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For the FLINTA Community, By the FLINTA Community. Get to know Angel’s Catnip Mission
We’re delighted to welcome Angel to The Sassy Show podcast, hosted by Bethany Burgoyne and sponsored by JOYclub! Angel is the inspiring founder of Catnip, a party and events collective that redefines the nightlife scene for the FLINTA community—individuals who identify as Female, Lesbian, Intersex, Non-binary, Trans, or Agender.
In this episode, Angel shares the story behind Catnip, a space that’s aware, inclusive, and designed specifically for those often marginalized in traditional party spaces. Their parties always platform queer performers such as drag, striptease or burlesque as well as hosting kink based workshops so guests can learn something new and interesting. Plus, they have a house dominatrix at each party who guests can get the opportunity to session with on the night - meet resident Domme Mistress Stone. All this magic is included in their affordable and accessible ticket prices.
Join us to hear how Angel’s experiences transformed her journey from a party-goer struggling to feel accepted to a community leader reshaping the world of queer nightlife.
Before Catnip, Angel tells us how she found mainstream nightlife alienating and unsafe. “I wasn't able to find any parties run by another trans person,” she says, “and it’s not about wanting preferential treatment; it’s about knowing someone understands my experience.” Angel, like many in the FLINTA community, often found herself surrounded by unspoken biases, with few people who could truly relate. “I kept hearing the same thing from people of color, those with diverse bodies, and people with disabilities—they felt left out too,” she adds.
It’s about knowing someone understands my experience
Navigating these spaces, Angel often encountered misunderstandings and challenges that made her feel unwelcome. “Unconscious biases are everywhere, and it’s exhausting to be on the receiving end of it,” she explains. Her story is all too common among FLINTA folks, who frequently encounter similar struggles in conventional party spaces. “There was just this constant feeling of not quite belonging,” Angel recalls. "I knew there had to be a way to change that.”
Everything shifted for Angel when she discovered One Night Parties, an event hosted by Miss Gold and tailored for the FLINTA community. “Walking in, I realized this was the kind of space I’d been dreaming of—a place where I could finally feel safe and understood,” Angel shares. She describes the atmosphere as life-changing. “I became a regular,” she laughs, “and it just felt like I was finally part of something that was made for people like me.”
The freedom she felt at One Night Parties ignited a spark within Angel, one that would soon lead to the birth of her own event. “The feeling was transformative,” she says. “It wasn’t just me; so many people were coming together and finding community.” Seeing the impact such a space had on her own life and those around her, Angel knew she wanted to create something unintimidating and curated for people at the intersections of feminism that are often marginalised and subject to micro aggressions even within the queer community itself. A space for them run by people like them—a party that would be inclusive, safe, and unconditionally welcoming to all FLINTA folks. Angel teamed up with Hazel, her nesting partner, whose own creativity and perspective as a cis, lesbian woman of colour informed the shape Catnip took.
Catnip was born out of my experiences in the play party scene and seeing so many gaps in what was available for people like us
Together, they turned their passions into action and Catnip was born. As a duo, their dynamic is something Angel thanks for helping create a multifaceted event. From games to kink informed workshops to burlesque performances and space to play, Angel and Hazel are providing a flourishing space created by and for the FLINTA community, where all could feel a true sense of belonging. “We wanted it to be a place where people could be themselves, let their guard down, and connect with others who understood them,” Angel says.
The community has played an integral role in shaping Catnip, contributing ideas that make each event unique. “We’ve got games, ways to meet new people, and side quests that help people interact with others they might not have otherwise,” she explains. "It’s not just a party; it’s an experience." This creative approach transformed *Catnip* into a place that’s as playful as it is inclusive, drawing attendees from all backgrounds to celebrate together.
We noticed a lot of our guests are neurodivergent, so we introduced interactive games and activities to make connecting with others easier
Catnip quickly evolved beyond its initial vision as more and more people began attending. “We noticed a lot of our guests are neurodivergent, so we introduced interactive games and activities to make connecting with others easier,” Angel shares. For those with autism, ADHD, or social anxiety, these games became an important part of the party, enabling conversations and friendships to develop naturally. “One guest said they made more friends that night than they’d made in ages,” she recalls warmly.
With feedback in mind, Catnip continues to adapt to the needs of the community, ensuring that everyone feels seen and valued. “People were shy at first, but after playing a game or completing a quest, they’d made a bunch of new friends,” Angel explains, grateful for how engaged attendees have been in shaping the party. “Our guests have made *Catnip* what it is; their openness and support are what make the space feel so vibrant.”
Through her work, Angel has uncovered a talent for bringing people together in ways that feel authentic and meaningful. “Creating Catnip has shown me the power of a safe, loving space,” she says. “Every time we host, it feels like we’re building a family.” Angel's passion for inclusivity has made her a beacon in the FLINTA community, proving that with a little creativity and empathy, nightlife can be welcoming for everyone.
Looking to the future, Angel and Hazel are focused on expanding Catnip so even more FLINTA individuals can find a space where they belong. “We want Catnip to reach anyone who might be looking for a community like this,” she says, smiling. Through their dedication and the support of the community, Angel and Hazel have turned a vision of an inclusive space into a vibrant reality. "Seeing what Catnip has become—it’s a gift, and I’m so proud to be a part of it,” she concludes. Angel’s journey is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the impact of creating a space where everyone feels seen. As Catnip continues to grow, it will undoubtedly inspire others to find their voice and support one another.
Learn more about Angel via her ig @angel_in_a_cage_80
Follow Catnip on ig @catnip_productions_london
Interview by Bethany Burgoyne @bxsassy2
This podcast episode was sponsored by JOYclub
The Sassy Show is thrilled to partner with JOYclub as our sponsor for this series! JOYclub is the ultimate online, sex-positive community, bringing together curious, kinky minds ready to connect, learn, and play. If you're looking to spice up your social scene or host sultry events, a business profile on JOYclub is a brilliant way to make an impact.
JOYclub isn’t just about events; it's also a vibrant space for meeting like-minded, JOYful individuals who share your passions and maybe even your wildest fantasies. Whether you want to explore your deepest desires, make meaningful connections, or showcase your uncensored sass, JOYclub has created a safe and welcoming environment just for that. Dive into the world of JOYclub by visiting joyclub.com—and let the fun begin!
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