Unleashed LGBTQ+ LLC, the organization behind Unleashed LGBTQ+ Conference & Festival, is expanding its media footprint with the launch of a new podcast initiative, debuting with the original series Coffins and Cocktails.
The new podcast, currently in production, will premiere weekly episodes beginning May 11, on National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day.
Host is Todd Interiano-Shifflett, a licensed funeral director and embalmer and the general manager of a funeral home that is owned by the world’s largest funeral home and cemetery providers — who also serves as director for Pride Sports. The Coffins and Cocktails podcast will offer “a bold, sometimes eerie, often funny, and always entertaining exploration of what happens when we die,” explains a press release announcing the new podcast.
“The format is simple,” Interiano-Shifflett explained. “We host special guests and take questions about what people really want to know about death — body removal, service planning, burial versus cremation and everything in between.
“There’s so much curiosity around this topic, and we want to create a space where people can learn without fear.”
Guests will range from death-care professionals to entertainers, including drag performers, actors and personalities from across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, the press release noted.
Interiano-Shifflett said, “The tone of the show will vary depending on who we have on. We want conversations to be informative, but when we bring in some fabulous queens, you can be sure we’ll be laughing. If anyone can make the subject of death feel light, it’s a drag queen.”
“The podcast also reflects Unleashed LGBTQ+’s continued evolution into multimedia storytelling and community engagement and continued partnership with Dallas Voice,” the press release continued.
Unleashed LGBTQ+ founder Wesley Smoot said, “We’ve built an incredible network through our conference and festival over the years. When the idea for this podcast came along, it just made sense. The subject is fascinating, and I know some hilarious, brilliant people who will add a lot to the content.
“Plus, they’ll all be enjoying Unleashed LGBTQ+ Premium Vodka during the show — so that’s a win-win.”
Coffins and Cocktails marks the first in a planned lineup of podcasts under the Unleashed LGBTQ+ brand umbrella, expanding the company’s reach into digital entertainment while continuing its mission of community connection, storytelling, and visibility.
First episode will include Season 13 RuPaul Drag Race star Elliott with 2 Ts.
— Tammye Nash