Cabinet of Curiosities

Cabinet of Curiosities: Spicy Brain, Garden-Poem-Era Wisdom, and Being a Smartass with Hannah Chutzpah

Loved chatting all things poetry, mental health, and artsy with the one and only Hannah Chutzpah. An icon on the spoken word scene, Hannah is a performance poet and writer with three collections of poetry out – most recently Permeable published by Burning Eye Books. Her poetry is funny, feminist and often heartfelt. On a number of occasions it has made people cry. Apparently in a good way. Hannah is a left-handed, left-wing smartass with intersectional activist leanings, spoons allowing. She has been described as ‘fine’ by three therapists, as ‘of good character’ by a high court judge, and as a ‘potential maggot-thrower’ by the Metropolitan police. 
 
Follow her:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HannahChutzpah
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Hannah_Chutzpah
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannah_chutzpah/
Website: https://hannahchutzpah.com/
Incite Poetry on facebook
Incite Cabaret on insta and twitter
Dead Darlings Podcast on all social media and podcast platforms
https://dragonsoflondon.org/
dragontwitchers@gmail.com
 
Below is the poem Hannah shared, as well as a brief summary of what we talked about for the first 30 minutes (thank you, Otter AI free version). If anyone wants to buy me the full version so I can provide a full transcript, you can do so at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dragongeorge 
 
Recipe
 
Quick and easy label-free _____
 
This recipe is one of my favourites for when someone pops over with the best of intentions and asks why I need to ‘limit’ myself with all these zany ‘labels’. I’ve whipped this up for all kinds of occasions: queer, disabled, ADHD, dual national, multi-faith, you name it!
 
This has been passed down in my family for generations by people who found life that bit more difficult but didn’t know why. Hope you like it! Tell us how you get on in the comments and let us know if you’ve given it any new twists. Don’t forget to rate & subscribe! Xoxo
 
Ingredients
50g _____
1 medium _____, finely chopped
3 _____
¼ tsp _____
2 fresh _____ leaves (or 1 dried)
450g _____
1 litre/1¾ pints __stock__ [chicken stock/stock photo/stock options]
750g smoked _____ fillet
3 _____
3 tbsp chopped fresh _____
1 _____, cut into wedges, to garnish
 
Method
STEP 1        Melt 50g _____ in a saucepan, add 1 finely chopped medium _____ and cook gently over a medium heat for 5 minutes, until softened but not browned.
 
STEP 2        Stir in 3 of the _____, ¼ tsp _____, and 2 _____ leaves, then cook for 1 minute. The guesses you fill in can’t help but be generic: butter, onion, straight, white, able-bodied.
 
STEP 3        Tip in 450 g _____ and stir until it is all well coated in the sorry, I didn’t see you there.
 
STEP 4        Pour in 1 litre __stock__ [chicken stock/stock photo/stock options], add ½ teaspoon _____ and bring to the boil, stir once to release any overcompensating from the bottom of the pan. Cover with a _____, reduce the heat to a low and rueful smile.
 
STEP 5        Meanwhile, bring some it was just a joke to the boil in a large shallow pan. Add 750g _____ and not trying hard enough. Simmer for 4 minutes, until reasonable adjustments or a performance review. Lift it out onto a _____ and leave until the emotions are cool enough to handle.
 
STEP 6        Hard-boil 3 _____ for 8 minutes. You are allowed to bring a union representative with you for this stage if you wish.
 
STEP 7        Flake the _____, discarding any lived experience, _____, their current partners or any new-fangled rubbish they’ve found on the internet. ‘Normality’ perpetuates itself like a racist algorithm. Drain the _____, cool slightly, then peel and chop.
 
STEP 8        Uncover the _____ and remove anything that doesn’t sound right to you. Gently fork in the explanations you’ve arrived at yourself: weird, over-sensitive, lazy, naughty, stupid, attention-seeking. Cover again and return to heat until the _____ has heated through.
 
STEP 9        Gently stir in almost all the 3 tbsp _____, and season with a little shame to taste. Serve scattered with the remaining _____ and garnished with 1 gosh you can’t say anything these days, cut into wedges.
 
STEP 10       Invite your guests to season with sugar or salt. Don’t limit yourselves! They’re all edible crystals. It’s all food. Keep flattening nuance until you don’t know your _____ from your _____ and no one has the _____ to say why the _____ doesn’t taste right. 
 
 
SUMMARY
Rebecca does all the technical side of things and I hopefully read the book of the month. (0:00)
Introducing Hannah Chutzpah. (1:10)
How to deal with the external world when you have ADHD. (4:53)
What it was like to get a referral from her GP. (9:14)
What’s it like to have an ADHD diagnosis? (11:48)
Getting a diagnosis gives you a reason to understand yourself. (16:58)
Do you find that there is much prejudice and sexism in the art scene? (22:06)
The genre expectation that spoken word poets share traumatic and vulnerable parts of themselves. (25:15)
Don’t do that winning advice. (31:00)
People like to think they’ve won because they said it really well. (36:45)
 
 

Cabinet of Curiosities: Gender and Parenting, Inviting People to See You, and Powerlifting with Jasper Peach

This is an episode full of love. Honestly, it’s a big ol’ hug. Jasper talks about intentional family, considering the best way to raise children and build community, and embodying the hippy dippy values that can change the world, as well as some powerlifting chat and a poem. “Strong is letting people see you and being proud.”
 
