Siena Popiel - Podcast Details

Shows

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe Outrage Machine and Selling a LifestyleWe hate to give Republican leadership credit, but they have knocked it out of the park with "loyalty via outrage." By exaggerating or even manufacturing threats, and packaging those threats with a conservative lifestyle brand, they ensure that their voters will show up - with heartbreaking consequences for the groups targeted by their outrage machine. 2025-07-2123 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThis Doesn't Have to be a ProblemAs the Trump administration and Supreme Court continue to set back LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, even some among the gay community are pointing their fingers at transgender people. If trans people would just stop demanding rights and acceptance and medical privacy, they say, there would be no backlash against gay people. We think this is misguided and, in the case of journalists and other high profile voices, downright irresponsible. Today Siena and Brian attack this topic in the context of a recent New York Times piece by Andrew Sullivan.2025-07-0736 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomSurvey Says: New research debunks anti-trans talking pointsA common argument by anti-trans activists is that regret is common among people who have received gender affirming care and/or transitioned. We love facts and data here at Queer Kid, Straight Mom, so we are excited to share the recently released results of the U.S. Transgender Survey. This huge survey, conducted by various trans groups and approved by the UCLA Institutional Review Board, not only shows that few trans people detransition, and the main reason they do so is because the people around them make it so hard to be trans.#queerkidstraightmom #queerpodcast #queerpodcaster #lgbtqpodcast...2025-06-2321 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomPride is a ProtestPride is colorful, sparkly, and fun. It was also born from a desperate struggle for acceptance, rights, and safety. 2025-06-0916 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomOMG, Look What Woke Thing Nike's Doing Now: Media Framing, Fox News, and MisinformationRight wing media has been abuzz with allegations that Nike is funding "trans experiments" on kids. This is a great example of media framing, a technique media outlets use to influence audience's beliefs and behavior about particular issues. Find out what the real story is, and how the allegation of the trans "agenda" is itself an agenda.2025-05-1934 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomRainbow Washing No MoreNow that right wing backlash and the Trump administration have made this country a much more hostile place for LGBTQ+ people and their supporters, some brands are stepping away from their Pride sponsorships and DEI commitments. We'll walk you through who's fleeing and who's staying.2025-05-0515 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomHunger Games: The Capital, Queerness, and How to Not Be J.K. RowlingQueerness in the Hunger Games series: it's subtle, and, early on, evoked in ways we don't think Suzanne Collins intended. We dig in to those early representations, plus what has changed in the two latest novels.2025-04-2132 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomRebuilding Together: Ally Activism and the Importance of Queer VoicesAs the Democrats regroup and strategize for the future, they all - from party leaders to concerned community members - need to remember to include marginalized groups in the conversation. In this episode, we talk to Trudy Poux and Sam Smalls from the Future Perfect Project about the concerns of young queer people and how allies can best help them and bring their voices to every room.2025-04-0751 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomLegislative UpdateA look at some of the anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that's out there: what has passed, what has been voted down, and what's still on the table.2025-03-2423 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe award goes to...A movie about Cardinals electing a new Pope and a movie musical about a transgender cartel boss... which would you guess represents gender diversity in a more dignified and authentic way? Here are our reviews of Conclave and Emilia Perez.2025-03-1031 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomMake It Make Sense!Let's talk about these anti-trans executive orders - what do they actually say, and what do they mean legally for trans people? 2025-02-2435 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomSocial Media and the Queer Community: The Benefits and the RisksWith the recent drama over Tik Tok, we decided it's time to talk about social media and how, while it can come with risks to our safety - and maybe our democracy - it remains a place of alliance and belonging for the queer community.2025-02-0327 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWhen Love Feels Conditional: How to Deal with Unsupportive Family Members, feat. guest Dr. Michele McKinnie, PsyDHoliday family gatherings can leave LGBTQ+ people reeling from interactions ranging from uncomfortable to fully traumatic. We talk to psychologist Dr. Michele McKinnie about how to recover from these interactions, and how to navigate these kinds of family dynamics in the future.2025-01-2035 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomDefying Gravity and More: Why "Wicked" is a Queer FavoriteSiena says. "Gay people love 'Wicked.'" Sure, the film has singing, dancing, and an LGBTQ+ representative cast, but its resonance with and meaning to the queer community go much deeper.2024-12-2330 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomOkay... WAS it the Anti-Trans Ads?A couple of episodes ago, we discussed how ridiculous it was for