Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversations, we explore themes of identity, authenticity, and the power of living boldly.

Queer Talker
Claim This Podcastby Ben Cicchetti
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Podcast Overview
Queer Talker is a podcast celebrating the stories and journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals from all walks of life, from business leaders to celebrities and influencers. Through open and authentic conversations, we explore themes of identity, authenticity, and the power of living boldly.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
2/7/2025
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Recent Episodes

June 30, 2026
Simon Blake OBE: Stonewall, Thriving & Backing Yourself
<p>Simon Blake OBE has dedicated much of his life to making the world a safer, fairer place for LGBTQ+ people.</p><p>As CEO of Stonewall, one of the world’s most influential LGBTQ+ organisations, Simon joins Ben Cicchetti for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation about authenticity, activism, hope and why our goal should never simply be to survive, but to thrive.</p><p>Simon reflects on growing up in Cornwall in the 1970s, the first time he saw himself represented on screen, coming out to his parents, and the powerful words his father shared years later: “I’m so glad that you gave us the chance to love you in all of you.”</p><p>We also discuss:</p><ul><li>The role and future of Stonewall</li><li>LGBTQ+ rights in 2026</li><li>Why progress isn’t always linear</li><li>Diversity, equity and inclusion</li><li>Why representation matters</li><li>The importance of empathy</li><li>Social media and activism</li><li>Leadership and trusting your gut</li><li>Advice for young LGBTQ+ people</li><li>Why we should aim to thrive, not just survive</li></ul><p>This is a conversation full of warmth, wisdom and hope from one of the most important voices in the LGBTQ+ community.<br></p><p><strong>Chapters</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction to Simon Blake and Queer Panic Questions</p><p>03:55 Childhood and Early Influences</p><p>08:11 Realizing Difference and LGBTQ+ Awareness</p><p>11:46 Authenticity and Coming Out Journey</p><p>15:58 Career Path and Leadership Insights</p><p>20:10 The Role of Stonewall and Personal Connection</p><p>23:40 Navigating the Culture War for LGBTQ+ Rights</p><p>26:42 Stonewall's Vision and Strategy for 2026</p><p>30:22 Balancing Urgency and Strategy in Advocacy</p><p>35:36 The Role of Businesses in Promoting Inclusion</p><p>39:46 The Impact of Politicization on LGBTQ+ Lives</p><p>47:56 Advice for the Younger LGBTQ+ Generation</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with Ben Cicchetti:</strong></p><p>Website - https://www.queertalker.com </p><p>Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/</p><p>YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti</p><p>TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti</p>

June 16, 2026
Joe McElderry: Love Me Out Loud, X Factor & Living Authentically
<p>Joe McElderry first captured the hearts of the nation when he won The X Factor in 2009. But behind the headlines, chart success and sold-out tours was a young man still figuring out who he was.</p><p>In this episode of Queer Talker, Joe joins Ben Cicchetti to reflect on the extraordinary journey from winning one of the UK’s biggest television shows to finding comfort in his own identity and creative voice.</p><p>Joe opens up about navigating fame at just 18 years old, realising he was gay while living life in the public eye, and the surreal experience of seeing his coming out story splashed across the front page of every national newspaper.</p><p>We also discuss his incredible career since The X Factor, performing with George Michael, the lessons he’s learned from nearly two decades in the music industry, and why turning 30 changed his perspective on success, authenticity and happiness.</p><p>Plus, Joe shares the story behind his brilliant new single Love Me Out Loud, a heartbreak disco anthem inspired by artists like Robyn, Jessie Ware and Dua Lipa, and explains why now felt like the right time to return to pop music.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Chapters</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction to Joe McElderry</p><p>03:00 The Creative Process Behind New Music</p><p>06:01 Memorable Moments from X Factor</p><p>08:57 The Impact of George Michael</p><p>12:04 Navigating Fame and Personal Identity</p><p>15:03 Coming Out Journey</p><p>17:53 Life After Winning X Factor</p><p>25:14 The Journey of a Music Career</p><p>26:14 Reflecting on 'Wide Awake' Album</p><p>29:20 Exploring Musical Versatility</p><p>31:52 Finding Authenticity in Performance</p><p>34:53 The Joy of New Music: 'Love Me Out Loud'</p><p>38:10 The Creative Process Behind 'Love Me Out Loud'</p><p>40:45 Queer Joy and Community Spirit</p><p>46:06 The Impact of 'That's Ridiculous' Podcast</p><p>50:11 Advice to Younger Self</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with Ben Cicchetti:</strong></p><p>Website - https://www.queertalker.com </p><p>Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/</p><p>YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti</p><p>TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti</p>

June 2, 2026
Matt Terry: X Factor, Coming Out & Finally Feeling Free
<p>In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with X Factor winner and pop artist Matt Terry for his most open and honest conversation yet.</p><p>Matt reflects on growing up feeling like he had to hide who he was, the pressure of trying to present as “straight enough,” and what it was really like being thrust into the spotlight on one of the biggest TV shows in the world at just 23 years old.</p><p>He opens up about the rumours surrounding his sexuality during X Factor, feeling unprotected by the industry, and the emotional toll of trying to play a version of himself that never truly fit.</p><p>Matt also shares the deeply personal story behind His Car, why Heartstopper meant so much to him, and how his new music including Skittles and Party In My Room represents freedom, joy, and finally feeling comfortable in his own skin.</p><p>This episode is funny, emotional, nostalgic, and incredibly honest. A conversation about fame, identity, pressure, healing, and what happens when you stop performing for everyone else and finally become yourself.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Chapters</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction to Matt Terry</p><p>02:18 Musical Inspirations and Collaborations</p><p>03:58 Queer Icons and Representation</p><p>04:40 X Factor Journey and Performances</p><p>05:49 The Meaning Behind 'Party in My Room'</p><p>06:18 Finding Identity and Self-Discovery</p><p>08:18 Musical Journey and Early Influences</p><p>10:26 Awareness of LGBTQ Figures</p><p>12:29 Experience on X Factor</p><p>17:10 Navigating Fame and Personal Struggles</p><p>20:06 Confidence on Stage</p><p>23:30 Performing 'Secret Love Song' and Its Impact</p><p>25:49 Winning X Factor and Its Aftermath</p><p>26:20 The Highs and Lows of Fame</p><p>30:04 Navigating the X Factor Experience</p><p>33:58 Finding My Voice: The Journey to Authenticity</p><p>38:17 His Car: A Personal Revelation</p><p>45:20 Being a Voice for the LGBTQIA+ Community</p><p>47:03 Advice to My Younger Self</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with Ben Cicchetti:</strong></p><p>Website - https://www.queertalker.com </p><p>Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/</p><p>YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti</p><p>TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti</p>
37 total episodes available
Recent guests on Queer Talker
Guests from recent episodes — sign up to see every guest that has ever appeared on this show.
Michael Gunning
Guest
Lewis Oakley
Guest
Jessica L’Whor
Guest
Mark Bittlestone
Guest
Lord Chris Smith
Guest
Jaxon Feeley
Guest
Alex Thomas-Smith
Guest
Jordan Gray
Guest
Seth Insua
Guest
Brandon Wolf
Guest
Rico Jacob Chace
Guest
Ella Vaday
Guest
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Queer Talker?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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