Best Jason Blitman Podcasts (2025)

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Joe Westmoreland (Tramps Like Us) feat. Rob Franklin, Guest Gay Reader 1:03:10

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3h ago1:03:10

1:03:10

Host Jason Blitman sits down with author Joe Westmoreland to discuss the newly republished edition of his 2001 novel, Tramps Like Us. They explore the book’s evolution from memoir to fiction, delve into the “Pink Bubble” technique, and revisit untold stories from Joe’s hitchhiking days that didn’t make it into the final draft. They also reflect on …

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Leila Mottley (The Girls Who Grew Big) feat. Chip Pons, Guest Gay Reader 1:06:14

2d ago1:06:14

1:06:14

Host Jason Blitman sits down with author Leila Mottley (The Girls Who Grew Big) to discuss her experience as a doula and how it shaped her portrayals of motherhood. They explore themes of friendship, family, shame, and the evolving landscape of abortion laws in Florida. Later, Jason is joined by Guest Gay Reader, Chip Pons, who shares insights on h…

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Allison King (The Phoenix Pencil Company) feat. Jeff Hiller, Guest Gay Reader 1:13:36

9d ago1:13:36

1:13:36

Host Jason Blitman talks with author Allison King about her debut novel The Phoenix Pencil Company, June's Reese's Book Club selection. They explore themes of memory, the importance of preserving and sharing stories, and yes—pencils. Later, Jason is joined by Guest Gay Reader Jeff Hiller (HBO's Somebody Somewhere), who shares his current reads and …

1
S.A. Cosby (King of Ashes) feat. Richie Jackson, Guest Gay Reader 1:12:10

14d ago1:12:10

1:12:10

Host Jason Blitman talks to author S.A. Cosby (King of Ashes) about books that inspired Cosby early in his writing, the plot holes he found in fairy tales as a kid, his appreciation of Shakespeare's work, and his commitment to being an LGBTQIA+ ally. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader, author and theatre producer Richie Jackson, who shares wh…

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V.E. Schwab (Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil) feat. Melissa Febos, Guest Gay Reader 1:17:35

17d ago1:17:35

1:17:35

Host Jason Blitman welcomes bestselling author Victoria "V.E." Schwab for a conversation about her remarkable milestone—her 25th book, Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil. They discuss the profound power of names, exploring how identity shapes both fantasy storytelling and LGBTQIA+ narratives, the impact of representation in literature, and the mom…

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The Edmund White Episode 47:40

20d ago47:40

47:40

Host Jason Blitman sits down with legendary author Edmund White, a towering figure in gay literature, for what would become one of White's final recorded conversations. In this deeply personal conversation, they explore White's latest memoir The Loves of My Life, delving into his reflections on love's many forms, the intimate dynamics that sustain …

1
Austin Taylor (Notes on Infinity) feat. Nicola Dinan, Guest Gay Reader 1:09:36

21d ago1:09:36

1:09:36

Host Jason Blitman sits down with debut author Austin Taylor (Notes on Infinity) to talk about themes of ambition, mortality, and the challenges of being a woman in science. They also explore big questions about life, the next big thing in science, and Austin shares an insightful critique of the film When Harry Met Sally. Jason is then joined by Gu…

1
Lucas Schaefer (The Slip) feat. Mike Curato, Guest Gay Reader 1:11:54

23d ago1:11:54

1:11:54

Host Jason Blitman sits down with debut novelist Lucas Schaefer to discuss The Slip, diving into themes of identity, self-expression, and the inspiration behind the book. They explore Lucas’s personal experiences at a boxing gym, the real-life mentor who shaped one of his characters, and what led to the end of his theater career. Later, Jason is jo…

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Jonathan Van Ness & Julie Murphy (Let Them Stare) feat. Alison Bechdel, Guest Gay Reader 1:13:47

28d ago1:13:47

1:13:47

Host Jason Blitman talks to Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy (Let Them Stare) about astrology, the names of their teenage cars, and early inspirations for their book. And Crock Pots. And British accents. And Nobu. They talk about a lot. Jason is then joined by queer icon Alison Bechdel who shares what she's been reading and talks about her new gr…

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SPILL THE TEA on Conversations with Alison Wood Brooks (Talk) 1:02:33

1M ago1:02:33

1:02:33

In this episode of Spill the Tea, host Jason Blitman is joined by Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist, Harvard Business School professor, and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Curious. They talk about her TALK maxims, what it means to be curious, tapping the adjacent possible, and Alison shares what makes a perfe…

