservative Schools and Maintain Your Authenticity

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how to navigate being queer while teaching in a school? Listen in as Barb MacWilliam shares her journey and challenges as a queer middle school teacher.Barb's experience highlights the complexities of being a queer educator, from navigating personal identity to fostering inclusivity in the classroom amidst societal and institutional challenges.Through our conversation you will:Discover how Barb's personal journey shapes her approach to teaching and advocacy.L......

Jul 30, 202443 min

63. How To Use Affirmations To Increase Advocacy for LGBTQ Students in Elementary Education

Ask A Queer EducatorAre you struggling to show up authentically in your workplace? Join us as we dive into Sean Palzere's (he/they) journey as a queer fifth-grade teacher and explore how authenticity and representation can reshape educational environments.In today's episode, we discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating queerness in education. Sean shares personal insights on overcoming societal expectations and fostering inclusivity in the classroom, offering invaluable lessons for an......

Jul 25, 202437 min

62. How to Reclaim Your Authenticity in Conservative Settings as an LGBTQ Educator

Ask A Queer EducatorAre you navigating the complexities of identity in today’s educational landscape? Join us as Jo Peacock (she/her), an educator and advocate, shares her journey as a queer woman in the IT and teaching sectors.Jo Peacock discusses the evolution of LGBTQ+ visibility and support in educational settings, highlighting challenges faced by queer students and educators alike. Her insights shed light on creating inclusive environments crucial for personal and academic growth.Through......

Jul 23, 202444 min

61. Advocacy for Queer people in Education: Confronting Doxing and Online Harassment

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how online attacks can affect educators' lives? Join us as we explore real stories of resilience and strategies to combat doxing in the teaching community.In today's digital age, educators face increasing threats of online harassment, especially those advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusivity in schools. Learn how these attacks impact their lives and what practical steps they take to safeguard their identities and voices.In this episode you will:Gain insights from ed......

Jun 27, 202412 min

60. Global Perspective of LGBTQ Folx Working In Education

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever wondered how queer educators navigate their identities across different cultural landscapes?In today's globalized world, queer educators face a myriad of challenges and triumphs as they strive to create inclusive environments for their students. Understanding these diverse experiences can shed light on strategies for fostering acceptance and growth in educational settings.In this episode you will:Gain insights into the complexities of authenticity in both con......

Jun 18, 20249 min

59. Breaking Stereotypes: Trans Advocacy in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorWhat does it mean to teach while queer? Join host Bryan Stanton as he dives into the stories of transgender educators paving the way for inclusivity in academia.In a world where LGBTQIA+ rights and representation remain a pressing issue, the journey of transgender educators provides critical insights into navigating challenges and fostering inclusive educational spaces.In this episode you will:Gain actionable strategies for promoting gender inclusivity in educational setti......

Jun 13, 20248 min

58. LGBTQ folx in Schools: Fan Favorites from Season 1

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever wondered what it's like to teach while queer? Dive into the stories of educators navigating identity and inclusion in today's classrooms.In a world where educational environments often struggle with inclusivity and representation, LGBTQ+ educators face unique challenges. These episodes highlight personal journeys of resilience and creativity in fostering safe, supportive spaces for students.In this episode you will:Gain insights into the personal journeys of ......

Jun 11, 20249 min

57. How Staying Silent Hinders LGBTQ Teachers’ Relationships with Students in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever felt the weight of hiding a part of yourself just to fit in? Join us as Elisa Greb, a middle school English teacher, shares her journey from concealing her queer identity for a decade to embracing it openly in the classroom.Elisa's story resonates deeply with anyone navigating identity in a professional setting. Her experience highlights the challenges of balancing personal authenticity with professional expectations, a struggle many face in today's evolving ......

Jun 06, 202453 min

56. Charting the Course for Queer Advocacy in Education

Ask A Queer EducatorWhat was it like growing up queer in a conservative environment? Join Kirsten Jenna Lee as she shares her journey from self-discovery to creating safe spaces for queer youth in South Africa.In a world where acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ identities vary widely, Kirsten's story highlights the challenges and triumphs of navigating queer identity in a predominantly conservative society like South Africa. Whether you're an educator, student, or ally, her insights shed ......

