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Get Fit and Feel Fierce With These LGBTQ+ Fitness Coaches Who Are Redefining Strength

Josh Azevedo
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Get Fit and Feel Fierce With These LGBTQ+ Fitness Coaches Who Are Redefining Strength

Pride Month is here, and while we love a good glittery parade or dance-all-night-afterparty, there’s something extra powerful about queering the gym, too. For years, fitness spaces have been dominated by toxic bro-culture and rigid beauty standards, but these LGBTQ+ fitness influencers are turning that narrative on its (very toned) head.

From TikTok phenoms to certified coaches with thriving wellness communities, these creators are helping queer folks across the spectrum build muscle, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to switch up your routine, these trainers are ready to help you sweat with pride, and maybe throw in a thirst trap or two.

Sam Leicht: Lightning in a Dumbbell

Let’s kick things off with a flash of brilliance, literally. Sam Leicht (pronounced “like lightning,” and yes, he’ll remind you of that) is a New York-based actor, certified health coach, and founder of Pridefit, a fitness app built for and by the LGBTQIA+ community.

Since 2020, Sam has helped thousands of queer folks worldwide feel confident in their bodies and safe in their fitness journeys. His workouts — strength and HIIT-based — are tough, affirming, and full of sparkle.

With credentials that include NASM CPT, CrossFit Level 2, and Strongman certifications, Sam is more than qualified to guide you through your reps. But what really makes him stand out? His mission: making gyms less intimidating and more inclusive for queer bodies of all kinds.

Follow him on Instagram, YouTube & TikTok.

Colton Ranson: The Consistency King

With over 88,000 Instagram followers, Colton Ranson (aka @colt.fitness) brings equal parts strength and encouragement to your feed. A fitness coach since 2017, Colton focuses on giving people the tools they need to transform their bodies and minds.

His content is clean, clear, and confidence-boosting, no gimmicks, just real talk and real gains. Think of him as your gym BFF with a perfect smile and a killer protein shake recipe.

 

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A post shared by Colton Ranson (@colt.fitness)

Pauline Nordin: Discipline Meets Empowerment

If you’ve ever said “I need someone to just tell me what to do,” Pauline Nordin is your gal. Her brand, Fighter Diet, has empowered over 150,000 people with practical nutrition plans and tough-love workouts.

With over 128,000 Instagram followers, Pauline mixes high-intensity regimens with the kind of real-world advice that gets results. No fluff, no fakery, just one very sculpted truth-teller.

Catch her workouts and motivation on Instagram and YouTube.

Sam Cushing: Strength Meets Serenity

Need a little Chopin with your shoulder press? Sam Cushing is the dreamy pianist-slash-fitness-guru you didn’t know you needed. With over 888,000 Instagram followers, Sam is known for combining strength training with self-love, mindfulness, and a little musical flair.

Whether you’re trying to build muscle or just remember to breathe, Sam makes at-home workouts feel cozy, creative, and totally queer.

Find him flexing and composing on Instagram and YouTube.

@sam.cushing

Definitely not mad about this pool at my new place in LA #Poolside #CircaLA

♬ Summer Days – Martin Garrix / Macklemore / Patrick Stump

Madam Physique: Muscle Beach Maven

Madam Physique went viral for more than her workouts. Her brutally honest TikToks chronicling life with PTSD and housing insecurity struck a chord with thousands, and now, she’s using that platform to lift up others, one dumbbell (or gym fit) at a time.

She’s also made history as the first trans woman to claim Muscle Beach in Venice, California. That’s not just badass, that’s legendary!

@themadamphysique

Want to feel stronger? Use @WallFit Even I use it to help with toning! #StartwithWallFit #homeworkout #pilates #wallfit #beginner #weightloss

♬ Summer – Croquet Club

DJ Rock: Pilates With Punchlines

Serving strength and sass in equal measure, DJ Rock, aka The Trans Fitness Bitch, is a Brooklyn-based pilates instructor with a wicked sense of humor. As a trainer at Out Box, a trans-owned boxing gym, she blends inclusive movement with sharp commentary, and keeps it light without watering anything down.

Her approach to fitness? Joyful, judgment-free, and gloriously queer.

 

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Ilya Parker: The Industry Disruptor

Tired of toxic fitness culture? Ilya Parker was too. That’s why they created Decolonizing Fitness, a platform and movement that centers inclusive, trauma-informed wellness practices.

They don’t just call out the industry, they’re actively reshaping it with educational resources, affirming workouts, and a growing directory of queer-friendly movement pros.

They’re building a better fitness world, and you’re invited.

Landyn Pan: Bye, Bro-Culture

Landyn Pan wants you to build muscle and confidence without toxic masculinity, crash diets, or gymtimidation. Their Instagram says it all: “Helping LGBTQ+ ppl build strength, muscle and confidence without toxic bro-culture.” Amen!

Their content is full of technique tips, client transformations, and practical nutrition guidance, all geared toward queer and trans clients who want results without the side of shame.

Flex Your Pride

These creators are showing that strength is about so much more than aesthetics, it’s about resilience, joy, and the freedom to move your body in ways that feel good for you. This Pride, consider swapping the glitter for a barbell (or both… we’re not judging).

Whether you’re building muscle, starting fresh, or just need a little fitspo that actually sees you, these queer fitness influencers are here to coach, support, and celebrate every part of your journey.

Häagen-Dazs Celebrates Pride Month With Vibrant Mural Series Uplifting LGBTQIA2+ and BIPOC Artists Across the U.S.

Andy Lalwani
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Häagen-Dazs Celebrates Pride Month With Vibrant Mural Series Uplifting LGBTQIA2+ and BIPOC Artists Across the U.S.

As Pride Month kicks off across the country, Häagen-Dazs is once again putting its support behind LGBTQIA2+ and BIPOC communities in a tangible, creative way. In its fourth consecutive year partnering with Allies in Arts — a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices in the arts — the iconic ice cream brand is celebrating inclusivity, self-expression, and the power of public art.