1
Daria Lavelle (Aftertaste) feat. Kareem "Mr. Bake" Queeman, Guest Gay Reader 1:09:57

1M ago1:09:57

1:09:57

Host Jason Blitman sits down with author Daria Lavelle (Aftertaste) to explore the sensory phenomenon of clairgustance, how words possess distinct textures that can be experienced beyond their meanings, and the fascinating etymology of the word "taste." Daria reflects on the delicate balance between happiness and grief and shares her journey discov…

1
SPILL THE TEA on LGBTQ+ Travel with Alicia Valenski 40:07

1M ago40:07

40:07

In this episode of Spill the Tea, host Jason Blitman chats with Alicia Valenski, author of Lonely Planet’s LGBTQ+ Travel Guide, about her journey in creating an inclusive, community-driven resource that highlights 50+ destinations ideal for queer travelers. Alicia shares insights into her interview process with LGBTQ+ insiders and how the book goes…

1
Jemimah Wei (The Original Daughter) feat. Prabal Gurung, Guest Gay Reader 1:09:55

1M ago1:09:55

1:09:55

Host Jason Blitman sits down with current Good Morning America Book Club author Jemimah Wei (The Original Daughter) to explore what silences born of care open up between families, the importance of chosen family, and the unexpected costs of liberation. Jemimah shares childhood memories at McDonald's and reveals the three definitive ways to eat a fr…

1
The Rosie O'Donnell Episode 35:59

2M ago35:59

35:59

Host Jason Blitman sits down with often-mentioned Rosie O'Donnell to discuss her newest project, Unleashing Hope: The Power of Service Dogs for Children with Autism. They also talk books, Broadway, bootlegs, and more in this special bonus episode of Gays Reading. You can learn more about Guide Dogs of America by visiting guidedogsofamerica.org. Unl…

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Fredrik Backman (My Friends) feat. Erika J. Simpson, Guest Gay Reader 1:19:08

2M ago1:19:08

1:19:08

Host Jason Blitman sits down with bestselling author Fredrik Backman (My Friends) to discuss his love of films, why he could win a Taylor Swift lyric competition, and the exact moment he recalls where his humor originated. Fredrik shares why he doesn't call himself an "author," how he's struggled with confidence, and much more. Jason is then joined…

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Annie Hartnett (The Road to Tender Hearts) feat. Debbie Millman, Guest Gay Reader 1:19:11

2M ago1:19:11

1:19:11

Host Jason Blitman talks to Annie Hartnett (The Road to Tender Hearts) about the roots of her humor, why no one can sit in the backseat of her car, and her short-lived foray into greeting card writing. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Debbie Millman, who shares what she's been reading, why she had to stop listening to the audiobook of Barbr…

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SPILL THE TEA on Sexual Evolution with Nathan H. Lents 52:32

2M ago52:32

52:32

In this episode of Spill the Tea, host Jason Blitman is joined by professor Nathan H. Lents (The Sexual Evolution) to unpack the sexual history of humans to better understand how we got to today. They talk about the expansive relationship to sex and sexulaity that humans used to have, how our approach to sex and gender comes from hundreds of millio…

1
Denne Michele Norris (When the Harvest Comes) feat. Zee Carlstrom, Guest Gay Reader 1:09:40

2M ago1:09:40

1:09:40

Host Jason Blitman talks to Electric Literature's editor-in-chief Denne Michele Norris about her debut novel, When the Harvest Comes. They talk about the unexpected 14-year journey to write the book, love at first sight, and the importance of stories like this one, especially today. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Zee Carlstrom who shares …

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Seán Hewitt (Open, Heaven) feat. Jeffery Self, Guest Gay Reader 1:13:48

2M ago1:13:48

1:13:48

Host Jason Blitman sits down with Seán Hewitt (Open, Heaven) to discuss sense memories, queer representation in school growing up, and Seán’s aversion to musicals—despite offering a sharp insight into The Sound of Music's film adaptation. Later, Jason is joined by Guest Gay Reader Jeffery Self, who shares what he’s currently reading, talks about hi…

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Katie Kitamura (Audition) feat. Nathan Lee Graham, Guest Gay Reader 1:20:54

3M ago1:20:54

1:20:54

Host Jason Blitman talks to Katie Kitamura (Audition) about learned behaviors, the nature of intimacy, the art of performance, and her immersive process of writing. Perhaps most importantly, they talk at length about french fries. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Nathan Lee Graham, currently starring in Hulu's Mid-Century Modern to talk abo…

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SPILL THE TEA on Penguin Classics with Elda Rotor 50:13

