The Forbidden Apple: LGBTQ+ SPIRITUALITY: Recent Episodes
Pelayo A. Melissa W.
Interfaith conversations deconstructing traditional religious beliefs. A former Orthodox Jew and a Spanish-raised Catholic join forces to fight spiritual violence. Our nuanced conversations with queer revolutionaries will give you the tools to tear apart binaries and live a meaningful life.
Recent guests include Arlan Hamilton, Mary Lambert, Sushant Divgikar, Rev. Troy Perry, Ryan Cassata & Senator Weinberg.
Melissa Weisz, born and raised a Chasidic Jew welcomes new cohost Zahra Ladak, a Muslim born and raised in the US with deep East African/ Indian roots. Throughout this season, Melissa and Zahra will discuss the parallels they've discovered in their lives. Expect engaging discussions on the complexities of navigating queerness and religious identity. From the meaning of home to the challenges of living between two worlds, we're here to spark thought-provoking conversations that challenge norms and broaden perspectives.
After narrating his adventurous life in the last episode, Bishop Tolton introduces us to his mission in life as being the driving force behind the global racial justice movement in which the continent of Africa and its diaspora build an ecosystem of self-defined and determined advocacy.
Bishop Tolton narrates the life-changing event in which he decided to abandon his life in America and go to Africa to fight for LGBTQ rights.
He opens our eyes as he shares the dark intentions of white evangelical groups from the US in Africa.
Bishop Tolton works directly with leaders to build integrated justice movements connecting activists with civil society advocates, media professionals, academics, and political leaders.
Listen to learn how the “invisible” influences of the west jeopardize LGBTQ rights in Africa and to hear his vision on the future of the African queer community.
You can contact Bishop Tolton and check out his mission here:
https://icjustice.org/
http://tfamglobal.org/
Bishop Joseph Tolton is a legendary global faith leader and the Founder and President of Interconnected Justice - a global racial justice movement in which the continent of Africa and its diaspora build an ecosystem of self-defined and determined advocacy.
Bishop Tolton shares the complexities of growing up in Harlem as a promising preacher kid with an inner conflict: feeling the devil had planted the seed of homosexuality as part of his spiritual journey.
Bishop Tolton opens about about his journey from going through exoricisms to try to rid himself of the "devil", to coming to a place of self acceptance and embracing his sexuality.
You can contact Bishop Tolton and check out his mission here:
https://icjustice.org/
http://tfamglobal.org/
The inimitable Dr. Stella Nyanzi is a Ugandan queer feminist activist, human rights advocate, poet, medical anthropologist, and scholar of sexuality, family planning, and public health.
At the time of our recording, Stella speaks to us from Kenya where she is taking refuge due to the current regime in Uganda where she is unsafe as a very vocal opposition.
Stella shares with us about her work being a vocal activist. She talks about her time in prison and using her body and sexuality as a means of protest.
Listen till the end to hear Dr. Stella read a poem that she wrote while in prison.
Mary Muthui is a human rights activist from Kenya.
She shares the stigma and violence she faced being noticeably queer, and what gave her the strength and courage to fight for herself and others.
Mary talks to us about the practice of corrective rape- which is unfortunately common practice against LGBTQ individuals specifically lesbians. Mary survived this sexual violence against her and is an outspoken activist trying to end this practice often putting herself at risk to help others.
Mary’s home is open 24/7 to victims of sexual violence and is often the first stop for those needing medical help, food, safety, and support.
Listen to learn more about the lifesaving work she does singlehandedly.
You can support Mary by donating here through Paypal:
mmuthui26@yahoo.com
Coréon Dú is an award-winning Angolan recording artist, creative director, designer, screenwriter and producer.
Coréon shares how he started creating much-needed entertainment for folks his own age in Angola, and how he became a leading voice on the forefront of change with his revolutionary content.
We discuss the far-reaching impact his work has had on the representation of the LGBTQ community in Angola and beyond.
Listen to hear Coréon share how he incorporates his love of Africa into everything he does.
Val Kalende is an activist and founding member of Uganda's LGBTQ MOVEMENT. Val helped launch Freedom and Roam Uganda-FARUG. She shares how taking the risk to be visible has paid off in advancing LGBTQ rights in Uganda.
Val opens up about her journey of going back into the closet after being a vocal LGBTQ activist to undergo conversion therapy.
Her journey is one of struggle and hope and finally coming to full acceptance of her queerness.
Find Val on Fb @Val Kalende
To learn more about Val :
https://76crimes.com/2022/02/02/unchanged-a-lesbian-christians-journey-through-ex-gay-life/
Edafe Okporo is a global gay rights activist, the founder of Refuge America, and one of the most visible voices on the issue of displacement.
Edafe grew up in Nigeria where religion played an important role in his childhood. Edafe shares how he was guided to pray the gay away and how he became a pentecostal pastor in this effort. An interaction with an older closeted priest made him realize he was in for a life of suffering and needed to come out to live an authentic life.
Edafe talks about becoming an advocate and getting involved in LGBTQ organizations after losing many friends to AIDS due to homophobic laws and stigmas which prevent many from getting tested and treated.
Due to this work, Edafe was the victim of violence from anti- LGBTQ groups in Nigeria which resulted in him seeking asylum in the US to save his life.
Edafe tells us more about the asylum seeking process and how and why he created Refuge America to help the many LGBTQ refugees who come to the US to live safely.
He is the author of ASYLUM, A Memoir & Mainfesto, a poignant memoir and urgent call to action for immigration justice, out June 2022.
https://www.edafeokporo.com/book
https://www.refugeamerica.org/
Aderonke is a Nigerian LGBTQ Activist and the founder of African Rainbow Family charity- a UK-Based organization that supports LGBTIQ people of African heritage and the wider Black and Asian Minority Ethnic groups. Aderonke was born and raised in Nigeria where being gay is illegal. When she was found to be a lesbian she suffered intense persecution. Aderonke fled to the UK to seek asylum.
Despite fearing imprisonment and death in her country, Aderonke was not believed and she languished in the asylum system for years with her claim being repeatedly refused by the UK authorities. After a 13-year long battle Aderonke was finally granted refugee status.
Aderonke shares how she has used her journey, and the tools she learned struggling to get refugee status, to now provide services for others through her charity which supports LGBTIQ refugees and people seeking asylum and campaigns for global LGBTIQ equality - standing against hate crimes and supporting communities who face constant harassment, hate crimes and discrimination heaped on them by an ignorant society because of their sexuality or sexual preferences and or gender identity.
You can support the African Rainbow Family charity here:
https://africanrainbowfamily.org/
Luzie talks about her struggle growing up as a Lesbian in Kenya. She opens up about the spiritual violence she suffered and being made to believe that it's demonic to be attracted to the same sex.