At a time when arts funding continues to face cuts and marginalized creators often encounter disproportionate barriers, the Häagen-Dazs x Allies in Arts collaboration is helping to bridge that gap. The campaign provides paid opportunities and a national platform for queer and BIPOC artists to showcase their work — not as tokens, but as leaders and storytellers in their own right.

This year, the partnership has commissioned three artists from major metropolitan areas — Los Angeles, New York City, and San Francisco — to design large-scale murals that reflect the flavor of their cities, while honoring the themes of community, identity, and joy.

Each mural, deeply personal and locally inspired, invites viewers to pause and savor not only the art but the everyday moments that make life sweeter.

A Bold and Joyful Tribute in Los Angeles

Los Angeles-based illustrator Loveis Wise brings a radiant vision of joy and self-love to the city’s urban landscape. Their mural, titled Slow Life, is a warm, sun-kissed ode to slowing down and embracing authenticity. At its center is a confident, brown-skinned figure smiling with a spoonful of ice cream — a striking symbol of pride, presence, and pleasure.

Loveis Wise’s Slow Life mural radiates warmth and community. Stylized sunsets and bold botanicals evoke LA sunshine, inviting passersbys to embrace life’s small joys.
Loveis Wise’s Slow Life mural radiates warmth and community. Stylized sunsets and bold botanicals evoke LA sunshine, inviting passersbys to embrace life’s small joys.

Set against a backdrop of stylized sunsets and lush, oversized botanicals, Wise’s work draws from the natural beauty and multicultural vibrancy of L.A. It’s not just a mural; it’s an invitation to savor the small things — a quiet morning, a sweet treat, a moment of stillness in a bustling world.

“Slow Life is about reconnecting with yourself and your community,” Wise said. “Especially in a city like L.A., it’s important to find grounding in joy and identity.”

Finding Stillness in the City That Never Sleeps

Across the country in New York City, Korean-American artist Subin Yang brings a dreamlike softness to one of the world’s most fast-paced urban environments. Her mural floats with playful stars, abstract shapes, and gentle swirls, all set against a soothing teal backdrop. The visual language evokes a rare moment of peace in a city defined by motion.

Subin Yang’s mural weaves a tender narrative of connection and community. Playful swirls, stars, and floating shapes dance across a serene teal backdrop, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the small joys in everyday life.
Subin Yang’s mural weaves a tender narrative of connection and community. Playful swirls, stars, and floating shapes dance across a serene teal backdrop, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the small joys in everyday life.

“New York is always moving, but this mural is about those fleeting seconds of connection and calm,” Yang said. “I wanted to capture that quiet magic.”

Known for her warm palettes and tender textures, Yang’s work celebrates queer intimacy and emotional honesty. Her mural encourages viewers to look up, pause, and connect — with the art, with each other, and with themselves.

The city’s skyline may be crowded, but Yang’s message is clear: there is beauty in simplicity, and joy in the in-between.

A Gentle Oasis in San Francisco

In San Francisco, Alice Lee delivers a visual love letter to rest, self-care, and the natural world. Her mural depicts a serene, almost storybook-like moment: a woman lounges under a leafy canopy with a book and a pint of Häagen-Dazs, her dog by her side, surrounded by soft pastels inspired by the brand’s Salted Brown Butter Cookie flavor.

Alice Lee’s mural invites us to escape the city’s hustle and find serenity in simple pleasures. Under a leafy canopy, a woman relaxes with a good book and a pint of Häagen-Dazs, while a loyal dog lounges nearby.
Alice Lee’s mural invites us to escape the city’s hustle and find serenity in simple pleasures. Under a leafy canopy, a woman relaxes with a good book and a pint of Häagen-Dazs, while a loyal dog lounges nearby.

“The concept was about finding stillness — creating space to breathe and be yourself,” Lee explained. “It’s a small scene, but it tells a much bigger story.”

Framed by San Francisco’s lush greenery and soft skyline, Lee’s work draws on themes of quiet resilience and community support, especially within LGBTQIA2+ spaces. It’s a reminder that sometimes resistance looks like rest — and healing can come by way of a spoonful of something sweet.

More Than Marketing: A Movement Through Art

The campaign, titled Thatsa Häagen-Dazs, represents a larger initiative by the brand to go beyond surface-level allyship. Since its inception, the partnership with Allies in Arts has been about more than just visibility — it’s about access, equity, and cultural investment.

“Our mission has always been to uplift underrepresented artists — not just during Pride, but year-round,” said [Spokesperson Name] from Allies in Arts. “This partnership with Häagen-Dazs gives artists the resources, platform, and freedom to create something meaningful, without compromise.”

And in doing so, the campaign is sparking conversations — not only about the art itself, but about who gets to create it, where it gets seen, and why representation still matters.

From the West Coast to the East Coast, each mural is a vibrant reminder that joy is radical, visibility is powerful, and community is essential.

Celebrating Pride With Purpose

As corporate involvement in Pride continues to evolve, Häagen-Dazs’ approach sets an example of what true advocacy in branding can look like: artist-first, community-focused, and built around real investment.

Each mural is currently on public display in its respective city and will also be available in digital formats for nationwide viewing. In addition to the art installations, Häagen-Dazs and Allies in Arts will be hosting virtual talks and artist interviews throughout June, offering further insight into the creative process and the stories behind each piece.

In a world that often overlooks the contributions of queer and BIPOC artists, this campaign not only celebrates them — it pays them, uplifts them, and gives them space to shine.

That’s more than art. That’s a movement.

For more information about the campaign or to view the murals online, visit Häagen-Dazs.com/pride or follow along on social media using #ThatsaHaagenDazs.

Nurse Blake Turns Trauma Into Laughter and Advocacy: ‘I’m Still Here. And I’m Going to Laugh Anyway’ (Exclusive)

Andy Lalwani
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Nurse Blake Turns Trauma Into Laughter and Advocacy: ‘I’m Still Here. And I’m Going to Laugh Anyway’ (Exclusive)

With 1.1 million Instagram followers and a sold-out comedy tour that spanned over 150 cities, Nurse Blake may seem like an unstoppable force of queer joy. But behind the viral videos, sold-out shows, and booming laughter is a story rooted in deep pain, resilience, and ultimately—transformation.

