Rev. Brandan Robertson's journey to becoming a pastor began at the age of 12, when he had a conversion experience at a Baptist church in Maryland. Despite growing up in a non-religious household, he felt a distinct calling to pursue a career in the ministry. Now, at the age of 32, he has dedicated himself to fulfilling that calling and is on the path to becoming a pastor.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome to the Lesbi-Honest podcast, where we talk openly and candidly about the experiences of later in life lesbians. In this episode titled "Brandan Robertson.mp3," your host Sarah St John engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Reverend Brandan Robertson. They explore the impact of TikTok in spreading discussions about sexuality and religion, challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in religious spaces, and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Brandan shares his personal journey, challenges faced within the evangelical community, and his advocacy for an inclusive modern gospel. From the historical context of anti-LGBTQ teachings in Christianity to advice for those coming out later in life, this episode is filled with insightful reflections and empowering messages. Join us as we delve into this fascinating and illuminating conversation.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

1. Brandan Robertson's Personal Journey

- Upbringing in a non-religious environment

- Joining a Baptist church at age 12

- Attending an evangelical school in Chicago

- Experiencing resistance and threat of expulsion for questioning evangelical theology

- Being subjected to conversion therapy at his school

- Facing backlash from the evangelical community after coming out

- Finding support from other Christians and a different kind of Christianity that embraced inclusion

- Mission to help queer people find their space in the church and challenge the church to change its teachings regarding the queer community

- Family's reaction and support

- Shock from the hate received from evangelicals and Christians

2. Christianity and LGBTQ+ Community

- Historical context of anti-LGBTQ stance in Christianity

- Comparing current anti-LGBTQ teaching to ancient perspectives on same-sex male sexuality

- Harmful effects of current teachings on LGBTQ individuals

- Presence of queer individuals in scripture, citing references to eunuchs and their potential representation of nonbinary or gay people in ancient texts

- Highlighting the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch as evidence of inclusion in the Christian church

- Acknowledging the selective acceptance of adoption by straight couples and challenging the belief that children need both a male and female parent for proper development

- Emphasizing the need to contextualize biblical teachings within the cultural norms of the time

- Challenging the idea that procreation is the sole basis for valid marriage and advocating for supporting queer people in adopting and raising children

- The Bible as descriptive, not prescriptive, and the need to interpret biblical teachings within their cultural context

- Debate on traditional heterosexual relationships being the only ones displayed in the Bible

3. Queer Representation and Marginalization

- Role of societal norms in perpetuating fear and misunderstanding of queer individuals

- Impact of lack of representation on harmful legislation and violence

- Marginalization of intersex, trans, and non-binary individuals

- The destabilization of existing societal structures and perceptions by increased visibility and exploration of gender by younger generations

- The world's tendency to simplify everything into binary choices, and why it's not helpful

4. Advocacy,...]]>💡 Guest bio

Rev. Brandan Robertson's journey to becoming a pastor began at the age of 12, when he had a conversion experience at a Baptist church in Maryland. Despite growing up in a non-religious household, he felt a distinct calling to pursue a career in the ministry. Now, at the age of 32, he has dedicated himself to fulfilling that calling and is on the path to becoming a pastor.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome to the Lesbi-Honest podcast, where we talk openly and candidly about the experiences of later in life lesbians. In this episode titled "Brandan Robertson.mp3," your host Sarah St John engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Reverend Brandan Robertson. They explore the impact of TikTok in spreading discussions about sexuality and religion, challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in religious spaces, and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Brandan shares his personal journey, challenges faced within the evangelical community, and his advocacy for an inclusive modern gospel. From the historical context of anti-LGBTQ teachings in Christianity to advice for those coming out later in life, this episode is filled with insightful reflections and empowering messages. Join us as we delve into this fascinating and illuminating conversation.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

1. Brandan Robertson's Personal Journey

- Upbringing in a non-religious environment

- Joining a Baptist church at age 12

- Attending an evangelical school in Chicago

- Experiencing resistance and threat of expulsion for questioning evangelical theology

- Being subjected to conversion therapy at his school

- Facing backlash from the evangelical community after coming out

- Finding support from other Christians and a different kind of Christianity that embraced inclusion

- Mission to help queer people find their space in the church and challenge the church to change its teachings regarding the queer community