Republicans to pour so much money into anti-trans campaign ads when it was such an unpopular issue. Now some say Democrats should have distanced themselves from transgender issues because those ads WERE successful. Is this true? Did those ads make a difference?2024-12-0956 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomGender Affirming Care, ActuallyGender affirming care is widely mischaracterized, often as a scare tactic. We think it's important that people know what it really involves, especially concerning young people. Siena shares some of their journey with hormone treatment as we encourage our listeners to learn, understand, and discourage others from spreading misinformation.2024-11-2531 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomNo One is ApoliticalEven if you say you don't care about politics, a lot of what you do affects and is influenced by the political system. And when you don't vote, or you refuse to endorse a candidate, because you're "not politcal," that is a political choice. Here's why.2024-11-1133 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomElection 2024: What's Up with the Anti-Trans Attack Ads?The Republican party has gone all in on anti-trans advertising this campaign season. Why have they chosen this issue, and why do they think it will work this time around?2024-10-2829 min $I\'m Feeling Queer Today!$ I'm Feeling Queer Today!Election 2024 with the "Queer Kid, Straight Mom" podcastIn this bonus episode, Siena Popiel and Sarah Jones-Popiel from the Queer Kid, Straight Mom podcast join us to talk politics. Hosted by Samuel Smalls Jr. and Trudy Poux, this episode covers our upcoming presidential election in the United States, how political views are shaped by our identity, and feelings that can come up around voting. CONTENT AND WARNINGS:⚠️Please expect to hear “queer” used as an identity term throughout this episode & series. ⚠️🇺🇸Additionally, expect to hear discussions of current events (including the U.S’s 2024 presidential election) and brief mentions of racism, xenophobia...2024-10-2422 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomAgatha All Along: How Marvel Got This One Right, and Why Conservatives Hate ItThe previews intrigued us, but we also had to watch Agatha All Along because conservative media deemed it inappropriate (often an indicator of something fresh, diverse, and creative.) We found that while this show is not perfect, it's highly entertaining and the best work we've seen from Marvel in a long time - so here's our analysis!2024-10-1437 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWe've Created a MonsterHorror movies have long carried ties with the queer community, as early filmmakers used monsters to embody the isolation and fear that exist when living outside society's norms.2024-09-2353 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWhy you should care about LGBTQ+ rights even if you don't care about LGBTQ+ rightsSpoiler alert: LGBTQ+ people, especially young people, are strikingly overrepresented in at-risk populations. Today we look at three problems we can all agree need solutions - homelessness, substance abuse, and human trafficking - and explain why, if you care about these issues, you should care about LGBTQ+ rights.2024-09-1028 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomRefuge: Which countries are safest for LGBTQ+ people?Some countries (mostly European) are not only more accepting of LGBTQ people socially, but have robust laws protecting their rights. Others, not so much. We break down some of the best and worst, and discuss the complications of measuring queer friendliness.2024-08-1929 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe Games We Play: The Summer Olympics, LGTBQ+ athletes, and the inevitable gender controversyThe 2024 Summer Olympics feature some uplifting and inspiring storylines involving LGBTQ+ athletes. Sadly, they've also become a hotbed focus for some of the world's most discouraging anti-LGBTQ+ storylines - and we're not even talking about the Opening Ceremony here.2024-08-0531 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWe Are Not Confused: Autism and Gender DiversityMultiple studies have indicated that autistic people are more likely to have gender diversity than the neurodivergent population. Why does this link exist, and what does it mean (hint: it doesn't mean autistic people are confused and being exploited.)2024-07-2221 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomA Myth of ViolenceNo - there is not an "epidemic" of shootings by transgender people, but some sources spread this myth far and wide. These accusations are not only dangerous to transgender people; they are based on no real data. Let's talk about the real statistics and facts.2024-07-0923 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomDoes less pride month marketing mean less support?As LGBTQ+ people experience increased attacks and businesses face boycotts over supporting them, Pride Month has taken a lower key presence in marketing campaigns. Is this fine - since pride campaigns don't always come with actual support - or does it indicate a backslide in willingness to vocally support the LGBTQ+ community?2024-06-2418 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomPinkwashing and the War in GazaWhat is pinkwashing, and what does it have to do with war? Gaza is a difficult topic, but we think it's important to talk about this phenomena as it relates to the situation in the Middle East.2024-06-1042 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWhy are the kids all queer?The proportion of Gen Z identifying as LGBTQ+ is higher than any previous generation. Are more young people identifying as queer because it's a fad - or because they're being indoctrinated by schools with rainbow flags? We think there are other causes.2024-05-2730 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomFan