Joining us are Cliff Carpenter (Senior Clinic Manager, Derby City PrEP), Josh Castlen, MPAS, PA-C (Physician Assistant, Derby City PrEP Clinic), Chera Mattox, MPH (Director of HIV Prevention and Education, Park DuValle Community Health Center), Dr. Jelani Kerr, MSPH, PhD (Associate Professor, University of Louisville), and Capric Walker, MBA (Director for Research Administration, UofL Division of Infectious Diseases).

Our panel covers key topics including:
- Who should consider PrEP? Understanding its role in HIV prevention
- How to start PrEP and how to access it without insurance
- The different types of PrEP medications and their side effects
- What happens if you miss a dose and what to do if you contract HIV while on PrEP
- PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)—how it works and when to use it
- Breaking down stigma—why misconceptions about PrEP and PEP persist and how to challenge them

This episode is packed with expert insights and practical information, making it a must-listen for anyone wanting to take control of their sexual health. Whether you're considering PrEP, have questions about PEP, or simply want to be informed, this conversation is for you.

PrEP Services

derbycityprep.org

pdchc.org

louisville.edu/ryanwhite550

FIAAY HIV Testing

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We explore his path to becoming unapologetically queer, the ways he helps queer and trans individuals feel safe and empowered in front of the camera, and his fight against imposter syndrome as an artist. Scotty also reflects on his childhood dreams, how he found his artistic voice, and his hopes for the future.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about self-expression, resilience, and the power of photography in queer storytelling.

Connect with Scotty

Instagram | @milkmanphoto
 

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Paulette opens up about the stigma surrounding therapy in the African American community, the challenge of breaking through cultural barriers, and how these issues impact mental health and wellness. She also delves into people-pleasing behavior, a struggle she faced in her own life, and how overcoming it helped her embrace her true path.

Tune in to hear Paulette’s story of personal growth, resilience, and the work she’s doing to empower others through the Positive Vibes program. This episode offers a powerful conversation on breaking stigmas, finding your purpose, and creating meaningful change within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond.

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Cooper shares his journey of creating a Pride celebration in a small town, offering invaluable insights into how to throw successful Pride events, from planning to execution. He explains the challenges he faced and the steps he took to make something meaningful happen, even in an environment that may not always seem supportive.

In addition to event organizing, Cooper talks about the process of founding his own non-profit organization, sharing the pivotal role his community played in helping him push forward. This episode dives into the power of community support, resilience, and the importance of visibility in smaller towns.

Whether you're looking to start a Pride event in your own town or seeking inspiration to turn your ideas into action, this episode of Kentucky Queeries is packed with practical advice and stories of perseverance. Tune in to learn how one person’s passion can create lasting change.

Joseph and Josh provide valuable insights into why people turn to substances and what the LGBTQIA+ community needs to know about Substance Use Disorder (SUD). They emphasize the importance of creating and maintaining sober spaces within the community, ensuring that there are safe environments for those seeking recovery.

The discussion also highlights why it's vital for LGBT individuals to be present and involved in various organizations, advocating for their unique needs and perspectives. Joseph and Josh pull back the curtain on how services are provided at Family Health Centers, offering practical advice for those who may feel anxious or uncertain about seeking help.

Tune in to Kentucky Queeries for an essential conversation on substance abuse, recovery, and the importance of support within the LGBTQIA+ community. This episode is packed with information that could make a real difference in someone’s journey toward healing and empowerment.

Dusty Ray Bottoms shares his journey of surviving conversion therapy and finding healing. He opens up about the challenges of growing up in a conservative environment and reconciling his queer identity with religious expectations. Dusty also discusses his involvement in the documentary film Conversion, which sheds light on the harmful practices of conversion therapy.

Join us for an inspiring conversation on Kentucky Queeries, where advocacy, resilience, and the vibrant world of drag come together to educate, entertain, and empower the LGBTQIA+ community. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Dusty Ray Bottoms' powerful story and gain valuable insights on supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.

Dusty's Bio

Dustin Rayburn, widely known by his drag persona Dusty Ray Bottoms, is an engaging figure in the drag community, known for his unique "Never-Loved" aesthetic which features dark, punk-inspired makeup marked by distinct dotted patterns across his face. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Dustin's early life was marked by the struggles of growing up in a conservative environment. He openly speaks about his experiences with conversion therapy and the challenges of reconciling his identity with the expectations of his religious family, which later significantly influenced his advocacy work and artistic expression.

Dusty Ray Bottoms rose to fame as a contestant on the tenth season of "RuPaul's Drag Race" in 2018. Known for his charismatic performances and resilient personality, he quickly became a fan favorite. His time on the show allowed him to showcase not just his talent in performing arts, but also his deeply personal story, resonating with many viewers, especially those from similar backgrounds.

Following his appearance on "Drag Race," Dusty continued to build his career in drag, performing across the United States and internationally. He has also engaged in various forms of media and activism. A significant part of his post-show career has been his involvement in the documentary film "Conversion," where he shares his painful experiences with conversion therapy. The documentary aims to shed light on the harmful practices of conversion therapy and advocate for its ban, contributing significantly to public awareness and policy change efforts.

