The Braveyard Podcast

Episode 12 - Chloe Veitch (Too Hot To... Have Impostor Syndrome?)

THE BRAVEYARD PODCAST: SEASON 1 FINALE WITH CHLOE VEITCH EPISODE DETAILS: * Host: Courtnei Lee * Guest: Chloe Veitch * Duration: 55 minutes * Sponsors: Gamer Tech EPISODE SUMMARY: In this captivating season finale of the Braveyard podcast, host Courtnei Lee engages in a heartfelt conversation with the dynamic Chloe Veitch. They explore themes of authenticity, self-acceptance, and the journey to personal and professional success. Chloe opens up about her experiences, including her public coming out as bisexual, the launch of her new subscription website, and her exciting upcoming projects. KEY DISCUSSION POINTS: Embracing Authenticity and Individuality: * Courtnei praises Chloe for her ability to make others feel valid in their uniqueness and inner chaos. * Chloe shares her journey of coming out as bisexual, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and its impact on others. Personal Transformation and Acceptance: * Courtnei relates her experience of transitioning and the liberation she felt when she finally accepted herself. * Chloe discusses the importance of self-love and patience, encouraging listeners to embrace their identities without guilt or shame. Navigating Social Media and Personal Expression: * Chloe introduces her new subscription platform, FanFix, which offers fans a more personal and unrestricted connection with her. * Courtnei talks about balancing professionalism with personal expression, highlighting her decision to get a neck tattoo as a symbol of breaking free from societal expectations. Exciting Future Ventures: * Chloe teases upcoming projects, including a top-secret show with a major network and other endeavors she’s been working on for years. * She emphasizes the importance of focusing on genuine success rather than just appearing successful on social media. Support and Advice for the Queer Community: * Chloe and Courtnei offer words of encouragement to young queer individuals struggling with mental health or societal pressures. * They stress the value of finding supportive communities and allowing personal growth to happen naturally. MEMORABLE QUOTES: * Courtnei Lee: "There's something about you that just really, it just screams, it's okay to be you and to be beautiful and be valid and be heard." * Chloe Veitch: "Fuck society, be you. When it happens, it will happen naturally. Do not put a label on anything and just do it." UPCOMING CONTENT: * A special bonus episode featuring the newest winner of Netflix's The Circle, Brandon Baker is coming soon. SPONSOR: * Gamer Tech: Don’t forget to check out their social media for your chance to win a custom PC. @gamertechtoronto or Gamertech.ca Key Moments: Introduction (00:00 - 00:01:23) - Courtnei Lee introduces the podcast and expresses gratitude for the guests. Discussion on Self-Work and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (00:01:24 - 00:14:34) - Chloe Veitch shares her experience of doing self-work and overcoming imposter syndrome. - They discuss the importance of moving forward positively and not dwelling on past experiences. - Chloe talks about the inspiration she finds in difficult situations and the lessons she learns from them. Relationships and Personal Growth (00:14:35 - 00:31:21) - Courtnei and Chloe discuss their personal journeys, including their relationships and personal growth. - They reflect on moments of gratitude and realization in their lives. - Chloe shares her experience of coming out as bisexual and the impact it had on her. Discussion on Sobriety and Mental Health (00:31:22 - 00:41:43) - Chloe and Courtnei talk about their experiences with sobriety and its positive impact on their mental health. - They discuss the challenges of overcoming addiction and the importance of seeking help. Embracing Authenticity and Future Plans (00:41:44 - 00:53:00) - Chloe emphasizes the importance of embracing authenticity and being true to oneself. - They discuss Chloe's new subscription website, FanFix, and her upcoming projects. - Chloe offers advice to young queer individuals struggling with their identity and mental health. Conclusion (00:53:01 - 00:55:00) - Courtnei wraps up the episode, expressing gratitude for the guests and the experience. - She encourages listeners to stay true to themselves and find inspiration in the stories shared on the podcast.

Episode 11 - Brock McGillis (Breaking The Ice With Queers & Hockey)

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and enlightening episode of The Braveyard, host Courtnei Lee is joined by the trailblazing Brock McGillis, a former professional hockey player and LGBTQ+ advocate. Together, they dive deep into Brock’s journey of coming out, the challenges faced by queer athletes in sports, and the transformative power of self-acceptance and love. Key Discussion Points: - **Personal Journey and Coming Out:** - Brock shares his experience of coming out after his first relationship and the impact it had on his life and career. - The serendipitous reunion with his first love after a decade and how they have become good friends. - **Challenges in Sports:** - The harsh realities of being a queer athlete in a predominantly conservative and homophobic sports environment. - Courtnei and Brock discuss the pressures and fears that keep many athletes from coming out, including the potential career repercussions and personal safety concerns. - **Visibility and Advocacy:** - The importance of visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals in sports and how it can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. - Brock’s advocacy work and his mission to create safer spaces for queer athletes. - **Personal Reflections:** - Courtnei’s own experience with a high-profile relationship and the fear of negative media attention. - The importance of self-love and acceptance, and the role these play in overcoming societal pressures. - **Cultural Shifts and Future Hopes:** - The need for a cultural shift in sports to ensure all athletes, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feel welcomed and supported. - Brock and Courtnei’s hope for a future where queer relationships and identities are normalized and celebrated in all sports. Memorable Quotes: - “The only one that can accept me is me. Because acceptance from others creates a hierarchy that they're above you, and that's bullshit. We're all equal.” – Brock McGillis - “The whole conversation is based around love. And it's the fact that we're trying to discredit people's life away from love, whether that's loving themselves or loving a partner, is messed up.” – Courtnei Lee If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media @courtneilee for updates and more inspiring stories. Tune in next week for our season finale with the stunning Chloe Veitch, and thank you for joining us in "The Braveyard" where bravery is celebrated, one story at a time.

