In this episode, Jess takes listeners on a deeper, fuller journey into queerness — what it means, where it comes from, how language has evolved, and how community shapes identity. From pansexual to ace, from trans masc to nonbinary, Jess breaks down the words we use with clarity, compassion, and a whole lot of personal experience.

This episode explores queer history, the movements that paved the way, and the importance of chosen family. Jess also shares their own story: growing up without language for who they were, finding queerness later in life, and learning how to raise the next generation with openness, love, and truth.

Alongside the personal storytelling, Jess offers a curated set of LGBTQIA+ resources, support networks, and educational tools — both national and Pittsburgh-based — to help listeners better understand themselves or support the queer people they love.

This is an episode about identity, honesty, and belonging.

It’s educational, heartfelt, messy in all the right ways, and rooted in queer joy.

It’s Jess — louder, prouder, and more themselves than ever.

In this episode, Jess explores the flavor, language, and grit of Pittsburgh — from the Steel City’s immigrant roots to the diner counters and hospital halls that still define it today. Featuring stories from the Glassport Diner, deep dives into local food staples like Primanti Bros. and Turner’s Tea, and reflections on resilience, healing, and finding home in a city that never stops rebuilding.

Visit Pittsburgh – Official city tourism board for events, attractions, and local guides.

https://www.visitpittsburgh.com

Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation – Preserving and documenting Pittsburgh’s architectural and industrial heritage.

https://phlf.org

Heinz History Center (Smithsonian Affiliate) – A detailed look at Pittsburgh’s cultural, sports, and industrial history.

https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org

Pittsburghese Dictionary (Carnegie Mellon Project) – A linguistic deep dive into the region’s most famous accent.

http://pittsburghese.com

Primanti Bros. (Est. 1933) – Home of the original Pittsburgh sandwich, born in the Strip District during the Great Depression.

https://primantibros.com/our-story

Turner Dairy Farms / Turner’s Premium Tea (Est. 1930) – The local dairy that created Pittsburgh’s beloved orange-and-white iced tea carton.

https://drinkturners.com

Mancini’s Bread Co. (Est. 1926) – Family bakery in McKees Rocks, known for its signature twist bread and century-long tradition.

https://mancinisbakery.com

Woley’s Fish Market (Strip District) – Historic fish market supplying fresh seafood to Pittsburgh homes and restaurants for decades.

https://woleys.com

Eat’n Park Restaurants – A Pittsburgh staple for family dining and home of the iconic smiley cookie.

https://www.eatnpark.com

Bombay to Burgh – Beloved Indian restaurant offering a Sunday buffet experience that has become a local favorite.

https://bombaytoburgh.com

Pascual’s Pizza (Glassport) – A community favorite known for classic pies and local flavor.

https://www.facebook.com/pascualspizza

Mama Pepino’s (Clairton & Elizabeth) – Family-owned pizzeria serving traditional pizza and Italian comfort food.

https://www.mamapepinos.com

Bottoms Up Grill & Bar (Glassport) – Neighborhood bar famous for its buffalo chicken pizza and laid-back vibe.

https://www.facebook.com/BottomsUpGlassport

La Gourmandine Bakery & Pastry Shop – Authentic French bakery offering pastries, croissants, and artisan bread across Pittsburgh.

https://lagourmandinebakery.com

Hazelwood Café – Cozy community café serving locally roasted coffee and seasonal fare in Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood.

https://hazelwoodcafe.com

UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) – One of the nation’s leading healthcare systems, headquartered in Pittsburgh.

https://www.upmc.com

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine – Academic partner to UPMC and a hub for groundbreaking medical research.

https://www.medschool.pitt.edu

October was heavy — chemo, Wig Out, grief, and growth. In this episode, Jess sits down in the quiet after the chaos to talk about what comes next: healing, exhaustion, and finding light in the aftermath. This is Jess's FIRST video episode of Just Jess.

• -reSolve Crisis Services (Allegheny County) — 24/7 free crisis hotline: 1-888-7-YOU-CAN (1-888-796-8226). Walk-in center at 333 N Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15208.

  
  -YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh — Community and mental-health support, referrals, and programming for families.

  
  -Pittsburgh Community Services Inc. (PCSI) — Anti-poverty agency offering food & nutrition assistance, employment support, housing resources in Pittsburgh.

  
  -Center for Community Resources — Information & referral line for assorted supports: 844-360-4372, or call/text 988 for 24/7 crisis help.

  
  -Crisis Center North — 24/7 domestic-violence support: Hotline 412-364-5556 or text/chat line 1-877-522-6093.

  
  -Allegheny Link — For housing/homelessness assistance: 866-730-2368 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.).