On today's episode we have filmmaker Ashley Gianni (she/her). I was eager to get Ashley on the show after getting to see an early screening of her comedic short film, "The Late in Life Guide to Modern Day Lesbianism." It's a spoof on the 90s corporate training tapes, this time as how-to guide for women who come out as lesbian's at a point they deem 'later.' The film is funny but also touches on such real aspects to what it means to come out later and is SO Second Adolescence-y.

In this conversation, Ashley shares with us her own personal story that inspired the film. We chat about the interconnectedness between her receiving a neurodivergent diagnosis in adulthood and her making sense of her queerness, the feeling of being not queer enough, the power of community, and the wild, beautiful, thrilling, and empowering ride that is early queer dating. Ashley's work is so important and this conversation was just so special and fun to get to be in - thank you for joining us, Ashley!

About the guest:

Ashley Gianni is an award-winning actor, director, writer, producer, and founder of Pizza Bagel Pictures LLC, a queer, female-led production company dedicated to telling bold, socially impactful stories. Her work centers on uplifting queer and female voices, using storytelling as a tool for connection, healing, and change.

Ashley holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Chapman University and is a proud SAG-AFTRA, WIF, WIM, and FilmmakeHERs member, and female, queer storyteller. Learn more about Ashley and Pizza Bagel Pictures at www.ashleygianni.com and www.pizzabagelpictures.com. Keep up with Ashley and her films on social by following @ashleygianni and @pizzabagelpictures .

For more, visit www.secondadolescencepod.com and @secondadolescencepod.