Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirstie Pike.
Hi Kirstie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey in storytelling began in 2019 while traveling abroad with my partner. As an LGBTQ+ couple, we quickly realized the challenges of traveling authentically when so many places around the world still silence LGBTQ+ identities. It became clear to me that I wanted to create a safe space to provide resources and representation, where I didn’t see myself reflected before.
This led me to producing and hosting She Comes With Baggage, a podcast that amplifies the voices of queer individuals and allies. The podcast is a space for candid conversations about identity, experiences, and the importance of representation, while also exploring the intersections of LGBTQ+ lives with travel, culture, and activism. This platform offers a unique opportunity to dive deeper into important topics, sharing stories that not only resonate within the community but also educate and inspire allies. Through these conversations, we’re continuing our mission to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
“If you don’t see your story being represented in media, then it’s up to you to create it.”
As an LGBTQ+ woman working in media, I’ve learned that representation isn’t just about being visible, it’s about being seen fully and honestly. So many major campaigns still focus on just one piece of our community, and for a long time, I didn’t see stories that looked like mine. That gap is what pushed me to start telling them myself.
Through self-produced video series, inclusive content, and storytelling that centers joy, resilience, and realness, I’ve been able to create space that reflects the full spectrum of who we all are and everyone who shines authentically. My identity has been my greatest source of creativity, and it’s what drives me to keep pushing media forward.
I hope the work we’re doing with She Comes With Baggage reminds others that their stories matter too, and that there’s power in showing up exactly as you are.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m the creator and host of the She Comes With Baggage podcast, a space built on unfiltered, honest conversations about identity, growth, and everything in between. The podcast explores the real, messy, beautiful parts of life by amplifying the stories of creatives, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who have each navigated hardship in one way or another through their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, or culture. These are the conversations that show us just how interconnected we all are.
I specialize in storytelling that is raw, heartfelt, and deeply human. What I’m most proud of is the impact the podcast is already making by creating space for nuanced voices, healing conversations, and moments of shared understanding. Whether it’s someone talking about coming out, navigating misogyny, breaking generational cycles, or redefining what success looks like, my hope is that every episode reminds listeners that we are more alike than we are different.
What sets She Comes With Baggage apart is its focus on how our identities and lived experiences shape us, and how the ‘baggage’ we carry can be transformed into a powerful source of growth, connection, and purpose.
What makes you happy?
What truly makes me happy is building community and creating spaces where people feel safe, seen, and celebrated for exactly who they are. There’s something really powerful about watching someone feel like they finally belong, especially when so many of us have been made to feel “other” because of our identities.
Inclusivity isn’t just a core value for me, it’s a daily practice. I find so much joy in connecting people from different walks of life, and watching those conversations lead to understanding, compassion, and growth. That kind of connection and the unspoken “you get me” feeling, is what lights me up. It reminds me that happiness doesn’t have to be loud or flashy. Sometimes, it’s just being surrounded by people who allow you to be your full self without apology.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shecomeswithbaggagemedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecomeswithbaggagepodcast/
Image Credits
She Comes With Baggage Podcast
beTRUE Studios, Los Angeles
