LGBTQ+ Narratives and the Power of Inclusive Storytelling with Crazy as a Loon's Lisa Cordileone and Shaan Dasani

Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox

This week, we’re joined by Lisa Cordileone and Shaan Dasani, the visionary executive producers behind Crazy as a Loon, a film inspired by a dark and often-overlooked chapter of American history: The Lavender Scare. In 1953, during this unsettling period, LGBTQ+ government employees were targeted and persecuted, deemed security risks to the country due to the belief that their identities made them morally weak and vulnerable to blackmail.

Lisa and Shaan bring their personal perspectives to this powerful story that transcends history, addressing universal themes of resilience, family, and the pursuit of peace.

Lisa’s background as an actor and producer fuels her passion for amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, celebrating underrepresented historical figures, and mentoring new talent in filmmaking. Shaan, an actor and filmmaker, contributes a deeply human lens to storytelling, emphasizing shared experiences that foster empathy and understanding.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The inspiration behind the short film and how it sheds light on The Lavender Scare while exploring timeless human struggles.
• How Lisa and Shaan’s lived experiences as LGBTQ+ creatives shape their storytelling.
• The challenges and rewards of using film to bridge societal divides and promote empathy.
• Tips for creating narratives that prioritize authenticity and inclusivity.

Through their filmmaking, Lisa and Shaan remind us of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate history, celebrate diversity, and inspire change.

Links:

• Crazy as a Loon Updates: https://www.instagram.com/crazyasaloon.shortfilm/
• Lisa Cordileone: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.cordileone/
• Shaan Dasani: https://www.instagram.com/shaandasani/

Become a part of our community on:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/
• Our Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/

Hosted by award-winning business leader, best-selling author, investor and co-founder of The Diversity Movement, Jackie Ferguson.

Production by Earfluence.