The Tragedy Academy
The Tragedy Academy
The Tragedy Academy Podcast is a show that explores the human experience through the lens of tragedy and triumph. Our goal is to help listeners grow and thrive by sharing stories of real people who have experienced adversity and success. Hosted by Jay Hicks, a veteran, voice artist, music producer, and multimedia artist, The Tragedy Academy Podcast provides a unique perspective on life's challenges and how to overcome them. Our guests come from all walks of life and share their stories of struggle and triumph. We believe that our past does not define our future and that living authentically and purposefully is the key to a fulfilling life. Through candid and humorous discussions, we explore societal divides and bridge gaps in understanding. We believe that laughter is the best fertilizer for the tree of knowledge, and that's why we bring you stories that will make you think, laugh, and inspire you to be a better person. The Tragedy Academy Podcast is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of humor and enlightenment as we strive to grow the tree of knowledge together. And remember, be cool and keep learning.
The Tragedy Academy
April 1, 2025

Detention Episode: “Sniffies, Stand-Up, and Self-Love”

Detention Episode: “Sniffies, Stand-Up, and Self-Love”
Detention Episode: “Sniffies, Stand-Up, and Self-Love”
The Tragedy Academy
Detention Episode: “Sniffies, Stand-Up, and Self-Love”

"Detention" Warning: Expect offbeat humor, unexpected tangents, and unfiltered fun. This is not your usual Tragedy Academy episode—if you want serious topics, look elsewhere. Listener discretion advised.In this hilarious episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay reconnects with stand-up comedian Hernando Del Castillo—host of I Am Just Gaying—for a "Detention Episode" packed with laughs, real talk, and deep dives into identity, community, and self-love. 🎭💖From outrageous one-liners to raw reflections, Hernando shares his journey growing up gay and Colombian, coming out twice (once as gay, once as a comedian), and how comedy became his safe space. 🇨🇴🎤 Jay and Hernando tackle everything from pronoun panic to the exhaustion of living behind masks. The episode balances gut-busting humor with heartfelt insights on family, trauma, and radical self-acceptance. 🌈🔥🎧 Key Takeaways:💬 [00:15] "Sniffies is the new Grindr, bro!" – Hernando’s hilarious take on hookup apps 👩‍👦 [02:44] "Coming out as a comedian was harder than being gay." 💔 🏳️‍🌈 [10:44] Jay shares his experience of being bullied for gynecomastia in the '90s 🗣️ [17:30] "Give us grace" – A candid discussion on evolving identity language 🏡 [34:27] "I’m a proud Hispanic, Colombian, queer man... and I love making people laugh."🔥 [37:36] "People left when I became myself" – The price of authenticity ✨ 🎭 [52:07] "Comedy is a magnifying glass" – Jay on humor’s power in deconstructing society 🎙️Hernando Del Castillo, Miami-based stand-up comedian and co-host of I Am Just Gaying, blends sharp wit and raw vulnerability to tell his story as a proud gay Colombian man. His mission: to make you laugh, think, and feel—all at once.If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, drop a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, and share with someone who needs a reminder that it’s okay to be real. Jay delivers unfiltered conversations that entertain and transform. 💥Follow Hernando: Instagram @iamjustgaying | I Am Just Gaying Podcast 🎙️Authenticity isn’t a destination—it’s a decision. Hernando walks that path with humor, grace, and a mic in hand. Don’t miss next week’s Tragedy Academy Podcast episode where tragedy meets transformation, one laugh at a time. Be cool and keep learning. 💡🎙️🔥🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀Discover resilience, redemption, and the human spirit through humor and wisdom.🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site 📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM 👕 Get the Gear: Into the AM 📘 Expand Your Mind: Favorite Reads ✅ Subscribe: YouTube📱 Follow Us:Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok💖 Support Us: Donate via PayPal or Buy Me a Coffee

The Tragedy Academy is a show created to bridge societal divides in a judgment-free zone using candor and humor. 

Be cool. Keep Learning.