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Duke's Download Hosted by James Duke Mason
Duke's Download is weekly podcast hosted by James Duke Mason, where politics and pop culture collide! Each episode features candid conversations with influential voices from the worlds of activism, government, entertainment, and beyond. Exploring the stories, ideas, and experiences shaping our culture and driving change - all through a unique and insightful lens, offering fresh insights into the world around us.
Duke's Download Hosted by James Duke Mason
World AIDS Month Spotlight: Mpact Global and the Global Fight Against HIV
In this week’s episode, I wanted to mark World AIDS Month by having an honest, global conversation about where we really are in the fight for equitable health access for gay, bisexual, and queer men. This topic has always been deeply personal to me, and I opened the episode by reflecting on my own connection to the history of HIV and the people who shaped my understanding of activism, loss, and resilience.
I was joined by two incredible leaders from Impact: Andrew Spieldenner , their Executive Director, and Alex Garner, their Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives and Communications. Impact is doing groundbreaking work around the world, addressing sexual health and human rights for men who have sex with men — often in places where simply being who you are can put you at risk.
Our conversation touched on so much: the ongoing HIV epidemic, why World AIDS Month still matters, and the harsh realities LGBTQ+ people face globally, from criminalization to deeply rooted societal stigma. We also talked through the progress that gives me hope — the advances in treatment and prevention, and the courage of community activists who continue fighting on the front lines.
We didn’t shy away from the tougher topics either, like HIV denialism, political backlash, and the communication challenges that come with doing sensitive, life‑saving work around the world.
By the end of the episode, I wanted listeners to feel empowered to take action. Supporting organizations like Impact is essential, and I encouraged everyone to stay engaged with their work through their website and social media.
Here’s the episode breakdown:
00:00 Introduction to Duke's Download
00:29 My Personal Connection to World AIDS Month
01:20 Introducing Andrew and Alex and the Mission of Impact
02:24 Why Recognizing World AIDS Month Still Matters
03:32 Global Challenges in HIV Advocacy
04:53 How Impact Navigates Communication and Advocacy Worldwide
13:02 How Political Climates Shape HIV Advocacy
33:35 HIV Denialism and Misinformation
35:35 The Most Promising HIV Advancements Today
39:18 Final Thoughts and How You Can Support Impact
For more information on Mpact Global or to make a donation go to:
Or follow then at:
@mpact.global
Alex: https://www.instagram.com/alexwgarner/?hl=en
Andrew: https://www.instagram.com/aspield235/?hl=en
You can write to us at: Questions@DukesDownload.co
And follow us on: @JamesDukeMason