About Gleason
Host/Emcee + Keynote Speaker + Storyteller
I've been hosting and emceeing open mics, fundraisers, and corporate events for ten years. I love connecting with audiences, whether highlighting other artists or sharing my own story. I believe in the transformative power of seeking and speaking both inner and outer truths. My journey has been one of self reflection and exploration, of challenging the status quo, and embracing change regardless of the cost.
I share my story and the discoveries I have made on this journey so that others might be inspired and empowered to confront harmful ideologies, expand their horizons, and step into courageous authenticity.
Teaching Artist + Workshop Facilitator/Trainer
I began working in middle and high school classrooms helping young people unlock their poetic and storytelling abilities in 2013. In 2016, I co-founded a successful arts education nonprofit where I was the Director of Education for six years. Through that work, I developed award winning curriculum and content and connected with students in ways that made them feel seen, heard, empowered, and celebrated.
This work has extended into the corporate setting as well. I have led education focused workshops at teacher training conferences and poetry workshops in break out sessions at corporate events. I also facilitate LGBTQ related DEI trainings for companies and organizations.
Award Winning Poet and Performer
I have been performing my poetry on local and national stages for the last fifteen years. My creative expression is often an exercise in finding “god” in places the church told me god did not exist, reclaiming the holiness at the heart of my queer existence, and feeling pride and divinity where I once felt shame and condemnation.
I share this expression in hopes that others can experience the transformative power of seeking and speaking truth. Whether in 5-10 or 30-45 minute featured sets, my work has been commissioned and highlighted at Pride festivals, universities, conferences, and corporate and community events.