Luzie shines a light on how gay clubs become a safe haven for many LGBTQ folks- drinking to numb the pain- and even more dire, using it as place to sleep when they become homeless once they're rejected and kicked out of their homes.
Luzie also shares about being shunned from her family at the same time that she is the sole caretaker for her mom who has dementia. She hopes to be a pastor one day to other LGBTQ folks in Kenya so they don’t have to suffer like she has.
Paypal info to help Luzie care for her elderly mom and her daily expenses:
marienganga35@gmail.com
Ezra Chitando is a Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Zimbabwe and co-author of “Reimagining Christianity and Sexual Diversity in Africa”.
Ezra serves as Theology Consultant on HIV and AIDS with EHAIA, the Ecumenical HIV and AIDS Initiatives and Advocacy, of the World Council of Churches.
Ezra talks about the importance of diversity of opinions and how education helps in the fight to bring about equal rights for LGBTQ folks.
Ezra speaks of his work educating about African indigenous spiritual practices and their accepting views on gender and sexuality as opposed to the oppressive teaching christianity brought about to their region.
Buy his most recent book “Reimagining Christianity and Sexual Diversity in Africa” co-authored with Adriaan van Klinken :
https://www.hurstpublishers.com/book/reimagining-christianity-and-sexual-diversity-in-africa/#!/
Learn more about Ezra:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ezra_Chitando
Cedric Tchante is an activist, marketing coordinator and blogger from Cameroon, currently living in San Francisco.
Cedric talks about growing up in Cameroon where being gay is illegal. He shares how he became a vocal activist and appeared in the documentary “Born This Way”. A first in Cameroon, this documentary showed the faces of LGBTQ folks talking about their sexuality.
With the documentary making national news, Cedric was the target of harassment and violent attacks. It was only when his loved ones were threatened that Cedric knew he must leave Cameroon and claim asylum.
Listen to hear Cedric share his experience of being a refugee in America.
You can learn more about Cedric here:
https://www.huffpost.com/author/cedric-tchante
To watch the documentary “Born this way” visit:
https://www.bornthiswaydocumentary.com/
Katlego Kai Kolanyane-Kesupile is a performance artist, musician, writer and LGBT artivist from Botswana. She is known for being the first public figure from Botswana to openly identify as trans.
Katlego is also the first-ever TED Fellow from Botswana.
Katlego talks about the biggest misconceptions from the western media about LGBTQ folks in Botswana.
She shares her personal journey and talks passionately about the narrative for trans people that exists in Africa and how their identities are not justified by the politics of surgery.
Listen to hear how Kat sees God in everything, and what she means by “Deputy Jesus”.
To learn more about Katlego visit:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katlego_Kai_Kolanyane-Kesupile
To follow her journey visit her website:
https://kkolkes.wixsite.com/kkolkes
Ssenfuka Joanita Warry (Biggie) is the Executive Director of Freedom and Roam Uganda FARUG which is a Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer diverse persons and women's rights organization based in Uganda. FARUG’s mission is to strengthen and mobilize the voice, visibility, and collective organizing power of LBQ womxn in order to change the norms, institutions, policies, and practices that perpetuate inequality, homophobia, hetero normativity and violence in both the public and private arenas.
Biggie shares the life-saving work FARUG does on a daily basis including teaching the queer community how to navigate the laws in Uganda which still criminals homosexuality.
Biggie breaks down how Christianity is used as a perpetrator of violence to the LGBTQ community. BIGGIE ALSO chairs LGBTQ Catholics- faithful souls Uganda to counter hateful speech from the church and have a safe religious space and a support group.
FARUG is currently looking for help with getting binders and other devices(which are not yet accessible in Uganda) for the trans men in their community.
You can help FARUG by contacting them here:
https://www.faruganda.org/contact-us/
Bis Alimi is a Nigerian gay rights activist, public speaker, blog writer, and HIV/LGBT advocate who gained international attention when he became the first Nigerian to come out on television. Bisi shares about how coming out on tv caused him to be driven out of his country and shaped his life and the legacy he is creating. He also opens up about his struggles and the journey he went through to become an advocate for others so they don't have to go through what he did.
He talks about reconnecting with his ancestral spirituality once he started university and what inspired him.
Bisi is the Executive Director of Bisi Alimi Foundation https://www.bisialimifoundation.org/ which advocates for LGBT rights in Nigeria
and a co-founder and director of Rainbow Intersection, https://mobile.twitter.com/UKIntersection a forum for discussions of queer identity, religion, and race as well as co-founder of https://www.kaleidoscopetrust.com/
a nonprofit organization that campaigns for the human rights of LGBT+ people in countries where they are discriminated against.
Listen to hear how a teddy bear is what Bisi finds most spiritual.
Please bear with us as the connection was weak but we couldn’t pass up this conversation.
After two years of exploring the relationship between LGBTQ people and religion, TFA is traveling abroad. In this new season we amplify LGBTQ voices from African countries.
We will hear from people who have survived gender-based violence and corrective rape, live with HIV in Africa, and those who risked their lives to work towards legalizing homosexuality in their countries.
They share these stories to bring light to these issues, teach us about the impact of colonialism and neo-colonialism, and to get support for their local organizations to change the narrative of LGBTQ people in Africa where in many places homosexuality is still criminalized.
You can now listen to these stories weekly at the Forbidden Apple Podcast available on all streaming platforms.
On this final episode of The Nuanced Series, your hosts look back on the lessons learned throughout this season. From listening to others perspectives to giving ourselves permission to think differently, Melissa and Pelayo discuss how to engage in difficult yet meaningful conversations.
Thank you all so much for listening.
The Forbidden Apple Podcast will be back in the fall .
Follow us @thhttps://www.instagram.com/theforbiddenapplepodcast
Follow Pelayo's Youtube comedy series
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMpEfkPbDsE5cHYMxnHDUhA
On this final episode of The Nuanced Series, your hosts look back on the lessons learned throughout this season. From listening to others perspectives to giving ourselves permission to think differently, Melissa and Pelayo discuss how to engage in difficult yet meaningful conversations.
Thank you all so much for listening.
The Forbidden Apple Podcast will be back in the fall .
Follow us @thhttps://www.instagram.com/theforbiddenapplepodcast
Follow Pelayo's Youtube comedy series
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMpEfkPbDsE5cHYMxnHDUhA
Singer/songwriter Grace Semler Baldridge shares with us their journey from being a preacher's kid to charting on Christian music charts as an openly queer artist. Grace shares how they deconstructed and reconstructed their faith coming out stronger on the other side with a deeper and more connected spirituality. We discuss music, inspiration and relationships.
Follow Semler @
https://www.instagram.com/gracebaldridge/?hl=en
https://twitter.com/gracebaldridge?lang=en
Melissa sits down with Rabbi James, Director of social justice programming at CBST to discuss being a queer liberal Jew in 2021.