Blake Lynch, known professionally as Nurse Blake, is not just a comedian or nurse. He’s a survivor of conversion therapy, a passionate LGBTQ+ activist, and a voice for queer youth who may be struggling in silence. At 34, he’s still unpacking the trauma that began when he was forcibly outed as a teenager and pulled from school the very next day.

“It Was Never Therapy. It Was Abuse.”

Between the ages of 15 and 18, Blake was subjected to a conversion therapy program disguised as a faith-based intervention. “These programs try to change something that was never broken to begin with,” he exclusively told Gayety. “They isolate you, shame you, and try to erase the very parts of you that make you… you.”

Blake is candid about how the psychological manipulation left lasting scars. “They tell you you’re sinful, broken, disgusting—until you start to believe it,” he said. “It doesn’t make people straight. It just makes people scared. Scared to speak, to love, to live fully.”

Even today, conversion therapy remains legal in several U.S. states—a fact Blake refuses to ignore. “This isn’t just my story—it’s still happening, and it needs to stop.”

Comedy as a Lifeline

Blake’s journey toward healing wasn’t linear. But one unexpected turning point came during a panic attack after a long shift in the ICU. “I called 911 because I truly felt like I couldn’t breathe,” he recalled. “But the dispatcher said, ‘Well, you’re talking… so you can breathe.’ And in that terrifying moment, I actually laughed.”

That laugh sparked something powerful. “Humor became a tool—not just to cope, but to survive,” he said. “Now, I use that tool every day. In my comedy shows, my videos, even the darkest stuff—I bring it all to the stage. I don’t joke because it wasn’t painful. I joke because it was.”

This raw vulnerability has made his comedy deeply relatable, especially to LGBTQ+ audiences who’ve experienced similar trauma. With more than 300 million video views and his “Shock Advised” tour behind him, Blake’s next tour, But Did You Die?, kicks off in September 2025 across 68 U.S. cities.

A Message to Queer Youth: “You Are Not the Problem.”

Blake no longer has contact with his parents—a difficult but necessary boundary to protect his mental health. “Just because I don’t speak to them doesn’t mean I don’t wish them well,” he explained. “Healing sometimes means drawing boundaries, even if that means no contact.”

But in their absence, he’s found love and support in unexpected places. “My straight, cisgender little brother is one of my biggest supporters. And my grandma—she’s been there for me since day one.”

To queer youth facing rejection this Pride season, Blake’s message is clear: “You are not the problem. The way someone treats you is a reflection of them—not your value, not your heart, not your future.”

“You’re Going to Be Powerful.”

When asked what he’d say to his younger self—the closeted teen trying to survive in silence—Blake doesn’t hesitate.

“I’d say: ‘You’re not too much. You’re not broken. There’s nothing wrong with you—and there never was.’” His voice carries the weight of someone who’s done the hard work of healing. “The parts they tried to change… your sensitivity, your humor, your heart—those exact things are going to become your greatest gifts.”

He continues, “Eventually, you’ll realize you didn’t need to change—they did. And one day, you’ll look back and see that you made it through. Not because you hid who you were, but because you held onto it.”

Bringing Joy to Unexpected Places

Blake’s comedy doesn’t just sell tickets—it creates community. “No matter where I go, big city or small town, queer people show up for a space that feels safe to laugh out loud,” he said.

What’s surprised him most is just how universal that need for connection is. “Some of the loudest nights I’ve had were in places you wouldn’t expect. It’s a reminder that queer joy exists everywhere—even in places that try to dim it.”

For Blake, laughter is a form of rebellion. “Sometimes the loudest laugh is also the one that says, ‘Thank you for seeing me.’”

Pride, Protest, and Purpose

As anti-LGBTQ+ legislation continues to make headlines, Blake is clear that Pride is more than a party—it’s a protest. “This year, Pride is a fight,” he said. “A fight for ourselves, for each other, and for our community.”

He’s especially focused on protecting queer youth and trans lives. “Celebrating Pride means showing up loudly and unapologetically,” he emphasized. “It’s about honoring those who paved the way and protecting those who are most vulnerable today.”

From Nurse to National Advocate

Blake’s advocacy extends beyond the LGBTQ+ community. As the founder of Banned4Life, he played a key role in pressuring the FDA to lift the lifetime ban on gay men donating blood—a campaign he started back in 2013.

He also uses his platform to push for reform in healthcare and nursing, addressing burnout, workplace culture, and patient care—all with his signature mix of sincerity and sarcasm.

Living Out Loud

Nurse Blake’s story is one of survival, yes—but more than that, it’s one of transformation. From a teen silenced by fear to a man who commands sold-out crowds, Blake proves that queer resilience isn’t just real—it’s radiant.

“I’m still here. And I’m going to laugh anyway,” he said.

In a world that once told him to be quiet, Blake chose a microphone. And through laughter, truth, and unapologetic visibility, he’s reminding everyone—especially queer youth—that they are not alone.

Purple Disco Machine Credits Gay People Being The Heart of His Music: ‘Queer Audiences Understand What Disco is About’ (Exclusive)

Andy Lalwani
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Purple Disco Machine Credits Gay People Being The Heart of His Music: ‘Queer Audiences Understand What Disco is About’ (Exclusive)

As WorldPride 2025 approaches, one of the most exciting names on the music festival’s bill is none other than Purple Disco Machine—the German DJ and producer who’s become a global ambassador for modern disco. Known for his infectious grooves and dazzling collaborations, he’s long had a special connection with LGBTQ+ audiences. And now, as he prepares to take the stage at one of the world’s largest celebrations of queer identity, that connection feels more powerful than ever.

Expanding Paradise, Expanding Horizons

Fresh off the release of the Bonus Edition of his acclaimed album Paradise, Purple Disco Machine—real name Tino Piontek—is in a moment of reflection and evolution. “There were a number of tracks I really loved that didn’t make the original release,” he says. “I wanted to close this chapter with something extraordinary.”

Among those additions is “Dream Machine,” which he calls “the ultimate Italo Disco-inspired track,” tying together the shimmering soundscapes that have defined not just Paradise, but also its predecessor Exotica. Another new cut, “Next to You,” marks his first-ever ballad—a heartfelt departure that hints at fresh directions. “It’s out of my comfort zone, but a signal of what could be next for me creatively.”