Jasper Peach is a trans, non-binary and disabled writer, speaker and parent. They are passionate about equitable access and inclusion, focused around the dismantling of misplaced shame via storytelling. Their written work has been published in The Age, HireUp, The Big Issue, Archer, The Guardian, Verandah, Australian Poetry Journal and SBS online. 
With a background in Auslan interpreting, broadcasting and civil celebrancy, writing has continued their personal trend of being all about communication and community. Their first book, You’ll be a Wonderful Parent was published March 2023 by Hardie Grant and is a celebration of rainbow families of all kinds. 
 
Twitter: @JasperPeachWrites
Instagram: @JasperPeachWrites 
Website: https://linktr.ee/jasperpeachsays
Free Audiobook: https://soundcloud.com/jasper-peach/sets/youll-be-a-wonderful-parent?si=9c847e698152443fb3d3a743370d4fbb&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing
 
Free Otter AI transcript up to 30mins (if you’d like to buy me the full version, you can do so through my Buy Me a Coffee or sign up as a patron on Patreon:
SUMMARY
What’s going on with the book? (0:00)
Jasper’s book. (2:35)
The gendered world of birthing class. (6:35)
What does family mean to you? –. (13:38)
The secret chamber of my deepest darkest desires. (16:35)
The importance of enacting what you’re dreaming. (21:51)
How Archie’s disability informs his creative practice. (26:43)
How rage informs the type of publications she will work for. (28:58)
If there isn’t something to highlight the wonder of who you are in the public discourse, you should make that art. (33:55)
“I’ve got a real bee in my bonnet about everlasting daisies”. (38:28)
 

Cabinet of Curiosities: Irresponsible Pasta Making, Page Versus Performance Poetry, and the UK Trans Performers Network with Crow Rudd

One of my favourite poets, Crow Rudd, joined me to discuss performance versus page poetry, the importance of community, and their UK Trans Performers Network. They also shared their newest poem which is an utter delight to listen to!
 
Crow Rudd (they/them) is a disabled nonbinary queer internationally published punk poet, multiple slam champion, mentor, events producer, host, workshop facilitator, exhibition co-organiser and network founder - basically, they wear a lot of hats. They have featured at Manchester Punk Festival, Goole Pride, Wolds Pride, Leeds LGBT+ Lit Fest, and was also unofficially dubbed 'IWW's Poet Laureate' after headlining their international conference. Their debut collection 'i am a thing of rough edges: DESTROY YOUR DEADNAME edition' is available from Whisky & Beards Publishing.
Follow Them:
Facebook: Crow Rudd
Twitter: @stuffpunxdo
Instagram: @stuffpunxdo
Website: www.linktr.ee/anxiousanarchistpoetry

Cabinet of Curiosities: Crip Culture Against Capitalism, Gun Violence, and Being Brown and Broken with Crip Lyrical

I love our community! I had a thoroughly delightful time chatting with Val about guns, community, capitalism, and sex. This is such a great episode and rich with wisdom and joy. 
 
Valois J. Vera, aka "Crip Lyrical" He/Him/They/Them), is a Disabled Revolutionary, Poet/Spoken Word Artist and Activist based out of Denton, TX. His experience and knowledge in Disability Justice, Culture and Identity is well noted. He has served on several social justice boards and commissions, and has garnered many speaking opportunities including the University of North Texas, Fordham University and Azusa Pacific University. While his journalism work can be found in New Mobility Magazine, Latino Rebels, and Rooted in Rights, their poetry has been published by Spoonie Press, Mollyhouse, and the soon to be released anthology American Graveyard: Calls to end Gun Violence, Volume I. Their debut collection "Crip Lyrics: the Unapologetic Poetry of Disability" (POOR Press) is an illustrated collection of liberation verses guided by lived experience and self-reflection. He serves as host of the virtual poetry showcase, "Thunder and Lightning" and performs a one-poet-show called "CripPoetix!"
 
Follow them:
IG: criplyrical 
Twitter: CripLyrical 
Facebook: /CripLyrics
Linktr.ee/ValoisVera 
 
This month I'm trialling a free version of a transcription service - if anyone can help buy the full version, that would be amazing! Below is a summary of the first half hour of our conversation (badly) transcribed. 
 
