She Comes With Baggage Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:05:14 -0400 https://www.shecomeswithbaggagemedia.com/podcast en-us © 2026 She Comes With Baggage yes ec81ccb9-9435-58f7-be5f-e05d27ebbf4e info@shecomeswithbaggagemedia.com Kirstie Nicole episodic true Kirstie Nicole is your host of the LGBTQ+ podcast She Comes With Baggage! She’s opening the mic to incredible LGBTQ+ creators, artists, and advocates, and allies. Guests share their journeys, identity struggles, and how they’ve turned challenges into success.


Tune in for candid conversations about love, queer friendships, chosen family, self-discovery, and the real, messy, beautiful parts of life. Each episode celebrates LGBTQ+ voices, builds community, and empowers listeners to embrace their authentic selves.


Subscribe to She Comes With Baggage anywhere you listen or watch podcasts. New episodes every Thursday.


"We’re more alike than we might realize. So get comfy, stay curious, and let’s get into it."


]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) lgbtq, relationships, identity, self discovery, community, lesbian, trans, queer Kirstie Nicole info@shecomeswithbaggagemedia.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/3th8vyoc2u9pif99az6kvuv6x0ph?.jpg She Comes With Baggage https://www.shecomeswithbaggagemedia.com/podcast Mayor Chelsea Byers: The Power of Showing Up as Your Full Self Mayor Chelsea Byers: The Power of Showing Up as Your Full Self Today’s guest is Chelsea Byers — Mayor of West Hollywood, community organizer, and an openly queer leader redefining what inclusive leadership looks like. Elected to City Council in 2022 and becoming Mayor in 2025, Chelsea has spent nearly two decades building stronger communities through expanding social services, supporting renters, advancing climate action, and creating public spaces that truly serve people.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Her journey from community organizing to becoming Mayor of West Hollywood
  • What it means to lead as an openly LGBTQ+ woman in politics
  • How young people can get involved and create real change
  • Leading with optimism, resilience, and authenticity
  • Building inclusive communities that actually reflect the people in them

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Today’s guest is Chelsea Byers — Mayor of West Hollywood, community organizer, and an openly queer leader redefining what inclusive leadership looks like. Elected to City Council in 2022 and becoming Mayor in 2025, Chelsea has spent nearly two decades building stronger communities through expanding social services, supporting renters, advancing climate action, and creating public spaces that truly serve people.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Her journey from community organizing to becoming Mayor of West Hollywood
  • What it means to lead as an openly LGBTQ+ woman in politics
  • How young people can get involved and create real change
  • Leading with optimism, resilience, and authenticity
  • Building inclusive communities that actually reflect the people in them

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Nicole Buzzsprout-18890381 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0700 4496 lgbt, lgbtq, lgbr friendships, lgbt stories, affirmations, mental health, Chelsea Byers, scwb media, she comes with baggage media, kirstie Nicole 2 28 full false Kyle Kleiboeker: "Every ‘No’ Gets You Closer to Your Dreams" Kyle Kleiboeker: "Every ‘No’ Gets You Closer to Your Dreams" Today’s guest is Kyle Kleiboeker an international model, Broadway performer, and one of Los Angeles’ most in-demand instructors at Barry’s. From starring in productions like Hairspray, The Wedding Singer, and RENT to walking runways in New York, Milan, and Paris, Kyle has built a career rooted in discipline, creativity, and undeniable presence. But the spotlight is only part of the story.

In this episode, we talk about:

The transition from Broadway stages to the fitness world:

✨The discipline behind success in multiple industries
✨How performance translates into leadership and energy
✨Showing up with authenticity in competitive spaces
✨Why passion is the through line in everything he does
✨ How every rejection brings you closer to your dream

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Today’s guest is Kyle Kleiboeker an international model, Broadway performer, and one of Los Angeles’ most in-demand instructors at Barry’s. From starring in productions like Hairspray, The Wedding Singer, and RENT to walking runways in New York, Milan, and Paris, Kyle has built a career rooted in discipline, creativity, and undeniable presence. But the spotlight is only part of the story.

In this episode, we talk about:

The transition from Broadway stages to the fitness world:

✨The discipline behind success in multiple industries
✨How performance translates into leadership and energy
✨Showing up with authenticity in competitive spaces
✨Why passion is the through line in everything he does
✨ How every rejection brings you closer to your dream

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18761836 Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0800 3952 lgbt, lgbtq, queer friendships, lgbtq stories, mental health, self love, chasing your dreams, manifesting, Kyle Kleibocker, kirstie Nicole, she comes with baggage, scwb media 2 27 full false Deison Afualo “I Became the Representation I Never Saw” Deison Afualo “I Became the Representation I Never Saw” Today’s guest is Deison Afualo, a proud queer Samoan woman using her voice to expand representation, challenge internalized homophobia, and encourage others to step fully into who they are. Through honesty and vulnerability, Deison is redefining what visibility and cultural identity can look like within the LGBTQ+ community.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Representation as a queer Samoan woman
  • Breaking through internalized homophobia
  • Navigating heartbreak and emotional growth
  • Cultural identity and queerness
  • Learning to step more fully into self-love

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Today’s guest is Deison Afualo, a proud queer Samoan woman using her voice to expand representation, challenge internalized homophobia, and encourage others to step fully into who they are. Through honesty and vulnerability, Deison is redefining what visibility and cultural identity can look like within the LGBTQ+ community.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Representation as a queer Samoan woman
  • Breaking through internalized homophobia
  • Navigating heartbreak and emotional growth
  • Cultural identity and queerness
  • Learning to step more fully into self-love

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Nicole Buzzsprout-18675019 Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0800 4078 lgbt, lgbtq, queer friendships. queer relationships, queer community, self love, representation 2 27 full false Marita Prodger: “Choosing Yourself Is the Hardest Kind of Love" Marita Prodger: “Choosing Yourself Is the Hardest Kind of Love" Today’s guest is Marita Prodger, known to many from The Ultimatum: Queer Love Season 2. What started as a journey to save a relationship became something much deeper — a powerful reckoning with self-worth, boundaries, and emotional truth. Marita’s experience resonated across the LGBTQ+ community, opening conversations about love, healing, and what it really means to choose yourself.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • What really unfolded behind the scenes of The Ultimatum: Queer Love
  • How heartbreak can become a catalyst for growth and clarity
  • Reclaiming your energy, worth, and emotional boundaries
  • Healing after public relationships and reality TV exposure
  • Why authentic queer representation in reality television matters
  • How Marita's music career is kicking off with her new debut single 