Queer Voices at the Heart of the Sound

Over the years, Purple Disco Machine has worked with a who’s who of queer icons and allies—Jake Shears, Alison Goldfrapp, Agnes, Sophie and the Giants, to name a few. These collaborations aren’t just stylistic; they’re deeply intentional.

“With Jake and Alison, I’ve been a fan for years. It was a dream to work with them,” he explains. “And with Agnes and Sophie, as soon as I heard their voices on demos, I knew they were perfect for the Purple Disco Machine sound.”

These partnerships have helped cement his music as a staple of queer dance floors across the world. But they also speak to his genuine commitment to uplifting LGBTQ+ artistry—not just as an ally, but as someone inspired by the community’s creativity and resilience.

Honoring the Roots of Disco at WorldPride

Purple Disco Machine is quick to acknowledge the queer legacy at the heart of disco. “I carry ‘disco’ in my name,” he says, “so I can never forget the roots. If it weren’t for the community’s struggles and triumphs in the early days, I don’t think I’d be doing this.”

This year’s performance at the WorldPride Music Festival is more than just another festival gig—it’s a homecoming of sorts. “The community has been so welcoming to me and my music,” he says. “Even though I don’t identify as LGBTQ+, being part of this celebration of identity and joy is an incredible honor.”

He gives special thanks to promoter Jake Resnicow, a longtime supporter and friend who’s helped bring Purple Disco Machine to some of his most iconic stages. “I’m just grateful I can make people happy with my music and be part of something so meaningful.”

The Power of Joy and Visibility

Disco, as Purple Disco Machine sees it, is more than a genre—it’s an emotional force. When he plays for queer audiences, the energy is electric. “They’re so enthusiastic, and I’ve learned what records push their buttons,” he laughs.

A key part of his live show is the unforgettable presence of Bob’s Dance Shop, his troupe of high-energy dancers. “They’re the living embodiment of joy and liberation. They talk as loud as the music—sometimes louder!”

From remixing icons like Kylie Minogue and Lady Gaga to surprise stage moments with Billy Porter (yes, that New York Pride performance in Central Park), Purple Disco Machine’s career is a kaleidoscope of queer moments. “It’s insane,” he says, still in awe. “I’m just a straight guy from Dresden, and yet here I am, part of this world.”

A Community That Believed From the Start

Before he ever played a major Pride festival, it was queer spaces that championed his music. From Glitterbox parties in London and Ibiza to underground hotel raves in LA and Miami, LGBTQ+ promoters gave him a platform when few others did.

“When no one else was that interested in what I was doing, it was these parties that gave me a chance,” he reflects. “I really want to thank those early believers. They were instrumental in building what Purple Disco Machine has become.”

Pride, Now and Always

As he prepares to take the WorldPride stage, Purple Disco Machine remains focused on what matters: the music, the joy, the connection. “Queer audiences understand what disco is about—freedom, fun, visibility, and liberation. I just try to create the soundtrack for that.”

And with his infectious beats, heartfelt gratitude, and undeniable stage presence, it’s clear that Purple Disco Machine isn’t just playing at Pride—he’s part of it.

Chappell Roan Pops Up as the ‘Apple’ Girl During Charli XCX’s Primavera Set

Josh Azevedo
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Chappell Roan Pops Up as the ‘Apple’ Girl During Charli XCX’s Primavera Set

If Charli XCX is the queen of chaos this Brat summer, Chappell Roan just crowned herself the court jester.

In one of the most unexpected, and utterly iconic, moments of Primavera Sound’s opening night, pop provocateur Chappell Roan surprised fans by performing the viral “Apple” dance during Charli XCX’s set on Thursday, June 5. The scene unfolded at Barcelona’s Parc del Fòrum, where thousands gathered to kick off the beloved music festival, and got far more than they bargained for.

A Rottenly Perfect Pop-In

Charli, mid-way through her 31-song adrenaline rush of a set, was performing the now-infamous “Apple” track from her Brat album when the jumbotron zeroed in on a group of fans in the crowd. Among them? None other than Chappell Roan herself , unmistakable in bug-eyed sunglasses, a cropped sweatshirt, and the kind of energy only someone born for theater could bring.

Without missing a beat, Roan began lip-synching along to “I think the apple’s rotten right to the core…” while perfectly executing the dance’s signature hand jive. The moment was silly, chaotic, and expertly timed, everything you’d expect from two of pop’s most genre-defiant forces.

Charli, catching sight of the performance, screamed into the mic: “Make some f–king noise right now! Chappell, I f–king love you, b–ch!” And honestly? Same.

The Brat Tradition Lives On

Charli’s Brat-era shows have taken on a delightful tradition: a live crowd cam moment where fans (and, increasingly, famous faces) perform the “Apple” choreo originated by TikToker Kelley Heyer. Roan joins an eclectic and star-studded lineup of past “Apple” dancers — including BLACKPINK’s Rosé, Clairo, Dave Grohl and his daughter Harper, Stephen Colbert, Ashley Tisdale, and Glen Powell, to name just a few.

But something about Roan’s chaotic joy and sheer commitment to the bit made the moment instantly iconic.

Fan Reactions Were Feral

It didn’t take long for social media to melt down. Clips of the moment flooded TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) within minutes.

“Me telling my gay roommates chappell roan was the apple girl tonight,” one fan posted.

Another wrote, “Chappell Roan was tonight’s apple dance! Y’all I cried my eyes out!!!”

Many fans even joked that Roan should just permanently take over the role, with one saying, “No offense but no one else needs to do the Apple dance again. It’s been perfected.”

What’s Next for Roan at Primavera?

This was just a warm-up for Chappell Roan, who’s set to headline her own Primavera Sound set on Saturday, June 7. With her theatrical flair, campy visuals, and newly-minted Apple dance credentials, expectations couldn’t be higher.

Before Chappell performs on Saturday, queer favorites like Haim, Beach House, Wet Leg, and Sabrina Carpenter will be performing on Friday night, but if Roan’s surprise appearance was any indication, she might just steal the weekend.