Culture and What it Means to the LGBTQ+ CommunityFan culture is an important part of the LGBTQ+ community. Today we sit down for a quick primer on what fan culture is, why it's important, and some of the key terminology -- plus discuss its value for the storytelling industry and culture at large.2024-05-0633 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomChosen NamesWe discuss some ideas for how kids can ask families to use chosen names, and provide some perspective to help parents navigate these requests.2024-04-2227 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomBut make it gayOur first edition of Make it Gay, a game where we imagine queer storylines in existing media. Today we take on some of the best movies of the last 15 years.2024-04-0942 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWhy real feminists support trans rights.Women's rights are human rights. So are trans rights. Here's why feminism shouldn't be an excuse to harm transgender women.2024-03-2630 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomOpinion v. Fact: dissecting a NYT OpEd with Journalist Erin ReedIn February, the New York Times published a piece by opinion columnist Pamela Paul called As Kids, They Thought They Were Trans. They No Longer Do. Today, independent journalist Erin Reed helps us explain why this column is so misleading and problematic.2024-03-1154 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomMentors and AlliesToday we’re talking about mentoring relationships, why they’re particularly helpful to LGBTQ+ youth, and in turn why it’s particularly harmful when LGBTQ+ kids experience homophobia or rejection within a mentoring relationship.2024-02-2629 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomKings, Queens, and In-Betweens: A History of DragWe talk about the history of drag, some colorful characters who have stood out along the way, and the role that drag has played and continues to play as a social commentary and form of activism.2024-02-1237 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomRoot Yourself in Love: A Chat with Representative Zooey ZephyrMontana State Representative Zooey Zephyr joins us to discuss supporting LGBTQ+ youth, her political priorities, and how she has stayed centered through the past year's anti-trans legislation and her recent media attention.2024-01-2930 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomSelf Expression and Fighting Words: How Different Ideas of Free Speech Affect the LGBTQ+ Community"It's my First Amendment right to express my beliefs!" But what actually ARE First Amendment rights when it comes to self-expression, discrimination, and religious freedom? We dive into some legal definitions and scenarios as we explore what the First Amendment does and doesn't protect when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights.2024-01-1525 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomMake the Yuletide Gay... Just Do it BetterWe wanted to see what the world of gay holiday movies has to offer... and we found it somewhat lacking.2023-12-1139 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomFor the Holiday Table: Responses to Common MisconceptionsHoliday gatherings often find us surrounded by family members and old friends who don't see the world the way we do - and that can mean enduring hurtful or offensive comments. While we don't encourage causing big family fights, it is important for your mental and emotional health - as well as for the greater cause of stopping the spread of misinformation - to speak up. Here we provide some factual responses to some common misconceptions, as well as some ideas for tactful delivery.2023-11-2727 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomNon-Binary: the what, the how, the theyGenders outside of male and female have existed throughout history in cultures all over the world, but the concept is little known and often misunderstood in our culture. Siena explains what it means to be non-binary, what that identity means to them, and some of the challenges they face.2023-11-1342 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomSpooky season story time: The Striding Place🎃Enjoy a spooky story and test the waters of our new Patreon offering of literary readings and discussion!2023-10-3020 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe Kids Are AlrightDignity and determination reign large among LGBTQ+ young people, especially on college campuses around the country. Today we chat with two members of college student groups about what it's like to be an LGBTQ+ college student these days, what kind of environments and protections their schools provide, and how parents and college administrations can be good allies.2023-10-1645 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomWink and You'll Miss It: Queer Representation in the Marvel Cinematic UniverseAlthough there are some great queer characters in Marvel comics, on-screen depictions have been lacking in their portrayals. Who are some of the great queer Marvel characters, and why is Disney so reluctant to go all-in on their stories? Trigger Warning: suicide, homophobia, transphobia 2023-08-2839 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomPlaying it Queer: Should straight cis actors play queer roles?Acting is always playing someone else, but when do actors cross the line into playing roles they don't really have a right to play? We cover a little LGBTQ+ media history, as well the opinions of some film personalities themselves, while discussing whether it's okay for straight or cisgender actors to play queer roles.2023-07-3137 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomNo Happy Endings: Queer Trauma in Period FilmsWe all know the formula: LGBTQ+ characters in period cinema live out a slow-speed tragedy, often inflicting pain on those who love them. Today, we