- Family's reaction and support

- Shock from the hate received from evangelicals and Christians

2. Christianity and LGBTQ+ Community

- Historical context of anti-LGBTQ stance in Christianity

- Comparing current anti-LGBTQ teaching to ancient perspectives on same-sex male sexuality

- Harmful effects of current teachings on LGBTQ individuals

- Presence of queer individuals in scripture, citing references to eunuchs and their potential representation of nonbinary or gay people in ancient texts

- Highlighting the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch as evidence of inclusion in the Christian church

- Acknowledging the selective acceptance of adoption by straight couples and challenging the belief that children need both a male and female parent for proper development

- Emphasizing the need to contextualize biblical teachings within the cultural norms of the time

- Challenging the idea that procreation is the sole basis for valid marriage and advocating for supporting queer people in adopting and raising children

- The Bible as descriptive, not prescriptive, and the need to interpret biblical teachings within their cultural context

- Debate on traditional heterosexual relationships being the only ones displayed in the Bible

3. Queer Representation and Marginalization

- Role of societal norms in perpetuating fear and misunderstanding of queer individuals

- Impact of lack of representation on harmful legislation and violence

- Marginalization of intersex, trans, and non-binary individuals

- The destabilization of existing societal structures and perceptions by increased visibility and exploration of gender by younger generations

- The world's tendency to simplify everything into binary choices, and why it's not helpful

4. Advocacy, Education, and Conversation

- Engaging in meaningful dialogue and representation to create change

- Starting a nonprofit highlighting the prevalence of ex-gay and conversion therapy ministries

- Challenging theological views that perpetuate fear and anger towards LGBTQ+ individuals

- The importance of creating inclusive spaces, especially for older LGBTQ+ individuals coming out

- The impact of creating spaces for sharing stories and hosting conversations in changing attitudes

5. TikTok and Evangelism

- Brandan Robertson's unexpected journey into TikTok

- Engagement in substantive conversations about progressive Christianity, theology, and spirituality on TikTok

- Viewing presence on TikTok as a form of evangelism for spreading the true good news of Jesus and providing support for queer individuals struggling with their faith

6. Advice for Coming Out Later in Life

- Importance of patience and self-acceptance for those coming out later in life

- Advice on building a chosen family for support if biological family is not accepting

- Emphasizing the value of authenticity in relationships

- Advising against engaging in debates when coming out

- Acknowledging the different circumstances and challenges faced by those coming out later in life

- Recognition of resentment and frustration among queer individuals due to varying acceptance levels across generations

- Urging for focus on personal journeys and the progress made for future generations

- Emphasizing the need for patience and understanding towards others' processes

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00 Survived conversion therapy, rejected evangelicalism, lost book deal.

05:46 Family supportive of LGBTQ+ coming out. Shocked by hate from Christians.

07:21 Christian views on sexuality have evolved dramatically.

12:01 Bible translations, homosexuality, and sexual deviancy history.

16:48 Early queer presence in the Bible affirmed.

19:13 Bible scholar explains Fulfillment of be fruitful command.

22:14 From bad to passionate about progressive Christianity.

25:16 Fear vs love, truth matters, no fear needed.

28:23 Disagreement with conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ individuals.

32:22 Cultural change takes time; fear causes harm.

33:52 Intersex and marginalized voices need to be heard.

39:33 Finding acceptance in family and community journey.

42:18 Resentment, frustration, and jealousy among queer community.

44:06 Grateful for podcast community and conversations. Thankful.

❓ Questions

1. Brandan Robertson discussed the impact of TikTok on reaching a wider audience for conversations about sexuality and religion. How do you think social media platforms can help facilitate discussions on important topics like these?

2. Robertson mentioned his plan to start a nonprofit highlighting the prevalence of ex-gay and conversion therapy ministries. What are your thoughts on the need for more visibility and awareness of the harm caused by such practices?

3. The episode touched upon the fear and misunderstanding of queer individuals perpetuated by lack of representation, leading to harmful legislation and violence. How can we create more inclusive and representative environments to combat this?

4. Brandan emphasized the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces, especially for older LGBTQ+ individuals who are coming out later in life. What steps can be taken to support and uplift older members of the LGBTQ+ community?

