What is The Substrate?

A substrate is the remnants of one language that leaves its mark on another, or it is a substance that an enzyme transforms in a chemical reaction.

Our lives and cultures are shaped by stories, and queer narratives have profoundly influenced society throughout history, regardless of our individual identities. "The Substrate" is my space to delve into the rich tapestry of storytelling, people, and culture—predominantly through a queer lens. Here, I offer essays, stories, ephemera, curated playlists, at-home film festivals, and more.

With a deep love for humanity and its myriad stories, I explore both the tangible ephemera and the intangible elements that define us. My goal is to uncover the narratives that have shaped and continue to shape who we are, giving voice to the queer stories that have often been relegated to the margins yet remain integral to our collective cultural heritage.

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Who is the author?

Guido A. Sanchez is a writer, middle school teacher and leader, comics aficionado, and podcaster based in New York. Guido revels in nurturing young people along their journeys as they begin to tell the myths of their own lives. Once the school day wraps up, he also steps into the role of cohost and creator of Dear Watchers: The Omniversal Comic Book Podcast. With his vast collection of over 30,000 comics, he navigates the intricacies, inspirations, and impacts of world-building in fictional reality and the modern myths we all love.

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