Dusty Ray Bottoms remains an influential figure in the LGBTQ+ community, using his platform to support LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and the abolition of conversion therapy practices. His journey from a challenging upbringing in Kentucky to a celebrated drag performer and activist underscores a narrative of triumph and resilience.

Vaccine Info | https://louprideky.org/vaccine/

Connect with Dusty Ray Bottoms
Instagram | @dustyray
TikTok | @thedustyraybottoms
Facebook | @thedustyraybottoms

In this episode, Zsa Zsa also tackles critical topics such as racism, navigating difficult conversations with family, and finding teachable moments. She offers insights on how to become an activist, why vaccines matter, and the importance of making change in your community. Learn how your activism might need to evolve and adapt over time to be more effective.

Zsa Zsa's Bio

Demeter Castillo, known in the vibrant world of drag as Zsa Zsa Gabortion, is a multifaceted artist and advocate, deeply rooted in the traditions of drag and influenced by the flamboyant lifestyle of Zsa Zsa Gabor. Born and raised with a strong appreciation for craft and creativity, Gabortion embarked on her drag journey after an impactful Halloween experience, leading her to explore and refine her skills in makeup and costume design, primarily self-taught through YouTube tutorials.

Gabortion is celebrated for her intricate and original costume designs, which she showcases at prominent venues like PLAY Louisville and Le Moo Drag Brunch, among others in the southeastern United States. Her creative prowess extends to designing outfits for prominent figures like Jade Jolie of "RuPaul's Drag Race" and "Dragula" fame, including a notable costume for Taylor Swift's "You Need to Calm Down" music video.

Her drag performances, known for their wit, charm, and meticulous attention to detail, often feature characters from pop culture, such as "Barb" from Stranger Things and "Pearl" from the movies X and Pearl. Gabortion emphasizes the extensive effort behind each performance, highlighting the hours of planning, crafting, and execution that go into the final presentation.

In addition to her stage work, Gabortion's advocacy extends to charitable endeavors wherein she utilizes drag and religious imagery to address and satirize issues of sexual intolerance and gender. She is a vocal advocate for recognizing the foundational contributions of Black and Latinx individuals to the drag and ballroom cultures, acknowledging their profound influence on her work and the broader drag community.

Gabortion's commitment to crafting, influenced by her crafty mother and inspired by figures like Gunnar Deatherage and talented Black women in the custom dress business, underscores her deep respect for the art of costume design. Her process varies from intricate sketches to spontaneous creations inspired by fabric and song, always aiming for perfection in each detail, whether for a high-concept look or a tailored piece for performance.

Zsa Zsa Gabortion not only entertains but educates and inspires, weaving together the threads of advocacy, artistry, and personal history into a powerful expression of drag culture. Her work promises to leave a lasting impact, both on stage and in the communities she touches, celebrating the rich legacy and vibrant future of drag performance.

Vaccine Info | https://louprideky.org/vaccine/

Connect with Zsa Zsa
Instagram | @zsazsagabortion
TikTok | @zsazsagabortion

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Join us as we delve into Sydni's personal transition journey and explore Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Learn about the barriers trans people face in accessing healthcare and how to find a provider who is truly trans-affirming. Kellee Duke addresses common worries when beginning HRT, ensuring you have the information you need to navigate this important process confidently.

Discover how vaccines interact with HRT and gain valuable insights on how healthcare providers can better serve LGBT patients, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Whether you're considering HRT, seeking trans-affirming healthcare, or wanting to understand better how to support the trans community, this episode of Kentucky Queeries offers essential guidance and expert advice.

Tune in to Kentucky Queeries and empower yourself with knowledge on trans health and well-being. Let's build a more informed, inclusive community together.

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Takeisha Nunez brings her expertise to the table, discussing harm reduction approaches to safer sex and answering those sexual health questions you might be too embarrassed to ask. Learn how to have open and honest conversations about getting tested without stigma and why it’s crucial not to villainize people with STIs.

Understanding PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is vital, and Takeisha explains why everyone should consider it and highlights the importance of vaccinations for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Whether you're navigating the complexities of sexual health or seeking strategies to advocate for your well-being, this episode of Kentucky Queeries offers invaluable insights and practical advice.

Let's build a more informed, inclusive community together.

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In this episode, we get to know our hosts Sydni, Ebony and Social Worker, Anthony Munger as they discuss their advice for their younger selves, the passion behind their work at the Louisville Pride Foundation, and the challenges they faced growing up. 

If you’re like us, you've encountered challenges in finding accurate information on LGBTQ+ health issues. "Kentucky Queeries" aims to bridge that gap, providing valuable insights and empowering guidance tailored to your experiences.

Join us on this journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and advocacy as we navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ health in Kentucky.

Tune in to "Kentucky Queeries" and let's build a more informed, inclusive community together.