5. Robertson discussed the historical context of anti-LGBTQ+ stance in Christianity and its relatively new nature. How can we encourage a shift towards more inclusive teachings within religious institutions?

6. The conversation brought up the concept of chosen families for support. How do you think the concept of chosen families can impact the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who may face rejection from their biological families?

7. Robertson mentioned the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity when coming out, and the need for patience in others' acceptance. What advice would you give to someone coming out later in life, considering the unique challenges they might face?

8. The discussion highlighted the value of engaging in meaningful dialogue and representation for creating change. What are some ways to facilitate these conversations in both safe and challenging environments?

9. Brandan emphasized the need to challenge traditional patriarchal and binary norms. How can we dismantle these societal structures and perceptions to create a more equitable and inclusive society?

10. The episode touched on the Bible's references to same-sex relationships and the need to contextualize biblical teachings within ancient cultural norms. How do you think this understanding can contribute to more inclusive and affirming religious practices?

Resources:

https://www.brandanrobertson.com/

https://www.lesbihonest.show/

Welcome to another captivating episode of Lesbi-Honest! I'm your host, Sarah St John, and today we have a very special guest joining us. Please give a warm welcome to Lacy Jones, a talented musician, former ministry leader, and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Lacy's journey is one filled with personal struggles, navigating religious institutions, and ultimately finding her true authentic self. In this episode, Lacy opens up about her experiences in ministry, the challenges she faced as a queer individual, and her courageous decision to come out. From her encounters with discrimination to the complexities of family relationships, Lacy's story is captivating and inspiring. Get ready as we dive into the depths of Lacy's journey and explore the power of embracing one's true identity. You won't want to miss this heartfelt and honest conversation. Let's get started!

❓ Questions

Question 1: In this episode, Lacy Jones discusses her experience with a ministry that discriminated against LGBTQ+ individuals. How do you think this type of discrimination impacts the mental health and well-being of those affected?

Question 2: Lacy shares her struggle with being labeled as a "lipstick lesbian" by a person she sought counseling from. How does this labeling affect their sense of identity and self-acceptance?

Question 3: Can you relate to Lacy's experience of feeling pressured to hide her true identity and conform to a certain image in order to be accepted by her church community? How do you think this pressure can impact an individual's authenticity and mental health?

Question 4: Lacy talks about her journey of self-discovery and therapy, which led her to realize they were in a cult. How important do you think it is for individuals to seek therapy and professional help when they suspect they might be in a harmful or manipulative environment?

Question 5: Lacy mentions the fear of losing her church family and the implications it would have for her music ministry if she were to come out. How do you think fear of rejection and losing support networks can affect a person's decision to come out and live authentically?

Question 6: Lacy emphasizes the importance of sharing stories, especially those that happen in secret or in the dark. How can storytelling and sharing personal experiences contribute to breaking the silence surrounding LGBTQ+ discrimination and fostering understanding and empathy?

Question 7: Lacy discusses the concept of "bearing their cross" and facing criticism as an opportunity for growth and refinement. How do you think facing criticism and adversity can shape a person's resilience and personal development?

Question 8: Lacy shares her experience of finding love and support in the church after growing up in a dysfunctional home environment. How can faith communities provide a sense of belonging and support for individuals who come from challenging backgrounds?

Question 9: Lacy's journey involves reconciling her faith with her identity. Have you or someone you know experienced a similar struggle? How did you navigate the intersection of your identity and your beliefs

Relevant Links:

Lesbihonest.show

Candice's story is one of self-discovery and resilience. Growing up in a Christian environment, she grappled with her own identity and struggled with depression and anxiety. It wasn't until she reached college that she realized she was gay, a realization that completely caught her off guard. This revelation propelled her to want to help others in similar situations, leading her to pursue a career as a therapist. Drawing upon her own experiences, Candice is determined to provide support and guidance to individuals who may be facing similar challenges. She understands the pain of feeling conflicted and aims to help others accept and embrace their authentic selves.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of Lesbi-Honest, the podcast where we dive into the stories and experiences of individuals who have overcome challenges, found self-acceptance, and built fulfilling lives. I'm your host, Sarah, and today we have a special guest joining us. Please welcome Candice Zuberty, a therapist and founder of The Christian Closet, dedicated to providing LGBTQ affirming counseling, coaching, and spiritual direction.

