Premieres May 30 on iHeartMedia’s Outspoken Podcast Network
Brains, Banter, and a Bit of Drama -- listen to the official trailer HERE
NEW YORK – May 15, 2025 – Today, Spoke Media and iHeartPodcasts announced the launch of “HIGHKEY!,” a new podcast and video series created and hosted by three bold, culture-shifting and brilliant voices who know how to spark a real conversation: political strategist and Oscar-shortlisted producer Ben O’Keefe; cultural critic Ryan Mitchell; and drag superstar Yvie Oddly (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11 winner) — expanding beyond the runway to reveal a sharper, more personal side of their creative voice. This powerhouse trio will disrupt the mainstream with unfiltered commentary, fearless storytelling, and the kind of energy that can only come from creators who live outside the lines. The weekly series will premiere May 30 on iHeartMedia’s Outspoken Podcast Network. Fans can listen to the show’s official trailer now on the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcasts. Watch the video trailer HERE.
“HIGHKEY!” will be the culture podcast where nothing’s off-limits, and everything’s on the table — a joyful, unfiltered conversation with your smartest and funniest friends. It’s where pop culture will clash with politics, identity will spark deep dives, and internet absurdity will finally get the spotlight it deserves.
Every week, the show will deliver brains, banter, and a bit of drama, blending sharp, surprising interviews with big idea conversations. The hosts will arrive ready to stir the pot — cutting through the noise, challenging the status quo, and leaning into the unpredictable, beautiful mess that makes culture culture. For those who want honest, hilarious, and sometimes provocative takes on the world around us, “HIGHKEY!” will feel like home.
“I’m excited about having the conversations I love with people — with two pretty remarkable human beings — and getting to talk to interesting folks about whatever the hell we feel like,” said Oddly. “And people think they know me from TV, but it’s my turn. My turn to really introduce you to where I’m at now — so you can kill any old ideas you had.”
“My superpower has always been showing up — and shining — in spaces that were never built with me in mind, while creating platforms for others who’ve felt the same,” said Mitchell. “’HIGHKEY!’ is the show we’ve always wanted. It’s bold, it’s honest, and it’s ours."
"I was tired of not feeling like there were spaces to have the conversations that me and my friends were already having,” said O’Keefe, reflecting on why he co-created the show with Mitchell, Oddly, iHeart and Spoke. “What if we had a microphone there to really capture that?” He adds, “I’m a truth-teller. I have hot takes, and sometimes they burn — but that’s what I’ve built my reputation on and that’s what listeners can expect.”
The show is co-produced and distributed by iHeartPodcasts as part of the Outspoken Podcast Network, which aims to amplify, elevate and reflect the diversity, richness and humanity of voices throughout the LGBTQ+ community.
In addition to regular weekly episodes, the hosts will be offering a private community chat, exclusive bonus content, behind-the-scenes moments, and deeper dives into the most talked-about episodes via a new Patreon launching alongside the show.
“Spoke believes in telling stories and platforming voices that speak to the moment. That is why we recently co-produced Broadway’s Tony nominated Real Women Have Curves and produced the hit audio series Aftermath: The Hunt for the Anthrax Killer”, said Spoke Media’s President Alia Tavakolian. “’HIGHKEY!’ is at the center of that mission and we are proud to partner with three brilliant hosts to create a space where everyone can belong,” said Spoke Media Partner Travis LeMont Ballenger.
“This show is about legacy, visibility and joy — and creating a space where unapologetically queer voices lead the conversation. Working with Yvie, Ryan and Ben — three brilliant, fearless talents — has been a gift. As Showrunner, it’s an honor to help bring something this alive, this necessary, into the world,” said Tyler Greene, Showrunner (The Sam Sanders Show, Pushkin's A Slight Change of Plans, The Moth).
About The Hosts
Ben O’Keefe
Ben O’Keefe is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, award-winning writer, activist, and Oscar- shortlisted producer whose influence spans entertainment, politics, and culture. From crafting campaigns for folks like Alicia Keys and Amazon Studios to advising leaders like Senator Elizabeth Warren, Ben’s work drives national conversations and cultural change. Ben was also the writer and a guest co-host of MTV Decoded, the pioneering digital series that used humor and storytelling to break down issues of race, identity, and inequality for a new generation. He brings fearless honesty, cultural fluency, and a passion for moving conversations - and culture - forward.
Ryan Mitchell
Ryan Mitchell is an entertainment host, culture critic, and strategist known for sharp takes and bold conversations. They’ve hosted Logo Live, led live award show coverage and interviewed influential voices for MTV and their nationally syndicated radio show Let’s Go There. Ryan also made history as the NFL’s first LGBTQ+ brand ambassador, always championing inclusion at the intersection of entertainment, media, and identity. Whether behind the mic or in front of the camera, Ryan brings heart, humor, and a deep commitment to shifting culture — not just covering it.
Yvie Oddly
Yvie Oddly is a drag icon, rapper, and visual artist who won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11 and made waves as a finalist on All Stars: All Winners. Known for her avant-garde style and unfiltered point of view, Yvie uses her art to challenge convention, provoke thought, and celebrate radical self-expression. With a background in music, design, and performance, she brings creative fearlessness, sharp humor, and a deep belief in authenticity — always encouraging guests to show up fully and speak their truths.
About Spoke Media
Spoke Media is a multi-award-winning creative studio dedicated to crafting meaningful, character-driven content. Their portfolio spans podcasts, live stage and film and television. Notable works include Tony Award Nominated Real Women Have Curves the Musical and the acclaimed podcasts Under Cover of Knight (Apple), The Grand Scheme: Snatching Sinatra (Wondery), and The Godfather: A Film We Can’t Refuse (Paramount).For more information, visit www.spokemedia.io
