Best Queer Pedagogy Podcasts (2025)

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149. The Hidden Power of Queer Joy in Education 15:36

17h ago15:36

15:36

What if the most radical thing you could bring into your classroom isn’t resistance—but joy? In this celebration-filled episode of Teaching While Queer, Bryan Stanton flips the script on traditional trauma narratives in education and makes the case for joy as a transformative force in queer pedagogy. Too often, we focus solely on surviving oppressi…

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148. Stop Praising Resilience: How It’s Killing Queer Educators 11:08

3d ago11:08

11:08

What if praising queer educators for being “resilient” is actually just another way to keep them exhausted and unsupported? In this episode of Teaching While Queer, host Bryan Stanton pulls back the curtain on the myth of resilience — especially for queer educators who are trans, nonbinary, BIPOC, or multiply marginalized. Through personal stories,…

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147: 3 Ways Queer Educators Can Build Safe Classrooms With Their Story & Identity 8:23

8d ago8:23

8:23

Are you a queer educator struggling to balance authenticity with classroom safety—and wondering if sharing your story can actually build trust? In this episode, host Bryan Stanton (they/them) explores how embracing your queer identity and personal narrative can create safer, more inclusive learning environments—without putting yourself at risk. Dra…

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146. How a Paranormal Medium Built a Queer-Inclusive Learning Community Through Spirit & Story 37:18

10d ago37:18

37:18

What if building an inclusive classroom started with sharing your personal truth—and the voices from beyond? In this episode, Rob Gutro, a queer paranormal medium and adult educator, reveals how he weaves spirit communication, lived experience, and openness into his classroom to create a radically inclusive and trusting space for learners of all ba…

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145. Why “Self-Care” Is Failing Queer Educators—and What Real Support Looks Like 9:20

15d ago9:20

9:20

What if the people building safe spaces in schools are the ones who feel the least safe? In this deeply personal episode, host Bryan Stanton (they/them) explores the emotional and professional toll of being a queer educator in a system not designed to protect—or even acknowledge—you. If you’ve ever felt like teaching as your full self comes at a co…

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144. How Education Is Being Weaponized Against LGBTQ+ Teachers—And Why Silence Won’t Save Us 11:24

17d ago11:24

11:24

What do you do when your job, your identity, and your safety are all under political attack—just because you’re an LGBTQ+ educator? If you're a queer teacher—or support one—you’ve likely felt the chilling effect of anti-LGBTQ+ policies creeping into schools. This episode breaks down exactly what’s happening across the U.S. and globally, and why edu…

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143. 5 Ways Queer Educators Can Use Visibility to Transform Athletics and Schools 10:09

22d ago10:09

10:09

Feeling like you have to stage a protest just to make a difference as a queer educator? Visibility isn’t about shouting the loudest — it's about being present, real, and intentional in ways that matter to your students and your school community. After my conversation with Anthony Nicodemo, it’s clear: you already have everything you need to make a …

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142. Why Visibility in Athletics Matters So Much for Queer Educators and Students 33:22

24d ago33:22

33:22

Have you ever wondered if being visible as a queer educator could actually transform your students' lives? Many LGBTQ+ educators and coaches feel isolated, invisible, or unsure how to advocate for themselves in spaces that still carry outdated stigma — especially in athletics. This episode shows how living authentically can open doors, challenge st…

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141. 5 Quiet Ways Queer Educators Are Creating Safer Classrooms Without Saying a Word 11:04

29d ago11:04

11:04

Feeling the pressure to be “loud and proud” in a school environment that isn’t safe? What if quiet authenticity could be just as powerful? In a time when overt displays of support for LGBTQ+ students can feel risky—or even be banned—many queer educators are wondering how to still show up, protect their peace, and make an impact. This episode explor…

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140. You Don’t Need a Loud Pride Parade To Make a Difference—Queer Educators Can Work Quietly 31:03

1M ago31:03

31:03

Can subtle shifts in language and presence make more impact than bold declarations when supporting LGBTQ+ students? In a time when visibility can feel risky and performative gestures fall flat, quiet consistency and intentional language may be the most powerful tools queer educators have. This episode explores how affirming youth doesn’t always req…

