Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz: Celebrating Pride with The Valley's Zack Wickham

Release Date: June 3, 2025

In this vibrant episode of Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz, host Tom Schwartz welcomes special guest Zack Wickham from "The Valley" to celebrate Pride Month. The conversation delves deep into the significance of Pride, the evolution of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the ongoing challenges faced despite the progress made over the decades. Through personal anecdotes, historical insights, and engaging dialogues, Schwartz and Wickham emphasize the importance of visibility, safe spaces, and allyship in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

1. Introduction to Pride Month and LGBTQIA+ Acronym

Tom Schwartz sets the stage by introducing the episode's focus on Pride Month. He provides a refresher on the LGBTQIA+ acronym, highlighting its evolving nature and the diverse identities it encompasses.

Zack Wickham [01:28]: "If you are not personally free to be yourself in that most important of all human activities, the expression of love, then life itself loses its meaning."

Zack emphasizes the fundamental right to self-expression and love, underscoring the essence of Pride.

2. The Necessity of Pride in 2025

Schwartz addresses a common question: "Is gay pride still really necessary in 2025?" He acknowledges that while many support the LGBTQIA+ community and advocate for equality, Pride remains crucial as a platform for visibility and celebration of progress.

Tom Schwartz [02:10]: "But at least once or twice, maybe even in the privacy of their own brains, they've wondered, why do we need gay pride in this day and age?"

The discussion highlights that Pride is not just a celebration but a reminder of the struggles and resilience of the community.

3. Historical Context: From Stonewall to Modern Day

Delving into history, Schwartz and Wickham recount pivotal moments like the Stonewall riots and the legacy of icons like Harvey Milk. They reflect on the advancements made since 1969 and the ongoing efforts to combat discrimination.

Tom Schwartz [03:10]: "The Stonewall riots marked a new beginning for the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world. Sparked a revolution."

This segment serves as a powerful reminder of the community's enduring fight for rights and recognition.

4. The Role of Gay Bars and Safe Spaces

A significant portion of the conversation centers on the importance of gay bars as sanctuaries and hubs of community life. Schwartz reminisces about favorite spots in West Hollywood, illustrating how these establishments have historically provided safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to express themselves freely.

Zack Wickham [07:45]: "They were places where you could come hook up, feel safe to just be yourself, heal."

The hosts stress that while societal acceptance has grown, these safe havens remain essential for personal and collective healing.

5. Current Challenges and Legislative Threats

Despite progress, Schwartz and Wickham discuss the resurgence of anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation and societal backlash. They express concern over the politicization of LGBTQIA+ rights and the threats posed by reactionary forces.

Zack Wickham [16:22]: "Some of the headlines I've been seeing lately, some of the legislation that's being proposed is scary."

This segment underscores the fragility of rights gains and the necessity for continued advocacy.

6. Personal Experiences and Stories

The episode is punctuated with heartfelt personal stories from Schwartz, Wickham, and guest Mason. They share their journeys of coming out, the support they received, and the challenges they've faced, painting a vivid picture of the individual struggles within the broader movement.

Mason [25:01]: "I knew I liked boys right off the bat."

These narratives humanize the discussion, making the issues relatable and impactful for listeners.

7. The Importance of Allyship

A recurring theme is the role of allies in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Schwartz and Wickham emphasize that allyship goes beyond passive support; it involves active participation and advocacy.

Zack Wickham [22:32]: "Be an ally, not a bad guy."

They discuss practical ways allies can contribute, reinforcing the idea that collective effort is vital for sustained progress.

8. Celebrating Community and Upcoming Events

As the episode nears its end, Schwartz and Wickham share exciting news about an upcoming co-hosted pool party at the Pendry in San Diego, inviting listeners to join in the celebration of Pride.

Zack Wickham [54:20]: "Me and Zach are co-hosting a pool party at the Pendry San Diego. It's going down on June 8th."

This invitation serves as a call to action for community engagement and solidarity.

9. Concluding Messages of Hope and Resilience

Wrapping up, the hosts and additional voices like Jasmine, Kyle Chen, and even an homage to Harvey Milk deliver messages of love, resilience, and the undying spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Harvey Milk [59:32]: "Pride is more important than ever this year because the current administration is really coming after us..."

These heartfelt messages encapsulate the episode's core—celebrating progress while acknowledging the battles that lie ahead.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Zack Wickham [01:28]: "If you are not personally free to be yourself in that most important of all human activities, the expression of love, then life itself loses its meaning."

• Tom Schwartz [03:10]: "The Stonewall riots marked a new beginning for the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world. Sparked a revolution."

• Zack Wickham [07:45]: "They were places where you could come hook up, feel safe to just be yourself, heal."

• Zack Wickham [16:22]: "Some of the headlines I've been seeing lately, some of the legislation that's being proposed is scary."

• Mason [25:01]: "I knew I liked boys right off the bat."

• Zack Wickham [22:32]: "Be an ally, not a bad guy."

• Zack Wickham [54:20]: "Me and Zach are co-hosting a pool party at the Pendry San Diego. It's going down on June 8th."

• Harvey Milk [59:32]: "Pride is more important than ever this year because the current administration is really coming after us..."

Conclusion

This episode of Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz serves as a compelling tribute to Pride Month, blending historical context with personal narratives to highlight the enduring significance of LGBTQIA+ rights. Through engaging discussions and heartfelt stories, Schwartz and Wickham reinforce the need for continued advocacy, safe spaces, and unwavering allyship. The episode not only celebrates the progress made but also calls listeners to action, ensuring that the spirit of Pride remains vibrant and resilient in the face of challenges.