In this conversation, Rachel Hall, a queer and trans singer-songwriter, shares her journey of self-discovery, the importance of community, and the impact of political climate on her art. She discusses the complexities of family dynamics, the grief associated with her transition, and the significance of representation in the trans community. Rachel emphasizes the need to decentralize romantic relationships and highlights the hope that exists even amidst loss. Her upcoming projects and involvement in Pride events reflect her commitment to visibility and celebration of queer identities.

https://mariela.band/

In this conversation, Laura Beth and Cynthia welcome pastor, author, and advocate, Sarah Griffiths Lund to talk about her recently released book, Blessed Minds: Breaking the Silence About Neurodiversity. Sarah's book is a wonderful introduction to understanding the beauty and complexity of neurodiversity in all the ways it shows up - especially from the perspective of leading faith community.

We talk about the intersection of mental health, neurodiversity, and the LGBTQ+ community, and wanted to include this contact for the Trevor Project, a resource for those in the community struggling with a variety of issues: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Other Links:

Rev. Dr. Sarah Griffiths Lund

Cyntia Vacca Davis

Laura Beth Buchleiter

In this engaging conversation, Derek Webb discusses his journey as an artist, the importance of authenticity in creativity, and the urgency of addressing issues within the LGBTQ+ community through his music. The dialogue explores the complexities of navigating societal expectations while remaining true to oneself, emphasizing the power of vulnerability and community support. Webb shares insights on his latest project, 'Survival Songs,' which aims to provide a voice for those in need and highlights the significance of small acts of kindness in making a difference.

https://www.derekwebb.com/

Cynthia and Laura Beth are back to explore the themes of chaos, peace, and the importance of connection in a world filled with uncertainty. Poet, advocate, and extraordinary human Marla Taviano joins the discussion, sharing her experiences of deconstruction and the transformative power of embracing one's authentic self as she shares stories of her life and the poetry that flows from it.

for more about Laura Beth: https://laura-bethany.com/creativeworks/podcasts/

for more about Cynthia: https://cynthiavaccadavis.com/

for more about Marla: https://itsmemarla.com/

Cynthia and Laura Beth are back to Nowhere with Rev. Dr. Jessica LeCrone. Jessica is a minister in the United Methodist Church with Masters of Divinity and Masters of Library and Information Science degrees. She combined all that learning and life experience into her DMin dissertation which focused on the growing challenges of Misinformation, specifically as it relates to churches, clergy, and social media.

The conversation about what we are even doing here continues as Cynthia interviews Laura Beth.

In our first venture on the journey to being "nowhere" (i.e. present in the moment), co-hosts Cynthia Vacca Davis and Laura Beth Buchleiter interview each other and explore what has inspired this project.