Cocoon After Dark

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Intersections of Voice and Identity: Discovering Jen Cheng

Host Quincy interviews Jen Cheng, poet laureate of West Hollywood, about voice, identity, community, and showing up authentically. After rapid-fire questions, Jen reads her poem “10,000 Butterflies,” written in 2023 for a Grand Performances opportunity, tracing family survival, war, displacement, and queer safety across Hong Kong, China, and Buenos Aires. Jen discusses her pronouns (“she/ke”) and how Cantonese lacks binary gendered pronouns, then explains Cantonese vs. Mandarin and efforts to suppress Cantonese. She describes writing in English while incorporating Cantonese pronunciation, teaching workshop...

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In a solo episode of Cocoon After Dark, Quincy Tessaverne argues that many queer people build beautiful lives yet could lose everything in a crisis because the system defaults to bloodline, not love, when paperwork is missing or outdated. She urges listeners to structure “queer wealth” with intention: review beneficiary designations yearly, title property correctly, and create written co-ownership agreements.Quincy explains how powers of attorney, medical proxies, and advance directives decide who can manage money, speak to doctors, and honor end-of-life wishes—otherwise next of kin may overrule partners and chosen family. The episod...

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In part two of her interview with coach Dr. Lorri Sulpizio, Quincy and Lorri discuss “growing up” in relationships by slowing down, prioritizing self-understanding over labels, and avoiding measuring love by speed rather than safety. They explore midlife women leaving long heterosexual marriages for relationships with women, the intensity of lesbian relationships, outness mismatches, and how fear and attachment wounds can drive conflict, red-flag blindness, and choosing partners who soothe old pain. Lorri describes her couples and one-on-one coaching approach, emphasizing emotional regulation, psychological safety, advocacy, conflict repair, and practical tactics like talking side-by-side or o...

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Quincy sits down with leadership educator and former women’s college basketball coach Lorri Sulpizio for the first of a two-part conversation focused on “the fire”: what it costs to speak up when silence would be easier. Lorri—director of the Conscious Leadership Academy at the University of San Diego, founder/coach at LorriSulpizio.com, a queer mother of four, and a self-described leadership disruptor—shares how her leadership lens was forged through athletics and public consequence. She recounts growing up in conservative, Catholic family in Poway (San Diego), recognizing her sexuality early, and becoming a...

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In this intimate episode of Cocoon After Dark, Quincy  interviews Kymn Goldstein and Angela Brinskele, the dedicated custodians of the June L. Mazer Lesbian Archives. The conversation delves into the essence of preserving LGBTQ+ history, emphasizing the unique struggles and triumphs of the lesbian community. Despite technical and environmental challenges, the discussion remains rich and evocative, highlighting the significance of archiving artifacts from feminist history and lesbian culture. They explore how the archives capture voices and stories often overlooked, from activist athletes to concealed photographic moments. The effort to collect and maintain an authentic r...

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In a heartfelt and profound conversation with Quincy, Jen Torres, the Puerto Rican lesbian founder of Simply Lead, shares her journey of fighting for authenticity in the face of cultural and professional erasure. Joined by her partner Eboné, Jen delves into the struggles and triumphs of creating a space where everyone can thrive. Through personal anecdotes that range from the oppressive realities faced by BIPOC and LGBTQ individuals to the nourishment found in delicious foods and music, Jen highlights the importance of dismantling harmful norms and fostering environments where true selves can shine. The d...

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This episode of Cocoon After Dark features an enlightening conversation between Quincy Tessaverne, host of the podcast, and Jen Torres, a Puerto Rican lesbian and founder of Simply Lead. The discussion centers around the nuanced and often quiet cost of belonging for marginalized communities, particularly BIPOC and LGBTQ individuals, who feel pressured to assimilate into dominant cultures. Jen shares her personal experiences and the cultural shocks she encountered moving from Puerto Rico to the United States, emphasizing how these challenges influenced her to create Simply Lead. This initiative aims to foster...

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Navigating Justice: A Queer Attorney's Journey with Alexis James

Join host Quincy from the Cocoon After Dark podcast as she interviews Alexis James, a queer attorney with a rich background in law and education. In this thought-provoking episode, Alexis opens up about her journey through the legal system, the personal toll of combating systemic injustice, and the challenges of maintaining hope and integrity in a detached world. Discover heartfelt stories of family law cases, reflections on the current socio-political climate, and the transformative power of community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation...

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Carlneesha Robinson: Building Community & Breaking Boundaries

In this episode, Quincy, sits down with Carlneeha Robinson, an Air Force tech sergeant and proud queer black content creator. Carlneesha shares her journey of balancing a high-pressure military career with a vibrant online presence, emphasizing humor, honesty, and authenticity. She opens up about her personal milestones, the joy of community-building, and the search for intentional love. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on visibility, resistance, and the courage to choose yourself, all wrapped up with candid anecdotes and future aspirations!