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139. 5 Ways Queer Educators Can Build Inclusive Classrooms Without Burning Out 9:14

1M ago9:14

9:14

Feeling like you're constantly code-switching just to survive in the classroom? If you’re a queer educator trying to create safer spaces for students while holding onto your own identity, you’re not alone. This episode dives into what it really means to show up authentically in education—without sacrificing your sanity or safety. In this episode, y…

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138. Why Telling LGBTQ+ Students To “Just Lie” Is Harming Their Future 52:41

1M ago52:41

52:41

What happens when a college theater class becomes the one place where students feel safe enough to be fully themselves? This episode dives deep into how the arts—especially theater—can offer more than creative expression. In many classrooms, it's become a sanctuary where students explore gender, identity, and self-worth. From fluid pronoun usage to…

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137. How To Organize For Safety & Resistance As A Queer Educator In 2025 19:32

1M ago19:32

19:32

Are you a queer educator feeling the pressure of anti-LGBTQ+ laws, online harassment, or rising fascist rhetoric in schools? In this episode, we dive deep into the current wave of attacks targeting queer teachers and offers grounded, practical strategies to protect yourself, build community, and stay in the fight—without burning out. Whether you're…

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136. Calling This “Child Abuse Prevention” Is a Lie—It’s About Silencing Queer Families 16:09

2M ago16:09

16:09

What if supporting your students’ pronouns could cost you your job—or your parental rights? This episode dives into the April 2025 Executive Order that rebrands gender-affirming care as “child abuse” and attacks the educators and families who provide it. This isn’t just another political statement—it’s a federally-endorsed narrative with real conse…

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135. 3 Strategies Queer Teachers Can Use To Advocate For Inclusion Without Risking Their Jobs 9:26

2M ago9:26

9:26

Can LGBTQ+ teachers truly be themselves in the classroom? Despite progress, many still face discrimination, fear, and pushback when advocating for inclusion. In this episode of Teaching While Queer, Bryan Stanton recaps an eye-opening conversation with Greg R. Baird, a longtime educator and activist. Greg shares his personal experiences navigating …

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134. The Truth About DEI in Schools: Why It’s Under Attack & How to Fight Back 33:06

2M ago33:06

33:06

What does it really take to be an LGBTQ+ educator in today's world? How can teachers go from overcoming fear and bias to becoming a global advocate for allyship and inclusion. If you’ve ever felt like you couldn’t be your authentic self in your workplace, this episode is for you. We talk about the struggles LGBTQ+ educators face, the role of allysh…

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133. Queer Educators Are Told to Stay Silent—Here’s Why Visibility Matters More Than Ever 10:45

2M ago10:45

10:45

Queer educators are often told to stay silent about their identities—but what impact does that have on LGBTQ+ students? In this episode, we explore why visibility in education is more than just representation—it’s a lifeline. Many queer teachers worry about speaking up due to fear of backlash, job security, or simply not knowing how to navigate dif…

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132. The Dangerous Impact of Misinformation on Queer Youth—And How We Can Fight Back 27:03

2M ago27:03

27:03

How can educators create truly inclusive spaces for queer and trans students? And what’s the hidden bias that might be holding them back? In this episode, we talk with educator and author Kimm Topping (they/them) about the challenges queer youth face in schools, the impact of adultism, and why affirming spaces are essential for student success. Dra…

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Literacy and Liberation: Radical Schooling in the Black Freedom Movement 56:52

2M ago56:52

56:52

What role did education play in the US civil rights movement? What did it look like for anti-racist organizers to build radical schooling and organizing spaces that could evade the harsh surveillance lights of white supremacy and Jim Crow? What lessons can we learn from them today? Our March 2025 episode features journalist Elaine Weiss, who speaks…

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131. Why Online Harassment Won’t Silence LGBTQ+ Educators (And What to Do About It) 10:50

