Meet Our New Board Member: Q&A Spotlight!
We’re thrilled to announce a new lab partner to our amazing Board of Directors who will help propel the Rainbow Labs mission forward! As our organization continues to grow, having a board of innovators and change-makers play a titular role in our organization, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to expand the team!
We’d like to introduce Ryan Mitchell (they/he)!
Ryan is a dynamic entertainment host, journalist, and culture commentator known for their sharp insight and intersectional perspective. Emmy-winning daytime host Tamron Hall has recognized Ryan as a “voice to watch,” celebrating their ability to navigate bold and meaningful commentary.
For four years, Ryan co-hosted Let’s Go There on Channel Q, the first nationally syndicated LGBTQ+ talk radio station, where they led in-depth discussions on politics, entertainment, and culture. During this time, they interviewed a range of influential artists and thought leaders, bringing curiosity, humor, and depth to each conversation.
Ryan has since gone on to host Logo Live with Ryan Mitchell and served as MTV’s go-to correspondent for major award shows, including the Video Music Awards, MTV Awards, and the GRAMMYs. Whether analyzing film and tv on NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour or bringing their signature presence to live events, they continue to engage audiences with compelling storytelling and cultural commentary. Currently, they are the creator, executive producer and co-host of HIGHKEY!, a culture podcast at iHeartRadio.
Beyond their on-air work, Ryan became the NFL’s first LGBTQ+ brand ambassador and a senior consultant for GLAAD’s Entertainment team championing intersectional queer and trans storytelling across media, sports and culture. They’re passionate about making sure underrepresented voices aren’t just included but centered.
Q: What inspired you to join the rainbow labs team?
A: Attending my first Violet Visionary Awards was a turning point for me. Seeing the work Rainbow Labs was doing made it clear this organization is filling a critical gap. I grew up as an only child raised by a single mother, and I know firsthand the transformative power of after-school programs and mentorship. What I didn't have growing up in Nashville was a space that honored the full intersection of my identities. Rainbow Labs does exactly that — giving queer youth the chance to see their possibilities reflected back at them through real people doing real things. That is the work the world needs more of, and I am deeply proud to play even a small part in helping it continue to change lives.
Q: What do you hope to contribute or accomplish during your time as a board member?
A: Throughout my career, I've always seen myself as a bridge builder, someone who connects people, resources, and ideas to create lasting impact. This is my first time serving on a board, and I'm bringing that same energy to this role. My greatest hope is to expand the visibility of this work by leveraging my network to open doors in spaces Rainbow Labs hasn't reached yet. I want to help ensure this organization is not only sustainable, but thriving and showing up in rooms where it can make an even bigger difference.
Q: What message would you share with the LGBTQIA+ youth we serve through Rainbow Labs?
A: Every lesson, every memory, every friendship you experience at Rainbow Labs was made for you. Carry them with you always. You belong here, and the world is better because you're in it.