We discuss how it may seem at odds to stand up for more than one people's pain and our steadfast belief that all people should be free and live safely without fear. We discuss the harmful stereotypes about the Jewish people, the rise in antisemitism, and how it mutates from generation to generation often under the guise of social justice movements.
Melissa and Rabbi James talk about “Tikkun Olam”- healing the world, and the use of poetry in the Torah as a way that the Jewish people have dealt with persecution for generations.
Rabbi James talks about the need to develop relationships across borders and shares practical advice on how to deal with our fears and pain and turn it into love and connection.
Listen and inspire change.
https://cbst.org/content/rabbi-marisa-elana-james-director-social-justice-programming
https://twitter.com/marisaelana?lang=en
Melissa and Pelayo discuss 2021 Pride and the decision of the organization that runs New York’s Pride to ban cops from the parade.
Do you feel safer without cops at the pride parade?
We wanna hear from our community so let us know your thoughts on this via our Instagram @theforbiddenapplepodcast or email info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
What if the word homosexual was never meant to be in the bible?
Sharon Rocky Roggio, producer and director of the documentary film 1946 joins us to discuss the film that chronicles how the misuse of a single word changed the course of modern history.
Rocky also shares her personal struggle and her complex relationship with her dad, a conservative pastor, and her hope that this film heals and prevents further pain for LGBTQ folks.
1946 the movie:
https://www.1946themovie.com
https://www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Penny Cost, a drag queen in the process of getting ordained by the Methodist Church, shares how her ordination has caused “chaos” in the church. While she has received support from her church she has also received backlash from conservative Methodists.
Penny wants to use drag and carnivalesque performance to transform the church into a more accepting and welcoming space for LGBT folks.
Check out Ms. Penny Cost journey( Isaac Simmons (he/his) out of drag) on her IG page:
https://www.instagram.com/mspennycost/
Sink your teeth into.... The Forbidden Apple
Ross Murray from GLAAD, Yass, Jesus! podcast and the Naming Project is back on the pod! His new book ”Made, Known, Loved” shows congregations how to create a program that affirms LGBTQ youth. How can we transform religious spaces into more welcoming environments and guide future leaders? Listen to find out!
Order this important book. Find it anywhere you buy your books and on www.rossmurray.org
Check out www.thenamingproject.org
https://www.yassjesuspod.com/
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Today are joined by our favorite comedian Carolyn Bergier host of the podcast "Dyking Out". We discuss all things comedy: The limits, the pitfalls, and how smart comedy can be used for social change. Carolyn breaks down how to broach difficult topics with humor. Listen for a good time and expert advice.
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
www.patreon.com/theforbiddenapple
Pelayo brings you a rant on the Catholic Church statement on same-sex unions and their impossibility to bless them.
An answer to their "unjust discriminations" and being "unable to bless sin".
This statement comes shortly after Pope Francis mentioning homosexuals are children of God and have a right to a family,
If you have enjoyed this feel free to check out Pelayo's channel www.youtube.com/pelayoaf
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
www.patreon.com/theforbiddenapple
Your hosts are joined by Rev. Liz Edman, queer priest, and author of “Queer Virtue”, to discuss the latest statement from the Vatican on Same-sex Unions.
We talk about the let down many of us feel about this statement and the need to unite to continue the fight.
Liz explains the cycle of reformation of religious institutions every 500 years and shares her personal experience on creating change within orthodox institutions.
We close off with advice on how as queer people we can move forward in challenging the status quo.
Spotlight of the day: Minoritea report podcast.
Subscribe to our Patreon: www.patreon.com/theforbiddenapple
Reclaim your spirituality:
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Continuing with our "nuanced series" we discuss how to build your own spiritual toolbox.' Your hosts Pelayo and Melissa unpack the difference between appropriation vs appreciation. The question of the hour is " how do we learn from others and apply it in a respectful way to our lives?
We look forward to hearing your thoughts!
Remember to leave us a 5 stars review and send us your questions to our Instagram @theforbiddenapplepodcast
Melissa and Pelayo talk about the phenomenon of the “ex-gay’ and the effects it has on LGBTQ+ community.
Can we live our truth without judging others or does our truth affect our humanity as a whole?
How do we have nuanced conversations around things we are ideologically opposed to?
We discuss this and more in this episode.
More questions than answers but we’re doing it - having these tough conversations. As @glennondoyle says “ we can do hard things”
Please join these conversations
We wanna hear from you so send us your opinions and thoughts to info@theforbiddenapplepodcast or to our IG @theforbiddenapplepodcast
Join Pelayo and Melissa as they share the details of their new series "the Forbidden Apple Around the world: Africa".
We will hear from people who have survived gender-based violence and corrective rape, live with HIV in Africa, and those who risked their lives to work towards legalizing homosexuality in their countries.
They share these stories to bring light to these issues, teach us about the impact of colonialism and get support for their local organizations to change the narrative of LGBT people in Africa where in many places homosexuality is still criminalized.
Coming out in February 2021.
For more updates and early access check out:
www.patreon.com/theforbiddenapple
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Pelayo and Melissa close a year full of meaningful queer stories and share the Forbidden Apple’s plans for the New Year.
In the meantime check out our previous seasons:
- LGBTQ finding meaning in art.
- LGBTQ Voices in recovery.
- Can you be religious and queer?
- LBGTQ Clergy and interfaith leaders.
- Leaders and advocates for the LGBTQ community.
- LGBTQ leaving ultra-orthodox communities.
- The old-age/ new-age movement.
- Conversations with your hosts!
Thanks for the support during this year, enjoy your holidays and we cannot wait to see you in 2021.
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
www.pelayoaf.com
www.melissaweisz.com
Chris DiMeglio is a meditation teacher and professional musician.
He opens up about the interconnections between coming out and starting his meditation practice.
Chris shares how the work of Byron Katie and Shinzen Young help him when he’s in a stressful mindset and remind him to just observe and not identify with his thoughts.
Meditate with Chris:
http://www.chrisdimegliomeditation.com/classes
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We welcome Gaby Dunn, author, comedian, you-tuber, and fellow podcaster from "Bad with Money" and "Just Between Us"
Gaby shares how ritual, culture, history, and dark humor connects her to her Judaism.
We discuss separatism, generational trauma, and how antisemitism is on the rise.
Gaby talks about why she started her podcast “Bad with Money” and the harmful stereotypes associated with Jews.
Listen to learn more.
Follow Gaby @GabyRoad
https://www.gabyandallison.com/
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Mandi Rice is a chaplain and founder of the Queerituality project. Mandi traveled around the US, with her project Queerituality, interviewing folks who were trying to reconcile their queerness and spirituality. She attended Harvard Divinity School, and after 16 years of reconciling her queerness and faith, she was able to find a community where she belonged, completing her "confirmation" as a Christian, on her own terms.