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Today’s guest is Marita Prodger, known to many from The Ultimatum: Queer Love Season 2. What started as a journey to save a relationship became something much deeper — a powerful reckoning with self-worth, boundaries, and emotional truth. Marita’s experience resonated across the LGBTQ+ community, opening conversations about love, healing, and what it really means to choose yourself.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • What really unfolded behind the scenes of The Ultimatum: Queer Love
  • How heartbreak can become a catalyst for growth and clarity
  • Reclaiming your energy, worth, and emotional boundaries
  • Healing after public relationships and reality TV exposure
  • Why authentic queer representation in reality television matters
  • How Marita's music career is kicking off with her new debut single 

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18590530 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0800 3480 lgbt, lgbtq friendships, queer friendships, lesbian, wlw, queer women, Marita prodger, Kirstie Nicole 2 26 full false Jeffrey Marsh: Self-Love in a World That Tells Us to Dim Our Light Jeffrey Marsh: Self-Love in a World That Tells Us to Dim Our Light Today’s guest is Jeffrey Marsh, an international bestselling author, spiritual teacher, and nonbinary advocate whose work has reached billions around the world. Jeffrey made history as the first out nonbinary person to appear on national television and is the author of How To Be You (endorsed by Oprah) and Take Your Own Advice, an Apple Books Best Book winner. With over 25 years of Zen practice, Jeffrey’s teachings center self-worth, compassion, and liberation beyond rigid identity boxes.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Choosing self-love in a world that tells you you’re not enough
  • What it means to live visibly as a nonbinary person
  • Letting go of comparison, perfection, and external validation
  • Spirituality as a tool for healing, grounding, and self-trust
  • How embracing authenticity can change the way we show up for ourselves and others

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Today’s guest is Jeffrey Marsh, an international bestselling author, spiritual teacher, and nonbinary advocate whose work has reached billions around the world. Jeffrey made history as the first out nonbinary person to appear on national television and is the author of How To Be You (endorsed by Oprah) and Take Your Own Advice, an Apple Books Best Book winner. With over 25 years of Zen practice, Jeffrey’s teachings center self-worth, compassion, and liberation beyond rigid identity boxes.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Choosing self-love in a world that tells you you’re not enough
  • What it means to live visibly as a nonbinary person
  • Letting go of comparison, perfection, and external validation
  • Spirituality as a tool for healing, grounding, and self-trust
  • How embracing authenticity can change the way we show up for ourselves and others

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18551022 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0800 3648 queer friendships, self love, mental health, Jeffrey Marsh, nonbinary representation, LGBTQ+ podcast, queer spirituality, self love journey, radical self love, nonbinary visibility, gender identity podcast, LGBTQ+ self acceptance, Kirstie Nicole 2 26 full false PJ Brescia: Living Beyond Labels, Gender & Expectations PJ Brescia: Living Beyond Labels, Gender & Expectations PJ Brescia is the founder of  ⁨@BabyGayTV⁩   a media platform and nonprofit amplifying LGBTQ+ voices through storytelling. PJ is also the host of The BabyGay™ Podcast, serves as President of the LA Queer Coalition, and played a key role in making National Coming Out Day an official holiday in Los Angeles.

In this episode, we talk about:
• Stepping away from rigid labels and embracing fluidity in sexuality and gender expression
• Living beyond boxes in a world that often demands them
• Building BabyGay™ and the power of queer storytelling
• Community-centered leadership and expanding LGBTQ+ visibility

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> PJ Brescia is the founder of  ⁨@BabyGayTV⁩   a media platform and nonprofit amplifying LGBTQ+ voices through storytelling. PJ is also the host of The BabyGay™ Podcast, serves as President of the LA Queer Coalition, and played a key role in making National Coming Out Day an official holiday in Los Angeles.

In this episode, we talk about:
• Stepping away from rigid labels and embracing fluidity in sexuality and gender expression
• Living beyond boxes in a world that often demands them
• Building BabyGay™ and the power of queer storytelling
• Community-centered leadership and expanding LGBTQ+ visibility

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18511186 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0800 3902 lgbt, lgbtq, nonbinary, queer friendship, queer podcast, identity, Kirstie Nicole 2 25 full false CeCé Telfer: Breaking Barriers as a Trans Athlete & Olympic Hopeful CeCé Telfer: Breaking Barriers as a Trans Athlete & Olympic Hopeful Today’s guest is CeCé Telfer, the first out trans woman to win an NCAA title, an author, model, and advocate, and a proud member of the Unique Woman’s Coalition, a Black trans-led organization supporting transgender lives. CeCé lives by the principle of being the change she wishes to see in the world and is currently training as an Olympic hopeful for the LA 2028 U.S. Track & Field Open Trials.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Her journey as a trans athlete breaking barriers in sports
  • The realities and challenges of being a transgender woman in athletics
  • Advocacy, visibility, and supporting the trans community
  • What it means to pursue your dreams with purpose and resilience

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Cece Telfer:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Today’s guest is CeCé Telfer, the first out trans woman to win an NCAA title, an author, model, and advocate, and a proud member of the Unique Woman’s Coalition, a Black trans-led organization supporting transgender lives. CeCé lives by the principle of being the change she wishes to see in the world and is currently training as an Olympic hopeful for the LA 2028 U.S. Track & Field Open Trials.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Her journey as a trans athlete breaking barriers in sports
  • The realities and challenges of being a transgender woman in athletics
  • Advocacy, visibility, and supporting the trans community
  • What it means to pursue your dreams with purpose and resilience

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Cece Telfer:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18451281 Thu, 08 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0800 3355 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, trans, queer, coming out, trans athlete, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, cece telfer, queer friendships 2 24 full false Robbie Simpson: LGBTQ+ Representation on Hallmark's Finding Mr. Christmas Robbie Simpson: LGBTQ+ Representation on Hallmark's Finding Mr. Christmas Today’s guest is Robbie Simpson — an actor, director, producer, and educator based in New York City. Robbie serves as the Director of Creative Development at Midnight Theatricals and the Director of Musical Theater at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting. You may recognize him from his role as Chad on General Hospital or as one of the first LGBTQ+ contestants on Hallmark’s Finding Mr. Christmas.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Continuing LGBTQ+ history on Hallmark and why representation matters
  • Navigating the entertainment industry as a queer performer
  • His journey from stage to screen
  • Teaching and mentoring the next generation of artists

