The Empowered Series
Why did you begin? When you were ready to give up, why didn’t you? What is your biggest fear and what is your most powerful inspiration? The Empowered Series pulls the curtain back on the processes and lives of the creators, leaders, and thinkers who are currently making a difference by creating something new and asking the hard questions. Grab a cup of tea or open a bottle of wine and join me as I sit down with some of the most fascinating people I know who serve as a great source of inspiration for me. Together, we will dive in and talk about the lessons they’ve learned, the tools that continue to serve them, and be reminded that we too have the ability to hold space and reach heights unknown. Hosted by Ryan James Monroe. Music by Alec Michael Ryan. Cover Art by Maddie Franke.
The Empowered Series
RJM x Michael Urie: Gay Representation
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Ryan James Monroe
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Season 1
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Episode 12
As a closeted Queer boy in middle school, I looked around me and knew I was different. I knew I was Gay and that made me incredibly afraid. My classmates didn't hesitate to remind me that I was different and my fear grew. It wasn't until I met Marc St. James, played by Michael Urie, on Ugly Betty that I felt empowered and started to believe that being Gay wasn't something to afraid of. In fact, it was something to be revered. Today, I move through my life with great pride and seismic reverence. I owe a lot to Michael, and Marc, for their presence, their truth, and their beauty in this world and in my life. Please enjoy my conversation with the incredibly brilliant Michael Urie and know that you are perfect. Happy Pride!