How can we help the “Scrooges” in our lives become more inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community? We can use A Christmas Carol as a framework to explore practical, research-backed strategies for changing hearts and minds. Each of Scrooge's encounters suggest concrete steps for fostering empathy by sharing personal stories and guiding people toward a more inclusive future. Whether you're confronting ignorance or encouraging reflection, this episode provides essential tools for allies to help bridge the ...
Dec 02, 2024•30 min•Season 3Ep. 14
So much of what we learn about others comes from the media we consume. Listen in on Joe and Rya's conversation about how allies can educate themselves on LGBTQ experiences by engaging with film and television. They share some of their favorite queer movies and reflect on the power of media to foster empathy and understanding. The discussion offers accessible recommendations for those looking to broaden their perspective, while also exploring the emotional impact of LGBTQ narratives. It’s a warm ...
Nov 26, 2024•27 min•Season 3Ep. 13
What can we learn from the pivotal moments in LGBTQ history in the U.S.? This episode explores key events that have shaped the fight for equality and civil rights within the U.S. government. From the Lavender Scare to the Stonewall Riots, and through landmark legal cases like Obergefell v. Hodges, they reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the LGBTQ movement. This episode highlights the importance of understanding the past to protect the progress made. We must always remember that the strugg...
Nov 18, 2024•31 min•Season 3Ep. 12
From 1981 to 1999. she lived in constant fear of being outed, knowing that discovery could end her career in an instant. In honor of Veteran's Day, Monica Skarban returns to the podcast to share her personal story of serving in the U.S. Air Force as a closeted gay woman. She watched firsthand as friends were dishonorably discharged after being exposed. Despite serving with dedication as a nurse across the globe, from Germany to Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War, she was forced to hide her true id...
Nov 11, 2024•26 min•Season 3Ep. 11
For those struggling with the recent election results, this episode offers a bit of encouragement. Joe and Rya share their thoughts on the outcome and present a perspective you probably haven't heard. Send us a text Support the show
Nov 11, 2024•6 min
The mid-twentieth century was a defining moment in LGBTQ history, marking the beginning of a long and difficult fight for equality. Joe and Rya retell the stories of Frank Kameny and Jamie Shoemaker, two key figures whose lives were forever changed by the persecution of LGBTQ individuals. Kameny’s activism helped ignite the struggle for LGBTQ rights. Once the fight for progress began, there was no going back. Through courage and resilience, the LGBTQ community finally refused to be silenced. Sen...
Nov 04, 2024•31 min•Season 3Ep. 10
Imagine if computer AI could help you discover your true identity—perhaps even before you understood yourself. From personalized health care for trans individuals, to tools that aid in gender exploration, "Artificial Intelligence" is transforming the LGBTQ+ community. We live in a time of exciting possibilities for progress. But is there also a dark side? Send us a text Support the show...
Oct 28, 2024•29 min•Season 3Ep. 9
In this episode, Rya and Joe have a heartfelt discussion about how AI is transforming society, with a focus on its potential impact on the LGBTQ community. They explore how AI functions, its growing role in various fields like healthcare and creative work, and the ethical concerns surrounding data usage and misinformation. The conversation touches on the differences between AI and human intelligence, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into our daily lives. Ultimately...
Oct 21, 2024•34 min•Season 3Ep. 8
In the second half of their interview with John Paulk, Joe and Rya continue to explore the complexities of his journey out of the ex-gay movement. Rya shares her experience attending a Love Won Out conference as a closeted trans woman in the '90s, while John opens up about the "dirty little secret" within the ex-gay community—that no one actually changes. They discuss the evolving attitudes within the church, with even his son's Campus Crusade group accepting LGBTQ individuals. John reflects on ...
Oct 14, 2024•26 min•Season 3Ep. 7
Our good friend of the podcast, John Paulk, returns in this important episode. John is a former leader of the ex-gay movement who has since renounced conversion therapy and embraced his true identity. He gives a first-hand account of why conversion therapy is so hurtful. He discusses the lack of evidence supporting the idea that anyone can truly change their sexual orientation and the deep personal toll it takes on those involved. He shares his experience of publicly claiming he was no longer at...
