Shows
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveEmpathy Fatigue 101: Why Caring is Hard AFAre you feeling totally tapped out lately? Like you want to care, but your emotional tank is just…empty? In this episode of HOT AIR, we dive into empathy fatigue – what it is, why it’s hitting so many of us hard right now, and the surprising science behind why caring can actually burn you out. We’ll break down the difference between empathy fatigue, compassion fatigue, and straight-up burnout, and give you practical ways to refill your cup without becoming a numb robot.Tune in if you’re tired AF, empathy fatigued AF, or jus...2025-07-1113 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveNoelle Carney Campbell: Activisim, Pride & Going ViralWhat makes someone stand up and speak out?In this episode of HOT AIR, [Your Name] sits down with Noelle Carney Campbell, the teacher, activist, and everyday hero behind the viral Instagram reel confronting Mike Munsing and the city council’s proposed Pride flag ban.Noelle shares how she first found out about the city council meeting, what pushed her to step up to the podium, and how it felt when her passionate speech spread across the internet. She opens up about what drives her activism, how she balances her work as an ed...2025-07-0856 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveThe 4th Of July: Freedom For Who? - MinisodeThis Fourth of July, HOT FLASH isn’t just lighting fireworks – we’re lighting up the truth. In this explosive episode, Josh dives into what freedom really looks like in America today. From deportations and LGBTQ+ rights rollbacks to reproductive rights restrictions, we’re asking the hard question: Who is Independence Day actually for?We break down recent protests like the NO KINGS rallies and Hands Off March, highlight powerful activists fighting for real American freedom, and unpack how current policies go against the Constitution’s promises of liberty and justice for all.🎧 In this episode...2025-07-0414 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveGrowing Up Gay: Why Our Lives Start LaterWhy do so many LGBTQ+ people feel like life starts late?In this powerful Pride Month finale of HOT AIR, host Josh shares his coming out story and dives deep into what it’s really like growing up gay. From hiding our true selves as kids, to delayed dating and first love experiences, to the discrimination and microaggressions we face every day – this episode explores why queer people often feel behind in life and relationships.You’ll hear:A raw coming out storyThe impact of growing up in the closetHow dating is different for LGBTQ+...2025-07-0129 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveThe Pride Flag: History, Meaning & Hate - MinisodeWhy are so many people offended by the rainbow pride flag?In this episode of HOT AIR, we dive deep into the history of the rainbow pride flag, uncovering how Gilbert Baker created this powerful LGBTQ+ symbol in 1978, what each original color meant, and how it became a global icon of pride, love, and inclusion.But while the pride flag represents hope and unity, it continues to face backlash. We explore why some groups are so threatened by the rainbow flag, how it’s been labeled “political,” and the hypocr...2025-06-2713 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveAIDS, Trans Bans & Suicide Hotline Cuts: History RepeatsThey let us die then — and they’re letting us die now. In this powerful episode of HOT AIR, host Joshua Robert draws a chilling line from the government’s silence during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s to today’s deliberate defunding of LGBTQ+ resources — from the shutdown of the 988 suicide hotline’s queer-specific support to attacks on HIV care, trans healthcare bans, and the erasure of LGBTQ+ youth in schools.With hard facts, historical context, and fiery commentary, this episode breaks down how the playbook hasn’t changed — only the headlines have. It’s a must-list...2025-06-2420 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveMarsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera: Fight for LGBTQ+ Liberation - MinisodeIn this powerful and unfiltered episode of Hot Flash, we dive deep into the true story of Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera — two legendary transgender activists and queer revolutionaries who helped ignite the Stonewall Riots and launched the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.Often erased from mainstream narratives, Marsha and Sylvia were trans women of color, sex workers, and street queens who risked everything for freedom, visibility, and justice. From founding STAR (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries) to caring for unhoused LGBTQ+ youth, their le...2025-06-2009 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveObergefell V. Hodges - Love Wins & Marriage EqualityWhat if your marriage wasn’t legally recognized—just because you were gay? In this powerful episode of HOT AIR, we dive deep into the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 decision that made same-sex marriage legal across all 50 states in the U.S.You’ll learn:The true story behind Jim Obergefell and his fight for dignity, love, and equality after the death of his husbandWhy this case became the civil rights battle of a generationHow the Supreme Court ruled on marr...2025-06-1717 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveGlobally Gay: Countries That Supported LGBTQ+ Rights Before The U.S. - MinisodeDid you know the U.S. wasn’t even close to the first country to legalize same-sex marriage? In this eye-opening episode of HOT AIR, we take you on a whirlwind tour of countries that have been embracing LGBTQ+ equality long before America caught up. 🌈✈️From The Netherlands (the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001) to Argentina, Canada, South Africa, Malta, and beyond—this episode breaks down the wins, the laws, and the vibes of nations where being queer isn’t a culture war, it’s a celebr...2025-06-1311 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveThe Fight for LGBTQ+ Equality with Attorney MarioIn this powerful episode of Hot Air, we dive headfirst into the modern-day fight for LGBTQ+ rights in America. From the ongoing battle over marriage equality and the rollback of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs, to the urgent need for continued HIV/AIDS research funding and the escalating attacks on trans rights, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who cares about justice and equality.Joining me is my brilliant friend and legal expert, Attorney Mario, who breaks down the legal landscape with clarity, context, and...2025-06-1047 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveHarvey Milk: A Gay Rights Hero - MinisodeIn this special Pride Month pocket-sized episode of HOT AIR - HOT FLASH, we’re spotlighting a true LGBTQ+ icon: Harvey Milk. As the first openly gay elected official in California, Harvey didn’t just make history—he changed it. From breaking barriers in politics to boldly fighting for queer rights in a time of brutal opposition, this minisode dives into what made him a trailblazing hero, a fearless advocate, and a name we still shout with pride.