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Today’s guest is Robbie Simpson — an actor, director, producer, and educator based in New York City. Robbie serves as the Director of Creative Development at Midnight Theatricals and the Director of Musical Theater at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting. You may recognize him from his role as Chad on General Hospital or as one of the first LGBTQ+ contestants on Hallmark’s Finding Mr. Christmas.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Continuing LGBTQ+ history on Hallmark and why representation matters
  • Navigating the entertainment industry as a queer performer
  • His journey from stage to screen
  • Teaching and mentoring the next generation of artists

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms

 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18378313 Thu, 18 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0800 3999 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, queer friendship, queer friends, coming out, politics, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, robbie simpson 2 23 full false Tony Morrison: Using Storytelling to Spark Change Tony Morrison: Using Storytelling to Spark Change Today’s guest is Tony Morrison — a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, media strategist, and founder of Morrison Media Group, a venture helping brands and changemakers activate through storytelling and cultural influence. Tony has spent over a decade at the intersection of media and social change, leading campaigns that shape public perception and move culture forward. From producing live at Good Morning America to serving as Senior Director of Communications at GLAAD, his work has earned recognition from Out100 and Logo30 for advancing LGBTQ visibility and inclusive media.

In this episode, Tony opens up about:

✅ His journey in media and advocacy

✅ The power of storytelling to shift culture and perception

✅ Using your voice to create social impact

✅ Leading campaigns that amplify underrepresented communities

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Tony Morrison:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Today’s guest is Tony Morrison — a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, media strategist, and founder of Morrison Media Group, a venture helping brands and changemakers activate through storytelling and cultural influence. Tony has spent over a decade at the intersection of media and social change, leading campaigns that shape public perception and move culture forward. From producing live at Good Morning America to serving as Senior Director of Communications at GLAAD, his work has earned recognition from Out100 and Logo30 for advancing LGBTQ visibility and inclusive media.

In this episode, Tony opens up about:

✅ His journey in media and advocacy

✅ The power of storytelling to shift culture and perception

✅ Using your voice to create social impact

✅ Leading campaigns that amplify underrepresented communities

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Tony Morrison:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18053053 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0800 3780 Tony Morrison, She Comes With Baggage, Kirstie Pike, LGBTQ visibility, LGBTQ+, inclusive media, storytelling, social impact, LGBTQ advocacy, cultural influence, representation, changemakers, LGBTQ creators 2 22 full false Kinley Clark: Teaching in the South & Fighting Homophobia Kinley Clark: Teaching in the South & Fighting Homophobia Today’s guest is Kinley Clark — a proud queer creative who once taught in the South, where she faced more homophobia than anyone should have to. After leaving the classroom, she turned her energy toward her passion project, her podcast Lez Be Honest, a space where she shares authentic queer stories, mixes in humor, and builds community through representation. Now she’s fully committed to creating the unapologetically queer content she wished she had growing up.

In this episode, Kinley opens up about:

✅  Her journey from teaching to podcasting

✅  Navigating backlash and homophobia

✅  Building community through storytelling and queer visibility

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Kinley Clark:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Today’s guest is Kinley Clark — a proud queer creative who once taught in the South, where she faced more homophobia than anyone should have to. After leaving the classroom, she turned her energy toward her passion project, her podcast Lez Be Honest, a space where she shares authentic queer stories, mixes in humor, and builds community through representation. Now she’s fully committed to creating the unapologetically queer content she wished she had growing up.

In this episode, Kinley opens up about:

✅  Her journey from teaching to podcasting

✅  Navigating backlash and homophobia

✅  Building community through storytelling and queer visibility

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Kinley Clark:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18052810 Thu, 20 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0800 3633 Kinley Clark, queer podcast, Lez Be Honest, LGBTQ stories, queer storytelling, queer visibility, LGBTQ creators, queer community, queer content, living authentically, LGBTQ representation, queer advocacy, podcast for queer women, LGBTQ empowerment, queer 2 23 full false Manda Malina: The Dark Side of the Music Industry & Reclaiming Her Power Manda Malina: The Dark Side of the Music Industry & Reclaiming Her Power Today’s guest is Manda Malina—a Swedish singer, songwriter, and queer artist based in Los Angeles. Her hit song Her Ocean took off on TikTok in 2023, leading to headlining solo shows including EDC Las Vegas and performances at the 80s Live residency in Lake Tahoe. Through her artistry, Manda explores what it means to show up authentically as a femme lesbian while navigating the darker realities of the entertainment industry.

In this episode, Manda opens up about:

  • Navigating comphet and embracing her queer identity
  • The dark side of the music industry 
  • Recognizing and healing from abusive relationships
  • Reclaiming her story through music and creative expression

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Manda Malina:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Today’s guest is Manda Malina—a Swedish singer, songwriter, and queer artist based in Los Angeles. Her hit song Her Ocean took off on TikTok in 2023, leading to headlining solo shows including EDC Las Vegas and performances at the 80s Live residency in Lake Tahoe. Through her artistry, Manda explores what it means to show up authentically as a femme lesbian while navigating the darker realities of the entertainment industry.

In this episode, Manda opens up about:

  • Navigating comphet and embracing her queer identity
  • The dark side of the music industry 
  • Recognizing and healing from abusive relationships
  • Reclaiming her story through music and creative expression

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Manda Malina:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18031536 Thu, 13 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0800 4155 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, wlw, wuhluhwuh, sapphic, music industry, coming out self love, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, manda malina 2 24 full false Victor Ramos: The Power of Living Boldly & Unapologetically Victor Ramos: The Power of Living Boldly & Unapologetically Today’s guest is Victor Ramos — a vibrant creator whose mix of beauty, pop culture, and comedy has earned him a loyal following on Instagram and TikTok. Beyond his viral makeup tutorials and hilarious skits, he’s also a host on The Q Agenda, where he brings visibility and representation to the queer Latinx community.

In this episode, Victor opens up about:

✅  Breaking down societal norms and expectations

✅  The journey to living authentically and unapologetically

✅  Using humor, beauty, and storytelling to empower others

✅ Deconstructing organized religion and finding spiritual freedom

Follow Victor Ramos:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Today’s guest is Victor Ramos — a vibrant creator whose mix of beauty, pop culture, and comedy has earned him a loyal following on Instagram and TikTok. Beyond his viral makeup tutorials and hilarious skits, he’s also a host on The Q Agenda, where he brings visibility and representation to the queer Latinx community.

