Cocoon After Dark
A weekly podcast hosted by Quincy Tessaverne, dedicated to intimate, candid conversations with mostly Black, brown, and LGBTQ+ guests. The show explores identity, pleasure, boundaries, grief, and reinvention in a tender, unflinching atmosphere. It promises a space for truth-telling that is soft, textured, and queer, moving beyond small talk into deeper soul talk.
Episodes
Lights, Courage, Action: Lee Rose's Directorial Odyssey
Send us Fan MailLights, Courage, Action: Lee Rose's Directorial OdysseyLee Rose: In-the-Face Storytelling, The Truth About Jane, and Refusing to DisappearHost Quincy interviews writer-director-producer Lee Rose about her career and approach to storytelling, highlighting The Truth About Jane as a project that enabled parent-child conversations and drew intense reactions, including death threat
Intersections of Voice and Identity: Discovering Jen Cheng
Send us Fan MailIntersections of Voice and Identity: Discovering Jen ChengHost 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
Olivia and Kelly-and their age gap relationship
Send us Fan MailSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/CocoonAfterDark
What If I Die Tonight?--Love, Legacy and Queer Power
Send us Fan MailIn 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yet could lose everything in a crisis because the system defaults to bloodline, not love, when paperwork is missing or outdated.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 writ
Part 2- Dr. Lorri Sulpizio-Chemistry, Conflict and Control- The Truth About Lesbian Relationships
Send us Fan MailIn 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 mismatche
Dr. Lorri Sulpizio- Outed, Fired, and Unapologetic- the fallout of telling her truth.
Send us Fan MailQuincy 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
What Is Worth Keeping: Archives, Authority, and Lesbian Life with Angela Brinksele and Kymn Goldstein
Send us Fan MailIn 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 ric
I Was Never The Problem: The Truth about Systems, Culture and Self-Worth with Jen M. Torres
Send us Fan MailIn 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 oppre
From Courtroom to Couch: The Bravo-Loving, Book-Hoarding Attorney Alexis James
Send us Fan MailNavigating Justice: A Queer Attorney's Journey with Alexis JamesJoin 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 m
Queer, Black, Social Media Influencer, and Tech Sargent in the Army: Carlneesha
Send us Fan MailCarlneesha Robinson: Building Community & Breaking BoundariesIn 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 mileston
Love at First Swipe: Olivia and Kelly Unfiltered
Send us Fan MailWhat 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
Solo with Quincy Season 2 Launch: When Silence Costs You People-and Love Finds You Anyway
Send us Fan MailWelcome 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 friendshi
Immigrant roots and queer identity in rooms of real power. Stephen Cheung: Inside the Rooms Where LA Decides
Send us Fan MailIn 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 incl
Shattering Ceilings: Kathy Barron on Propelling Women Podcasters Forward
Send us Fan MailIn 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 adventu
Not a Man. Not a Woman. Beyond the Binary with Joy Matthews
Send us Fan MailIn 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
Against the Current: Keala Kennelly's Championing of Diversity in Surfing
Send us Fan MailIn 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
Fun, Fierce, and Fearless: Eboné Bell Gets Real!!
Send us Fan MailJoin 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 empa
Season One: Damn That Was A Good Season
Send us Fan MailIn 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. Liste
Pleasure is a Language: Listening to Your Body with Whitni Miller of BDE Moves
Send us Fan MailIn 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 th
From Dryness to Delight: Transforming Vaginal Health with Hormones with Kate Wells
Send us Fan MailHot, Sassy, and Science-Backed: Unleashing Midlife Power with Kate WellsIn 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 r
Wild and Free: Kayla Nielsen’s Spirited Voyage through Love and Healing
Send us Fan MailIn 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 discu
From Queer Queries to Golden Retriever Revelations with Michelle Flamer-Powell
Send us Fan MailJoin 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 sol
OutVoteHQ: Empowering LGBTQIA+ Youth Towards Civic Engagement with Ranen Maio and Isaac James
Send us Fan MailOut 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
When Love Hurts the Little Ones: the Cost of Dating When You Have kids
Send us Fan MailIn 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 in
Conscious Connections in Queer Dating with Elise Braunschweiger
Send us Fan MailIn 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, gro
The Many Layers of Misty Marie: From Extensions to Entrepreneurial Wisdom
Send us Fan Mail🌈 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 #EntrepreneurshipEmail:themistymarie@gmail.comPersonal Insta: @themistymarieBusiness Insta: @n
"Unf@&kable With" Series Episode 2/5:Minority Stress and Queer Youth Resilience Episode 2/5
Send us Fan Mail🌈 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! Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/CocoonAfterDark
Where Healing Meets Humanity with Justin Ayars
Send us Fan MailFormer 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 L
The Grit of Global Streets - Skating, Sponsorships & Showing Up Fierce
Send us Fan MailWe 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
Part 1-"Unfuckable With": Queer Resilience Manifesto
Send us Fan Mail💎 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 unfuc
The Mess That Made Me: Nikki LaCroce on Trauma, Truth, and Transformation
Send us Fan MailWhat 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 fo
The Woman Grief Made: When a College Visit Changed Everything
Send us Fan MailIn 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, an
BONUS EPISODE: 3 Men, A lady and a little baby: Make-up artist's Caroline Ashton and Darais
Send us Fan MailWe'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 wit
Pillow Prince Unplugged: Pegging, Power, and Performance
Send us Fan MailFrom 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 Pri
Bonus EPISODE: Beauty Standards
Send us Fan MailIn 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.
Gay GoGo Dancer + Mortgage Advisor + Costumes and Production
Send us Fan MailWesley 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-
BONUS: Gen X Lesbian Menopause: The real talk with Quincy and all the sweat you can handle
Send us Fan MailMenopause 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.Support the showhttps://lin
Solo Episode #1...Jealousy has haunted my friendships, my family, and my lovers. Let's talk about it?
Send us Fan MailHey, 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 relat
Quincy's Unseen Skin - A Look Behind Her Aura
Send us Fan MailBeneath 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 int
Trailer - Cocoon After Dark Season 1
Send us Fan MailThis 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 episodeSupport the showhttps://link
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