Oct 07, 2024•26 min•Season 3Ep. 6
Many well-meaning allies unknowingly cause harm by not recognizing their own ignorance. Joe and Rya explore how even the most supportive allies can miss the signals that they are pushing their loved one away and don't know it. Good intentions are not enough. What does it take to educate yourself? Using sales analogies from their shared business experiences, Joe and Rya provide insights on how allies can avoid these common mistakes and become truly supportive. Send us a text Support the show...
Sep 30, 2024•33 min•Season 3Ep. 5
Joe and Rya take a deep-dive into the ways LGBTQ people can learn to accept themselves through play. They discuss Rya's childhood love for Dungeons & Dragons, a game which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. They explore how role-playing games and other childhood hobbies offer queer individuals a safe space for self-discovery and expression. The role of the Role can be a gamechanger in your own path towards understanding your true self. Send us a text Support the show...
Sep 23, 2024•30 min•Season 3Ep. 4
Is mental health therapy really worth the investment, especially when navigating complex LGBTQ experiences? In this episode, Joe and Rya consider common skepticism about therapy's value, addressing concerns over cost and effectiveness. Through personal reflections on seeking therapy before coming out, Rya illustrates how professional guidance can offer invaluable tools for communication and fresh perspectives. The discussion also touches on navigating insurance and making therapy more accessible...
Sep 16, 2024•33 min•Season 3Ep. 3
What happens when our opponents' political rhetoric spirals out of control? Joe and Rya explore how the intense divisiveness in politics feeds the growing conflict surrounding LGBTQ+ issues. The way we frame our own stories can mask the true values that would bring us together. Send us a text Support the show
Sep 09, 2024•31 min•Season 3Ep. 2
Father Greg Greiten knew from an early age that he had a secret. In this episode, he shares the deep mental anguish he experienced trying to keep his identity hidden, including moments when he considered ending it all. In this episode, Father Greg tells Joe and Rya how he finally came out as gay to his parishes, and what happened in the aftermath. Despite the risks, his story is one of faith, courage, and the power of acceptance. He challenges each of us to be more loving and accepting of others...
Sep 02, 2024•34 min•Season 3Ep. 1
A listener shares how she has been grappling with fear that her son might be gay. Joe and Rya offer thoughts on how to maintain a strong relationship without compromising her beliefs. The discussion centers on how to reconcile personal values with the love and connection she has for her son. Joe shares some ways he coped when Rya came out, and Rya gives practical tips on preparing to have a coming out conversation. Together, they provide insights that aim to foster understanding and compassion. ...
Aug 26, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 52
In this episode, Joe and Rya discuss the complexities of fighting injustice, exploring when standing up for what’s right can go too far. They examine how political divisiveness and social media can lead to the dehumanization of others, even in the name of a good cause. The conversation also touches on the importance of preserving dignity in all relationships, including those within the LGBTQ community. With honest feedback, they challenge each other and us to rethink how we approach morality and...
Aug 19, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 51
In this episode, Will shares his experiences of being asexual and aromantic, providing insights into his journey and what it means to navigate the world with these identities. The conversation delves into his worries about coming out at work and how his message would be received. Additionally, the discussion turns to the importance of being a better ally and challenges listeners to question their own assumptions about sexuality and gender. Will’s story highlights the diversity within the LGBTQ+ ...
Aug 12, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 50
Did you know that there is dramatic segmentation between different parts of the LGBTQ+ community? We often group people together when we don't understand them. But no one is a stereotype. Each person is an individual, and each is on a continuum. Joe and Rya explore the variety of ways people might find themselves as a part of the LGBTQ+ community. The combination of gender identity and orientation are as unique as personality. No two people are alike. Send us a text Support the show...