In this episode, Victor opens up about:

✅  Breaking down societal norms and expectations

✅  The journey to living authentically and unapologetically

✅  Using humor, beauty, and storytelling to empower others

✅ Deconstructing organized religion and finding spiritual freedom

Follow Victor Ramos:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18011160 Thu, 06 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0800 3853 lgbt, lgbtq, gay, lgbt podcast, queer, victor ramos, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, coming out 2 20 full false Kelly Hrebenar: Breaking Lesbian Stereotypes Kelly Hrebenar: Breaking Lesbian Stereotypes Today’s guest is Kelly Hrebenar — a femme lesbian content creator based in Los Angeles. Kelly shares stories about life after coming out, mental health, and the ups and downs of figuring it all out—while breaking down lesbian stereotypes and opening conversations around femininity through community building. Her work is rooted in making sure others feel seen, celebrated, and never alone.

In this episode, Kelly opens up about:

✅  Redefining femininity and breaking lesbian stereotypes

✅  Finding identity and confidence after coming out

✅  Representation and visibility for queer women

✅  How community can transform the way we see ourselves

Follow Kelly Hrebenar:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Today’s guest is Kelly Hrebenar — a femme lesbian content creator based in Los Angeles. Kelly shares stories about life after coming out, mental health, and the ups and downs of figuring it all out—while breaking down lesbian stereotypes and opening conversations around femininity through community building. Her work is rooted in making sure others feel seen, celebrated, and never alone.

In this episode, Kelly opens up about:

✅  Redefining femininity and breaking lesbian stereotypes

✅  Finding identity and confidence after coming out

✅  Representation and visibility for queer women

✅  How community can transform the way we see ourselves

Follow Kelly Hrebenar:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18011005 Thu, 30 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0700 3847 lgbt, lgbtq, lesbian, femme lesbian, coming out, queer, lgbt podcast, self love, mental health, wellness, kelly hrebenar, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike 2 21 full false Rose Montoya: Reclaiming Her Story & Building a Life of Trans Joy Rose Montoya: Reclaiming Her Story & Building a Life of Trans Joy Today’s guest is Rose Montoya — a trans Latina creator, model, actor, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Known for her captivating presence and her fearless advocacy, Rose uses her platform to champion equity, mental health, and bodily autonomy. Through fashion, beauty, and storytelling, she celebrates self-expression as a tool for empowerment and lasting change.

In this episode, Rose opens up about reclaiming her childhood, mending family relationships, and rediscovering joy through authenticity. She shares how her foundation for activism was born from her lived experience — and how embracing trans joy has become an act of resistance and self-love.

So get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it. 💛

What You’ll Hear:

✅  Reclaiming her childhood and reconnecting with family
✅  The power of trans joy and self-expression
✅  Healing from the past and stepping into authenticity
✅  How her activism became rooted in compassion and visibility

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube.

Follow Rose Montoya:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therosemontoya
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rosemontoya

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecomeswithbaggage__
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shecomeswithbaggage__
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KirstiePike

]]> Today’s guest is Rose Montoya — a trans Latina creator, model, actor, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Known for her captivating presence and her fearless advocacy, Rose uses her platform to champion equity, mental health, and bodily autonomy. Through fashion, beauty, and storytelling, she celebrates self-expression as a tool for empowerment and lasting change.

In this episode, Rose opens up about reclaiming her childhood, mending family relationships, and rediscovering joy through authenticity. She shares how her foundation for activism was born from her lived experience — and how embracing trans joy has become an act of resistance and self-love.

So get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it. 💛

What You’ll Hear:

✅  Reclaiming her childhood and reconnecting with family
✅  The power of trans joy and self-expression
✅  Healing from the past and stepping into authenticity
✅  How her activism became rooted in compassion and visibility

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube.

Follow Rose Montoya:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therosemontoya
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rosemontoya

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecomeswithbaggage__
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shecomeswithbaggage__
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KirstiePike

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18011958 Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0700 3923 lgbt, lgbtq, trans, trans joy, trans visibility, lgbt podcast, lgbtq community, queer, kirstie pike, she comes with baggage, rose montoya 2 19 full false Maartje Hensen: Exploring Queer Fluidity, Self-Expression & Destigmatizing Kink Culture Maartje Hensen: Exploring Queer Fluidity, Self-Expression & Destigmatizing Kink Culture Today’s guest is Maartje Hensen (they/she) — an Amsterdam-based queer traveler, photographer, and author of The Pride Atlas. Soon-to-be coach and full-time storyteller, Maartje is known for their vibrant, fairytale-like imagery that captures the magic of queer joy and exploration. They’re embracing a new era, retiring the “girl boss” and leaning into “girl moss” — because, at the end of the day, we’re BEings, not doings.

In this episode, Maartje opens up about:

✅ Nonbinary identity and queerness beyond the binary

✅ Queer fluidity and resisting societal constructs

✅ Exploring kink culture and destigmatizing BDSM

✅ Self-expression, joy, and living authentically as a queer creator

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Maartje Hensen:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maartjehensen/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maartje.hensen

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecomeswithbaggage__
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shecomeswithbaggage__
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KirstiePike

]]> Today’s guest is Maartje Hensen (they/she) — an Amsterdam-based queer traveler, photographer, and author of The Pride Atlas. Soon-to-be coach and full-time storyteller, Maartje is known for their vibrant, fairytale-like imagery that captures the magic of queer joy and exploration. They’re embracing a new era, retiring the “girl boss” and leaning into “girl moss” — because, at the end of the day, we’re BEings, not doings.

In this episode, Maartje opens up about:

✅ Nonbinary identity and queerness beyond the binary

✅ Queer fluidity and resisting societal constructs

✅ Exploring kink culture and destigmatizing BDSM

✅ Self-expression, joy, and living authentically as a queer creator

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms
 ✨ New episodes launch every Thursday across all audio players and YouTube

Follow Maartje Hensen:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maartjehensen/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maartje.hensen

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecomeswithbaggage__
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shecomeswithbaggage__
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KirstiePike

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-18012165 Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0700 4618 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, bisexual, coming out, self love, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, maartje hensen, polyamory, nonbinary 2 18 full false Madison Werner: Breaking Barriers in Beauty & Redefining Trans Visibility Madison Werner: Breaking Barriers in Beauty & Redefining Trans Visibility Today’s guest is Madison Werner — a self-proclaimed “trans glam girl,” beauty content creator, and human rights activist. She made history as the first transgender face of a Covergirl campaign, and as a born-and-raised Jewish valley girl, she brings both sparkle and substance to everything she does.