✨ If you’ve ever wondered why Harvey Milk is still such a big deal—or if you just...2025-06-0611 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveThe Stonewall Riots - Where The Modern LGBTQ+ Fight For Equality BeganIn this powerful Pride Month episode of Hot Air, we’re going all the way back to where the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement began: the Stonewall Riots.We’re diving into the history they didn’t teach you in school — from the oppressive anti-gay laws of the 1960s, to the mafia-owned bars, to the police brutality that pushed our queer elders to say “no more.” Learn about the drag queens, trans women of color, lesbians, and queer youth who sparked a revolution — and why this moment became the flashpoint.You’ll walk away knowing: 🔥...2025-06-0319 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveDopamine, Cortisol, Serotonin - Wellness Buzzwords or Real Science?Are we being misled by brain chemical buzzwords? In this eye-opening episode of Hot Air, host Joshua Robert sits down with nutrition expert Aram Grigorian to unpack the myths behind dopamine, cortisol, and serotonin—the so-called "happy hormones" flooding your social media feed.From “dopamine detoxes” to “cortisol hacks,” we dive into how wellness influencers and brands use scientific-sounding terms to sell quick fixes and fad diets. Aram breaks down what these chemicals really do in your body, why most of what you see online is misleading, and how to focus on sustain...2025-05-2758 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveUnpacking Internalized Homophobia - Where It Starts and How to Stop ItWhy do so many queer people still struggle with self-acceptance—even after coming out? In this episode of Hot Air, we dive deep into internalized homophobia—what it is, how it shows up in our daily lives, and why it still impacts so many in the LGBTQ+ community.We kick things off with a viral pop culture moment: a photo of 18 white, shirtless, hyper-masculine gay men that recently blew up on social media. The image sparked fierce debate about representation, body image, and the muscle gaze—and reveal...2025-05-2029 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveLGBTQ+ Allyship Revisited - Speaking Your Truth with Jessica ThompsonIn this powerful follow-up to our debut episode, I sit down with my friend and ally Jessica to unpack the intense (and sometimes surprising) reactions I received after sharing my truth in Episode One. Together, we dive into the importance of LGBTQ+ allyship, how to handle negative feedback when speaking authentically, and the emotional toll and growth that comes with putting yourself out there.We talk candidly about what it means to process public responses—both the supportive and the critical—and how I’m choosing to move forward with clarity, confidence, and community.If you’ve...2025-05-1344 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveHabits 101 - Recognize, Replace & ReprogramAre your habits holding you back? This week on HOT AIR, we’re diving deep into the psychology of bad habits—what they really are, how they’re formed, and how you can finally break the cycle.From mindless scrolling to emotional spirals, we’ll help you recognize the unconscious patterns that are running your life. You’ll learn how habits are wired in the brain, the difference between good and bad habits, and the science-backed steps to rewire your mind for real, lasting change.If you’ve ever said, “I know this isn’...2025-05-0625 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveFlex Your Confidence - Fitness, Self-Love & Growth with Stephania OchsReady to build more than just a six-pack? This week on HOT AIR, we’re flexing our confidence muscles as we dive into the world of fitness and self-love. Whether you're just starting your fitness journey, trying to get back on track, or looking for ways to be kinder to yourself, this episode is your reminder that growth isn't about perfection—it's about showing up, no matter the missteps.I’m joined by Stephania Ochs, a health and wellness professional who drops truth bombs...2025-04-2959 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern Love5 Dating Rules You Should NEVER Follow (And What Actually Works)Tired of dating advice that makes you cringe—or worse, makes you question your worth? Same. This week on HOT AIR, we’re calling out 5 of the worst dating tips you’ve probably heard (or even followed), and trust me… it’s time to toss them in the trash.I’m breaking down:💔 The outdated, toxic, or just plain confusing advice that keeps dating messy!🔄 How these myths have shown up in real life—and why they don’t work💡 What to do instead: realistic, empowering advice that he...2025-04-2236 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveDating Anxiety & the Limerence Spiral with Brittany WitcowickiObsessed with someone you just started dating? There’s a word for that: Limerence—and this week on HOT AIR, we’re getting into it. I’m joined by my hilarious and insightful friend Brittany for a raw, real, and totally chaotic deep dive into my latest dating disaster (spoiler: it’s a wild one).We unpack the emotional spiral that is limerence—that obsessive, all-consuming crush energy that makes you lose sleep, question your sanity, and check your phone 87 times a day.Plus: we ope...2025-04-1537 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern Love3 Therapy Truths You Need: Habits, Boundaries & Rewriting AnxietyStruggling with toxic habits, poor boundaries, or anxious spirals? Same. This week on HOT AIR, I’m sharing 3 powerful therapy lessons that completely changed how I show up—for myself, my relationships, and my peace of mind.We’re breaking down: 💥 How naming your toxic habits gives you the power to shut them down 🔒 What boundaries really are (hint: they’re not about control—they’re about self-respect) ⚡ And that “nervous” feeling? It might just be excitement in disguiseIf you've ever:Overthought a t...2025-04-0826 min
HOT AIR: Queer Life, Mental Health & Modern LoveWhat Is LGBTQ+ Allyship?Being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community isn’t just about rainbow flags in June—it’s about showing up, speaking up, and doing the work year-round. In this episode of HOT AIR, we’re getting real about what authentic allyship actually looks like… especially for the straight folks who want to help but aren’t always sure how.I’m diving into personal stories about navigating these convos with my own family and friends—those awkward, eye-opening, and sometimes emotional moments that proved love is a start, but understanding is everything2025-03-3138 min