For more on Mandi’s journey check out :
http://queerituality.com/mandi-rice
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Brit Barron talks about her journey from being raised in an Evangelical mega-church to coming out after falling in love.
Brit shares “behind-the-scenes” information about the church's positions on LGBTQ inclusion and the misleading language they use to come across as "accepting".
Listen for some great advice on how we can use the strength it takes to hide, to become fully realized, and to choose freedom over fear.
https://britbarron.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Worth-Overcome-Your-Fears-Embrace/dp/1506463274
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
David Djemal is an Israeli-British actor, theatre creator, and activist. He brings humor to his work to portray important issues.
David shares the struggles of being LGBTQ in his traditional religious home, as well as being religious in the LGBTQ community.
David is committed to increasing representation and co-created “The Jewish Cabaret” a theatre collective. David co-wrote the musical “Cafe named desire” which has toured Internationally.
Follow David and his work @
https://www.thejewishcabaret.com/cafenameddesire
https://instagram.com/dzeividz?igshid=1c4pf1kegf117
If you like our stories and would like to listen to more awesome episodes of LGBT folks we recommend "Out Loud: LGBT Stories of Faith" hosted by Greg Thompson.
https://gregthompsonmedia.com/out-loud
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Colin Bedell "Queer Cosmos" shares how astrology helps him in his spiritual life.
We talk about how science works hand in hand with astrology.
We discuss the importance of accessible language and the dangers of gatekeeping.
Colin shares how using the principles of “A Course in Miracles" can help us to heal, connect with ourselves and with society.
Visit Colin's website:
https://www.queercosmos.com/
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Digital-media darling, Phillip Picardi, joins us to share his spiritual journey from growing up in a Catholic home to starting his podcast
“Unholier Than Thou.”
Phil shares the important role media played in his own coming out and how he now works to ensure more positive queer representation in the media.
We talk privilege and the process of starting “them” at "Teen Vogue" and how Anna Wintour championed for him.
“Unholier Than Thou” is now available on Crooked Media :
https://crooked.com/podcast-series/unholier-than-thou/
To follow Phillip Picardi:
https://www.instagram.com/pfpicardi/?hl=en
Don't forget to sink your teeth into:
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Y-Love is a rapper and activist who has created Tribe Herald, a space for Jews of color.
He opens up about feeling he was Jewish at a young age and the challenges of converting. Y-Love shares how at his highest professional point, as a recognized rapper, he was going through a low personal point, after being outed by one of the community members.
Y-Love is now dedicated to creating representation for Jews of color and LGBTQ folks.
https://tribeherald.com/author/ylove613/
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Rev. Yolanda and, Rev. Glen Ganaway join us to discuss their ministry "The Mighty Companions” a ministry that hosts weekly meetings to discuss lessons from "A Course in Miracles" and "Church of the 2 Drink Minimum" a monthly spiritual cabaret.
Rev. Yolanda shares her personal journey of coming to terms with her identity as trans femme and genderqueer. Her partner Rev. Glen discusses how he supported her through this transition while they were both in seminary.
You cannot miss this episode where we will sing along to Rev Yolanda's anthem “I love myself”.
Check out all the super-powerful songs from Rev. Yolanda:
https://yolanda.net/
Do you have some extra time? Leave us a review!
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Jay Malksy, comedian and entertainer, shares their experience as a gay and non-binary practicing Catholic. Jay came out in Catholic high school and was supported by the LBGTQ group run by a priest at school. We discuss the complex progress of LGBTQ rights in the Catholic Church.
https://linktr.ee/gaymalsky
@GayMalksy
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Pelayo and Melissa discuss what brings them joy and how they find their voice during these uncertain times.
As we enter our 6th month of the global pandemic we wanted to share methods we find useful to stay present and connected to our own inner truth.
Extra! Extra! Extra!
Pelayo has launched his youtube channel Pelayo A.F., where he focuses on spirituality, creativity, and working through emotions with a fun twist.
Subscribe to Pelayo’s channel here:
https://youtu.be/ZjVSVZ0XW-0
Casper ter Kuile, Harvard Divinity School fellow, is the host of "Harry Potter & the Sacred text", author of the book of “The Power of Ritual” and founder of “Sacred Design Lab”. We discuss how to discover connection, meaning, and purpose through the power of ritual. Casper also assesses the complex structure of spirituality as well as where he sees the future of religion. Join our conversation to learn how to uncover the rituals you already have and ensure they have a transformative effect in your life.
Learn more about rituals:
https://www.caspertk.com/
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Ethan Roberts shares how his journey took him to seminary and to eventually become a chaplain in the trans unit on Rikers Island.
Ethan opens up about his own spiritual injury and journey of healing and how he creates trust with the people he helps in jail.
We also discuss ways Ethan unwinds and practices self-care to avoid burn out.
This episode is released in memory of Layleen Polanco who died at Rikers Island on June 7, 2019 in solitary confinement.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/26/nyregion/layleen-polanco-rikers-transgender-death.html
You can contact Ethan @imagodeifag
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Singer/songwriter, Ryan Cassata, shares his journey of losing touch with religion after he came out as trans.
After feeling spiritually sick he found a mentor whose powerful words helped him realize that being queer and religious can coexist. As a result, Ryan found healing and reconnected with his faith.
Listen to hear Ryan's advice on how to be true to yourself and how to use your struggles to help others.
http://www.ryancassata.com/music
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We had the honor to speak with Rev. Troy Perry who is a gay rights activist, and founder of Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC).
MCC started with 12 people in Perry’s home and has grown to have a presence in 37 countries with 222 affiliated churches.
Rev. Perry who has been invited to the white house 5 times, talks to us about organizing the first pride in Los Angeles. He shares how he used prayer and friendship to empower him to fight towards LGBTQ equality for all these years.
https://www.mccchurch.org/overview/history-of-mcc/
Don't forget to sink your teeth into:
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We are joined by Sushant Divgikar aka Rani KoHEnur, "Mr. Gay India", who was recently featured as the first Indian drag queen on "Forbes 30 Under 30" Asia.
Sushant talks about building their career with no representation and paving a path for others to follow. They share how hatred and criticism made them stronger.
Sushant also clears up some misconceptions the west has of the Hindu religion.
https://www.instagram.com/sushantdivgikr/?hl=en
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We are honored to have Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson, a multidisciplinary author with years of experience working in the intersection of politics and spirituality. Jay is also a teacher and editor at Ten Percent Happier.
Jay shows us how paganism is present in "Burning Man" and hidden in many normative religious practices. He shares his thoughts on the future of spirituality and gives us actionable tools on being mindful and present as we progress through the opening stages of the pandemic.