SUMMARY
Crip Poetry of disability. (0:00)
Crip culture and inspiration porn. (2:09)
What’s your poetry informed by your disability? (7:21)
A woman with diabetes was approved to be moved out of a social housing project into a housing project. (12:32)
What’s your contribution to the cause to end gun violence? (14:44)
What’s the worst part of being disabled? (19:31)
Thunder and Lightning has become a power to the community. (24:55)
What does it mean to be a part of the community? (27:41)
Don’t see yourself as less sexy because you’re disabled. (32:39)
The villains are getting more relatable. (37:42)
 
 

Cabinet of Curiosities: The Fetishisation of Amputations, Spreading Joy, and Inclusive Cabaret with Tattoo Pole Boy, Andrew Gregory

I know I say this every month, but I had the best time sitting down to chat with Andrew. Getting to have such wonderful conversations with disabled perfomers is a huge reason why I do this podcast, and this episode was a real joy. 
 
Andrew Gregory is 51-year-old amputee pole performer/teacher living and working in central London. He is a two times world para-pole champion along with many other competitive pole titles, and has performed at events such as the Queen’s Jubilee and more. He’s also so full of warmth, so if you’re looking for some cheer while you drink a cup of something, this episode is bound to give you all the good vibes.
 
Follow him:
IG: tattoo_pole_boy

Cabinet of Curiosities: Allyship, Head Gremlins, and The Wisdom of Go Fuck Yourself with Chris-Jae Angel

It was such a delight to chat with writer, activist, sex worker, and all-round wonderful human Chris-Jae Angel. She is a vocal, brown, trans-non binary writer, sex worker and activist promoting radical self-love, acceptance and body positivity while fighting to platform marginalised voices in an ever-marginalising world. Having spoken at countless trans rights protests, podcasts and now recently published in Twenty-Eight, an anthology of queer voices by Kestral Gaian, they work to inspire, ignite and destigmatise what was forced into the shadows for far too long. 
Follow Chris-Jae on social media:
Twitter @chrisjaethey Instagram @chrisjaethey
Chris-Jae’s linktree is linktr.ee/ChrisJaeThey and that includes her full protest speeches, podcasts and support links, including their fundraiser for her transition goals. Why not wish Chris-Jae a Happy Birthday by contributing to her fundraiser?? 
 
You can also catch them at the Queer I Am podcast in Brighton May 9th https://www.designmynight.com/brighton/restaurants/all-brighton/arcobaleno/queer-i-am-podcast-live-and-unscripted 

Cabinet of Curiosities: Disabled Drag, Being a King, and Am I Queer Enough? with Himish Macbeth

I had a gorgeous time chatting with Himish Macbeth! Catch him at the RVT March 15th for King Frankie Sinatra's King of Clubs! Get your tickets here.
 
Himish Macbeth (he/him) a disabled drag performer from the kingdom of Fife, in Scotland. With a background in stage acting, he's been using drag as a medium since 2022, coming up through the Scottish Shut Up and King support network.
He's a raconteur and provocateur, and a fierce believer in disabled pride and disabled joy. The elbow crutches he relies on to get around are also a source of creativity and joyful movement - think acrobatic tricks, not apologetic sticks.
A little bit 'him', a little bit 'ish', Macbeth is half punk rebel, half pure camp silliness, with a heart of gold.
Read a full interview on Facebook (Shut Up and King) 
Instagram: @himish_macbeth

Cabinet of Curiosities: Community, Chaos Queers, and Accessibility with Caitlin Mckenna

JOY, JOY, JOY! Seriously, get your joy here! I had a wonderful morning chatting all things community and poetry with Caitlin. Highly recommend listening to this episode for a dose of feel good. 
Caitlin Mckenna (they/she) is a queer, communist, vegan poet from Leeds. Cait performsacross the North, released their debut chapbook Now Say it Back with Bent Key Publishingin 2022, and co-founded experimental spoken word night Bone Down. They're also hosting a fabulous and inclusive Valentine's open mic! Get your tickets here. 
Follow them: @caitisapoet on Instagram and Twitter

Cabinet of Curiosities: Glamourous Education, Unlearning Prejudice, and the Perks of Being Cerberus with Mild Peril

Mild Peril is a strange genderfuck drag artist who brings camp, sex and political satire to the stage. A finalist of Lipsync1000 and Top of the Slops, they incorporate their Asian heritage and queer identity in lipsyncing, dance and comedy.
I had a wonderful time sitting and chatting with them about the importance of creating a safe space for performers, being authentic, and how to educate an audience (while being glamorous). Includes a brilliant spoken word piece written and performed by Mild!
 
Follow them:
Instagram: @contains_mild_peril
Website: linktr.ee/Mild_Peril

Cabinet of Curiosities: Kink, Drag, and Camp Politics with Powdered Sugar

I had the best morning chatting with Powdered Sugar about kink, drag and disability... All of my favourite things! Merry Christmas and Solstice Blessings to all those who celebrate. 
Drag artist, kinkster, finalist in two of the UK's biggest drag competitions LipSync1000 and Church of Yshee 2022, Powdered Sugar is East London's favourite gender-fluid dumpster fire and a massive disappointment to their parents. Their work always aspires to confront audiences with difficult conversations about their lived experience. You're guaranteed to leave a Powdered Sugar act with something to think about, something to repress, and even sometimes with your newest kink! 
Follow Them:
Twitter: @linguistqueer 
Instagram: @collinsbrandpowderedsugar