On this episode of Duke’s Download, I sit down with Connor McDermott‑Mostowy — elite speed skater, Olympian, and proudly out athlete — for a conversation about what it really takes to compete at the highest level while showing up fully as yourself.

Connor walks me through his journey to the Olympics, from the grind of training and career‑defining milestones to the very real challenges he faced along the way, including battling Norovirus right before competition. We talk honestly about the mental toughness required to push through setbacks, the pressure of performing on the world stage, and what resilience looks like when the stakes are high.

As one of the few openly queer athletes in his sport, Connor opens up about the significance of being out in a traditionally conservative athletic space. We dig into why visibility matters, how representation can change culture, and what it means to race — and live — without hiding who you are. His perspective is thoughtful, grounded, and deeply inspiring.

We also get into rivalries, shifting attitudes within the sports world, and the progress still being made when it comes to LGBTQ+ inclusion in elite athletics. Connor shares his excitement for what’s ahead, including the upcoming Olympics, and reflects on the responsibility and pride that come with being visible for the next generation.

This is a conversation about speed skating, yes — but it’s also about courage, authenticity, and the power of showing up out and unapologetic.

You can write to us at: Questions@DukesDownload.com

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• @jamesdukemason
• @PrideHouseMedia

On this episode of Duke’s Download, I sit down with Malcolm Kenyatta — Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee and Pennsylvania State Representative — for a real, no‑nonsense conversation about where politics is headed and how we actually create change.

Malcolm opens up about his journey into public service and why equity, economic opportunity, and justice aren’t just talking points — they’re personal. We get into what it really takes to win elections at every level, why local races matter more than people realize, and how building strong grassroots infrastructure is key to engaging young voters and supporting new leaders.

We also talk candidly about big issues like healthcare, corruption, and the economy, and why Malcolm remains hopeful about the future of a more inclusive and representative democracy. This episode is honest, energizing, and grounded in the belief that progress happens when people show up and stay engaged.

If you care about the future of politics, leadership, and building a system that works for everyone, but especially for ourt community, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

You can write to us at: Questions@DukesDownload.com

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• @jamesdukemason
• @PrideHouseMedia

In this episode of Duke’s Download, I sit down with my longtime friend and LGBTQ+ business leader, Tristan Schukraft, for a conversation that’s both inspiring and deeply personal. Tristan takes us through his journey—from his earliest entrepreneurial ventures to founding mistr, a telehealth platform focused on making HIV prevention more accessible and affordable.

We talk about his passion for preserving and revitalizing iconic LGBTQ+ spaces, including The Abbey in West Hollywood, as well as his growing portfolio of Tryst Hotels. Tristan shares why safe, visible queer spaces matter so much to our community and how he’s using his business skills to support public health, visibility, and long-term impact.

We also dive into the realities of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in today’s political climate, the challenges that come with that work, and why he believes business can be a powerful tool for change. This conversation is about resilience, responsibility, and what it really means to give back to the community that shaped you.

You can write to us at: Questions@DukesDownload.com

And follow us onInstagram:

• @jamesdukemason
• @PrideHouseMedia