Read the Room Podcast

Jenny Guzman is the state director for Common Cause Arizona and joins Read the Room to talk about civic engagement, voting, and LGBTQ+ representation ahead of this year’s high-stake midterm elections. While the conversation highlights the motivation among LGBTQ+ voters to participate in the upcoming election, it also unpacks some of the real challenges members of the community can face in the voting process – especially trans voters. Jenny shares useful information to make sure all eligible Arizona voters are prepared to make their voice heard before, during, and after Election Day and also touches on how allies can best support LGBTQ+ voters.

Sonix Flores Bahena of Trans Queer Pueblo joins Read the Room to explore the intersection of LGBTQ+ and immigrant identities. The conversation dives into the unique challenges facing queer migrants, the advocacy work driving Trans Queer Pueblo’s mission, and why community-led solutions are essential in the fight against systemic oppression. Sonix also shares practical insights on how we can better support our trans siblings – both in and outside of detention.

Phoenix native Ben Whitneybell, known across the Arizona drag scene by his drag name Benaddiction, joins Read the Room to discuss his start in drag, the role it plays in cultivating community, and the real impact of legislative attacks on drag in Arizona. He also shares how he uses his platform as a performer to uplift underrepresented voices and artistry while advocating for all queer Arizonans.

In the first episode of Read the Room, hosts Alex Gonzalez and Angel Medina 'set the room' with a brief history of LGBTQ+ rights in Arizona — and where the state stands today. They introduce the main mission behind the podcast: to explore what it means to be queer in Arizona in 2026 and have conversations about the intersection with civil rights.