In today's episode, Candice opens up about her personal journey into counseling, the launch of The Christian Closet, and her own discovery and acceptance of her homosexuality. We'll explore the complexities of coming out later in life, the intricacies of navigating non-affirming families, and the importance of finding a supportive community.

Sarah and Candice discuss the difference between being tolerated, accepted, and affirmed, especially in the context of churches that claim to welcome everyone. They shed light on the potential impacts of internalizing homophobia and how seeking therapy from an LGBTQ+ affirming clinician can be transformative.

Throughout this candid conversation, you'll hear stories of resilience, love, and healing. We'll also explore practical advice for those who may be struggling with their own identities or facing challenges within their families and communities.

Join us as we listen to Candice's insights, personal experiences, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready for another inspiring episode of Lesbi-Honest.

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00:42 Intersecting story, self-acceptance, and painful struggle.

00:06:42 Bible college friends, disagreement, reconciliation, acceptance.

00:08:57 Mom feared hell, dad's heart attack. Burdened secrecy, painful distancing. Relief in death desired.

00:13:23 Build a supportive team, find independence, be brave.

00:17:01 Fear of being discovered on podcast.

00:20:10 Supporting LGBTQ+ individuals navigating relationships, spirituality, and self-acceptance.

00:21:20 Rediscovering and healing spiritual path to God.

00:27:05 Seeking counseling for religious affirmation and acceptance.

00:27:56 Important distinction: Tolerate vs Celebrate LGBTQ+ individuals.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

Primary Topic: Introduction and Background

- Introduction to the podcast episode and the guest, Candice Czubernat

- Curiosity about the difference between being welcoming or accepting versus affirming in the context of churches

Primary Topic: Candice's Journey and The Christian Closet

- Candice's journey into counseling and the launch of The Christian Closet

- Her personal experience in discovering her own gayness

- The focus of The Christian Closet on helping individuals heal from spiritual abuse and trauma, and coming out to non-affirming families

- The prevalence of individuals coming out later in life due to growing up in a Christian context

Primary Topic: Personal Experiences and Relationships

- Candice's personal experiences with being in the closet and hiding her true...]]>💡 Guest bio

Candice's story is one of self-discovery and resilience. Growing up in a Christian environment, she grappled with her own identity and struggled with depression and anxiety. It wasn't until she reached college that she realized she was gay, a realization that completely caught her off guard. This revelation propelled her to want to help others in similar situations, leading her to pursue a career as a therapist. Drawing upon her own experiences, Candice is determined to provide support and guidance to individuals who may be facing similar challenges. She understands the pain of feeling conflicted and aims to help others accept and embrace their authentic selves.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of Lesbi-Honest, the podcast where we dive into the stories and experiences of individuals who have overcome challenges, found self-acceptance, and built fulfilling lives. I'm your host, Sarah, and today we have a special guest joining us. Please welcome Candice Zuberty, a therapist and founder of The Christian Closet, dedicated to providing LGBTQ affirming counseling, coaching, and spiritual direction.

In today's episode, Candice opens up about her personal journey into counseling, the launch of The Christian Closet, and her own discovery and acceptance of her homosexuality. We'll explore the complexities of coming out later in life, the intricacies of navigating non-affirming families, and the importance of finding a supportive community.

Sarah and Candice discuss the difference between being tolerated, accepted, and affirmed, especially in the context of churches that claim to welcome everyone. They shed light on the potential impacts of internalizing homophobia and how seeking therapy from an LGBTQ+ affirming clinician can be transformative.

Throughout this candid conversation, you'll hear stories of resilience, love, and healing. We'll also explore practical advice for those who may be struggling with their own identities or facing challenges within their families and communities.

Join us as we listen to Candice's insights, personal experiences, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready for another inspiring episode of Lesbi-Honest.

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00:42 Intersecting story, self-acceptance, and painful struggle.

00:06:42 Bible college friends, disagreement, reconciliation, acceptance.

00:08:57 Mom feared hell, dad's heart attack. Burdened secrecy, painful distancing. Relief in death desired.

00:13:23 Build a supportive team, find independence, be brave.

00:17:01 Fear of being discovered on podcast.

00:20:10 Supporting LGBTQ+ individuals navigating relationships, spirituality, and self-acceptance.

00:21:20 Rediscovering and healing spiritual path to God.

