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Many times when we hear or read the phrase soul mate, we think of it in a very romantic way. But, soul mate relationships can be platonic. They can be found in friendships that love us down and encourage us to be our full selves. And, in this Dem Bois Podcast first, I sit down with Kelz and we discuss what that term actually means. In this conversation, we dive into critical analysis, identity, and the significance of friendship and community. And, Kelz emphasizes the importance of visibility in queer narratives and the personal nature of identity language. They also recite a really great poem at the end of the episode, so be sure to listen!

We talk:

09:07 Exploring gender identity and fluidity

18:04 The significance of the term 'stud' and class privilege

26:08 Understanding non-binary identities

34:58 Kelz work, 'we was boys together'

45:55 Rekindling friendship and identity

01:00:55 Kelz’ poetry

Episode References

Criminal Intimacy: Prison and the Uneven History of Modern American Sexuality by Regina Kunzel (Book 2008)

The Aggressives (Documentary 2005)

Between Women (TV Series 2011-2013)

Sula (Novel 1973)

we was bois together by Kelsey L. Smoot

Read more about Kelz in thier bio below:

Kelsey L. Smoot (They/Them/He/Him) is a full-time PhD student in the interdisciplinary social sciences and humanities, as well as a poet, advocate, and frequent writer of critical analysis. They are the author of a chapbook titled We Was Bois Together (CLASH! an Imprint of Mouthfeel Press).

• Instagram.com/nonbinarypapi

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