In this episode, Madison opens up about:

✅ Living out loud in a world that hasn’t always made space for trans joy
✅ Becoming the first transgender face of a Covergirl campaign
✅ Navigating visibility, activism, and beauty
✅ Finding empowerment through self-expression and community

Follow Madison Werner

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]]> Today’s guest is Madison Werner — a self-proclaimed “trans glam girl,” beauty content creator, and human rights activist. She made history as the first transgender face of a Covergirl campaign, and as a born-and-raised Jewish valley girl, she brings both sparkle and substance to everything she does.

In this episode, Madison opens up about:

✅ Living out loud in a world that hasn’t always made space for trans joy
✅ Becoming the first transgender face of a Covergirl campaign
✅ Navigating visibility, activism, and beauty
✅ Finding empowerment through self-expression and community

Follow Madison Werner

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17961116 Thu, 09 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0700 4255 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, jewish, judaism, coming out, politics, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, madison werner 2 17 full false Brooke Ventre - Pursuing Creativity and Community Brooke Ventre - Pursuing Creativity and Community Today’s guest is Brooke Ventre — a multifaceted creator with a deep passion for animals and the ocean. Beyond her creative pursuits, Brooke has acting credits in productions like “Girl Lost” (2016) and “Drib” (2017). On TikTok, she’s built a following of over 128,000 and 1.5 million likes, sharing content that reflects her authentic, fun-loving personality.

In this episode, Brooke opens up about:

  • Growing up and coming out
  • Living vegan and aligning lifestyle with values
  • The harmful effects of animal tourism
  • Building community through creativity and authenticity

Follow Brooke Ventre

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]]> Today’s guest is Brooke Ventre — a multifaceted creator with a deep passion for animals and the ocean. Beyond her creative pursuits, Brooke has acting credits in productions like “Girl Lost” (2016) and “Drib” (2017). On TikTok, she’s built a following of over 128,000 and 1.5 million likes, sharing content that reflects her authentic, fun-loving personality.

In this episode, Brooke opens up about:

  • Growing up and coming out
  • Living vegan and aligning lifestyle with values
  • The harmful effects of animal tourism
  • Building community through creativity and authenticity

Follow Brooke Ventre

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17948712 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0700 2744 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, bisexual, vegan, coming out, self love, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, brooke ventre 2 16 full false Scott Frenzel: Redefining Pop, Mental Health & Breaking Gender Norms Scott Frenzel: Redefining Pop, Mental Health & Breaking Gender Norms Today’s guest is Scott Frenzel - a rising pop artist who first gained traction on TikTok and YouTube Shorts with his debut single “Sugar High”, which went viral as the number one song on YouTube Shorts with over a million fan-created videos. Since then, Scott has continued to captivate audiences with tracks like “Key Lime Pie” and “Streetlights”, blending catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and heartfelt storytelling. With a background in comedy and a passion for connection, he’s carving out a lane in pop that’s unapologetically inclusive, bold, and real.

In this episode, Scott opens up about:

✅  Pushing back against gender norms and being told he’s “too much”
✅  His creative process and the stories behind his inclusive songs
✅  Navigating mental health, anxiety, and depression while building a career
✅  His journey from comedy content to becoming a pop star on the rise
✅  Finding confidence in his voice, both on and off stage

Follow Scott Frenzel

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]]> Today’s guest is Scott Frenzel - a rising pop artist who first gained traction on TikTok and YouTube Shorts with his debut single “Sugar High”, which went viral as the number one song on YouTube Shorts with over a million fan-created videos. Since then, Scott has continued to captivate audiences with tracks like “Key Lime Pie” and “Streetlights”, blending catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and heartfelt storytelling. With a background in comedy and a passion for connection, he’s carving out a lane in pop that’s unapologetically inclusive, bold, and real.

In this episode, Scott opens up about:

✅  Pushing back against gender norms and being told he’s “too much”
✅  His creative process and the stories behind his inclusive songs
✅  Navigating mental health, anxiety, and depression while building a career
✅  His journey from comedy content to becoming a pop star on the rise
✅  Finding confidence in his voice, both on and off stage

Follow Scott Frenzel

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17864967 Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700 3810 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, music, comedy, mental health, self love, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, scott frenzel 2 15 full false Blair Imani: Intersectionality of Bisexuality, Islam & Fearlessly Herself Blair Imani: Intersectionality of Bisexuality, Islam & Fearlessly Herself Today’s guest is Blair Imani - a historian, educator, and the brilliant mind behind the viral web series Smarter In Seconds. She’s also an LA Times bestselling author of Read This to Get Smarter, and if you’ve ever seen her content, you know she has a one-of-a-kind way of breaking down big, complex ideas with clarity, color, and compassion. The New York Times called her delivery “perky” and “quirky,” but her scholarship runs deep, covering everything from race and gender studies to intersectionality and U.S. history.

In this episode, Blair opens up about:

  • Embracing her bisexual identity and the beauty of self-discovery
  • Navigating faith as a proud Muslim woman
  • How intersectionality shapes the way we live, learn, and connect
  • Reshaping education and activism through storytelling
  • Living with purpose and impact while staying true to who you are

Follow Blair Imani:

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]]> Today’s guest is Blair Imani - a historian, educator, and the brilliant mind behind the viral web series Smarter In Seconds. She’s also an LA Times bestselling author of Read This to Get Smarter, and if you’ve ever seen her content, you know she has a one-of-a-kind way of breaking down big, complex ideas with clarity, color, and compassion. The New York Times called her delivery “perky” and “quirky,” but her scholarship runs deep, covering everything from race and gender studies to intersectionality and U.S. history.

In this episode, Blair opens up about:

  • Embracing her bisexual identity and the beauty of self-discovery
  • Navigating faith as a proud Muslim woman
  • How intersectionality shapes the way we live, learn, and connect
  • Reshaping education and activism through storytelling
  • Living with purpose and impact while staying true to who you are

Follow Blair Imani:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17735580 Thu, 11 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0700 4617 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, muslim, islam, bisexual, coming out, politics, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, blair imani 2 14 full true Mariah Counts: Music, Healing & the Journey to Self-Power Mariah Counts: Music, Healing & the Journey to Self-Power Today’s guest is Mariah Counts, a genre-blending artist whose dynamic sexuality and musical versatility mirror her personal journey. From her early days as an athlete to her fearless rise in the music industry, Mariah has always led with grit and creativity. Music started as a coping tool through family struggles, grief, and coming out, but has grown into a powerful outlet for connection, performance, and purpose.