Aug 05, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 49
In this moving interview with Monica Skarban, she shares how her Catholic Church embraced her with full acceptance after the death of her wife. She discusses the rejection she experienced in some churches and the joy of discovering a parish that fully embraced them. Monica’s story highlights that there are affirming churches for everyone, and no one should let others dictate their self-worth. Together with Joe and Rya, they explore how faith, love, and inclusivity can make a difference in anyone...
Jul 29, 2024•32 min•Season 2Ep. 48
This episode delves into the origins and complexities of prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals, specifically focusing on attitudes towards homosexuality. Homophobia extends beyond mere dislike or fear; it encompasses deep-seated societal norms, cultural biases, and often religious teachings that contribute to discrimination and exclusion. This episode explores the historical, psychological, and sociological roots of homophobia, shedding light on how these prejudices manifest in different contexts...
Jul 22, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 47
Have you ever tried to convince someone they are believing a lie? If you say something enough times with no proof at all, people start to believe it. A lot of what homophobes have been saying for decades just isn't true. But you can't convince them otherwise. So what can you do? Speak up. Dismantling lies happens the same way they are constructed in the first place, one statement at a time. Joe and Rya look at a few of these misconception from a compassionate perspective. Although statistics sho...
Jul 15, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 46
Every love story is different. Ameera and Julia didn't plan to have a relationship. It just happened, and suddenly they realized they were together. Despite objections from conservative Muslims peers, they affirmed their gender, retained their faith, and pursued their love. After three years of marriage, their love for one another shines even brighter. Their story will inspire and encourage you. Send us a text Support the show...
Jul 08, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 45
Rya had an emotional session with her therapist this afternoon. In this episode, Joe and Rya discuss what happened and why she felt so vulnerable. Joe asks about the value of seeing a therapist. We all know mental health is important, and we need to learn to accept the help that is available for us when we need it. Discover how to live life to its fullest by eliminating harmful thought patterns that keep you from moving forward. Your situation will be different, but the process is similar. Send ...
Jul 01, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 44
As we near the end of Pride month, we want to keep looking for ways to strengthen our commitment to our LGBTQ loved ones. This episode gives a checklist for maximizing the good and minimizing the harmful in our relationships. Let's show those who closest to us that we are ALL IN. Send us a text Support the show
Jun 24, 2024•27 min•Season 2Ep. 43
Being an ally means more than just being accepting our gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, or other sexual- or gender-non-conforming loved one. We want to become fully affirming. How do we learn to stand proud of our LGBTQ+ friends and family? The way to grow is to keep learning. The more we know, the more we become true advocates and supporters. In this episode, Joe and Rya present your motivational guide to being ALL IN. Send us a text Support the show...
Jun 17, 2024•26 min•Season 2Ep. 42
You've heard from the Dad. You've heard from the Daughter. But you've never heard from the Mom... until now. In this episode, she shares her earliest struggles to accept the news that her adult child came out as transgender. At first the shock was overwhelming. But she found a deep well of strength to bring her through. If you or someone you know is struggling after someone close has come out, you will find comfort and wisdom in her words. Send us a text Support the show...
Jun 10, 2024•24 min•Season 2Ep. 41
For over a decade, John Paulk was the most visible spokesperson for conversion therapy. He gave his testimony on Oprah, 60 Minutes, and everywhere he could about how God had changed him from gay to straight. But inside, it was just fake-it-till-you-make-it. What happens when you finally admit to yourself that your entire ministry has been nothing but smoke and mirrors? Send us a text Support the show...
Jun 03, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 40
We need to tell people that myths are just that. When we do not challenge ideas that have already been debunked, we allow falsehoods to perpetuate . Don't buy into the misinformation. This episode gives a taste of some of the misleading views about gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. Be a voice of positivity in the world. Send us a text Support the show...
May 27, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 39
Maggie Williams joins us for a one-year update about her transition. A year ago, we explored the similarities and differences with Rya's transition. But this past year has brought some important milestones on her journey. You won't want to miss her unexpected story. Check out Maggie's transgender art installation project at thetransperience.com Send us a text Support the show...
May 20, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 38