2M ago10:50

10:50

Have you ever felt unsafe online just for being who you are? If you’re a queer educator, digital harassment is a real and growing threat—but you don’t have to face it alone. The rise of online attacks against LGBTQ+ educators is not just frustrating—it’s dangerous. From doxxing to mass reporting, these tactics can impact your mental health, career,…

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130. What Happens When Your Personal Queer Story Goes Viral—The Good, the Bad & the Ugly 26:47

2M ago26:47

26:47

What happens when your personal story goes viral for all the wrong reasons? How do you navigate grief, identity, and public scrutiny—all at once? In this episode, Aiden shares their deeply personal journey of dealing with loss, finding strength in identity, and facing online attacks after a viral moment. From overcoming depression to advocating for…

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129. Signs You’re Overburdening LGBTQ+ Teachers & How to Fix It for Real Change 9:40

2M ago9:40

9:40

Are queer teachers the only ones creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students in schools? What happens when they leave—and why are so many being pushed out? In this episode, we revisit our powerful conversation with Flint Del Sol, a former teacher turned advocate, who sheds light on the immense pressure placed on LGBTQ+ educators. From being the "desig…

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128. 3 Ways Schools Are Failing Queer Teachers (And What Needs to Change) 47:16

2M ago47:16

47:16

Why do so many LGBTQ+ teachers leave the profession feeling broken and exhausted? And why are schools still relying on just one “designated safe teacher” instead of building a truly inclusive environment? In this powerful episode, former high school teacher and author Flint Del Sol exposes the harsh realities queer educators face—from systemic burn…

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127. 3 Hard Truths About Being an Openly Queer Teacher & How to Overcome Them 9:37

3M ago9:37

9:37

What happens when coming out as an LGBTQ+ teacher leads to job loss, discrimination, and relentless scrutiny? Chris Cannella knows this reality firsthand—and he’s fighting back. Despite years of progress, LGBTQ+ educators still face discrimination, from losing coaching positions to having their advocacy questioned. In this episode, Chris shares his…

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126. How To Help Your LGBTQ+ Students Find Their Voice—Despite Backlash 43:04

3M ago43:04

43:04

What happens when schools push LGBTQ+ voices into the shadows? What does it mean to fight for inclusion when even educators face discrimination? For over 26 years, Chris Cannella (he/him) has navigated the challenges of being an openly gay teacher and union leader, fighting for LGBTQ+ rights in schools. From being pushed out of coaching to standing…

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125. How LGBTQ+ Educators Can Advocate for Themselves Without Burning Out 8:06

3M ago8:06

8:06

How can educators navigate identity, advocacy, and trust while staying true to themselves in the classroom? For LGBTQ+ educators, balancing authenticity with strategy is essential in a system that often feels unwelcoming. This episode explores how understanding identity, knowing legal protections, and building trust can empower educators and create…

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124. Why Performative Activism in Education Is Hurting Queer Students & Teachers 39:09

3M ago39:09

39:09

How can educators balance authenticity, advocacy, and professional boundaries while navigating policies and identity in the classroom? This episode explores the intersection of identity and education, highlighting the importance of policy awareness, trust-building, and advocacy. If you’re looking for ways to create inclusive learning environments w…

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123. How To Balance Authenticity & Professionalism as a Queer Teacher 8:48

3M ago8:48

8:48

Do you struggle to balance your authentic self with your professional role as an educator? This week, we share a powerful conversation about the challenges and triumphs of being a queer teacher, from advocating for students to addressing difficult conversations. In this episode, you will: Gain practical tips for creating a more inclusive and welcom…

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122. Too Queer for the Classroom? Challenging Parental Pushback Against LGBTQ+ Educators 41:45

3M ago41:45

41:45

Ever felt like you're navigating a minefield of identities in the classroom? This episode explores the challenges and triumphs of embracing authenticity in education, offering insights for both educators and listeners alike. We delve into the nuances of creating an inclusive space for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender i…

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121. How to Support LGBTQ Students and Educators Without Breaking School Rules (Or Getting Fired) 37:50