3M ago50:13

50:13

For the inaugural episode of the new series Spill the Tea, host Jason Blitman is joined by Elda Rotor, VP and Publisher of Penguin Classics. They delve into what defines a 'classic,' explore Penguin's expansive and diverse catalog, talk about contemporary works, and discuss the importance of context in classic literature. Make sure to stick around …

1
Sameer Pandya (Our Beautiful Boys) feat. Emma Donoghue, Guest Gay Reader 1:11:52

3M ago1:11:52

1:11:52

Host Jason Blitman talks to Sameer Pandya (Our Beautiful Boys) about his affinity for textiles and half-sleeve shirts, the surprising phase Sameer went through in school, and the best time in a party to play Butt Darts. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader, prolific author Emma Donoghue who shares what she's been reading and talks about her new…

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Kristen Arnett (Stop Me If You've Heard This One) feat. Torrey Peters, Guest Gay Reader 1:17:53

3M ago1:17:53

1:17:53

Host Jason Blitman talks with Kristen Arnett (Stop Me If You've Heard This One) about grief, art, optimism, and their shared Florida experience. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Torrey Peters, who discusses what she’s been reading and shares insights into Stag Dance, her latest book following her breakout novel, Detransition, Baby. Kristen …

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Jinwoo Chong (I Leave It Up To You) feat. Dylan Mulvaney, Guest Gay Reader 1:10:00

4M ago1:10:00

1:10:00

Host Jason Blitman talks to Jinwoo Chong (I Leave It Up To You) about the inspiration behind his new novel, what it means to start over, and the most accurate way to eat sushi. Jason is then joined by actress, comedian, content creator Dylan Mulvaney who talks about what she's been reading, her new book Paper Doll, and her endless upcoming projects…

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Clare Leslie Hall (Broken Country) 43:36

4M ago43:36

43:36

Host Jason Blitman talks to Clare Leslie Hall (Broken Country) about the inspiration behind her book and how she straddled multiple genres. They talk about themes of nostalgia, the challenges of writing, and the emotional connections to her characters. Broken Country is the March 2025 pick for both Reese's Book Club and Barnes & Noble's Book Club. …

1
Charlotte McConaghy (Wild Dark Shore) feat. Bruce Vilanch, Guest Gay Reader 1:10:22

4M ago1:10:22

1:10:22

Host Jason Blitman talks to Charlotte McConaghy (Wild Dark Shore) about Charlotte's journey from writing fantasy epics to exploring real-world themes, environmentalism and human connection in her recent works, and the challenges and joys of depicting complex, authentic characters. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Bruce Vilanch who shares am…

1
Sara Sligar (Vantage Point) on Deepfakes, Live at Palm Springs Readers' Festival 46:47

4M ago46:47

46:47

In this bonus episode of Gays Reading, host Jason Blitman is in conversation with author Sara Sligar (Vantage Point) recorded live at the Palm Springs Readers' Festival. Together they explore the unsettling world of deepfakes and their impact, the inspiration behind her novel, and the ethical implications of deepfake technology. Sara Sligar is an a…

1
Karissa Chen (Homeseeking) feat. Paul Lisicky, Guest Gay Reader 1:10:40

4M ago1:10:40

1:10:40

Host Jason Blitman talks to Karissa Chen (Homeseeking) about musicals--particularly The Last Five Years' influence on her writing, dreams as well as idealism, the coincidence of reconnection, and the concept of seeking home. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Paul Lisicky (Song So Wild and Blue) and talk about all things Joni Mitchell. Homese…

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Nancy Johnson (People of Means) feat. McKenna Michels, Guest Gay Reader 1:04:19

4M ago1:04:19

1:04:19

Host Jason Blitman talks to Nancy Johnson (People of Means) about race, class, and civil rights, offering a multi-layered perspective on life issues both timeless and timely. They touch on intriguing parent-child relationships, the omnipresent "they," and more. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader, musical artist McKenna Michels, who shares her…

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Valentine's Day with Jessica Soffer (This is a Love Story) 41:12

4M ago41:12

41:12

In this special Valentine's Day episode, host Jason Blitman talks to February's Read with Jenna author, Jessica Soffer (This is a Love Story). From New York City's Central Park to the evocative smell of street food, Jason and Jessica explore the romantic and the realist perspectives on love. They share some personal loves, book and story recommenda…

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Jennifer Finney Boylan (Cleavage) feat. Julian Winters, Guest Gay Reader 1:03:21