In this episode, Mariah opens up about:

  • Navigating loss, resilience, and the challenges that shaped her
  • How sports built her relentless work ethic and drive
  • Coming out and embracing her sexuality with confidence
  • The highs and lows of the music industry
  • Stepping fully into her power as an artist and performer

Follow Mariah:

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]]> Today’s guest is Mariah Counts, a genre-blending artist whose dynamic sexuality and musical versatility mirror her personal journey. From her early days as an athlete to her fearless rise in the music industry, Mariah has always led with grit and creativity. Music started as a coping tool through family struggles, grief, and coming out, but has grown into a powerful outlet for connection, performance, and purpose.

In this episode, Mariah opens up about:

  • Navigating loss, resilience, and the challenges that shaped her
  • How sports built her relentless work ethic and drive
  • Coming out and embracing her sexuality with confidence
  • The highs and lows of the music industry
  • Stepping fully into her power as an artist and performer

Follow Mariah:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17786714 Thu, 04 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0700 4267 lgbt, lgbtq, queer, bisexual, coming out self love, she comes with baggage, kirstie pike, mariah counts 2 13 full false Ashamad Heard - Chasing Dreams & Creating Without Limits Ashamad Heard - Chasing Dreams & Creating Without Limits Today, we’re sitting down with the insanely talented ally Ashamad Heard, a DIY fashion creator, musician, and streamer who’s making waves in the creative world. You might have seen him on Buy It Now or Beast Games on Amazon Prime, but today, he’s here to share his journey - the hustle, the creativity, and any baggage he’s carried along the way.

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]]> Today, we’re sitting down with the insanely talented ally Ashamad Heard, a DIY fashion creator, musician, and streamer who’s making waves in the creative world. You might have seen him on Buy It Now or Beast Games on Amazon Prime, but today, he’s here to share his journey - the hustle, the creativity, and any baggage he’s carried along the way.

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17699780 Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0700 3298 full false Lexie Peters: Building Inclusive Community & Embracing Masculinity Lexie Peters: Building Inclusive Community & Embracing Masculinity Today’s guest is Lexie Peters - a creator and community-builder navigating identity, love, and what it means to show up authentically. From growing up more of a tomboy to finding balance in her masculinity today, Lexie’s story is about embracing all sides of yourself while building meaningful connections.

In this episode, we’re diving into her journey of identity, adjusting to life in a healthy relationship and cohabitating with a partner, and how she approaches building community with mindfulness for diverse people and backgrounds.

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]]> Today’s guest is Lexie Peters - a creator and community-builder navigating identity, love, and what it means to show up authentically. From growing up more of a tomboy to finding balance in her masculinity today, Lexie’s story is about embracing all sides of yourself while building meaningful connections.

In this episode, we’re diving into her journey of identity, adjusting to life in a healthy relationship and cohabitating with a partner, and how she approaches building community with mindfulness for diverse people and backgrounds.

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17688664 Thu, 21 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0700 3962 lgbt, lgbtq, wlw, wuhluhwuh, lesbian, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, relationships, music, DJ 2 11 full false Michael Amanor (Mikestyle): Creativity, Allyship & Building a Brand Michael Amanor (Mikestyle): Creativity, Allyship & Building a Brand This season is full of LGBTQ+ voices and perspectives, but today I wanted to include a conversation with one of my close friends and longtime allies. Michael may not be queer himself, but his story of creativity, identity, and showing up authentically still deeply resonates.

This week on She Comes With Baggage, I’m joined by the brilliant and stylish Michael Amanor—aka Mikestyle—a civil engineer by profession and a travel, fashion, and lifestyle creator by passion. Today’s episode is a reminder that allyship, creativity, and identity come in many forms. Michael’s journey of self-expression, representation, and showing up authentically as a Black creator deeply aligns with the heart of these conversations.

With over five years of content creation under his belt, Michael has built an impressive portfolio working with global brands and tourism boards—all while holding down a full-time job and launching Mikestyle Studios, a creative agency for digital storytelling.

Follow Mikestyle:

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]]> This season is full of LGBTQ+ voices and perspectives, but today I wanted to include a conversation with one of my close friends and longtime allies. Michael may not be queer himself, but his story of creativity, identity, and showing up authentically still deeply resonates.

This week on She Comes With Baggage, I’m joined by the brilliant and stylish Michael Amanor—aka Mikestyle—a civil engineer by profession and a travel, fashion, and lifestyle creator by passion. Today’s episode is a reminder that allyship, creativity, and identity come in many forms. Michael’s journey of self-expression, representation, and showing up authentically as a Black creator deeply aligns with the heart of these conversations.

With over five years of content creation under his belt, Michael has built an impressive portfolio working with global brands and tourism boards—all while holding down a full-time job and launching Mikestyle Studios, a creative agency for digital storytelling.

Follow Mikestyle:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17268971 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 23:00:00 -0700 3554 self discovery, content creator, identity, self love, travel creator 2 10 full false Noa Taieb: Breaking Gender Norms, Embracing Culture & Building a Purposeful Brand Noa Taieb: Breaking Gender Norms, Embracing Culture & Building a Purposeful Brand Today, I’m sitting down with my friend Noa Taieb - a lifestyle creator, entrepreneur, and storyteller. Originally from Paris and now based in LA, Noa has built a platform sharing his journey through content, creativity, and self-discovery. He recently launched Sunny Days, a men’s swimwear and lifestyle brand created by and for the LGBTQ+ community, with a portion of all sales supporting It Gets Better to uplift and empower LGBTQ+ youth around the world.

In this episode, we’re diving into the power of storytelling, building a brand with purpose, and how embracing authenticity has shaped his career. So, get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it!

Follow Noa Taeib:

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]]> Today, I’m sitting down with my friend Noa Taieb - a lifestyle creator, entrepreneur, and storyteller. Originally from Paris and now based in LA, Noa has built a platform sharing his journey through content, creativity, and self-discovery. He recently launched Sunny Days, a men’s swimwear and lifestyle brand created by and for the LGBTQ+ community, with a portion of all sales supporting It Gets Better to uplift and empower LGBTQ+ youth around the world.

In this episode, we’re diving into the power of storytelling, building a brand with purpose, and how embracing authenticity has shaped his career. So, get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it!

Follow Noa Taeib:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17257241 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0700 4138 lgbt, lgbtq, gay, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, masculinity, femininity, fashion, modeling 2 9 full false Melanie Posner: Queer Friendships & Turning Art Into Healing Melanie Posner: Queer Friendships & Turning Art Into Healing Today’s guest is Melanie Posner - an LGBTQ+ muralist, portrait artist, and creative force based in Los Angeles whose bold, unapologetic work centers around empowerment, identity, and mental health. Through large-scale murals and intimate portraits, Melanie transforms public spaces into canvases of self-expression and healing.

