There Are No Gays In Montana explores what it’s like to grow up queer in a rural state. This podcast is hilarious, informing, eye-opening and a great resource for anyone feeling alone in their journey through their queer experience.
Husbands Isaac Hunter and Tyler Nelson both grew up in Montana, not quite knowing of their sexuality. In episode two “Homies to Husbands” Hunter and Nelson share how they met at Montana State University in Bozeman. Their story is a slow-burn romance, funny, relatable and honest. Hunter and Nelson’s chemistry shines through not only as husbands but as long time best friends as well.
In episode three “Someone Let Chenny Out” they delve into the importance of country music, both in Montana and the gay community. This episode was my favorite by far, as a lover of country music myself it was so fun to learn more about its importance on queer culture. Nelson and Hunter also explore current country culture and Montana festivals. These spaces are often less inclusive, especially with Montana becoming an increasingly red state.
Prom, homecoming, any and all school dances can often be a sore subject in the queer community. Nelson and Hunter discuss their school dance experiences in episode six “‘No Homo’coming King.” This episode discusses life before coming out, to yourself and the world. It touches on not quite feeling like you fit in, and hiding a secret that you might not even know yourself.
Both coming out episodes give a look into each of Hunter and Nelson’s very different coming out experiences. Coming out to parents, friends, classmates, and co-workers can be an absolutely nerve-wracking experience, these episodes felt like the weight lifted after you have revealed your true self. They talk about coming out while you’re single, and with the support of a significant other, among many of the other factors that go into the daunting task of coming out.
There Are No Gays In Montana was a breath of fresh air for me, and most of this relief came from their discussion of their life now, and not their journey there. Hunter and Nelson talk about the queer community they have gained living in Seattle, and the joy they get from having a like-minded community. I have formed my own de facto queer community in Montana, but it doesn’t feel quite right. I have always known there was a much larger community for me just outside of Montana’s borders, this podcast showed me that it is real, waiting for me whenever I’m ready.
