When two icons like Angelica Ross and Deshaun Wesley sit down to talk, the energy is undeniable. In a recent episode of the No Opportunity Wasted podcast, these two legends of the ballroom scene and stars of the hit series Pose reunited to discuss everything from the transition between New York and Los Angeles to the deep, personal journey of finding one’s voice—literally and figuratively.
Deshaun Wesley, a man who has become a global face for ballroom culture, joined Angelica to dive into his 10-year journey in LA, his experiences on major sets like The Voice, and the lessons learned from being "chopped" early in his career. Their conversation serves as a masterclass in authenticity, professional humility, and the power of community.
From Brooklyn to the Bright Lights: The NY vs. LA Hustle
The conversation kicked off with a reflection on the classic New York versus Los Angeles debate. Deshaun, a New York City native through and through, recently marked his 10th anniversary in Los Angeles. Despite a decade on the West Coast, he admits that the spirit of New York never truly leaves you. "When it’s in you, it’s in you," he noted, mentioning that he still returns to the city several times a year to stay connected to his roots.
Angelica shared her own nostalgia for the city, specifically the 24-hour Jamaican spots in Harlem that fueled her during her time on Broadway. However, both agreed that while New York offers an unmatched energy, the space and pace of Los Angeles provided a necessary change of scenery for their evolving careers. For Deshaun, the move wasn't just about geography; it was about expanding his "bag" and proving that a "Butch King" could dominate any industry, from the ballroom floor to mainstream television.
"No Opportunity Wasted": The Philosophy of Humility
The title of the podcast, No Opportunity Wasted, isn't just a catchy name it’s a lifestyle that both Angelica and Deshaun have lived. Angelica reflected on the early days of filming Pose, where many ballroom legends were brought in as extras. For some, this was a blow to the ego. They were royalty in the underground scene, yet they were being asked to play background roles in a fictionalized version of their own lives.
Deshaun and Angelica discussed how they navigated this space by focusing on the shared experience. While Angelica brought years of professional acting experience to the table, others brought the authentic history of ballroom. By checking their egos at the door, they were able to create a collaborative environment where knowledge was shared, not hoarded. This humility is what allowed them to turn a background role into a career-defining moment.
The Spectrum of Masculinity and Femininity
One of the most compelling parts of the discussion centered on Deshaun’s unique identity as a "Butch King." Angelica praised Deshaun for his ability to embody an artistic ebb and flow of masculinity and femininity. He represents a version of masculinity that is secure enough to embrace feminine flourishes without losing its core strength.
Deshaun shared a poignant story about his voice. Growing up in Brooklyn, his mother once told him to "put some bass" in his voice and go play with the boys. Ironically, as he grew older, his voice naturally dropped to a deep, distinguishable tone that has now become one of his most recognizable traits. He realized that living in his truth meant embracing all parts of himself—the masculine, the feminine, and everything in between—unconditionally.
The Roots of Ballroom: Finding Family at 14
Deshaun’s journey into the ballroom scene began at the tender age of 14 in the West Village. He recalled sneaking out to places like the Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI) and GMHC, looking for people who looked and acted like him. "I realized in order for me to get my understanding, I had to show up," he explained.
He found a group of seven friends who represented the entire spectrum of the community—from the "masculine Butch Queen" to those who were "two steps from being a girl." Seeing black, confident, and comfortable queer youth gave him the blueprint he needed to exist in the world. These early experiences, which included witnessing homelessness and the struggle for survival, built the character that allows him to sit in the high-profile spaces he occupies today.
The Lesson of the "Chop": Building Resilience
Even for a legend like Deshaun Wesley, success wasn't instantaneous. He shared a hilarious and humbling story about the first time he ever walked a category in a ball. Thinking he had what it took to dominate Runway, he took his shirt off, caught his stride, and was promptly "chopped" (disqualified).
While many would have been discouraged, Deshaun saw it as a turning point. "I think every girl’s got to get chopped to build their character," he joked. That moment of embarrassment fueled his desire to understand the nuance of the culture. He eventually realized that his strength wasn't just in walking, but in a specific, dramatic, yet masculine style of Voguethat didn't exist at the time. By finding his niche, he moved from being a participant to being a pioneer.
Key Takeaways for Creative Success
Embrace the "Background" Phase: Every opportunity is a chance to learn. Whether you are an extra or the star, how you show up determines your future.
Authenticity is Your Superpower: Deshaun’s success comes from his refusal to fit into a box. His blend of masculine and feminine energy is what makes him a standout artist.
Community is a Classroom: Success is rarely a solo journey. Sharing knowledge and experiences with your peers, as seen on the set of Pose, elevates everyone involved.
Resilience in the Face of Failure: Getting "chopped" or failing at your first attempt isn't the end—it’s the beginning of your refinement process.
Conclusion: Living Life Unconditionally
The conversation between Angelica Ross and Deshaun Wesley is a reminder that the path to success is rarely a straight line. It is paved with moments of uncertainty, shifts in identity, and the constant need to adapt. From the streets of Brooklyn to the soundstages of Hollywood, Deshaun Wesley has proven that when you live your life unconditionally and show up for every opportunity, the world has no choice but to take notice.
Whether you are a fan of ballroom culture, an aspiring actor, or someone searching for their own voice, the message is clear: Waste no opportunities, stay humble, and always bring your authentic self to the category of life.
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