How West Hollywood’s First Queer-Owned Dispensary Is Blending Cannabis, Culture, and Community

Josh Azevedo
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How West Hollywood’s First Queer-Owned Dispensary Is Blending Cannabis, Culture, and Community

For a city built by queer pioneers, it’s hard to believe it took until 2025 to open a gay-owned cannabis dispensary. But Green Qween isn’t just filling a gap, it’s rewriting the rules.

With a glimmering five-foot disco ball, a mural by queer artist Patrick Church, and signs urging customers to “Pass Joints, Not Judgment,” Green Qween’s new West Hollywood location is less dispensary, more love letter to queer joy, resilience, and high-style rebellion.

The Queer Roots of Cannabis

Green Qween co-founder Andrés Rigal is quick to remind us that the cannabis industry, now flooded with corporate interests and glossy packaging, owes everything to queer activists.

“The cannabis industry owes so much to queer activists and people living with HIV/AIDS who fought for medical access when it wasn’t safe or legal to do so,” Rigal says. “That history is often glossed over in today’s profit-driven market. It’s not a footnote. it’s the foundation.”

Rigal points to figures like Dennis Peron, founder of the San Francisco Buyers Club, who turned activism into action during the AIDS epidemic. At Green Qween, that spirit lives on in everything from brand partnerships to hiring practices.

“Equity isn’t a trend, it’s the architecture,” Rigal says. “We don’t just give shelf space to LGBTQ+ and BIPOC brands. We help them grow.”

A Love Letter in Neon and Glitter

Step inside Green Qween’s latest outpost at 802 San Vicente Boulevard and you’ll feel it immediately, the scent jars, the bold colors, the disco ball refracting sunlight onto Santa Monica Boulevard. It’s not subtle, and that’s the point.

“Green Qween was always meant to feel like a portal, a sensual escape that nods to the past, reflects the present, and invites us to imagine a more radiant future,” Rigal says. “This isn’t just about weed. It’s about the nights that saved us, the aesthetics that shaped us, and the kinship that carries us.”

Inspired by his two decades in LGBTQ+ nightlife, Rigal brought that sense of sanctuary to the dispensary’s design. “Nightlife raised me,” he adds. “From the disco ball to the lighting that shifts with the rhythm of the day, every detail tells a story. This is a sacred space.”

From The Abbey to the Apothecary

To bring Green Qween to life in West Hollywood, Rigal partnered with Tristan Schukraft, the entrepreneur behind MISTR and the new steward of legendary nightlife venue The Abbey.

“The LA Blade once called me ‘The CEO of Everything Gay.’ I just liked it and ran with it,” Schukraft laughs. “But really, everything I do comes back to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community: nightlife, healthcare, hospitality, and now cannabis.”

For Schukraft, Green Qween is more than a business, it’s about reclaiming economic power. “Visibility is important,” he says, “but ownership is power. We can’t just be the talent; we have to be the landlords, the investors, the decision-makers.”

Green Qween Grand Opening During WeHo Pride Weekend
Photo: Green Qween
Green Qween Grand Opening During WeHo Pride Weekend
Photo: Green Qween
Green Qween Grand Opening During WeHo Pride Weekend
Photo: Green Qween
Green Qween Grand Opening During WeHo Pride Weekend
Photo: Green Qween
Green Qween Grand Opening During WeHo Pride Weekend
Photo: Green Qween

Queer All Year, Not Just for Pride

With Pride Month in full swing, Green Qween could easily ride the rainbow wave. But Rigal insists their commitment to the community runs much deeper than seasonal marketing.

“‘Queer all year’ isn’t our catchphrase, it’s our commitment,” he says. “We reinvest in LGBTQ+ nonprofits year-round. We hire from our community. Rainbow capitalism thrives on performative gestures. We’re here with intention.”

That mission is visible across all three Green Qween locations, Downtown LA, Sherman Oaks, and now West Hollywood, each one a unique expression of queer culture and cannabis equity.

Why It Took Until 2025

Despite its reputation as a queer mecca, West Hollywood had never hosted a gay-owned dispensary… until now.

“It says more than we’d like to admit,” Rigal notes. “Cannabis went corporate fast. In that shift, the very communities who fought for access, queer people, BIPOC trailblazers, trans pioneers, were pushed to the margins. We lost our seat at a table we helped set.”

But now, with unanimous support from the West Hollywood Business License Commission and a chorus of community voices, Green Qween is reclaiming that legacy. “We’re not just opening a store, we’re taking our place,” Schukraft adds.

The Dream: A Queer Cannabis Ecosystem

As for what’s next? Green Qween isn’t stopping at three locations. Schukraft envisions a national network of queer-owned cannabis spaces, from the Castro to Fire Island.

“Stay at The Tryst, have a cocktail at The Abbey, get dinner at The Canteen, protect yourself with MISTR, and get your cannabis from Green Qween,” he says. “It’s not just a business plan, it’s a whole LGBTQ+ ecosystem.”

And for young queer creatives hoping to follow in their footsteps?

“Don’t wait for permission,” Schukraft advises. “Build your own table. Our community has always been made of artists, hustlers, and revolutionaries. Keep that legacy alive.”

With glitter in its roots and power in its purpose, Green Qween is more than a dispensary. It’s a movement, one joint, one disco ball, and one unapologetic act of queer ownership at a time.

Behind the Candy Machine Lies D.C.’s New Queer Playground for Leather, Kink, and Connection

Josh Azevedo
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Behind the Candy Machine Lies D.C.’s New Queer Playground for Leather, Kink, and Connection

Washington’s nightlife just got a whole lot kinkier. Say hello to District Eagle, D.C.’s first and only LGBTQ+ speakeasy bar dedicated to the leather and kink community, complete with a hidden entrance and unapologetic attitude.

Behind the Candy Machine, a Whole New World

Tucked behind a vending machine at Lucky Pollo Peruvian Chicken on U Street (yes, really), District Eagle channels the spirit of underground queer clubs that once thrived out of necessity. Its covert entrance is more than a cheeky gimmick, it’s a tribute to queer resistance, where secrecy was survival and self-expression was revolutionary.

