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Sex Ed Before Bed explores powerful and meaningful topics that often go undiscussed in our daily lives. In bringing these conversations into the open, my intention is that collectively, we can approach them with less shame and more compassion, giving them the nuance that they often require. As part of a small cadre of Canadian podcasts focused on this topic, with over 8,000 listeners, Sex Ed Before Bed’s growing fan base signals a rising interest in sexual health and politics. Since 2017, guests have included experts and folks with lived experience, including sex workers, 2SLGBTQIA+ folks, researchers, educators, psychotherapists, physicians and program facilitators. Sex-positivity, anti-oppression frameworks inform the podcast and the tone is one of humility and curiosity. I aim to bring what I have learned and my experiences to the mic and understand that sexual health education is a lifelong learning experience for me, and for all of us. I don’t have all the answers and I see myself as “along for the ride” with the listener, grateful for the stories, wisdom and insight of my wonderful guests. What I want to give listeners through this experience: ● To have more informed, joyful, liberating sexual experiences ● To see a topic or marginalized group in a new light ● To unlearn harmful stereotypes and cultivate more empathy ● To be aware of timely sex-related Canadian research and news
Episodes
Friday Mar 14, 2025
Friday Mar 14, 2025
In this episode, Bex (she/her) is joined by Aislin (she/her) and Stella (she/they) to discuss what queer community means, how to find and build inclusive spaces, and the challenges of representation in the arts and athletics. They share personal stories, insights, and shoutouts to local queer organizations making a difference.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
Welcome to the podcast & guest introductions
04:30 - Defining Queer Community
Aislin & Stella share their personal definitions of community and discuss the importance of safety, belonging, and shared experience.
12:15 - Toronto’s Queer Community & Inclusivity
Acknowledging privilege and the ongoing fight for inclusivity within the community.
21:00 - Queer Identity & Representation
The role of queer signifiers in self-expression • The importance of visibility and how it impacts self-acceptance • Challenges of stereotypes and expectations in queer spaces.
29:40 - The Importance of Organizing
Stella’s journey in queer performance and burlesque • Aislin’s experience joining and organizing Queer Run Club • How stepping into leadership roles can help build and uplift community
39:50 - Challenges in Queer Spaces
Inclusivity struggles: Are we truly inviting everyone in? • Acknowledging gaps in trans and POC representation • The responsibility to create intentional, welcoming spaces
48:30 - The Role of Art & Performance in Queer Culture
Financial barriers for queer artists • The decline of accessible media platforms for promotion • The importance of sustainable funding & corporate responsibility
56:10 - Lifting up the Queer Community in Real-time
Checking in on each other’s well-being • Showing up for queer events and artists • The political climate and its impact on LGBTQ+ rights
1:04:15 - Community Shoutouts
- Masque of the Red Death (April 2024) - Upcoming queer performance produced by Saint Stella
- Queer Run Club - Weekly Saturday runs & coffee meetups
- Femme Fatale Toronto - Burlesque troupe showcasing Black and Women of Colour performers
- Sugar Holiday - Toronto-based burlesque performer and producer
- Queer Jock Night
- Queer Mingle Events - Black and Indigenous-run meetups for the lesbian, non-binary, trans and queer community
Where to find us
- Rebecca @sexedbeforebed
- Aislin @queerrunclub & @architectaislin
- Stella @saintstella & https://saintstella.com
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