Pride Month Special: Celebrating Queer Nature with Nova West
This Pride Month, we’re joined by Nova West (they/them), a National Geographic Explorer, underwater cinematographer, and visual storyteller exploring the connection between queerness and the natural world.
In this episode, Nova shares how their work in wildlife media and deep sea exploration has helped challenge the harmful idea that queerness is “unnatural.” From documented queer behavior in over 1,500 species to the importance of authentic representation both behind and in front of the camera, this conversation dives into the beauty, complexity, and diversity already present in nature.
We also talk about identity, storytelling, visibility, and the power of creating spaces where LGBTQ+ people can fully be themselves — outdoors and beyond.
This episode is a reminder that queer people have always belonged in nature because queerness has always existed in nature.
In This Episode
About Nova West
Nova West (they/them) is a National Geographic Explorer, cinematographer, photographer, and creative focused on telling stories at the intersection of wildlife, science, identity, and conservation. Their work explores how representation can reshape the way we understand both nature and ourselves.
Resources & Links
Breck Pride Events with LGBTQ Outdoors
We also highlight a few upcoming Pride events happening in Breckenridge, Colorado in partnership with LGBTQ Outdoors:
Connect with LGBTQ Outdoors
Website: LGBTQOutdoors.com
Instagram: @lgbtqoutdoors
If this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with a friend, leaving a review, or supporting LGBTQ Outdoors by helping us continue creating inclusive outdoor spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Happy Pride Month, and remember: you belong outside.
Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society.
To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.
