Ep. 87: When "Queer Belonging" Doesn't Feel Like Belonging with Gray West

July 16
35 secs

Episode Description

Coming out is often portrayed as the moment everything falls into place, but for many LGBTQ+ people, it's only the beginning of a much more complicated search for belonging. Comedian Gray West joins Drew and Alex to unpack body image, beauty standards, queer community, comedy, tokenism, Fire Island culture, and why finding "your people" isn't always as easy as it looks. Together they explore the pressure to fit in, the loneliness that can exist even within your own community, and how authentic friendship is often found in the most unexpected places. 

Bio: Gray West is a New York City based stand-up comedian, writer, and host originally from Alabama. He is a regular at the Comedy Cellar and has performed at clubs and theaters across the country, touring alongside nationally touring headliners while building a following for his sharp observational comedy. Gray has appeared on festivals and showcases throughout the United States and has been featured on podcasts and digital platforms highlighting emerging voices in stand-up. His comedy draws from his experiences growing up in the South, navigating queer identity, and life in New York City.

Gray's Social Media: @GrayWest.

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Your Hosts: Alex Kumin (@Alex.Kumin) and Drew King (@DrewKingNYC). 

Contributing Editors: Manthan Baldha, Sarah Webb (@SWAudioPost) and Drew King.

Filmed and recorded at @TheMalin in New York City.

www.IntoTheMudPodcast.com

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