discuss a handful of LGBTQ+ period pieces and dissect the accuracy and impact of their depictions.2023-07-1850 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe Hate Sessions: The year of anti-LGBTQ+ legislationThis legislative season has seen LGBTQ+ people, particularly kids, under unprecedented attack. We discuss some of these bills and try to find hope in the activism they have inspired.2023-07-0328 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe Right has it Wrong about Protecting our KidsThe recent attacks on Target and GSLEN show massive bigotry under the guise of "protecting kids." In this episode, we'll break down some of the REAL threats to kids' safety and explain why they have nothing to do with rainbow onesies or incusive lesson plans.2023-06-1928 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomAce and AroAsexuality and aromanticism are real, but constantly met with skepticism. On this episode, we talk to our guest, Becca Mellema, about her experiences as ace/aro, representation in media, and her complicated relationship with the queer community.2023-06-0558 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomProtest and Prejudice: The Roots of PridePride is a big celebration these days - and big business. We discuss the first Pride parades (they were marches), what Pride celebrations mean today, and how the LGBTQ and ally communities can stay in touch with the movement's roots.2023-05-2229 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomJust the Facts: What You Need to Know About Gender Affirming CareA Conversation with Dr. Kathryn Lowe 2023-05-0851 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe tea on LGBTQ+ slangFriend of Dorothy. Gaypanic. Enby. U-hauling. Every subculture has its own unique way of speaking, and the communities under the LGBTQ+ umbrella are no different. We'll explore this language, from the secret phrases gay people used to protect themselves in the past to the terms that bond friends in the present.2023-04-2530 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe Wannabe King and the Mouse in His WayDisney vs. DeSantis: is it a marketing ploy, a power struggle between middle aged men, a real attempt to champion human rights - or all of the above?2023-04-1133 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomJust Put a Rainbow On it: The corporate charade of Pride marketingJust about everyone has a line of rainbow gear for Pride Month nowadays. Which brands truly support and advocate for the LGBTQ community, and which are just taking advantage of a marketing oppportunity?2023-03-2730 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomJ.K. Rowling is up to no goodSo many of us have deeply loved the Harry Potter series - whether we grew up reading them or discovered them as adults - but have found the books' message of love and acceptance challenged by their author's transphobic remarks. What do we do with all this contradiction?2023-03-1429 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomRainbow Reading: Books we recommend for LGBTQ+ kidsIt's hard to know what books have good represenation and are age appropriate - especially when rampant book bans suggest that ALL books with LGBTQ+ characters are obsene. Here are some thoughts on the bans, and some recommendations for kids and parents.2023-02-2729 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomQueer is HereWe break down what it means to own the word queer, why and when it's okay to use it, and why some people find it upsetting.2023-02-1332 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomBest LGBTQ+ TV Shows of 2022: Our Top 5We summarize and rank five LGBTQ+ shows that debuted in 2022.2023-01-3047 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomThe PronounsEven Merriam-Webster is on board! Can we middle aged parents break free from our grammar education and embrace the they/them?2023-01-0931 min

Queer Kid, Straight Mom"We Belong in these Rooms": A conversation with Zooey ZephyrJoin us as we get to know Zooey Zephyr, representative-elect to the Montana State House and soon to be the first transgender woman to hold public office in Montana!2022-12-2633 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomHoliday Survival GuideHome for the holidays isn't so idyllic when you're LGBTQ+ and your family isn't accepting. Here are our thoughts about that, including some helpful tips and resources.2022-12-1325 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomElection 2022: TakeawaysThe 2022 election saw record numbers of LGBTQ+ candidates and some groundbreaking victories. What does it all mean?2022-11-2817 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomTrailerWelcome to Queer Kid, Straight Mom!2022-11-2201 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomBury Your Gays: Queer Coding in Horror Movies, Part 2Nothing terrifies polite society so much as someone who is different. Horror movies have always blurred the lines between monster and misfit, unnatural and non-conforming. Join us on this journey through decades of horror films as we decode filmmakers' queer messaging and the human fear of otherness.2022-11-1434 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomBury Your Gays: Queer Coding in Horror Movies, Part 1Nothing terrifies polite society so much as someone who is different. Horror movies have always blurred the lines between monster and misfit, unnatural and non-conforming. Join us on this journey through decades of horror films as we decode filmmakers' queer messaging and the human fear of otherness.2022-10-3126 min

Queer Kid, Straight MomQueer Baiting: What It Is, What It's Not, and Why It MattersEver heard the term "queer baiting?" We're breaking down where the term originated, the ways it's misused, and how even the most open-minded of us fall into the trap of letting our assumptions shape our expectations.2022-10-1825 min