In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Rico Jacob Chace, one of the UK’s most visible trans voices, award-nominated activist, and filmmaker, for a powerful conversation about trans rights, intersectionality, and the importance of joy in queer life.
Rico shares how his early life shaped his stubborn self-belief, why embracing his authentic identity at 25 changed everything, and the journey from a trading floor career to the front lines of activism. He opens up about navigating the world as a Black trans man, the impact of recent UK legal rulings, and the daily realities of public advocacy.
From creating safe spaces and building community to finding laughter in friendship and hope in the next generation of activists, this episode is both unflinchingly honest and deeply uplifting.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rico Jacob Chase
04:15 Queer Panic
07:13 Influential Queer Media and Its Impact
10:08 Childhood Experiences and Identity Formation
13:05 Navigating Queerness and Authenticity
16:12 Activism and Community Engagement
19:05 Intersectionality: Being Black and Trans
22:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance
30:12 Navigating Identity and Privilege
34:00 The Impact of Recent Legal Changes
39:09 Political Tactics and Community Response
43:27 Understanding the Trans Experience
47:58 Finding Joy and Community
53:42 Advice for the Younger Generation
Connect with Ben Cicchetti:
Website - https://www.queertalker.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
Resources Mentioned:
We Create Space - https://www.wecreatespace.co
Non-Binary Barrister - https://www.instagram.com/nonbinarybarrister/
Trans Legal Clinic - https://www.translegalclinic.com
Not a Phase - https://notaphase.org
Gay’s The Word - https://www.gaystheword.co.uk
Trans+ Solidarity Alliance - https://www.transsolidarityalliance.com