3M ago37:50

37:50

How can educators truly support LGBTQ+ students and peers in a world where allyship is constantly evolving? In this powerful episode, author and educator Flint Del Sol explores what it means to be an ally in today's changing landscape. From resisting fear-based compliance in schools to modeling self-acceptance for students, this conversation is a m…

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120. How to Take Control of Your Finances as a Queer Educator & Stop Wasting Money 40:58

3M ago40:58

40:58

Are you feeling overwhelmed by financial uncertainty? What if the key to financial success isn't just about numbers but about mindset and strategy? In today’s episode, financial expert David Lester shares powerful insights on how to take control of your finances—even in turbulent times. Whether you're navigating debt, planning for retirement, or lo…

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119. Why Embracing Queerness Makes You a Stronger Educator & Advocate 10:03

4M ago10:03

10:03

What does it mean to truly embrace queerness in the classroom and beyond? How can representation create safer, more empathetic spaces for students and educators alike? For queer educators and allies, navigating identity in professional spaces can be both rewarding and challenging. In this episode, we explore the power of queerness in education. Fro…

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118. Why ‘Proving’ Your Queerness Is a Trap—And How to Break Free from Imposter Syndrome 44:30

4M ago44:30

44:30

Have you ever wondered how queerness and creativity intersect to build stronger, more inclusive communities? In this episode, we dive deep about the power of embracing identity, fostering empathy, and navigating the challenges of being openly queer in both education and creative industries. Whether you’re an educator, artist, or ally, you’ll gain i…

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117. Does Your Curriculum Erase Queer Experiences? Here’s How To Fix It Now 8:25

4M ago8:25

8:25

How can small actions in the classroom create a safer, more inclusive space for LGBTQ+ students? Many educators want to support queer students but aren’t sure where to begin. In this episode, we revisit powerful strategies for bringing LGBTQ+ visibility into education, from inclusive curriculum choices to addressing harmful language in a way that f…

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116. Why Most Teachers Fail LGBTQ Students Without Even Realizing It 28:14

4M ago28:14

28:14

Are schools truly inclusive if LGBTQ+ voices and diverse perspectives are missing from the curriculum? Many educators want to create safe and affirming spaces for all students but struggle with incorporating LGBTQ+ inclusion into their classrooms. In this episode, we look at growing up queer in an education system devoid of representation shaped he…

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115. 5 Strategies to Create Inclusive Classrooms for LGBTQIA+ Students in STEM 8:01

4M ago8:01

8:01

Have you ever wondered what it takes to make STEM classrooms truly inclusive for LGBTQIA+ students? This episode dives into the story of a queer marine science professor whose groundbreaking approach is transforming education. Many LGBTQIA+ students in STEM feel invisible or unsupported, facing both overt and subtle challenges. This episode explore…

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114. Does Academia Ignore Queer Voices in STEM? Here's Why It Needs to Change Now 24:43

4M ago24:43

24:43

What happens when personal identity intersects with academia and marine science? Discover how one queer educator is breaking barriers and making classrooms more inclusive for all. Many students and educators struggle to navigate environments that lack representation and inclusivity. This episode dives deep into the unique challenges queer individua…

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113. The Secret to Balancing Stress and Authenticity for Queer Educators 35:31

4M ago35:31

35:31

What if the way we handle conflict in schools isn’t working—and it’s actually making things worse? Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure how to truly "take care of yourself"? Dive into this episode to discover practical tools for mental and emotional self-management that you can start using today. In the world of education, life moves fast, and …

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112. How the Seven Core Assumptions Shape Restorative Justice in Education And How Queer Educators are Key to Implementing Them 48:10

4M ago48:10

48:10

What if the way we handle conflict in schools isn’t working—and it’s actually making things worse? Restorative practices aren’t just about solving problems after they happen; they’re about building healthier, more inclusive school communities from the ground up. In this episode, we unpack how shifting from punishment to healing transforms students,…

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111. Why Ignoring Queer Narratives in Curriculum is Holding Education Back 12:13

