152. "I Wasn't Even Out to My Union": The Hidden Lives of Queer Teachers

152. "I Wasn't Even Out to My Union": The Hidden Lives of Queer Teachers

Author: Bryan Stanton June 3, 2025 Duration: 20:11
“I wasn’t even out to my union.” That single admission reveals the quiet, daily compromises many queer educators make. This episode pulls back the curtain on the hidden emotional labor and risks faced by LGBTQ+ teachers in today’s climate. In this episode, you will: Discover how coming out can transform an educator’s relationship with their students and coworkersLearn the personal costs of staying closeted in professional spaces, including unions and school leadershipExplore the unique p...

Bryan Stanton (they/them) brings their experience as an award-winning educator and theatre pedagogy scholar to every conversation in Teaching While Queer: Advocacy, Community, and Resources for LGBTQ+ Educators. This isn't a theoretical discussion; it's a grounded, necessary space born from the Teaching While Queer movement, addressing the real and often unspoken challenges of existing at the crossroads of identity and the classroom. Episodes move beyond performative allyship, tackling the isolation educators can feel, the impact of restrictive policies, and the burnout that comes when institutional support is merely lip service. You'll hear from Bryan and their guests about practical strategies for survival and advocacy, fostering genuine community, and accessing resources that empower. The dialogue is unfiltered, focusing on how to maintain authenticity and resilience within educational systems. For LGBTQ+ teachers, librarians, administrators, and anyone supporting them, this podcast offers a vital blend of personal narrative, scholarly insight, and actionable solidarity, building a network of support one conversation at a time. Tune in for honest stories and tools that help navigate the complex journey of teaching as your full self.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Queering Education: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Teaching, Queer Pedagogy, and Real Classroom Practice
Podcast Episodes