00:27:05 Seeking counseling for religious affirmation and acceptance.

00:27:56 Important distinction: Tolerate vs Celebrate LGBTQ+ individuals.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

Primary Topic: Introduction and Background

- Introduction to the podcast episode and the guest, Candice Czubernat

- Curiosity about the difference between being welcoming or accepting versus affirming in the context of churches

Primary Topic: Candice's Journey and The Christian Closet

- Candice's journey into counseling and the launch of The Christian Closet

- Her personal experience in discovering her own gayness

- The focus of The Christian Closet on helping individuals heal from spiritual abuse and trauma, and coming out to non-affirming families

- The prevalence of individuals coming out later in life due to growing up in a Christian context

Primary Topic: Personal Experiences and Relationships

- Candice's personal experiences with being in the closet and hiding her true self

- The importance of finding safe spaces and supportive people in one's life

- Candice's relationship with her best friend in Bible college and their simultaneous discoveries of their gayness

- Initial negative reaction from the friend and a year of no communication, followed by a change of heart and a loving relationship

- The friend's eventual coming out as well

Primary Topic: Family Dynamics and Coming Out

- Candice's mother's strongly negative reaction to her coming out, motivated by concerns about her spiritual well-being

- Her mother asking them not to tell her father about her sexuality

- Her decision to keep her sexuality a secret from her father for five years

- The tension and distance caused between her and her mother due to the secrecy

- Her relief at the prospect of her father passing away to fully be themselves

Primary Topic: Building a Support System and Coming Out

- The importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people who celebrate and cheer them on

- Suggestions for building a support system, such as making new friends, joining support groups, or finding a therapist

- Advice for individuals who are financially dependent on their family or living with them to find alternative means of providing for themselves

- Encouragement to come out in whatever way feels easiest, as any way of coming out is brave

Primary Topic: The Christian Closet's Work and LGBTQ+ Inclusivity

- Candice's work with individuals in same-sex or queer relationships, helping them navigate love and communication

- Support provided to individuals raised in conservative versions of Christianity, struggling with spirituality

- The importance of addressing LGBTQ+ identity issues in therapy and seeking support from LGBTQ+ clinicians

- Therapeutic work focusing on healing spiritual selves and building a connection with inner spirit for healing

Primary Topic: Self-Acceptance and Coming Out Later in Life

- Candice's personal journey of self-acceptance and realization that everyone had been wrong about her

- The belief in God's love and blessing for queer individuals

- The launch of The Christian Closet to provide support and help those who may not need to suffer

- Challenges and difficulties of coming out later in life and comparing oneself to peers

Primary Topic: Negative Impact of Being in the Closet

- Discussion of the energy and anxiety drain associated with being in the closet

- Personal experiences of fear and anxiety when photos were taken while closeted

- The constant vigilance and energy required to hide one's true identity

- Understanding and compassion for those who choose to remain closeted, particularly with family

Primary Topic: The Transformative Experience of Coming Out

- Candice's comparison of the fear before coming out to a potential death or falling off a cliff

- The belief that facing and moving through this fear can lead to transformative experiences in other areas of life

- Her gradual process of coming out to different individuals in her life

- The positive shift in acceptance from her family after a key family member fully accepted her

- Celebration of her engagement and wedding, attended by the entire family and still talked about

Primary Topic: Wrapping up and Final Thoughts

- Recap of the topics covered and highlights from the podcast episode

- Final thoughts on self-acceptance, finding support, and the importance of celebrating and affirming LGBTQ+ identities

- Encouragement for listeners to seek support and connect with their inner spirit for healing and self-discovery

- Closing remarks and thank-yous to the guest and the listeners

❓ Questions

1. How does the Candice's experience of being in the closet and hiding her true self resonate with your own experiences or those of people you know?

2. In what ways do you see her journey towards self-acceptance and coming out as a transformative experience?

3. How do you think her experience of being in a Christian context affected her struggle to accept her sexuality?

4. Can you relate to her conflicted feelings about her relationship with God? How do you think spirituality and sexuality intersect in your own life?

5. What are some of the challenges that individuals who come out later in life face, particularly when comparing themselves to peers who have already achieved certain milestones?

6. How do you think being in the closet impacts one's mental and emotional well-being? Can you share any personal experiences or observations?