May 30, 202451 min

55. From the “Gay A$$ Principal” to Advocating for LGBTQ Leaders in Education

Ask A Queer EducatorEver felt like you didn't fit into the mold society set for you? In this compelling episode, Dr. Carla Stephens shares her journey of self-discovery as a queer, Black woman navigating societal expectations and finding empowerment through authenticity.Dr. Stephens' experiences highlight the challenges of intersectionality—being too old, too Black, too female, and too queer—all affecting her career and personal life. Her story resonates with anyone striving to embrace their ......

May 23, 20241 hr 24 min

54. Advocacy Strategies to Empower LGBTQ Educators to Thrive in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever wondered how LGBTQ+ educators navigate their identities in the classroom? Join us as Craig Aarons-Martin shares his inspiring journey from teacher to consultant, offering bold solutions for empowering youth and educators.In today's world, understanding and supporting LGBTQ+ students and educators is crucial for fostering inclusive environments. Craig's experiences shed light on the challenges and triumphs of being queer in education, offering insights that re......

May 16, 202457 min

53. Fostering Inclusivity for LGBTQ Folx in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered what it's like to transition from a passionate classroom teacher to founding an educational collective? Join Gab and Victoria as they share their journey from traditional teaching to pioneering change in Baltimore City.As former educators deeply embedded in the education system, Gab and Victoria understand the challenges facing teachers and students today. From navigating identity in school settings to challenging systemic norms, their insights resonate with ......

May 09, 20241 hr 11 min

52. The Language of Queer Advocacy in Education

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever considered how personal experiences shape professional paths? Join us as Damon shares his journey from navigating queer identity to advocating for inclusivity in education.Damon's story resonates with the challenges many LGBTQ+ individuals face in educational settings, from early memories of bullying to advocating for policy change in universities. His insights shed light on how personal adversity fuels a passion for equity and diversity in education today.In......

May 02, 20241 hr 2 min

51. The Art of LGBTQ Inclusion in Schools and the Journey of a Queer Theatre Educator

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how being a queer educator shapes your teaching approach? Dive into Brandon Box-Higdem's journey from coming out in 1993 to creating a safe space in classrooms today.Brandon Box-Higdem's experience as a queer educator in Arkansas highlights the challenges and triumphs of navigating a complex educational landscape amidst societal and legislative changes.In this episode you will:Gain insights into how personal identity influences teaching methods and classroom ......

Apr 25, 202456 min

50. 3 Strategies for LGBTQ Educators During School Interviews

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how your identity impacts your career? Join Steph, a career coach specializing in LGBTQ+ and underrepresented groups, as she reveals the secrets to navigating workplaces authentically.In today’s world, where inclusivity and authenticity are more valued than ever, understanding how to integrate your identity into your career can make or break your professional journey. Steph shares her personal journey as a queer individual navigating high school and beyond, s......

Apr 18, 202440 min

49. Journeys in Authentic Queer Advocacy in Education

Ask A Queer EducatorAre you curious about the challenges and triumphs of being openly queer in a school setting? Join us as Zachary Zahand shares his journey from private preschool to middle school theater, revealing how embracing his identity reshaped his teaching career.In today's educational landscape, creating inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ students remains a critical yet evolving goal. Zachary's experience underscores the transformative power of visibility and acceptance, offering insights ......

Apr 11, 202449 min

48. Charting the Course of Queer Education: Advocacy, LGBTQ Inclusivity in Schools, and the Resilient Journey of a Educator

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how educators can authentically integrate their queer identity into the classroom? Join us as Nicky Meindl, a middle school special education teacher, shares their journey of self-discovery and how they navigate being non-binary and queer in a school environment.In today's world, understanding and accepting diverse identities is crucial, yet many educators struggle with how to authentically express their queer identities in school settings. Nicky's experience......

Apr 04, 202440 min

47. Advocation for Queer-Inclusive Education: Building the House of Legends and Celebrating Identity in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever wondered what it's like to navigate the education system as a queer educator? Join Andre, an adjunct professor and creator of House of Legends, as he shares his journey and insights in this compelling episode.In today's episode, Andre discusses the challenges he faced growing up in Catholic school, where he was constantly pushed to conform to traditional gender norms. His story sheds light on the importance of representation and support for LGBTQ+ students in......