00:00 Introduction...

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What happens when a single swipe rewrites your entire future? Olivia and Kelly didn't just fall in love-they leapt headfirst, marrying only months after meeting online and choosing to share their story with the world.

In this conversation, we delve beyond social media fame and the age-gap curiosity to uncover the private truths and what it means to carry love in public, as well as how two women are reshaping what queer relationships look like.

This isn't just about a viral couple. It's about risk, resilience, and the radical act...

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Welcome back to Cocoon After Dark! Season two launches with reflections on the impact of sharing personal stories and the importance of community, resonating across 380 cities in seven countries. Host Quincy discusses the theme of 'starting deeper' in 2026, emphasizing growth, alignment, and genuine connections. Quincy also addresses the challenges of navigating friendships amid political divides and the unexpected friendships gained through the podcast. The episode delves into personal growth, parental experiences, and the transformative power of love. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for support and explore Quincy’s consulting venture, Dreamy Cocoon Sleep, ai...

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In this final episode of season one, we sit down with Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, for a conversation about power, responsibility, and the lives shaped in between.

We talk about what LA28 represents—not just as a global moment, but as a real opportunity for LGBTQ-owned businesses to finally be seen, supported, and included in meaningful ways. Stephen shares how access, procurement, and long-term opportunity can either open doors or quietly close them, especially in a city as vast and complex as Los An...

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In this engaging episode of Cocoon After Dark, we welcome Kathy Barron, a witty and resilient writer, editor, and the driving force behind 'Women Who Sarcast' and 'Women Who Podcast.' Together, we delve into Kathy's journey through humor and sarcasm as tools of survival and connection in a world that often misunderstands both. From her early days of adventure and sports to her impactful contributions through magazine and podcasting, Kathy shares the layers of humor, heart, and defiance. We also touch on the power of storytelling, the challenges faced by independent women podcasters...

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In this episode of 'Cocoon,' we sit down with Joy Matthews, a black queer health educator and volunteer coordinator at Together for Mental Wellbeing in the UK. Joy shares their journey of navigating complex relationships with their family, overcoming trauma, and redefining their mental health. They discuss the importance of community care, empathy, and a holistic approach to mental wellbeing. Joy reflects on their identity, experiences of dysmorphia, and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures. Join us for an enlightening conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of...

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In this compelling podcast episode, the host, recording from a cabana in Hawaii, dives into an intimate conversation with Keala Kenley, a trailblazing surfer who defied stereotypes and broke barriers in the world of professional surfing. Keala recounts her childhood challenges of being perceived as different, her struggle with gender norms, and her relentless pursuit to be accepted and respected in a male-dominated sport. The discussion explores her time on the professional tour, the immense pressure to conform to traditional feminine images, and her groundbreaking achievements, including pioneering big wave surfing for women. Despite...

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Join us for a profound conversation with Eboné Bell, a pioneering voice in representing queer women and non-binary individuals. From founding Tag Magazine to breaking stereotypes in leadership, Eboné shares her journey of creating spaces of inclusivity and authenticity. Discover her personal stories, the impact of her work, and insights on allyship, belonging, and leading with empathy. Don't miss this engaging and inspiring discussion on the importance of representation and living authentically.

00:00 Introduction to EA Bell

01:34 Holiday Plans and Traditions

04:42 Family Background and Upbringing

08:08 College Experiences an...

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In this heartfelt episode, Quincy, the host, reflects on the incredible journey of season one, sharing lessons learned about recording, editing, and deep, meaningful conversations. Expressing deep gratitude to listeners for their support and engagement, the host also sets the stage for the upcoming season with promises of even deeper connections and more vulnerable dialogues. Listeners are encouraged to contribute their ideas and stories to shape the future content. The episode closes with personal reflections on goals for the next year, the importance of showing up authentically, and a hopeful outlook for the future.<...

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In this enriching episode, we dive deep with Whitni Miller from BDE Moves, exploring the intricate realms of desire, intimacy, and queerness. Whitni empowers women, queer folks, and anyone feeling out of sync to reclaim their erotic voice with presence rather than performance. Through candid conversations, discover how Whitni's personal and professional journeys have shaped their understanding of sexual health, legacies of trauma, and the importance of play in desire. Learn practical tips for fostering intimacy, from mirror games to maintaining eroticism in long-term relationships, and why understanding oneself is paramount to connecting with...

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Hot, Sassy, and Science-Backed: Unleashing Midlife Power with Kate Wells

In this fiery episode of 'Cocoon After Dark,' host Quincy gets candid with Kate Wells, hormone expert and co-founder of the audacious brand Parlor Games. Kate dives into the science and sass behind Silky Peach, a vaginal estriol cream designed to combat menopause symptoms. They explore the intricate relationship between hormonal changes and sex life, demystify bioidentical hormones, and share cheeky anecdotes about breaking medical taboos. From boosting libido to tackling incontinence, this episode is a no-holds-barred celebration...

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In this episode, we sit down with Kayla Nielsen, a world-renowned yoga teacher, podcaster, and survivor of domestic violence. Kayla shares her powerful story of reclaiming her body and life as she navigates through trauma, love, and healing. Married to Alex, Kayla speaks about their journey together, from meeting in Nicaragua to building a life founded on love and safety. The discussion delves deep into topics like the aftermath of domestic violence, the importance of self-trust, and the transformative power of queer love. Learn how Kayla turned her pain into purpose and...

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Join us on this episode of 'Cocoon After Dark' as we dive into the multifaceted life of Michelle Flamer-Powell. Michelle shares her journey through queer motherhood, corporate leadership, and spirituality while adding her unique humor and vulnerability. She reveals insights about deep conversations being her 'kink,' navigating through heartbreak, and finding solace in spiritual practices such as astrology and IFS therapy. Michelle also touches on her co-hosting role in the 'Live Out Loud' podcast, her experiences with dating, and the challenges of living authentically. This candid and enlightening conversation goes beyond the surface...

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Out Vote: Empowering LGBTQIA+ Youth Towards Civic Engagement

🌈 From a simple selfie to sparking a movement—join Isaac & Ranen of Out Vote HQ as they revolutionize civic engagement! 🔥

In this episode, the host interviews Isaac James and Rainin Miao, co-founders of Out Vote, a queer-led movement aimed at reinvigorating civic engagement among Gen Z LGBTQIA+ individuals. They discuss their inspiration, stemming from their time in Washington D.C., and the importance of political participation beyond national elections. They emphasize the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and the need for syst...

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In this emotional episode of Cocoon After Dark, host Quincy discusses the deep and often hidden impacts of dating the wrong people when you have children. She shares personal stories of her two past relationships with unhealed individuals and how these relationships affected her youngest daughter. The episode delves into the long-term emotional effects on children who experience instability and unpredictability in their home environments. Quincy introduces the 'Five Rs'—Reflect, Recognize, Reassess, Repair, and Rebuild—as strategies to protect children and ensure a nurturing, stable environment. Ending on a note of hope and heal...

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In this episode of Cocoon After Dark, the host is joined by Elise Braunschweiger, founder of Queer Conscious Connections, a matchmaking and coaching service for the LGBTQ community. They discuss the challenges of dating beyond heteronormative scripts, focusing on identity, timing, safety, and the value of being seen in one’s truth. Elise shares insights on creating intentional, grounded connections for lesbians and queer individuals. The conversation covers various topics such as generational differences in labels like 'lesbian' and 'queer,' the impact of COVID-19 on dating behaviors, the role of bars and events ve...

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🌈 Discover a new level of beauty empowerment with Misty Marie! Dive into her expert insights on Great Lengths extensions, her non-gender conforming identity, and the spicy details of her latest venture, 'No Tulips.' Catch it all on Cocoon After Dark! 💥🎧 #Podcast #InclusiveBeauty #Entrepreneurship

Email:themistymarie@gmail.com

Personal Insta: @themistymarie

Business Insta: @no.tulips

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🌈 Episode 2 of our "UnF@&kable With" series is here! 🎙️ Dive into the stories of resilience and strength among queer youth, as we explore minority stress and how one affirming person can make all the difference. Listen now and be inspired! 

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Former trial lawyer turned visionary founder Justin Ayars, JD is reimagining what healthcare can feel like through EqualityMD--a digital ecosystem rooted in trust, inclusion, and belonging. In this episode, we explore what happens when healing moves beyond insurance and paperwork and becomes something profoundly human. 

It's not about the body. It's about identity. About LGBTQ+ lives, it's about veterans, and marginalized communities being believed, seen, and understood. It's about rewriting what care means when the system has never fully cared for you.  

Because the most powerful kind of healing starts wh...

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We meet Jade Azevedo tonight- skater, dreamer, mosh pit lover. They have just enough punk to flip the script. They once broke their back in the mosh pit at a Bikini Kill concert. Loves their mom's cooking, and yes, they did get into a huge brawl... at a bar... wearing fishnets.

Their queer skate crew is their heartbeat, chosen family, and the foundation for a radical vision: a skate shop where you pay what you can afford, so the next generation of skaters isn't left out on the asphalt and builds community...

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💎 Unfuckable with.

Not louder. Not harder. Not untouchable.