Tune in to learn about the correlations between pride and being truthful to oneself.
To learn about Jay's work:
https://www.jaymichaelson.net/
https://www.tenpercent.com/
Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
To our new and old listeners welcome to this space of radical acceptance!
It has been a whole year and we wanted to take this moment to reintroduce ourselves. We are Pelayo Alvarez and Melissa Weisz. We are the hosts of "The Forbidden Apple" where we explore the complex relationship between queer people and spirituality. We discuss our views on spirituality and how its relationship with the LGBTQ community has evolved.
Do you want to know our real reasons behind starting the podcast?
Listen to this episode and find out:
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Happy anniversary!!!
365 days of the Forbidden Apple! Pelayo and Melissa discuss their feelings and get personal as we unwrap a wonderful year. We share our goals and ambitions for this new year.
Thank you for joining us on this journey and we promise to make this year even better.
Don't forget to sink your teeth into:
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Brian McComak is the C.E.O. of Hummingbird Humanity, a company that makes workspaces more inclusive. He uses personal stories to make businesses understand the power of diversity. Brian shares how he learned that he was HIV positive and how he came to accept it.
Listen to learn more about inclusion, diversity, belonging, and the concept of equity.
To learn more about the field of inclusivity:
https://www.hummingbirdhumanity.com/
This is an extract from our series "7 Weeks of Purpose" series. Rev. Luther Young, and Nathanial Green from Q Christian talk to us about the "Unchanged Movement". We explore the term "Trauma Porn" and the best way to shut down conversations with unwelcoming folks. Rev. Young shares the history of the complexities of being queer and black.
To learn more:
https://lutheryoung.com/
www.unchangedmovement.com Don't forget to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We are honored to have Kevin Whiteneir, an interdisciplinary artist and art historian whose work focuses on the relationship between gender and queer experiences as they relate to race, the effects of (neo)colonialism, and its parallels with magic, religion, and witchcraft.
This is an extract from our "7 Weeks of Purpose" series. We discuss how to use rituals to fight racism, and the best way to use our energy to create change.
We will be publishing more antiracism resources here https://linktr.ee/theforbiddenapple
To learn more about Kevin's incredible work you can visit:
https://www.queerheresies.com/ or find him @queerheretic.
This guided meditation by Marisa Viola is for all of us feeling stressed, scared, or anxious. Marisa Viola, who is a meditation teacher at MNDFL and runs an LGBTQ sit, joined us for our mindfulness session of "7 Weeks of Purpose".
We stand with the black community and will participate in the necessary change and action towards the achievement of equal rights for black folks.
We stay committed to bringing you LGBTQ content during this month of pride while we act towards an affirming and radically inclusive society.
#stonewallwasariot Black Lives Matter.
Author and venture capitalist Arlan Hamilton shares her journey from sleeping on airport floors to funding her own venture capital fund "Backstage Capital". She discusses having faith in people's potential and the lessons she learned from growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness. Arlan shares how to turn being underestimated into your greatest advantage.
You can learn about Arlan's story in her book "It was about damn time" ?
Visit https://www.itsaboutdamntime.com/
Did you like this episode? If you want to support us visit www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Comedian Leah Forster joins us to talk about her journey of being raised in an ultra-orthodox community to finding her own meaning and connection to Judaism. She shares the pain of living a double life and the joy of finally being her authentic self.
Leah discusses the scandal of having her show canceled in a kosher restaurant because of her sexuality.
Listen to find out how she dealt with it and what being Jewish means to her now.
Keep up with her videos and comedy @leahforster
Support our work in www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Introducing our Zoom series "7 weeks of purpose". We will be going live every Sunday from May 10th to June 21st, 2020.
We will bring together community, ask advice from old and new friends, and explore a wide variety of perspectives on purpose, faith & spirituality. These conversations will leave us with practical tools, skills, and resources to help us deal with uncertainty, be present, and give us “tools for how to stay connected to our communities.”
-Dealing with uncertainty: Rev. Liz Edman.
-Mindfulness: Marisa Viola and Neil D'Astolfo.
-The importance of community: Latter Day Lesbian hosts and Jen Slumac.
-Inspirational engagement: Ross Murray.
-Rituals for social justice: Kevin Whiteneir and Rev. Jeep.
-The righteous internet: QChristian and Luther Young.
-Diversity and inclusion. Victor Ruiz Madrigal and Brian McComak.
https://www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com/7-weeks-of-purpose
Join us, por favor! :
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Life coach extraordinaire Frank Paul Vignola shares how his own journey and rough childhood led him to become a men’s life coach.
Frank incorporates his background as an actor and performer to help him understand and guide his clients.
Join us to get some tips on confidence and listen to Frank's simple but powerful mantras to get out of our heads.
Check out Frank's site:
https://www.lifecoachingny.com/
https://www.instagram.com/vignolagram/
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Have you watched "Unorthodox" on Netflix? Pelayo interviews Melissa about her experience consulting and appearing in the viral Netflix series. We dig into her experience leaving the community, and how it differs from Esty Shapiro's experience in the series.
We are excited to continue these conversations on the role of women in the ultra-orthodox community, the particularities of arranged marriages, and the more positive and passionate side. Much more to come.
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Mark Julien presents the graphic novel "Justin Case and the Closet Monster". The novel was a 10-year project that he used to come out to his late father. He uses his creative drawings to share his struggles of reconciling faith and being queer. He opens up about the meaning of "the monsters living in our closet" and how he found his inspiration.
Check out Mark Julien's designs on https://justincaseandtheclosetmonster.com/home.html
Remember to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Rev Yolanda and, Rev. Glen Ganaway join us to introduce us to “A course in miracles” the book that guides their lives.
They created the ministry “ the Mighty Companions” which includes a weekly meeting to discuss lessons from a course in miracles and their monthly "Church of the 2 drink minimum".
Rev Yolanda opens up about becoming a music minister and coming to terms with her gender identity. Rev. Glen shares his journey from growing up as a son of a navy chaplain to becoming a reverend himself.
You cannot miss this episode where we will sing along to Rev Yolanda's anthem “I love myself”.
Check out all the super-powerful songs from Rev Yolanda and Rev. Glen:
https://yolanda.net/
Do you have some extra time? leave us a review !!
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Jennifer Crawford talks to us about the pains of growing up, their recovery, and finding a higher power.
They open up about how CBT led them to be fully present whilst competing in Masterchef Canada.
They share the way they connect to their newly-discovered Jewish heritage through cooking and baking traditional Jewish food.
Check out their recipes and get in touch:
https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.e.crawford/
The Forbidden Apple is dedicated to continuing bringing you episodes throughout this quarantine.
We are each in our own homes so forgive our long-distance sound.