In this episode, we go beyond the canvas to talk about her personal journey—moving to LA, navigating self-discovery, building queer community, and how art became both her purpose and her path to personal growth. So get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

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]]> Today’s guest is Melanie Posner - an LGBTQ+ muralist, portrait artist, and creative force based in Los Angeles whose bold, unapologetic work centers around empowerment, identity, and mental health. Through large-scale murals and intimate portraits, Melanie transforms public spaces into canvases of self-expression and healing.

In this episode, we go beyond the canvas to talk about her personal journey—moving to LA, navigating self-discovery, building queer community, and how art became both her purpose and her path to personal growth. So get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17257220 Wed, 23 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0700 3617 lgbt, lgbtq, wlw, wuhluhwuh, queer women, lesbian, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love 2 8 full false Carolina Gutierrez: Trans Visibility, Resilience & Chasing Dreams Carolina Gutierrez: Trans Visibility, Resilience & Chasing Dreams Today’s guest is Carolina Gutierrez—an award-winning Colombian actress, advocate, and proud Latina trans woman who is making waves both on screen and off. From her breakout roles to her most recent short Buscando Alma—which just qualified for the Oscars—Carolina’s work is as powerful as her presence. You’ve seen her in NCIS: LA, The L Word: Generation Q, and national commercials, but behind every role is a story of resilience, representation, and using her voice to uplift her community.

In this episode, we talk about her journey from Colombia to Hollywood, the evolution of trans visibility in media, and how she continues to lead with both heart and purpose. So get cozy, stay curious, and let’s get into it.

Follow Carolina Gutierrez:

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]]> Today’s guest is Carolina Gutierrez—an award-winning Colombian actress, advocate, and proud Latina trans woman who is making waves both on screen and off. From her breakout roles to her most recent short Buscando Alma—which just qualified for the Oscars—Carolina’s work is as powerful as her presence. You’ve seen her in NCIS: LA, The L Word: Generation Q, and national commercials, but behind every role is a story of resilience, representation, and using her voice to uplift her community.

In this episode, we talk about her journey from Colombia to Hollywood, the evolution of trans visibility in media, and how she continues to lead with both heart and purpose. So get cozy, stay curious, and let’s get into it.

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17257027 Wed, 16 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0700 4195 lgbt, lgbtq, trans, transgender, transition, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love 2 7 full false Dexter Mayfield: Plus-Size Representation & Queer Joy Dexter Mayfield: Plus-Size Representation & Queer Joy Today’s guest is Dexter Mayfield—a dancer, actor, plus-size model, and fierce force of queer joy and self-expression. From his early roots in Dallas to performing with icons like Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, and Katy Perry, Dexter has built a career that celebrates visibility, movement, and radical self-love.

Whether he's lighting up the stage with Savage x Fenty or judging on Paramount+’s Come Dance With Me, Dexter is rewriting the rules of representation—on his own terms.

In this episode, we talk about it all: breaking into the beauty industry as a plus-size, queer performer, navigating a religious upbringing, challenging outdated beauty standards, and what it takes to build a thriving career while staying true to yourself. So get cozy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

Follow Dexter Mayfield:

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]]> Today’s guest is Dexter Mayfield—a dancer, actor, plus-size model, and fierce force of queer joy and self-expression. From his early roots in Dallas to performing with icons like Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, and Katy Perry, Dexter has built a career that celebrates visibility, movement, and radical self-love.

Whether he's lighting up the stage with Savage x Fenty or judging on Paramount+’s Come Dance With Me, Dexter is rewriting the rules of representation—on his own terms.

In this episode, we talk about it all: breaking into the beauty industry as a plus-size, queer performer, navigating a religious upbringing, challenging outdated beauty standards, and what it takes to build a thriving career while staying true to yourself. So get cozy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17256909 Thu, 10 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0700 4147 lgbt, lgbtq, gay, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, body positivity, plus size 2 6 full false KITTENS: Iranian-American DJ Spinning Identity & Untraditional Love KITTENS: Iranian-American DJ Spinning Identity & Untraditional Love Today’s guest is Lauren Abedini—aka KITTENS. She’s a powerhouse DJ, music producer, podcast host, creative strategist, and an unapologetic voice for intersectional feminism. With Iranian-American roots and a deep connection to her identity, Lauren has spent the last decade carving out space not just in music, but across fashion, beauty, and advocacy. Her influence is bold, intentional, and always evolving.

In this episode, we get into all of it—her rise in the industry, what it means to take up space authentically, and how to empowering untraditional healthy relationships. So get cozy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

Follow KITTENS, Lauren Abedini:

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]]> Today’s guest is Lauren Abedini—aka KITTENS. She’s a powerhouse DJ, music producer, podcast host, creative strategist, and an unapologetic voice for intersectional feminism. With Iranian-American roots and a deep connection to her identity, Lauren has spent the last decade carving out space not just in music, but across fashion, beauty, and advocacy. Her influence is bold, intentional, and always evolving.

In this episode, we get into all of it—her rise in the industry, what it means to take up space authentically, and how to empowering untraditional healthy relationships. So get cozy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

Follow KITTENS, Lauren Abedini:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17249193 Thu, 03 Jul 2025 02:00:00 -0700 4435 lgbt, lgbtq, wlw, wuhluhwuh, lesbian, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, relationships, music, DJ 2 5 full false Kelly Balch: Understanding Non-Binary, Two-Spirit & Going Beyond the Norms Kelly Balch: Understanding Non-Binary, Two-Spirit & Going Beyond the Norms Today’s guest is Kelly Balch—a queer, nonbinary artist, filmmaker, and intuitive storyteller whose work feels like both a mirror and a portal. With over 15 years behind the lens as a photographer and director, Kelly’s creates mediums for us to be seen and celebrated. From their mythic fantasy book series Aphrodite’s Sister, to their docuseries Beyond the Norms, Kelly weaves stories that celebrate identity and transformation.

In this episode, we talk about their journey as a creator, how they channel emotion and authenticity into art, and what it means to live—and create—from a place of truth. So get comfy, stay open, and let's get into it.

Follow Kelly Balch:

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]]> Today’s guest is Kelly Balch—a queer, nonbinary artist, filmmaker, and intuitive storyteller whose work feels like both a mirror and a portal. With over 15 years behind the lens as a photographer and director, Kelly’s creates mediums for us to be seen and celebrated. From their mythic fantasy book series Aphrodite’s Sister, to their docuseries Beyond the Norms, Kelly weaves stories that celebrate identity and transformation.