7. Do you agree that being tolerated is different from being accepted and affirmed? What are some examples of the differences between the two?

8. How can therapy or counseling help individuals on their journey towards self-acceptance and understanding their spiritual beliefs, especially when it comes to exploring their LGBTQ+ identity?

9. Can you think of any strategies or resources that could support individuals who are financially dependent on non-affirming families or living with them, but seeking to assert their true selves?

10. How does Candice's story of coming out and gaining acceptance from her family and loved ones inspire you to be more open and authentic in your own life?

Resources

TheChristianCloset.com

AffirmingTherapy.org

LesbiHonest.show

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Lesbi-Honest TikTok Channel

Welcome to "Lesbi-Honest," the podcast where we dive deep into the stories and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and explore the intersection of their identities with faith, love, and society. In today's episode, we have a very special guest, Jennifer Knapp, a talented musician who has experienced both the highs and lows of the Christian music industry. Jennifer will share with us the challenges she faced after coming out and the impact it had on her career and other LGBTQ+ artists in the industry. Despite the backlash, Jennifer found incredible support and positivity from the queer community, which fueled her desire to be a voice of strength for others. Join us as she takes us through her journey of self-discovery, self-expression, and the importance of living authentically. We'll also explore the role of Christianity in shaping her character and the ongoing process of self-love and understanding her relationship with God. Furthermore, Jennifer challenges the interpretations of biblical teachings on homosexuality and emphasizes the need for love and kindness towards one another. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Jennifer on "Lesbi-Honest."

📚 Timestamped overview

00:02:04 Jennifer Knapp officially came out in 2010.

00:05:04 Quit industry due to frustration and discontent. LGBTQ+ revelation. Needed private nurturing environment.

00:12:38 Mourning loss, slowly returning to music industry.

00:15:52 Retailers disapproved, but positive support prevailed.

00:23:23 People unaware of artist; focusing on self-discovery.

00:30:04 Years of reading The Bible and self-reflection.

00:35:52 Marriage doesn't magically protect ethical behavior.

00:40:36 Pleasure and joy are important for motivation.

00:44:54 Reconciliation through love, liberation, and self-acceptance.

00:48:09 Touring, secret project, collaborations, faith community advocacy.

❓ Questions

1. How do you think the negative reaction from Christian music retailers affected Jennifer's career and the careers of other LGBTQ+ artists in the industry?

2. What role do you believe the queer community played in supporting and uplifting Jennifer after they came out?

3. How do you interpret Jennifer's sense of responsibility to fight for others and be a voice of strength for them? Do you think this is an important aspect of coming out?

4. Why do you think Jennifer chose to come out, even knowing that it could potentially harm her career?

5. In your opinion, what is the significance of Jennifer's emphasis on knowing oneself and taking the time to come out when ready? How important is it to have a supportive network during this process?

6. How do you think Jennifer's experience of having people come up to shows without knowing who they were influenced their understanding of their own identity?

7. What are your thoughts on Jennifer's perspective of labels? Do you agree that personal growth and focusing on who one wants to be as a person is more important than rigidly defining oneself?

8. Discuss Jennifer's connection between her Christian faith and her journey towards self-love and understanding. How did her understanding of her relationship with God evolve over time?

9. How do you interpret Jennifer's argument for a more compassionate and inclusive interpretation of the Bible's stance on homosexuality? Do you think religion and LGBTQ+ acceptance can coexist?

10. Reflect on Jennifer's views on morality, commitment, and the concept of traditional marriage. How does her perspective challenge traditional beliefs around these topics?

❇️ Key topics and bullets

Primary Topic: Backlash and Support After Coming Out

- Negative reaction from Christian music retailers

- Impact on other]]>ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome to "Lesbi-Honest," the podcast where we dive deep into the stories and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and explore the intersection of their identities with faith, love, and society. In today's episode, we have a very special guest, Jennifer Knapp, a talented musician who has experienced both the highs and lows of the Christian music industry. Jennifer will share with us the challenges she faced after coming out and the impact it had on her career and other LGBTQ+ artists in the industry. Despite the backlash, Jennifer found incredible support and positivity from the queer community, which fueled her desire to be a voice of strength for others. Join us as she takes us through her journey of self-discovery, self-expression, and the importance of living authentically. We'll also explore the role of Christianity in shaping her character and the ongoing process of self-love and understanding her relationship with God. Furthermore, Jennifer challenges the interpretations of biblical teachings on homosexuality and emphasizes the need for love and kindness towards one another. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Jennifer on "Lesbi-Honest."