4M ago12:13

12:13

What happens when a queer educator faces bias in the classroom while teaching the stories that matter most? From confronting homophobic threats to fostering transformative conversations about respect and empathy, this episode sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of teaching inclusivity. If you’ve ever wondered how personal identity intersects …

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110. Does Teaching LGBTQ+ History Create Conflict or Foster Growth? Here’s the Truth 52:55

5M ago52:55

52:55

What happens when the classroom becomes a battleground for identity, authenticity, and the fight for inclusivity? In this episode, we discuss the power of teaching at the intersection of identity, education, and art. Through personal stories, Shea highlights the challenges of creating inclusive spaces in education while addressing systemic issues, …

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109. In 2024 We Learned LGBTQ Representation in Schools is Crucial and Why Systemic Change is Essential for Queer Educators to Thrive in 2025 20:52

5M ago20:52

20:52

What were the most impactful lessons, stories, and voices shaping queer education in 2024? Discover the episodes that inspired, empowered, and fostered inclusion this year. This special year-end episode celebrates the top 10 most listened-to moments from Teaching While Queer. Whether you're an educator, ally, or advocate, these stories spotlight th…

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108. Why Nervous System Training is Essential for Queer Educator's Self-Compassion and Regulation 31:46

5M ago31:46

31:46

Have you ever wondered how personal identity, authenticity, and representation shape the learning and teaching experience in higher education? In this episode, we dive into the journey of Dr. Vanessa Kettering, a trailblazer in positive developmental psychology and a queer educator, as she shares her insights on creating inclusive spaces, the trans…

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107. Do Schools Ignore Intersectionality? Here’s Why Compulsory Heterosexuality Is Holding Queer Educators Back 10:10

5M ago10:10

10:10

How does compulsory heterosexuality quietly influence the way we discuss gender, and what can queer educators do to transform the conversation? Compulsory heterosexuality deeply affects how gender studies are taught, often limiting representation, narratives, and discussions around queerness. This episode explores how queer educators can challenge …

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106. 5 Ways Compulsory Heterosexuaity Shapes Gender Studies Conversations & How Queer Educators Can Overcome It 39:04

5M ago39:04

39:04

How does compulsory heterosexuality shape the way we talk about gender and identity in education, and what can queer educators do to break these barriers? In a world where heteronormativity often dominates conversations about identity, understanding its impact on education is crucial. This episode dives into the challenges queer educators face, how…

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Season 2, Episode 11: "Dreaming Up Pedagogies that Heal" 1:13:55

5M ago1:13:55

1:13:55

Send us a text This is the third episode in a three-part series hosted by podcast host Dr. Mitzi Smith in which she engages in conversation with the members of the "Dreaming Up Pedagogies that Heal" project. They discuss the "classroom" as a space that embodies their dreams, where they risk embodied dreaming, that affirms students' dreams, and wher…

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105. Why Token Representation in Schools Isn't Enough and What We Need Instead 10:00

5M ago10:00

10:00

How can educators create classrooms where students don’t just survive but thrive—celebrating their full identities in an equitable and joyful learning environment? As a queer educator or ally, you might wonder how to foster inclusive and affirming spaces while balancing advocacy, representation, and restorative practices. This episode offers action…

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104. Does Your School Actually Value ALl Identities? Why Policies Aren’t Enough Without Authentic Queer Educator Representation 41:09

5M ago41:09

41:09

How can educators create truly inclusive and democratic classrooms that honor every student’s identity and foster belonging? In a world where students come from diverse backgrounds and carry unique experiences, many schools still struggle to reflect this diversity in their culture and curriculum. This episode explores how educators can transform cl…

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Season 2, Episode 10: "Dreaming Up Pedagogies that Heal" 1:09:17

5M ago1:09:17

1:09:17

Send us a text In this episode 10, the 2nd of a three-part series, podcast host Dr. Mitzi Smith interviews the co-leaders, Drs. Kenneth Ngwa and Arthur Pressley (both of Drew Theological School) and the participants of the "Dreaming Up Pedagogies that Heal" project. The workshop participant-scholars are: Althea Spencer-Miller, Drew Theological Scho…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Queer Pedagogy Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen