#26 Sex and gender identity, reclaiming the word "lover", true confidence, the muse in creativity, music and the courage to uncover who you are with Michael Blume

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1:31:42 | View on iTunes

Michael and I were best friends in high school (along with a group of theater friends). He’s still one of my closest soul mates. We went through A LOT together. Curating our identity, discovering the world, and having countless conversations about life. Naturally, after high school, we drifted apart. But in the past few years- have re-discovered our friendship. 

This episode is full of that love we've always had for each other and such rich conversation! I admire Michael, and was honored to have his fiery, creative, one of a kind-fun self on the show! 

If you don’t know Michael he recently recently topped the Spotify Viral charts with his single “Manufactured Love”. He’s a pop soul singer with a queer political edge. He’s a professional recording artist for BMG S curve records and debuted the album 'When I get it right' this past summer. 

​We talk about: 

• Michael's struggles with his identity and orientation growing up, and how he has embraced his queer open self 
• Reclaiming the word "Lover" 
• Our friendship and what it taught us 
• Michael's fashion and image choices, and why he dresses the way he does 
• Gender Identity 
• How we create social hierarchies around certain ideas- and how damaging that can be- and what to do about it 
• How traditional romantic partnerships are idolized in our culture 
• How Michael grounds himself (amidst his growing fame) through faith
• Change in culture only happens when there’s tension, and that’s okay 
• Why “haters” are actually, confused human beings 
• Why being “open” and willing to change and evolve is the key to how rich our life can become

If you want more Michael and to listen to his amazing music he's got a show coming up on January 24th at BOWERY BALLROOM get tickets HERE. I'll be there! 

What was your favorite part of the episode? Any insights? Let me know in comments below!