📚 Timestamped overview

00:02:04 Jennifer Knapp officially came out in 2010.

00:05:04 Quit industry due to frustration and discontent. LGBTQ+ revelation. Needed private nurturing environment.

00:12:38 Mourning loss, slowly returning to music industry.

00:15:52 Retailers disapproved, but positive support prevailed.

00:23:23 People unaware of artist; focusing on self-discovery.

00:30:04 Years of reading The Bible and self-reflection.

00:35:52 Marriage doesn't magically protect ethical behavior.

00:40:36 Pleasure and joy are important for motivation.

00:44:54 Reconciliation through love, liberation, and self-acceptance.

00:48:09 Touring, secret project, collaborations, faith community advocacy.

❓ Questions

1. How do you think the negative reaction from Christian music retailers affected Jennifer's career and the careers of other LGBTQ+ artists in the industry?

2. What role do you believe the queer community played in supporting and uplifting Jennifer after they came out?

3. How do you interpret Jennifer's sense of responsibility to fight for others and be a voice of strength for them? Do you think this is an important aspect of coming out?

4. Why do you think Jennifer chose to come out, even knowing that it could potentially harm her career?

5. In your opinion, what is the significance of Jennifer's emphasis on knowing oneself and taking the time to come out when ready? How important is it to have a supportive network during this process?

6. How do you think Jennifer's experience of having people come up to shows without knowing who they were influenced their understanding of their own identity?

7. What are your thoughts on Jennifer's perspective of labels? Do you agree that personal growth and focusing on who one wants to be as a person is more important than rigidly defining oneself?

8. Discuss Jennifer's connection between her Christian faith and her journey towards self-love and understanding. How did her understanding of her relationship with God evolve over time?

9. How do you interpret Jennifer's argument for a more compassionate and inclusive interpretation of the Bible's stance on homosexuality? Do you think religion and LGBTQ+ acceptance can coexist?

10. Reflect on Jennifer's views on morality, commitment, and the concept of traditional marriage. How does her perspective challenge traditional beliefs around these topics?

❇️ Key topics and bullets

Primary Topic: Backlash and Support After Coming Out

- Negative reaction from Christian music retailers

- Impact on other LGBTQ+ artists in the industry

- Support and positivity from the queer community

- Sense of responsibility to fight for others

- Already lost career, nothing to lose by coming out

Primary Topic: Journey of Self-Discovery and Coming Out

- Importance of knowing oneself and coming out when ready

- Coming out as a journey, not a grandiose moment

- Need for a supportive network

Primary Topic: Unexpected Reactions and Unfamiliarity

- People's reactions when Jennifer mentioned her partner

- Audience unfamiliar with Jennifer's music

- Challenging preconceived notions of sexuality and identity

Primary Topic: Spirituality, Christianity, and Self-Love

- Christianity shaping Jennifer's character and integrity

- Struggles with self-love and understanding relationship with God

- Journey towards loving others and oneself

- Faith that God wouldn't discard or annihilate creation for not "getting it right"

- Challenging interpretations of the Bible's stance on homosexuality

- Emphasizing universal love, kindness, and treating oneself and others with compassion

