In this colorful and deeply reflective episode, hosts Corey and Kendall welcome special guest Circus Envy, a celebrated clown persona from haunted attractions, conventions, and film. Circus Envy shares a profound journey that blends horror, cosplay, drag, therapy, and personal healing.

Circus Envy Reveals How Horror and Drag Saved His Life

Key Highlights:

• Origins of Circus Envy:
• Circus Envy details the inception of his iconic clown character, influenced by therapeutic advice to embrace the "trickster" archetype.
• Insights into how embodying a clown helped him confront and process deep-rooted personal trauma.
• Therapy and the Trickster Archetype:
• Circus Envy shares the transformative guidance received from his therapist, who introduced the powerful symbolism behind the trickster and clown characters.
• Discussion about how using clown imagery provided emotional release, personal empowerment, and therapeutic healing.
• Friendship with Amelia Kincaid:
• Circus Envy recounts his meaningful connection with Amelia Kincaid, famed horror actress and animal advocate, highlighting how their friendship influenced both their personal and professional lives.
• Exploration of meditation and guided visualization techniques learned through Amelia, underscoring the unexpected but powerful intersection between horror culture and mental wellness.
• Drag, Horror, and Community Healing:
• Circus Envy reflects on the vibrant intersections of horror, drag culture, and cosplay.
• Celebrating the legacy of drag icon Lily White, and the embracing reception she received at horror conventions, illustrating the healing and inclusive power of community.
• Identity, Shame, and Empowerment:
• Deep conversation on how Circus Envy's clown persona allowed him to safely explore and reclaim aspects of his identity previously shrouded in shame or stigma.
• Insights into using horror and cosplay intentionally for mental and emotional healing.
• Horror Conventions as Safe Spaces:
• Corey, Kendall, and Circus Envy discuss personal anecdotes and emotional revelations experienced at horror conventions.
• Celebrating how these conventions create judgment-free zones that encourage self-expression, curiosity, and connection.
• Collaborations and Inspirations:
• Circus Envy shares heartfelt memories of collaboration with horror legends such as Sid Haig, including his mother's creation of Haig's iconic Captain Spaulding costume.
• Reflecting on inspirations drawn from Karen Black, Dee Wallace, Rob Zombie, and other horror icons known for embracing vulnerability and authenticity.
• Future of Circus Envy:
• Circus Envy discusses plans for evolving his character and using cosplay with therapeutic intentions, aiming to support others on their healing journeys.
• Emphasis on shamanic traditions, sacred clowns, and cosplay as powerful tools for integrating fragmented aspects of self.

Reflective Insights:

• Corey, Kendall, and Circus Envy emphasize breaking stigmas around mental health through honest conversations within the horror community.
• Highlighting horror’s role as a profound, inclusive medium for personal growth, acceptance, and healing.