The space blends throwback energy with a modern twist: dark, sexy, and unfiltered. Whether you’re here to cruise, connect, or just people-watch while sipping a beer, the vibe is authentically raw and proudly queer.

A Space Born from Queer Legacy

“District Eagle is about freedom, connection, and holding space for people to be fully themselves,” said Zach Renovates, co-owner of Lucky Pollo, D.C.’s popular nightclub BUNKER, and now, District Eagle. “It’s raw, unapologetic, and rooted in the underground history of kink and leather culture.”

Inside, patrons will find more than just a bar, they’ll find a leather-wrapped celebration of subculture and sexuality. District Eagle isn’t just playing dress-up; it’s committed to building a space where both longtime leathermen and the kink-curious feel at home.

District Eagle Night life
Photo: District Eagle
District Eagle Night life
Photo: District Eagle
District Eagle Night life
Photo: District Eagle

From Gear Nights to Rooftop Raves

Programming is where District Eagle really shines. Weekly staples include:

  • Jockstrap Wednesdays – less clothing, more confidence

  • Gear Night Fridays – flaunt your harnesses and hardware

  • Beer Blast Sundays – suds, studs, and strong pours

The bar also transforms into Eagle XL for rooftop blowouts featuring DJs, theme nights, and pop-up art events. It’s not just a bar; it’s a gathering place for queer artistry, fashion, and nightlife that’s deeply rooted in community.

District Eagle Night life
Photo: District Eagle
District Eagle Night life
Photo: District Eagle

Speakeasy With a Purpose

In the 1920s, speakeasies were secret sanctuaries where people whispered passwords and danced behind closed doors. For LGBTQ+ folks, they became safe havens, one of the few places where queerness could exist, even thrive.

District Eagle revives that legacy, but with a 2025 twist. It’s not about hiding; it’s about owning your identity in a space that honors the past while embracing the future of queer nightlife.

Ready to cruise the capital? Visit www.DistrictEagle.com or follow @DistrictEagle on social media for the latest event lineup, hours, and more.

Kirby, Birdo, and the Gaggle of Queer-Coded Nintendo Icons You Can’t Ignore

Josh Azevedo
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Kirby, Birdo, and the Gaggle of Queer-Coded Nintendo Icons You Can’t Ignore

Break out the glitter and pre-order panic: the Nintendo Switch 2 has officially landed, and the fanfare is as dramatic as a Peach side-eye. Across Japan and beyond, gamers camped out, cried, and clawed their way through online lotteries just to grab Nintendo’s latest console-slash-culture-reset. With a bigger screen, better graphics, and new launch titles like Mario Kart World, it’s clear the Switch 2 didn’t come to play, it came to slay.

Nintendo reportedly received 2.2 million entries for its Japan sales lottery alone. Meanwhile, Target pre-orders sold out faster than you can say “Waluigi is a power bottom.” Some fans, like Yumi Ohi, traveled cross-prefecture just to snag one. Girl, we get it. It’s a major upgrade, and with Elden Ring and more AAA titles on the way, it’s giving “gaming era, activated.”

But let’s be honest, what really makes Nintendo games iconic isn’t just the tech. It’s the camp. It’s the drama. It’s the characters who have been throwing subtle queer-coded energy at us for decades. So, in honor of the Switch 2 drop, we’re celebrating the Nintendo characters who’ve always been just a little too fabulous to be straight.

Princess Peach: High Femme Drama Royalty

The pillow princess herself! THE Princess Peach. The original high-heel-wearing campy hostage, Princess Peach isn’t just royalty, she’s the type of girl who gets kidnapped just to see if anyone’s paying attention. Sure, she’s canonically Mario’s girlfriend, but have you seen her serve pink realness in literally every outfit? And don’t forget Super Princess Peach, where her powers are literally mood swings. If that’s not gay culture, what is?

Princess Peach
Photo: Nintendo

Kirby: Suckin’, Servin’, and Shapeshifting

Kirby is the pastel puffball of our dreams. He flies, he transforms, he swallows enemies whole and becomes them. Gender? Identity? He’s fluid, honey. Kirby doesn’t walk, he floats. I mean, it doesn’t get gayer than that! He doesn’t fight, he sucks and swallows. I mean… you do the math. Honestly, he’s the ultimate queer icon. Also, he’s pink, round, and always happy. That’s camp, baby.

Kirby
Photo: Nintendo

Birdo: Our Trans Queen from Day One

Let’s give a respectful golf clap to Super Mario Bros. 2 for dropping one of the most groundbreaking lines in 1980s video game history: “Birdo is a boy who thinks he’s a girl.” Birdo, also known as Birdetta, is a pink, bow-wearing, egg-shooting baddie who proudly lives her truth. While Nintendo’s been… vague… about her identity since, the community has spoken. Birdo is trans. Period. No notes.

Birdo
Photo: Nintendo

Princess Daisy: Lipstick Lesbian Energy, Activated

If Peach is the high-femme icon, Daisy is the sports bra-wearing, energy drink-chugging counterpart. Always down for a little tennis, kart racing, or drama, Daisy’s a tomboy with a tiara and a whole lot of main character energy. She’s not like the other girls, she’s louder, bolder, and probably the reason your girlfriend keeps playing Mario Party.

Princess Daisy
Photo: Nintendo

Pauline: Mayoral Realness and Vocal Queen

From Donkey Kong damsel to Odyssey-era mayor and jazz singer, Pauline pulled the ultimate glow-up. She’s got her own city now (New Donk, no less), a band, and the pipes to belt out “Jump Up, Super Star!” like a Broadway diva. She’s giving Patti LuPone meets city council chic. We stan a girlboss with vocals.

Pauline
Photo: Nintendo

Yoshi: Genderqueer Dino of Our Dreams

Yoshi lays eggs. Yoshi swallows enemies with an impossible tongue. Yoshi’s species comes in every color of the rainbow. And while Nintendo technically uses he/him pronouns, let’s be real, Yoshi lives beyond the binary. Egg-laying, color-shifting, tongue-whipping royalty. We see you, queen!