Mar 21, 202457 min

46. Out Isn’t Everything: Being a Closeted Queer Educator in Diverse Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how being openly queer can shape a teacher's journey in the classroom? Discover a candid conversation with Anonymous (he/him), a seasoned orchestra educator, as he shares his unique perspective.In this episode, we delve into how a gay cisgendered man navigates teaching in the Southwestern United States, blending personal identity with professional life. He discusses challenges like addressing queer stereotypes among students and finding balance between person......

Mar 14, 202447 min

45. Illuminating the Queer Educator's Journey: Identity, Challenges, and LGBTQ Visibility in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how being queer intersects with teaching high school science? Listen in as Autumn, a non-binary educator, shares their journey from discovering asexuality to embracing a non-binary identity.In today's episode, we explore Autumn's experience navigating identity discovery amidst teaching biology and forensic science. Their story sheds light on the challenges and rewards of being visibly queer in an educational setting, offering insights into the evolving landsc......

Mar 07, 202445 min

44. How Queer Spaces Create a Positive Impact on LGBTQ Elementary School Students

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how elementary school students navigate questions about gender and identity? Join us as we delve into a candid conversation with Anonymous, a dedicated school counselor running GSAs for elementary kids.In today's episode, we explore the crucial role of GSAs in elementary schools and how they provide a safe space for young queer students. With rising awareness around gender fluidity and LGBTQ+ rights, understanding these initiatives is more relevant than ever ......

Feb 29, 202455 min

43. How to Navigate Being an LGBTQ Educator in Conservative Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorEver wondered how music education can shape inclusivity in today's classrooms? Join Am're and Bryan as they discuss their journeys through music, education, and navigating identity in conservative spaces.Am're and Bryan share personal stories of growing up queer in Oklahoma and Texas, discussing the challenges of reconciling their identities with their passions for music and education. Their experiences shed light on the broader issue of inclusivity in educational settings......

Feb 22, 202443 min

42. How LGBTQ Educators Can Overcome Shame to Embrace Their Identity Authentically in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever wondered what it's like to navigate identity and acceptance in the teaching profession? Join us as Michael Gagnon shares his journey as a gay high school English teacher in Connecticut.Michael’s story highlights the challenges of self-acceptance and societal judgment, reflecting broader issues of inclusion and empathy in education today. His experiences shed light on the impact of personal authenticity in teaching and learning environments.Through our convers......

Feb 15, 202450 min

41. Navigating the Educational Currents: Being LGBTQ A Educator in Today's Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorTeaching While Queer, Season 2, Episode 22Strap in for an intimate journey through the world of queer education with myself, Brian Stanton, and the exceptional Julio Carpio (he/they). Together, we navigate the nuanced path of teaching with pride amid today's societal complexities. Julio, a non-binary Latinx educator, shares their transformative shift from lecturing college students to inspiring seventh graders in Syracuse, revealing the sobering impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legis......

Feb 08, 202439 min

40. How Community and Advocacy Help Queer Educators in Schools

Ask A Queer EducatorHave you ever felt invisible in a place where you should belong? Join SJ Janjua as they share their journey from being a closeted teacher to empowering LGBTQ+ educators and students.In today's climate, creating inclusive environments in schools remains crucial. SJ's experiences highlight the challenges queer educators and students face, revealing gaps in support and understanding that affect their well-being and success.Through our conversation you will:Gain insights into ......

Feb 01, 202459 min

39. Advocacy for Queer Identity and Neurodiversity in Education

Ask A Queer EducatorHow does queerness intersect with education today? Join E Ciszek, a college professor and parent, as they discuss navigating queerness in academia and parenting in today's educational landscape.In this episode, E Ciszek shares their journey as a queer youth and how it shaped their understanding of identity and advocacy in educational spaces. With insights into navigating both university teaching and parenting, they explore the complexities of fostering inclusive environmen......

Jan 25, 202453 min
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