Thank you so much for your continued support. We’re all in this together.
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
#staysafe #stayconnected #stayhome
Musician, writer, and Grammy Award nominee, Mary Lambert, joins our podcast as we discuss the darker shades of success and fame.
She opens up about her childhood traumas and finding her connection to music through the church.
Since parting ways from her music label, she has leaned into her inner voice and was able to genuinely create the music she really wanted.
We talk about mental health and the constant presence of shame. Mary also shares how she was aware of the importance of being vulnerable and having difficult conversations since she was very little.
Mary has recently released her album "Grief Creature" focused on mental health and her book of poems " Shame is an ocean I swim across". Mary is also the host of the "Manic Episodes podcast".
http://marylambertsings.com/
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Mary Rutt and Shelly Johnson from the "Latter Day Lesbian" podcast share what inspired them to do their amazing podcast, create an incredibly supportive community. They open up about their path to breaking away from the high-demand religions they were raised in and how much their lives have changed in the last couple of years.
We highly recommend listening to their podcast available on all streaming platforms!
http://latterdaylesbian.org/index.html
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Rev. Dr. Deb Berman is the founder of "Pride Ministry", a spiritual community for BDSM, Kink, and Poly folks. She is also an affirming psychotherapist with a focus on the alternative community.
Rev. Deb’s progressive interfaith/interspiritual ministry is committed to the spiritual healing of alternative souls.
She works to ensure the spiritual necessities of alt folks are covered. She also teaches and supports clergy in affirming these communities.
Listen to find out more about Rev. Deb mission in life: to be a conscious part of ”The Great Chain of Being”
To learn more about "Pride Ministry"
https://prideministry.com/
Do not forget to sink your teeth into…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We welcome filmmaker and writer Nora Berman. Nora grew up practicing Buddhism following the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh. We discuss how as a child she would attend the Dharma center with her Jewish father and Christian mother and struggled with the idea of “non-attachment”. Her favorite part was walking meditation which continues to be a source of connection for her. Nora opens up about her journey of reconnecting with her Jewish roots and honoring her family's legacy by being her truest self and embracing the fact that she is enough.
You can find Nora at…
@pandaberman
Sink you teeth into….
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
In this Forbidden Apple mixer, we explore how we use storytelling through photography, music, and spoken word for social change in the LGBTQ Movement.
Do you want to join us? Email info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Sink your teeth into…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We met Garden State gay's guardian Senator Loretta Weinberg at the Teaneck Film Festival, where she supported the screening of “Framing Agnes” a film reenacting stories of transgender people from the 1950’s.
We discuss her fight for human and LGBTQ rights within the State of New Jersey. She shares what kept her going through 50 years of politics.
To check out the film “Framing Agnes” please visit:
https://www.framingagnes.com/
Follow Loretta Weinberg on twitter.
@SenatorLorettaW
Sink your teeth with…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Melissa and Pelayo analyze the future of religion and discuss how new technologies and online communities have reshaped traditional aspects of religion. From meditation apps to astrological communities, it is clear that human beings are continuously looking for a connection with something greater than themselves. Where does one find community? What are the "new rules" of morality? Who guides and inspires the new generation?
Join us as we explore these questions.
The incredible article we discuss was written by Meera Clark (@itsmeeraclark)
https://worldpositive.com/a-religious-realignment-d7279582de0a?gi=d87422c7ab62
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Martin Cowart, CEO of Financial Heart Space, provides a truly holistic approach to financial health, planning, and wealth management.
Although money and spirituality may not seem to have much in common, Martin uses shadow work with his clients to reconnect mind, body, and spirit. We explore how he resolves inner conflicts and fear-based money blocks that limit our freedom to be happy, healthy, and wealthy.
Martin opens up about his “dark night of the soul” and how he has used his spirituality to deal with the spiral of life’s emotions.
Do you want to share your money story with Martin?:
https://www.financialheartspace.com/
Sink your teeth into…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Rev. Elizabeth Edman, an openly queer Episcopal priest and political strategist who has been expanding people’s understanding of faith and sexuality for over 25 years. She shares her personal journey and the hurdles she had to overcome to become an openly queer priest.
Having a strong sense that God always loved her, she lived and worked on the front lines where religion meets sexuality. She opens up about her experience being a chaplain during the HIV/AIDS crisis from 1989 to 1995.
As a political strategist, she has helped to craft political and communications strategies for marriage equality efforts.
Rev. Liz is the author of the book "Queer Virtue".
100% recommend reading “Queer Virtue”:
http://www.queervirtue.com/
Remember! Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Logan Rozos is an actor known for his role in "David Makes Man". He has received the Parity Award for his work in LGBTQ/Faith activism. Logan joins us to discuss his search for identity as a trans man as well as the evolution of his faith through time. We explore the concept of grace and talk about how forgiveness can be challenging.
Check out Logan in "David Makes Man":
http://www.oprah.com/app/david-makes-man.html
Get in contact with Logan Rozos:
https://www.instagram.com/loganrozos
Sink your teeth into... the Forbidden Apple
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Peter M. Krask, creative director and photographer talks about his creative process and how his queerness is deeply connected to his work.
We discuss the interconnections between desire, queerness, and creation, as well as the roots of the word "blessing".
Listen to hear how his experience in a monastery helped him say yes to living authentically.
Want to learn more about his creativity guide?
https://www.pmkcreativityguide.com/
Check out Peter’s work:
https://www.petermkrask.com/
Sink your teeth into…
The Forbidden Apple
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
We wanted to be the first ones to wish you a Happy New Year. Melissa and Pelayo share how to "religiously" stick with your New Year's resolutions, what worked for them last year, and the opportunities the new year brings.
Share your new year resolutions with us and sink your teeth into... www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com @theforbiddenapplepodcast
Pelayo and Melissa share their favorite part of their traditional holidays and discuss their first holidays away from their family. They reflect on the role of these special days.
We wish all our listeners happy holidays!!!
Do not forget to sink your teeth into ...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Katy Ray is a writer for Qutie App which prides to be a comprehensive and inclusive platform tailored specifically for the LGBTQ community. Katy is an educator who is passionate about broadening the US school curriculum to include LGBTQ issues.
Katie shares how she was unaccepted in her religious home which led her to find her own meaning of faith. Matthew Vines’ book “God and the Gay Christian" helped her along her journey.
Matthew Vines Book:
“ God and the Gay Christian”
http://www.matthewvines.com/
Qutie App :
https://qutieapp.com/
The Reformation Project: https://reformationproject.org/
The Q Christian Network: https://www.qchristian.org/
Our Bible App: https://www.ourbibleapp.com/
God and the Gay Christian: http://www.godandthegaychristian.com/#home
Sink your teeth into…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
www.instagram.org/theforbiddenapplepodcast
Reporter, producer, and activist Luis Sandoval shares the impact of coming out on Univision TV Network. Luis was driven to come out by the terrible story of Jamel Myles and the lack of representation of LGBTQ in Latin Media. Luis was a recipient of a GLAAD Media Award in the category of Outstanding TV Journalism. He shares how he keeps a positive outlook in this current climate and strives to be the example he needed when he was younger.