It’s the moment you refuse to hand your peace over to someone else’s chaos.

It’s resilience with a queer heartbeat — the softness that survives, the wholeness that doesn’t shatter.

Minority stress may press heavy, but our chosen families, our stories, our refusal to absorb shame? That’s the medicine. That’s what makes us unfuckable with.

🎙️ Episode 1 of our new mini-series is live: What Does “Unfuckable With” Really Mean?

We’re redefining stre...

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What happens when your life shatters in one breath—when betrayal, addiction, and loss collide? Nikki LaCroce calls 2021 her "personal armageddon", and in this episode, she opens up about leaving a decade-long abusive relationship, losing her mother at the peak of the pandemic, and finding true love, and how those two griefs and one brief moment of curiosity changed her forever.

From those ashes, Nikki built a new voice and a new mission-helping others claim their stories and step into their truth through her work at her company NikkiLaCroce.com. Together, we ta...

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In this episode of the Living Out Loud Podcast, Quincy Tessaverne shares her powerful story, The Woman Grief Made: The Day a College Tour Went Very Badly. With raw honesty, she opens up about losing her son, Josh, and how grief has forever reshaped her life as a mother, woman, and entrepreneur. Listeners will hear a vulnerable account of how one ordinary day shattered her world, and how she continues to carry love, resilience, and hope alongside unimaginable loss. This conversation speaks to anyone navigating grief, healing after tragedy, or searching for...

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We're Just Besties...Making a Baby (no Really)

What happens when your gay best friend is your soulmate, your straight best friend is your baby mama, and both of you have significant others? Apparently...you make a whole damn family.

In this episode, Caroline and Darais drop into the cocoon to talk about what it's like to build a modern family without the mess of sex but with all of the spreadsheets, love, and flying sperm across the country. We cover coparenting while partnered, redefining intimacy (without the awkward cuddle...

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From the flashing lights of Making the Band to the intimate corners of reinvention, Pillow Prince (Jared Garner) has lived many lives: go-go dancer, reality TV star, queer artist, and now the voice behind the new album Slept On.

In this episode, Pillow opens up about:

✨ His experience on being scouted for Netflix’s Making the Band

✨ The shedding of old skins — from Jared to Pillow Prince

✨ The tension between performance, pleasure, and power (yes, we talk about top and bottom energy and even peggi...

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In this 20-minute episode, I delve into beauty standards through the lens of a Gen X Lesbian. From growing up without much SPF and getting my face fried to the point of blistering to navigating age in midlife. It's about turning back the clock, but also about honoring the beauty of my skin going forward, by eating right, taking vitamins, and, of course, wearing sun protection. I share why SPF is non-negotiable for keeping spots at bay, why laser treatments can be a game changer, and why redefining beauty as confidence and care is...

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Wesley Grey Hartmann lives at the intersection of intellect, embodiment, and unapologetic authenticity. By day, he is a trusted mortgage advisor and math geek helping people secure their futures with clarity and confidence. By night, he is a go-go dancer, costume designer, and production company called Wes Hollywood in Los Angeles. He is a luminous reminder that queer-joy and self-expression deserve as much time as spreadsheets. His world isn't one of balancing two worlds-it's about integrating them, and inviting others to do the same.

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Menopause isn't just an ending, it's a turning of the page. In this solo episode, I share and perhaps overshare the humor and heartache of being a Gen X lesbian moving through hot flashes, raising a teen, and still daring to find love. These are the layers of my book called life-messy, radiant, and real-that makes this chapter worth celebrating.

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Hey, it's Quincy- Welcome to Cocoon After Dark. Tonight it's just you and me in a solo episode where I'm getting raw about jealousy.

From friendship to lovers- jealousy has haunted so many corners of my life. Sometimes it was my own, sometimes it was directed at me, but it always left an indelible mark.

LGBTQ love and jealousy are as real as it is in heterosexual relationships, and that's why I'm talking about why freedom is the sexiest loyalty there is and how that trust deepens intimacy and desire.<...

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Beneath the shimmer of indigo, past the polite masks and surface sparkle, lives Quincy's unseen skin-the layer you can't touch but can't ignore. This podcast isn't about small talk; it's about slipping into the raw frequencies where perception, Scorpio fire, and restless curiosity collide. 

With Scorpio magnetism and ENFP heat, this podcast seduces chaos into clarity, leaving you flushed with truth you can't quite name- but can't stop feeling.

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This is Season 1 of Cocoon After Dark- where we get real, deep, and sexy about the LGBTQ voices you want to hear. We talk about body image, sex positivity, age gap relationships, queer identity, sperm donation, money, jealousy, and more. Come join us on this exciting adventure over the next few months of season one. You won't want to miss an episode

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