5M ago1:03:21

1:03:21

Host Jason Blitman talks to Jennifer Finney Boylan (Cleavage) about gender identity, homemade pizza, music, and much more. Jennifer even plays an impromptu song on the piano! Then Jason is joined by Julian Winters (I Think They Like You) about his debut adult novel and their mutual love for rom-coms. Jennifer Finney Boylan is the author of nineteen…

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Ira Madison III (Pure Innocent Fun) feat. Todd Almond, Guest Gay Reader 1:08:00

5M ago1:08:00

1:08:00

Host Jason Blitman talks to Ira Madison III (Pure Innocent Fun) about everything from reading Entertainment Weekly in the cafe at Barnes & Noble to elements of nostalgia like their mutual love of the pink Power Ranger, the importance of Limewire, and the best Sondheim musicals. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Todd Almond (Slow Train Coming…

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Daniel Black (Isaac's Song) feat. R.K. Russell, Guest Gay Reader 1:05:41

5M ago1:05:41

1:05:41

Host Jason Blitman talks to author Daniel Black (Isaac's Song) about father-son relationships, masculinity, vulnerability, and Black's Rate My Professor reviews. Jason then welcomes this week's Guest Gay Reader, former NFL player R.K. Russell (The Yards Between Us) and they talk about books and representation in sports and literature. Daniel Black …

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Lotte Jeffs (This Love) Live at Warwick's 44:11

5M ago44:11

44:11

Host Jason Blitman talks to Lotte Jeffs about their new book This Love exploring themes of queer identities, chosen families, and the nuances of relationships. This episode was recorded live at Warwick's in San Diego. Buy a signed copy of This Love at Warwick's HERE! Lotte Jeffs (she/they) is an award-winning writer and the author of the acclaimed …

1
Nnedi Okorafor (Death of the Author) feat. Holly Stars, Guest Gay Reader 1:10:16

5M ago1:10:16

1:10:16

Host Jason Blitman talks to acclaimed author Nnedi Okorafor (Death of the Author) about her inspiration for the book, the personal tragedy that shaped its narrative, and her thoughts on the intersection of human artistry and AI. Then Jason talks to Guest Gay Reader, UK drag queen Holly Stars, who shares her recommendations for light-hearted reading…

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The Power of Books in a Time of Crisis feat. Logan Lockner 30:17

5M ago30:17

30:17

In this special bonus episode of Gays Reading, host Jason Blitman talks with Logan Lockner about an article from New York Magazine, in which Lockner talks about the books he chose to save during his evacuation from the LA fires, and the invaluable role books play in our lives as sources of comfort and connection. Additional resources to support: Su…

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Kate Fagan (The Three Lives of Cate Kay) feat. Kathryn Budig, Guest Gay Reader 1:11:09

5M ago1:11:09

1:11:09

Host Jason Blitman talks to author Kate Fagan (The Three Lives of Cate Kay) about the intricacies of her novel, touching on themes of identity, ambition, the complexity of human relationships, and the many lives we live. Jason is then joined by guest gay reader Kathryn Budig who shares her current reads and insights from her own literary journey, i…

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Most-Anticipated 2025 Books with Book Riot Podcast feat. Brad Summerville, Guest Gay Reader 1:10:39

6M ago1:10:39

1:10:39

Host Jason Blitman kicks off Gays Reading season four with special guests from the Book Riot Podcast, Jeff O'Neal and Rebecca Schinsky. They join forces to discuss their most anticipated books of 2025, covering a wide range of genres and highlighting some exciting upcoming releases. Later, Jason chats with Brad Summerville, aka @bradboughtabook on …

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Ann Patchett (Bel Canto) and Jason's 2024 Most Memorable Books 1:08:05

6M ago1:08:05

1:08:05

In the season finale of Gays Reading, host Jason Blitman sits down with Ann Patchett to discuss the annotated edition of her acclaimed novel Bel Canto. They explore the power of memory, the key to learning and appreciating opera, and much more. Ann shares stories about meeting Jim Parsons at Our Town on Broadway, attending the only baseball game of…

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BONUS: What's the TEA? feat. Hannah Silva and Tom Pyun 31:46

6M ago31:46

31:46

In this bonus episode of What's the TEA? host Jason Blitman talks to Hannah Silva about the exploration of queer single parenting and AI in her book, My Child, The Algorithm as well as Tom Pyun about his debut novel, Something Close to Nothing. What's the TEA? gets the inside scoop on new books–authors are tasked with describing their books with 3 …

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What's the TEA? feat. Daniel Aleman (I Might Be in Trouble) 16:13