In this episode, we talk about their journey as a creator, how they channel emotion and authenticity into art, and what it means to live—and create—from a place of truth. So get comfy, stay open, and let's get into it.

Follow Kelly Balch:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17244745 Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0700 4317 lgbt, lgbtq, non binary, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, non-binary, two-spirit, two spirited 2 4 full false Matt McKenley: Growing Up In A Religious Household & Finding Your Voice Matt McKenley: Growing Up In A Religious Household & Finding Your Voice Matt McKenley is a model, actor, and content creator whose bold blend of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle has made waves across TikTok and Instagram. But beyond the aesthetic, Matt shares something much deeper—his journey of growing up gay in a religious household, the process of unlearning shame, and embracing his full, authentic self in both life and online.

In this episode, we’re talking about what it really means to find your voice, show up for yourself unapologetically, and create content that empowers others. So get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

Follow Matt Mckenley:

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]]> Matt McKenley is a model, actor, and content creator whose bold blend of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle has made waves across TikTok and Instagram. But beyond the aesthetic, Matt shares something much deeper—his journey of growing up gay in a religious household, the process of unlearning shame, and embracing his full, authentic self in both life and online.

In this episode, we’re talking about what it really means to find your voice, show up for yourself unapologetically, and create content that empowers others. So get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it.

Follow Matt Mckenley:

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17244496 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0700 4058 lgbt, lgbtq, gay, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, religion, fashion, modeling, acting 2 3 full false Dominic Pérignon & Carter Nelson: Unpacking Trans Joy and Friendship Dominic Pérignon & Carter Nelson: Unpacking Trans Joy and Friendship Hey everyone, welcome back to She Comes With Baggage! Where we unpack the real, unfiltered experiences that shape who we are. My hope is that through these deep conversations and laughs, we realize we’re all more alike than we are different.

Today, I’m joined by two incredible guests, Dominic Pérignon and Carter Nelson—creators, storytellers, and passionate advocates for the trans community. Dominic shares authentic experiences through travel, fashion, and his series T-Time, while Carter, an actor in Grand Army and Dead End: Paranormal Park, uses his platform for photography and celebrating self-expression.

In this episode, we’re diving into the power of friendship, navigating life as trans creators, and how Dom and Carter are using their voices to advocate for visibility and change. 

So, get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it!

Follow Dominic Pérignon:

Follow Carter Nelson:

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]]> Hey everyone, welcome back to She Comes With Baggage! Where we unpack the real, unfiltered experiences that shape who we are. My hope is that through these deep conversations and laughs, we realize we’re all more alike than we are different.

Today, I’m joined by two incredible guests, Dominic Pérignon and Carter Nelson—creators, storytellers, and passionate advocates for the trans community. Dominic shares authentic experiences through travel, fashion, and his series T-Time, while Carter, an actor in Grand Army and Dead End: Paranormal Park, uses his platform for photography and celebrating self-expression.

In this episode, we’re diving into the power of friendship, navigating life as trans creators, and how Dom and Carter are using their voices to advocate for visibility and change. 

So, get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it!

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]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17244300 Thu, 12 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0700 4255 lgbt, lgbtq, trans, transgender, transition, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love 2 2 full false She Comes With Baggage Trailer She Comes With Baggage Trailer Season 2 of She Comes With Baggage is officially here. The season is going to look a little different as I, Kirstie Pike, am opening up the mic to friends and creatives who inspire me. I truly believe in the power of stories to connect us, heal us, and remind us that we are never alone in the baggage we carry. 

In a time when so many stories are being silenced or overlooked, it's up to us to create new spaces that amplify those stories that matter. My hope is that the conversations inspire more compassion for one another and for ourselves. 

Thank you for being a part of this journey...so get cozy, stay curious, and let's get into it! 

New episodes every Thursday! Follow on Instagram, Tiktok, and Youtube! 

]]> Season 2 of She Comes With Baggage is officially here. The season is going to look a little different as I, Kirstie Pike, am opening up the mic to friends and creatives who inspire me. I truly believe in the power of stories to connect us, heal us, and remind us that we are never alone in the baggage we carry. 

In a time when so many stories are being silenced or overlooked, it's up to us to create new spaces that amplify those stories that matter. My hope is that the conversations inspire more compassion for one another and for ourselves. 

Thank you for being a part of this journey...so get cozy, stay curious, and let's get into it! 

New episodes every Thursday! Follow on Instagram, Tiktok, and Youtube! 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17285642 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0700 67 lgbt, lgbtq, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love, religion, ethnicity, culture trailer false Louis Levanti: Bisexuality, Monogamy & Producing Content Louis Levanti: Bisexuality, Monogamy & Producing Content Hey everyone, welcome back to She Comes With Baggage! This season is going to look a little different as I am opening the mic up to friends and creatives who inspire me…and where we unpack the real, unfiltered experiences that shape who we are. Whether you’re here for the deep conversations, the laughs, or just to feel a little less alone in the baggage you might be carrying, you’re in the right place.

Today, I’m sitting down with the incredible Louis Levanti producer, host, and content creator known for his sharp-witted pop culture breakdowns and exclusive red carpet interviews. But today, we’re going beyond the headlines. On this episode, Louis opens up about his journey—his upbringing, navigating identity within the queer community, and how his personal experiences have shaped the person he is both on and off camera.

So, get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it!

Follow Louis Levanti:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Hey everyone, welcome back to She Comes With Baggage! This season is going to look a little different as I am opening the mic up to friends and creatives who inspire me…and where we unpack the real, unfiltered experiences that shape who we are. Whether you’re here for the deep conversations, the laughs, or just to feel a little less alone in the baggage you might be carrying, you’re in the right place.

Today, I’m sitting down with the incredible Louis Levanti producer, host, and content creator known for his sharp-witted pop culture breakdowns and exclusive red carpet interviews. But today, we’re going beyond the headlines. On this episode, Louis opens up about his journey—his upbringing, navigating identity within the queer community, and how his personal experiences have shaped the person he is both on and off camera.

So, get comfy, stay open, and let’s get into it!

Follow Louis Levanti:

Follow She Comes With Baggage Podcast: 

]]> Kirstie Pike Buzzsprout-17243689 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0700 3749 lgbt, lgbtq, bisexuality, self discovery, community, coming out, queer, self love 2 1 full false