The Stories We Tell
Featuring Graham Gremore

Every story has the power to shape how we see ourselves and each other.

In this episode of Forged in Fire, Robert Garrett and guest co-host Itai Bailey sit down with Graham Gremore, Editor-in-Chief of Queerty, to explore how journalism, media, and authentic storytelling influence LGBTQ+ leadership.

Together they discuss:

• How leading a newsroom differs from leading in the spotlight
• Why representation in media still matters, even during periods of backlash
• The evolution of journalism in the age of podcasts, social media, and short-form content
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and finding the confidence to lead authentically
• Why the most important stories aren't always the ones with the biggest audience

Throughout the conversation, Graham reflects on his journey from freelance writer to editor-in-chief, sharing lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the responsibility that comes with telling stories that help people feel seen.

Because leadership isn't always about being the loudest voice in the room.

Sometimes it's about deciding whose voice gets heard.

Behind every Pride celebration is a team of leaders working year-round to build community, create safe spaces, and ensure LGBTQ+ voices are seen and heard.

In this special Pride Month episode of Forged in Fire, we sit down with Kenya Hutton of the Center for Black Equity, the organization behind DC Black Pride, and Jessica Laney, President of Pikes Peak Pride. Together, they share what it takes to lead large-scale community organizations, navigate challenges, inspire volunteers, and create meaningful impact for LGBTQ+ communities.

From the lessons they've learned as leaders to the moments that remind them why this work matters, this conversation explores leadership at the community level and the power of creating spaces where people can feel seen, valued, and connected.

Join us for a discussion about service, resilience, visibility, and what it means to lead with pride.

In this episode of Forged in Fire, we sit down with Major General (Ret.) Tammy Smith, a trailblazing leader whose career was shaped not only by service, but by the courage to lead authentically in moments of profound institutional change.

From her early years navigating leadership in a rigid and tradition-bound military, to becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ general officer following the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” Tammy shares what it means to lead while carrying both visibility and responsibility. She reflects on “leading from the closet,” the personal cost of compartmentalization, and the pivotal moments that forced her to reconcile identity, values, and service.

This conversation explores the evolution from honesty to true authenticity, the weight of being first, and the reality that leadership is not just about outcomes, but about how fully you show up. Tammy also offers insight into inclusive leadership, the power of representation, and why resilience continues to drive both the veteran and LGBTQ+ communities forward.

This is a conversation about courage, growth, and the kind of leadership that doesn’t separate identity from service—but integrates it fully.