Yoshi
Photo: Nintendo

Waluigi: Tall, Twisted, and Totally Queer-Coded

Waluigi is the chaotic queer uncle who shows up to the barbecue with glitter eyeliner, a bad attitude, and the audacity to make everything about him. He’s lanky, he’s petty, and he dances like he’s auditioning for So You Think You Can Flop. He may not have a game of his own, but that hasn’t stopped him from stealing hearts with his iconic side-splits and evil laugh.

Waluigi
Photo: Nintendo

Link: The Soft Andro Hero We Project Onto

Link is the quiet, courageous legend who rarely speaks but always slays. Whether he’s crossdressing in Breath of the Wild to infiltrate Gerudo Town or rocking a ponytail with his latest tunic, Link’s androgynous aesthetic has always been queer-coded to filth. He’s not saving the princess, he’s serving looks while doing it.

Llnk
Photo: Nintendo

Long Live Nintendo’s Queer-Coded Icons

As we celebrate the Switch 2’s arrival into our clammy gamer hands, let’s also honor the characters who helped raise us, confuse us, and low-key awaken something in us. Nintendo didn’t just build a gaming empire—it created a runway of queer-coded fabulousness. Whether intentional or accidental, we’ll take it. And we’ll slay with it.

A Deliciously Diverse Roundup of Queer Books You Need on Your Shelf this Pride Season

Josh Azevedo
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A Deliciously Diverse Roundup of Queer Books You Need on Your Shelf this Pride Season

Pride Month is more than rainbow merch and glitter, it’s also the perfect excuse (as if we needed one) to cozy up with a stack of books by queer authors, about queer lives, and for our beautifully queer hearts. Whether you’re looking for sweet desserts, searing memoirs, historical deep dives, or a comfort read with a side of intergalactic feels, this list has you covered.

Below, we’ve rounded up standout LGBTQ+ reads that span genres and emotions (cookbooks, graphic novels, poetry collections, and more) that honor identity, love, and the joy of living authentically.

Dan in Green Gables: A Graphic Novel

  • Title: Dan in Green Gables: A Graphic Novel

  • Author: Rey Terciero

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

Think Anne of Green Gables, but gayer and with more culture shock. Rey Terciero reimagines the beloved redhead as Dan Stewart-Álvarez, a queer teen thrown into the rural South after being ditched by his free-spirited mom. Between chicken coops, Southern Baptists, and some hard truths, Dan finds community, family, and maybe even himself. It’s poignant, it’s charming, and it has that “queer kid finds home where he least expects it” glow we all need.

Dan in Green Gables: A Graphic Novel
Photo: Penguin Random House

Potluck Desserts

  • Title: Potluck Desserts: Joyful Recipes to Share with Pride

  • Author: Justin Burke (Photos by Brian Samuels)

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

Queer community is built around many things: resilience, joy, dance floors (and dessert). In this sugar-laced love letter to queer potlucks, baker Justin Burke serves up nostalgic, crowd-pleasing recipes with heart (and probably a little glitter). From Hummingbird Blondies to Snickerdoodle Peach Cobbler, it’s a book that understands that potlucks are sacred, stories are baked in, and carbs are absolutely a love language.

Potluck Desserts
Photo: W.W. Norton

Super Gay Poems

  • Title: Super Gay Poems: LGBTQIA+ Poetry After Stonewall

  • Editor: Stephanie Burt

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

If your Pride flag flies in iambic pentameter, this one’s for you. This powerhouse anthology edited by Stephanie Burt features 51 poets who explore queer life, love, protest, and pleasure with razor-sharp lyricism. From Frank O’Hara to Chen Chen, the poems stretch across forms and decades but are united by the pulse of liberation and self-invention. Each work comes with a mini-essay that adds context, sass, and scholarship.

Super Gay PoemsLGBTQIA+ Poetry after Stonewall Stephanie Burt
Photo: Harvard University Press

Dining Out

  • Title: Dining Out: First Dates, Defiant Nights, and Last Call Disco Fries at America’s Gay Restaurants

  • Author: Erik Piepenburg

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

Before Grindr and brunch drag, there were diners, cafeterias, and queer cafés that became sanctuaries. Piepenburg’s deliciously researched deep-dive chronicles the unsung legacy of gay restaurants as places of romance, resistance, and refuge. It’s equal parts food history and cultural testimony, featuring Hamburger Mary’s, Florent, and yes, even that queer-coded Denny’s. Come for the fries, stay for the revolution.

DINING OUT: First Dates, Defiant Nights, and Last Call Disco Fries at America’s Gay Restaurants
Photo: Grand Central Publishing

I Shall Never Fall in Love

  • Title: I Shall Never Fall in Love

  • Author: Hari Conner

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

If Jane Austen had been queer and had access to colored pencils, we’d already have this. In this warm, witty graphic novel, three friends navigate love, identity, and societal pressure in a small village where everyone knows everyone (and their business). It’s tender, introspective, and just the kind of queer period drama you’ll want to curl up with alongside a hot cup of tea and your deepest feelings.

I Shall Never Fall in Love
Photo: Harper Collins Publishers

Lunar Boy

Tears. So many tears. But the good kind; the cathartic, soul-hugging kind. Lunar Boy follows Indu, a trans boy who moves from a cozy spaceship to the unfamiliar chaos of New Earth. It’s a story of transition in every sense, told with tenderness and illustrated in a dreamy, pastel-drenched palette. This graphic novel might break your heart a little, but it stitches it back up with warmth, family, and acceptance.

Lunar Boy Graphic Novel
Photo: Harper Collins Publishers

Revolution Is Love

  • Title: Revolution Is Love: A Year of Black Trans Liberation

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

A visual manifesto of resistance and resilience, this photography book captures the pulse of Black trans activism in NYC. Through vivid, raw images and moving commentary, it documents a movement grounded in joy, community, and the unrelenting pursuit of liberation. A must-have for anyone who believes in the power of both protest and portraiture.

Revolution Is Love: A Year of Black Trans Liberation
Photo: Aperture

Holding Space

  • Title: Holding Space: Life and Love Through a Queer Lens

  • Author: Ryan Pfluger

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

A gorgeous collection of portraits showcasing queer, interracial couples in all their nuanced, tender glory. Ryan Pfluger’s photographs offer intimacy and depth, accompanied by personal stories that reflect the complexities of love, identity, and connection in today’s world. It’s a celebration of modern queer love that will make your heart swell and your coffee table instantly cooler.