Listen to hear about how the book “The four agreements” by “Don Miguel Ruiz”, guides his life.
“The four agreements” by “Don Miguel Ruiz”:
https://www.miguelruiz.com/the-four-agreements
Luis Sandoval Coming out Story:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9h6Nh8aLqA0
@Luissandovaltv
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
www.instagram.org/theforbiddenapplepodcast
Rev. Jeep Ries is an interfaith minister and spiritual coach. We discuss the importance of rituals and how to incorporate them throughout one's life. Rev Jeep shares her spiritual journey of healing her own wounds and honing her gifts to develop her own way of being of service.
As a healer, her practice includes crystals, Reiki, Sound Healing, Chakra Therapy and Shamanic Healing.
Tune in to expand your spiritual tool-kit.
Learn more about Rev. Jeep
www.revjeep.com
Sink your teeth into…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Joy Reed joins the Forbidden Apple Podcast to present her directorial debut “Little Miss Westie”.
"Little Miss Westie" follows Luca and Ren, two transgender siblings as they navigate puberty, school, family and transitioning during the Trump era. Ren is competing in the "Little Miss Westie" pageant; her older brother Luca is coaching her on posing, make-up, and talent.
Joy opened up about growing up queer in rural New York and how movies played a role in making her feel more accepted.
For more information on "Little Miss Westie":
https://www.lmwdoc.com/
To support her upcoming project: "The sum of Her Parts":
https://www.wmm.com/sponsored-project/free-agent/
Sink your teeth into…
The Forbidden Apple
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Jamie Jones is the artist behind the pride flag mural at the entrance of the "Church of the Village". Jamie overcame a rough childhood, drug dependency, and depression. She is now committed to being her full creative and healthy self, by writing, blogging, photographing, and painting. To Jamie sharing is healing.
Follow Jamie's Journey on:
http://www.blameitonjamie.com
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Jamie Jones is the artist behind the welcoming rainbow mural in the narthex of the Church of the Village. Jamie overcame a rough childhood, drug dependency, and depression through a series of “miracles” and “angels”. She is now committed to being her full creative and healthy self, by writing, blogging, photographing, and painting. To Jamie sharing is healing.
Follow Jamie's Journey on:
http://www.blameitonjamie.com
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Garrard Conley is a conversion therapy survivor and author of the New York Times best-selling memoir "Boy erased", now a major motion picture. Garrard talks about the so-called "straight savior" and his opinion about conversion therapy leaders coming out. He shares his rituals for writing and how he uses his religious upbringing to fuel his stories. Tune in to hear us talk about the challenges of finding the greys, especially in today’s polarized society.
You can find resources for survivors of conversation therapy below:
The Trevor Project
https://www.thetrevorproject.org The National Center for Lesbian Rights http://www.nclrights.org/bornperfect-the-facts-about-conversion-therapy/ Born Perfect
www.bornperfect.org Southern Poverty Law Center
https://www.splcenter.org Unerased: A podcast on the History of Conversion Therapy in America.
Garrard Conley
Sink your teeth into ...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
James Schwartz shares what it was like to grow up Amish as a little gay boy. James shares how trips to the library, drag queens, and poetry gave him a fresh start. Now living in Hawaii, he reflects on his journey from the culture of "Shunning" to the welcoming "Aloha". He tells us more about the rituals of the Amish community and breaks the myths about "Rumspringa ".
Get in contact with James Swartz:
www.amishheritage.org
www.lgbtamish.com
James Book on being LGBTQ and Amish
@queeraspoetry
Sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Melissa and Pelayo discuss how their views on religious jargon have changed. They discuss concepts like miracles, angels, and choice over our own fate. We debate the difference between spirituality and religion.
We also shed some light on the difference between welcoming vs. celebrating queer individuals.
Thank you for sinking your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Madison Hatch talks about her experience within the Mormon church. She shares about receiving contradicting answers regarding polygamy, the women’s role in the church, and the lack of transparency with 10% tithe donations. Her own strong sense of justice and a school challenge to read the Bible as well as the Book of Mormon led her to leave the church and become an atheist.
Madison leaves us with great reflections about the importance of being self-sufficient and directly obtaining our resources from nature.
You can start a conversation with Madison about being self-sufficient emailing her to madisonhatch@gmail.com
And you can sink your teeth into The Forbidden Apple:
info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
In this bonus episode our guest Jen Slumac reads an excerpt of her book "Soulnotskin"
@soulnotskin
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Jen Slumac, daughter of a pastor, shares how she struggled with her sexuality and abused alcohol to numb the pain. Jen discusses her road to recovery, reconnecting with God, and learning to trust herself. Listen to find out how she makes use of the tools she learned in recovery and how she applies it to her work as a prison counselor. Jen discusses her journey to self in her book " Soul Not Skin".
Check it out on:
https://www.soulnotskin.com
The prison within.
@soulnotskin
And remember to sink your teeth into...
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
As a producer of queer events and promoter of LGBTQ culture, Sarose organized her most important event yet: her parent's interfaith wedding.
Growing up Irish Catholic with a Jewish father, Sarose talks about her involvement with the Catholic community and reconnecting with her Jewish side by going on a Birthright trip.
Due to their lack of acceptance after coming out, Sarose lost contact with her family but a long-hidden family secret reconnected them.
To find out more listen to the episode!
Sink your teeth into…
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
In our very first podcast collaboration we have the hosts of the Qurated podcast. Alex and Sam share how representation in the media helped them with their coming out, how they reach catharsis through the creation of music and connection and their vision of their podcast.
Get in touch with the Qurated podcast:
@qurated.podcast
@afluppy
@samgrahammusic
Join our conversations, and sink your teeth into..
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
The most charming minister of worship, Jorge Lockward shares how he has been encouraging the church to not just affirm LGBTQ but celebrate them.
Church of the village is leading the way of healing PTSD by taking out pews, having a queer artist paint a rainbow flag at the entrance to the church and using they/them pronouns when referring to God.
Sink your teeth in this story of acceptance, healing and celebrating ourselves as whole and complete beings!
Learn more about The Church of the Village's activities https://www.churchofthevillage.org Join our conversations, and sink your teeth into..
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
theforbiddenapplepodcast@gmail.com
Our favorite interfaith minister, Chani Getter, teaches us the meaning of spiritual counselingand the importance of being witnessed in life's celebrations. She shares about coming out with the help of Ellen Degeneres and a dictionary.
