95. Take a Page from #GayBookstagram (with Rod Lujano)

A Jaded Gay

Inclusive representation in literature offers LGBTQ+ people a sense of visibility, validation, and connection as they see their experiences authentically mirrored, which fosters a more inclusive narrative for readers. While it was historically challenging to engage with LGBTQ+ literature, today’s social media communities actively promote and amplify inclusive representation, providing a space for queer voices to be celebrated, shared, and discovered, creating a sense of community and expanding the visibility of these narratives in the literary landscape.
In this episode, Rod Lujano (@rodlujano), a gay bookstagrammer, joins us to discuss social media’s impact in amplifying queer voices, fostering inclusive LGBTQ+ representation in literature, and navigating the challenges posed by recent attempts at book bans.
Additional Resources:

• Follow Rod on Instagram
• Connect with Rod on Goodreads
• Follow Rod on Threads
• Connect with Rod on Facebook
• Check Out Rod’s Book Wishlist

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1. Guest Opener (00:00:00)

2. Episode Introduction (00:00:32)

3. Gay Bookstagram (00:04:17)

4. Tarot (00:04:52)

5. Guest Introduction (00:05:40)

6. What is Gay Bookstagram? (00:06:54)

7. Becoming a Bookstagrammer (00:07:24)

8. A Day in the Life of a Gay Bookstagrammer (00:09:19)

9. Choosing Books to Feature (00:11:01)

10. The Importance of LGBTQ+ Representation in Literature (00:12:01)

11. "A Very Welcoming Place" (00:14:18)

12. Diversity in LGBTQ+ Literature (00:15:08)

13. Book Bans & Don’t Say Gay Bills (00:17:43)

14. Rod’s Favorite Authors & Books (00:20:37)

15. Rod’s Future LGBTQ+ Representation Wishlist (00:22:54)

16. Rod’s 2024 Read List (00:25:13)

17. Get Involved with Gay Bookstagram (00:26:26)

18. Episode Closing (00:27:04)

19. Connect with Rod (00:28:26)

20. Connect with A Jaded Gay (00:31:02)