Holding SpaceLife and Love Through a Queer Lens
Photo: PA Press

Save Yourself

Imagine a memoir that’s equal parts hilarious, awkward, and ferociously honest. Now add a bowl cut, an eye patch, and Catholic guilt, and you’ve got Esposito’s journey from wanna-be priest to queer comedy powerhouse. She skips the tragic tropes and instead gives us a coming-of-queer-age story packed with circus acts, period sex in Rome, and hard-won self-love. It’s messy, beautiful, and exactly what your inner weird kid needs.

Save Yourself
Photo: Grand Central Publishing

How We Fight for Our Lives

  • Title: How We Fight for Our Lives: A Memoir

  • Author: Saeed Jones

  • Buy It: Link to purchase

A searing, poetic memoir by one of the most important queer voices of our time. Saeed Jones’ coming-of-age story is filled with desire, grief, identity, and the sharp ache of growing up Black and gay in the American South. Every page is like a blade and a balm: haunting, beautiful, and unforgettable.

How We Fight for Our Lives
Photo: Simon & Schuster

Queer Lit Is Thriving, Now Go Fill Your Shelf!

Whether you’re baking your feelings, revisiting a queer take on classic literature, or confronting the realities of identity through poetry and memoir, LGBTQ+ books are thriving, necessary, and not going anywhere. Support these authors, gift these stories, and let them remind you: your story matters too.

Karin Ann Unveils Haunting Bowie Cover With ‘Heroes’ Produced by His Longtime Bandmembers

Andy Lalwani
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Karin Ann Unveils Haunting Bowie Cover With ‘Heroes’ Produced by His Longtime Bandmembers

Critically acclaimed Slovakian artist Karin Ann is back with a striking new single, and this time she’s paying tribute to one of music’s most iconic figures. Her haunting reinterpretation of David Bowie’s legendary song “Heroes” is out today on all major streaming platforms—ushering in what she describes as a “bold new chapter” in her ever-evolving artistic journey.

Produced by Bowie’s longtime collaborator Mark Plati, Karin’s version of “Heroes” is more than just a cover—it’s an homage. With contributions from members of Bowie’s original band, the track pulses with history, reverence, and Karin Ann’s own unmistakable voice. The release also arrives with a behind-the-scenes music video, capturing intimate moments from the studio sessions that brought this one-of-a-kind project to life.

A New Sound Rooted in Emotional Truth

Known for her fearless blend of genres and her commitment to storytelling, Karin Ann has built a name for herself through music that’s as thoughtful as it is boundary-pushing. Whether it’s brutalist folk or gothic disco-rock, her songs are anchored by themes that deeply resonate—mental health, queerness, identity, heartbreak, and defiance.

With “Heroes,” Karin departs from the purely original material she’s known for, but remains just as emotionally potent. Her version strips the track down, turning Bowie’s triumphant anthem into something more introspective and tender.

“Every song I choose or write has to have meaning,” she said in a statement. “I don’t believe in singing just for the sake of melody. It has to be a story I feel connected to, and ‘Heroes’ was that for me.”

A Star on the Rise

Karin Ann has spent the last few years establishing herself as one of Central Europe’s most fearless musical exports. In February, she released the emotionally charged duet “choking on my words” with Eurovision winner Duncan Laurence, a track praised for its vulnerability and sonic richness. The single followed her critically acclaimed debut album, through the telescope, released in 2024.

That album—spanning themes like gender equality, mental health, and the LGBTQ+ experience—was heralded as one of the most ambitious debuts in recent memory. NME called it “a confident and unflinching debut,” applauding its existential lyricism and genre-blending production.

With her new Bowie cover, Karin is doubling down on emotional storytelling while showcasing a deeper, more folk-driven sound. It’s not just a tribute to a musical hero—it’s a signpost for where she’s headed next.

From the Stage to the Screen

Karin’s creative ambitions don’t end with music. Her artistry stretches into film, television, and visual storytelling—mediums she blends with ease.

She made a memorable cameo as Maria in the critically acclaimed miniseries The Tattooist of Auschwitz, and has continued to produce cinematic music videos that feel like short films. Standouts include a two-part visual series for her singles “a stranger with my face” and “favorite star,” co-starring Ashley Moore and Olympian Gus Kenworthy. Directed by the acclaimed duo TUSK, the visuals were lauded for their emotional weight and won Best Music Video at the 2023 Top Shorts Film Festival.

In another standout collaboration, Karin partnered with iconic musician Imogen Heap for the bold and poetic video for “i don’t believe in God,” blending themes of existentialism and identity with arresting visuals.

A Voice for the LGBTQ+ Community

Karin Ann’s influence extends far beyond her music and visuals—especially within queer spaces. Open about her identity, she’s become a voice for young LGBTQ+ fans across Europe and beyond. Her work doesn’t simply represent queerness; it centers it with depth and care.

With songs that unpack toxic love, gender norms, and self-discovery, Karin offers more than visibility—she provides solidarity. Her concerts and videos are often described by fans as “safe spaces,” where queerness is not only welcomed, but celebrated.

That message continues to resonate in “Heroes.” In Karin’s hands, the song transforms into a queer anthem of quiet strength—a reminder that being a hero doesn’t always mean saving the world. Sometimes, it just means surviving another day, loving honestly, or simply being yourself in a world that doesn’t always make that easy.

As Karin Ann continues to evolve as a songwriter, performer, and actor, she remains rooted in the same core values: authenticity, vulnerability, and bold creative vision.

Later this year, fans can expect more original music that draws on her Central European and Middle Eastern heritage, incorporating traditional elements into her modern sound. These cultural touchstones deepen the emotional texture of her work, reinforcing her status as one of the most dynamic and genre-defying artists on the rise today.

Until then, “Heroes” stands as a poignant bridge between where she’s been and where she’s going—a fearless reinterpretation of a classic, filtered through the lens of a storyteller with something urgent to say.

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