Join us as we discuss how Chani helps others going through transitions.
To learn more about Chani Getter check her website.
https://www.chanigetter.com,
Subscribe to Chani Getter's Youtube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyYGlwl2PVrT0-XZXTt3Dkw
Email her Chani@ChaniGetter.com
And remember to subscribe, review and sink your teeth into
www.theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Catherine Montesi talks about the struggle of coming to terms with her sexuality while living in the bible belt. She shares how her Catholic school made her watch videos about purity and sexuality with slogans like "if it feels good to stop"
We explore what made her abandon Catholicism and discuss her evolution in stand up comedy after coming out.
Catherine Montesi:
@dykewinslet
Subscribe! Listen! Review! and Sink your teeth into...
THE FORBIDDEN APPLE PODCAST
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
After 26 years as an orthodox male, Josephine Altzman decided to transition while remaining religious.
Listen to learn more about the process and how her community and her family reacted. We also explore what orthodoxy means to her. Josephine shares her plans to become the first Trans Orthodox Rabbi.
Subscribe! Listen! Review! and Sink your teeth into...
THE FORBIDDEN APPLE PODCAST
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
How does a Hasidic "Mishpacha" compare with a Catholic "Familia"?
Melissa shares what was it like growing up as a woman in the Hasidic world as Pelayo opens up about his patriarchal grandfather and his aunt becoming a nun and marrying God.
We discuss gender roles in religious spaces, clergy and marriage.
Sink your teeth into...
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Today we are joined by Brick City Native, Sontaia Briggs. Sontaia shares what lead her from public administration to theology. We learn about her experiences in seminary and her work as a queer faith activist. We discuss the importance of using inclusive language and rediscover the word “miracles”.
Get in contact with Sontaia Briggs:
www.youuniversity.co
https://www.instagram.com/sontaia_briggs/
Join our conversations, and sink your teeth into...
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
Your hosts Pelayo Alvarez & Melissa Weisz discuss ancient concepts of good and evil. We revisit and reimagine religious concepts from our upbringings to filter what's useful for personal growth.
We discuss the saying "Hurt people, hurt people" and question the existence of an evil person.
Join our conversations and sink your teeth into...
The Forbidden Apple Podcast
Jeremy Lentz shares his journey from a young boy nervously preparing for his bar mitzvah - to an out and proud gay man called upon to read “the twilight people”, at a pride Shabbat, in his reform temple.
Jeremy is the Executive Director of the Teaneck International Film Festival, showcasing feature films, shorts, and documentaries that highlight a variety of cultural and social justice issues. Jeremy has spent the last 10 years involved in activism both within and outside the festival, fighting for our society to be more inclusive and accepting.
Learn more about Teaneck Film Festival:
www.TeaneckFilmFestival.org
https://instagram.com/teaneckfilmfestival?igshid=cm5j3pf2ggqc
https://instagram.com/jnlentz?igshid=1aqlr7m546hkt www.facebook.com/teaneckfilmfestival/
Contact Jeremy Lentz:
www.facebook.com/jeremy.lentz.18
Sink your teeth into..
www.instagram.org/theforbiddenapplepodcast
theforbiddenapplepodcast@gmail.com
“Twilight People (in place of Hashkiveinu, page 160)
Rabbi Reuben Zellman”
“As the sun sinks and the colors of the day turn, we offer a blessing for the twilight, for twilight is neither day nor night, but in-between. We are all twilight people. We can never be fully labeled or defined. We are many identities and loves, many genders and none. We are in between roles, at the intersection of histories, or between place and place. We are crisscrossed paths of memory and destination, streaks of light and swirled together. We are neither day nor night. We are both, neither, and all.
May the sacred in-between of this evening suspend our certainties, soften our judgments, and widen our vision. May this in-between light illuminate our way to the God who transcends all categories and definitions. May the in-between people who have come to pray be lifted up into this twilight. We cannot always define; we can always say a blessing. Blessed are You, God of all, who brings on the twilight.”
We discuss how prayer helped us soothe as children and made us feel safe and connected to our families and communities.
Today we go beyond the traditional understanding of prayer to include meditation, visualization, and mantras.
Listen to find out more about the power of repetition and gratitude for self-growth.
What is a prayer for you?
Share with us at:
info@theforbiddenapplepodcast.com
The Forbidden Apple
For more about tapping:
https://www.healthline.com/health/eft-tapping
Screenwriter and director, Matilde Ascheri discuss her search for the right church as an 11-year-old Siena, Italy. Matilde created queer characters as a way to explore her sexuality and come out to her family. Listen to find out the rituals she uses to create.
We discuss how we tackle telling real stories about queer people without falling into stereotypes.
Do not forget to subscribe, share, and take a bite into…
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
Moshe Henderson, a musical theatre director, explores his upbringing attending a non- denominational church in Seattle’s suburbs. He transformed the faith of his church into a passion for musical theatre. Moshe's motto is "no day but today".
You can follow Moshe’s work:
https://moshehenderson.webs.com
And instagram @moshesgayhere
Do not forget to subscribe, share and take a bite into…
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
We discuss how traditional religious values can co-exist while being queer and Muslim. We are joined by two special guests. Wazina, the co-creator of “Coming Out Muslim”, was born in Afghanistan and raised in New York. Our other guest is a practicing Muslim whose family comes from Tanzania. Listen to learn more about their families’ religious expectations, traditions they incorporate into their own daily practice, and how they stay connected to their families.
To connect with Wazina: comingoutmuslim.com or email comingoutmuslim@gmail.com
Watch Wazina Zondon and our very own Melissa Weisz in Them’s “Can you be religious and queer?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnG3BSDfvhk&app=desktop
Remember to subscribe, listen, share, take a bite, and stay in touch:
https://www.instagram.com/theforbiddenapplepodcast/
theforbiddenapplepodcast@gmail.com
Welcome to "The Forbidden Apple".
We go where no other podcast has even gone, exploring the complex relationship between queer people and religion. In a world where organized religion does not often embrace queer voices we wanna hear from those pushed to the margins who had to find their own meaning and faith.
In this episode, we discuss what pride means to us and explore how to continue the celebration throughout the year.
Join our conversations:
@theforbiddenapplepodcast
It is our pleasure to introduce Melissa Weisz. The Forbidden Apple host shares her insight into growing up as an Ultra-orthodox Hasidic Jew. Melissa discusses embracing life as a queer person, finding meaning, and using this platform to celebrate queer voices.
Join our conversations
@Theforbiddenapplepodcast
It is our pleasure to introduce Pelayo Alvarez. The Forbidden Apple host talks about his religious upbringing and Spanish Catholic traditions like "Semana Santa". Pelayo looks forward to exploring how the LGBTQ Community relates to religion and spirituality.