Episode 10 - Victoria Pelletier (Corporate Queer Leaders)

Victoria Pelletier Introduction: * Courtnei Lee welcomes listeners to another episode of The BraveYard. * She expresses gratitude for Victoria Pelletier joining her on the show. * Briefly introduces the topics covered in the episode. Conversation Highlights: * Victoria shares her journey with her ex-partners cancer diagnosis and making difficult decisions. * The discussion delves into the guilt and challenges Victoria experienced in her personal life, particularly concerning her children and relationships. * Courtnei and Victoria discuss the complexities of identity, including Victoria's experience of being judged for not feeling "queer enough" after entering a hetero relationship. * They explore internalized transphobia, passing privilege, and the importance of creating safe spaces for oneself. * Victoria opens up about her son Jordan's trans journey and the support she offers him. * The conversation touches on advocacy, leadership, and personal branding, with Victoria sharing insights from her upcoming books. Upcoming Episodes Teaser: * Courtnei previews the next episode featuring Brock McGillis, the first out professional hockey player, discussing LGBTQ+ sports and advocacy. Conclusion: * Courtnei expresses gratitude to Victoria for her insights and friendship. * She encourages listeners to stay tuned for future episodes and thanks them for tuning in to The Brave Yard. Closing: * Courtnei Lee signs off as the host of The BraveYard.

Episode 9 - Kyne (Math doesn't have to be a Drag!)

Description: In this episode of the Braveyard podcast, host Courtnei Lee engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kyne, a drag educator and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Together, they delve into topics such as personal transformation through makeup, the importance of living authentically, and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in today's political climate. Kyne shares their experiences and insights, offering inspiration and empowerment to listeners. Join us as we explore themes of resilience, representation, and activism in this enlightening episode. Show Notes: * Introduction: * Host Courtnei Lee introduces the episode and welcomes listeners to the Braveyard podcast. * Teaser of the upcoming conversation with Kyne, a drag educator and LGBTQ+ advocate. * Discussion Highlights: * Transformation Through Makeup: * Kyne reflects on their journey of self-discovery and the role of makeup in expressing their true identity. * They share how makeup became a tool for empowerment and confidence, enabling them to feel comfortable in their own skin. * Living Authentically: * Kyne discusses the challenges of embracing authenticity, including overcoming self-doubt and societal pressures. * They emphasize the importance of being true to oneself and finding strength in vulnerability. * Political Climate and LGBTQ+ Rights: * Kyne and Courtnei explore the current political landscape and its impact on the LGBTQ+ community. * They discuss the need for advocacy and solidarity in the face of discrimination and prejudice. * Empowerment Through Representation: * Courtnei expresses admiration for Kyne's work as a drag educator and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. * They highlight the significance of representation in challenging stereotypes and fostering understanding. * Conclusion: * Courtnei wraps up the episode, expressing gratitude to Kyne for sharing their insights and experiences. * Teaser for the next episode featuring Victoria Pelletier, a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community. * Closing Remarks: * Courtnei encourages listeners to stay tuned for future episodes and invites them to join the ongoing conversation. * Reminder to follow Braveyard podcast on social media for updates and announcements. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Braveyard podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Thank you for listening!

Episode 8 - Matt Sarafa (Design your dreams)

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Braveyard, hosts Matt Sarafa and Courtnei Lee engage in a heartfelt conversation about advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and supporting queer youth. They share personal experiences, discuss challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and offer advice for those navigating similar journeys. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, self-expression, and kindness in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. Key Topics Covered: * Fashion Industry and Self-Expression:Matt Sarafa discusses his approach to fashion, emphasizing inclusivity and breaking gender binaries. * Fashion as a form of self-expression and empowerment. * Challenging toxic narratives within the fashion industry. * Gender Identity and Sexuality: Matt shares his experience growing up and discovering his gender identity. * Importance of creating space for education and inclusion for young people questioning their identity. * Courtnei Lee highlights the evolution of acceptance and celebration of individuality. * Androgynous Expression and Self-Discovery: Exploration of masculine and feminine presenting selves in fashion. * Embracing authenticity and celebrating individuality. * Courtnei Lee praises Matt's androgynous style and self-confidence. * Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth:Discussion on challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, especially in less progressive environments. * Importance of finding support systems and seeking help when needed. * Advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and contributing to positive change in the community. * Self-Care and Resilience: Strategies for coping with feelings of hopelessness and exhaustion. * Importance of spending time alone, seeking support from loved ones, and engaging in philanthropic activities. * Reflecting on the impact of small acts of kindness and meaningful conversations. * Closing Remarks and Future Outlook: Expressions of mutual respect, admiration, and gratitude between Matt Sarafa and Courtnei Lee. * Anticipation for future collaborations and positive contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Upcoming Guests: Next week's episode will feature Kyne from Canada's Drag Race, promising more insightful discussions on LGBTQ+ advocacy and representation. Conclusion: Listeners are encouraged to tune in to The Braveyard for engaging conversations, inspiring stories, and valuable insights into LGBTQ+ experiences and activism.