7M ago16:13

16:13

In this new series What’s the TEA? host Jason Blitman gets the inside scoop on new books–authors are tasked with describing their books with 3 words using the letters T, E, and A. This episode features Daniel Aleman talking to Jason about his new book, I Might Be in Trouble. Daniel Aleman is the award-winning author of Indivisible and Brighter Than…

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Weike Wang (Rental House) feat. Joseph Lezza, Guest Gay Reader 56:30

7M ago56:30

56:30

Host Jason Blitman talks to author Weike Wang (Rental House) about her dream vacation, the commonality of in-laws, and their mutual love of House Hunters. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader, Joseph Lezza, who talks about what he's reading and shares insights about how he navigates grief during the holiday season. The Trouble with Friends Weik…

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BONUS: Susan Rieger (Like Mother, Like Mother), Elephant Memories 31:27

7M ago31:27

31:27

Host Jason Blitman is joined by Susan Rieger (Like Mother, Like Mother) to record together at the Penguin Random House offices. They explore the idea of "Elephant Memories," a podcast within the book, as they share personal stories of early memories and family. Like Mother, Like Mother is an Aardvark Book Club selection (use code GAYSREADING at che…

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Christopher Bollen (Havoc) feat. Simon Doonan, Guest Gay Reader 1:11:22

7M ago1:11:22

1:11:22

Host Jason Blitman talks to Christopher Bollen (Havoc) about everything from purging personal belongings to the layered concept of havoc and chaos, the fascinating world of hotels, and Chris' love-hate relationship with musicals. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Simon Doonan (TV's Making It, The Camp 100) about what he's reading, as well as…

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Brit Barron (Do You Still Talk to Grandma?) feat. R. Eric Thomas, Guest Gay Reader 1:02:53

7M ago1:02:53

1:02:53

Host Jason Blitman talks to Brit Barron (Do You Still Talk to Grandma?) about themes of family, cancel culture, and finding empathy despite differences. Jason is then joined by author and advice columnist, Guest Gay Reader R. Eric Thomas who brings his signature wit and charm, offering insightful advice for handling tricky family dynamics during th…

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Gregory Maguire (Wicked) feat. Eric Williams and Eden Espinosa 1:33:42

7M ago1:33:42

1:33:42

In this special episode, host Jason Blitman dives into the world of Wicked. Joined by legendary author Gregory Maguire, Guest Gay Reader is comedian and host of That’s a Gay Ass Podcast, Eric Williams, and Gays Reading’s first Guest Gay Icon, Broadway powerhouse Eden Espinosa, they discuss the impact and legacy of this iconic story. From insider st…

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What's the TEA? with Sarah Leavitt (Something, Not Nothing) 18:35

7M ago18:35

18:35

In this new series What’s the TEA? host Jason Blitman gets the inside scoop on new books–authors are tasked with describing their books with 3 words using the letters T, E, and A. This episode features Sarah Leavitt talking to Jason about her new book, Something, Not Nothing. Sarah Leavitt is the author of the graphic memoir Tangles: A Story About …

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Oliver Radclyffe (Frighten the Horses) feat. Roxane Gay, Guest Gay Reader 1:16:34

8M ago1:16:34

1:16:34

Host Jason Blitman talks to author Oliver Radclyffe (Frighten the Horses) about his journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of being true to oneself, Henry Higgins, and his dating life. Jason is joined by Guest Gay Reader Roxane Gay, who discusses her role in bringing Oliver's memoir to life through her imprint, Roxane Gay Books, wha…

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Lester Fabian Brathwaite (Rage) feat. Brian Derrick, Guest Gay Reader 1:01:43

8M ago1:01:43

1:01:43

Host Jason Blitman talks to author Lester Fabian Brathwaite (Rage: On Being Black, Queer, Brilliant, and Completely Over It) about musicals and masculinity, drag queens, their introductions to Rosalind Russell, and seeing humanity in villains. Jason is then joined by Guest Gay Reader Brian Derrick to talk about what he's reading as well as a timely…

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Lyndsay Rush (A Bit Much) feat. Cody Rigsby, Guest Gay Reader 1:05:25

8M ago1:05:25

1:05:25

Host Jason Blitman chats with accidental poet Lyndsay Rush (A Bit Much) about the unique flavors of snacks, traumatic school memories, and the importance of embracing one's "bit much" personality. This episode’s Guest Gay Reader is Cody Rigsby (Peloton and Dancing with the Stars), who shares with Jason what he’s currently reading—and what he might …