Primary Topic: Understanding Relationships and Ethical Conduct

- Distinguishing between a covenant and a legal marriage

- Importance of commitment and accountability in relationships

- Critiquing the belief that marriage can avoid problems

- Daily commitment to ethical and moral values

Primary Topic: Pleasure, Fear, and Living Authentically

- Pleasure as a positive motivator and source of joy

- Being in the closet as a joyless experience

- Challenging theological conversation around pleasure

- Focusing on love, joy, and benefiting others

- Embracing one's true self and not living in fear

Primary Topic: Reconciliation, Love, and Acceptance

- Jesus' sacrifice as understanding God's love and value for humanity

- God's love and acceptance encompassing everyone

- Importance of not living in fear and embracing love, dignity, and connection

- Integrity, responsibility, and hospitality towards others

Primary Topic: Healing, Connection, and Coming Out

- LGBTQ+ community's courage and experience of healing and connection

- Closeted living causing more pain and trauma than coming out

- Retiring from the music industry due to frustration and restrictions

- Cultivating meaningful relationships and embracing true self

- Importance of self-care and mental health

Primary Topic: Mourning, Returning, and Embracing the Present

- Mourning the loss of a career and a restrictive environment

- Taking a break, practicing, and picking up music again

- Releasing a record and enjoying the support received

- Advice for musicians to enjoy their moment without pressure

Primary Topic: Initial Reaction and Family Support

- Excitement and confusion upon hearing of person coming out

- Mixed reaction from family

- Pressure to come out publicly due to anticipation

Primary Topic: Timeline and Public Awareness

- Jennifer's family and close friends already aware of her sexual orientation

- Officially coming out in 2010 through a press release

- Jennifer in same-sex relationship before coming out publicly

- Widely known sexual orientation in late twenties

Relevant Links

JenniferKnapp.com

LesbiHonest.Show

As an unapologetically queer writer and creator, Shohreh Davoodi is especially skilled at making thoughtful connections, explaining difficult concepts clearly and concisely, and handling tough topics with warmth and humor. Driven by a passion for equal rights and representation for LGBTQIA+ folks and people of color, her work supports and celebrates the queer and BIPOC communities of which she's a proud member. She's currently working on her first novel.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of Lesbi-Honest, the podcast where we explore the journeys, experiences, and triumphs of individuals who have embraced their true selves. I'm your host, Sarah, and today we have a very special guest joining us, Shohreh. In this episode, Shohreh shares their personal story of discovering their sexuality later in life and the journey they embarked on to fully embrace their identity as a lesbian. We delve into the complexities of understanding their attraction to women, their struggles with acceptance, and the empowering role of a supportive queer therapist. Shohreh also opens up about facing criticism and ridicule online, their brave act of putting up a pride flag in a conservative neighborhood, and their decision to move to a more LGBTQ-friendly city. This episode is filled with inspiration, honesty, and a reminder that it's never too late to live authentically. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into Shohreh's incredible journey on this episode of Lesbi-Honest.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Late-in-life lesbians going through a process of understanding their sexuality

- The Shohreh's gradual transition in understanding her attraction to women

- Identifying as bisexual before fully embracing the identity of a lesbian

- Struggles with accepting her sexuality and questioning past experiences

- Supportive queer therapist helping navigate feelings and guilt

- Criticism and ridicule online for their experience from men

- Process of accepting attraction to women

- Acknowledging body's signals and realizing unhappiness in marriage due to queerness

- Response video to HOA situation

- Counter flag response to conservative flag in living room

- Buying a progress flag with "you are loved" slogan

- Putting up the flag to support and provide representation for queer individuals in the neighborhood

- Recognizing attractiveness in men, but not personally attracted to them

- Interest in dating women if circumstances were different

- Learning about bisexuality through close friendships with bisexual individuals

- Initial identification as bisexual before realizing being a lesbian

- Biphobia and the pressure to choose a side

- Discovery process during the pandemic leading to divorce from ex-husband

- Happiness in current lesbian relationship

- Lack of children, but co-parenting two dogs with ex-partner

- Initial plans to open relationship disrupted by the pandemic

- Realization of being meant to be with a woman

- Guilt and unfulfillment in closeted lesbian marriage

- Asking for a divorce due to deep friendship rather than a romantic partnership

- Painful process of divorce after being together since early twenties

- Catalyst of "Untamed" by Glenn Doyle for questioning sexuality

- Friends and ex-husband suggesting Shohreh might be gay

- Initial identification as queer before realizing she is a lesbian

- Confirmation of lesbian identity through dating current partner

- Desire to live in Colorado and concerns about LGBTQ+ rights in Texas

- Safety concerns for partner presenting as masculine in Texas

- Presence of speaker's sister and family members in Colorado

- Extreme heat in Texas and desire for a different climate

- Understanding there is no 100% safe...]]>Bio

As an unapologetically queer writer and creator, Shohreh Davoodi is especially skilled at making thoughtful connections, explaining difficult concepts clearly and concisely, and handling tough topics with warmth and humor. Driven by a passion for equal rights and representation for LGBTQIA+ folks and people of color, her work supports and celebrates the queer and BIPOC communities of which she's a proud member. She's currently working on her first novel.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of Lesbi-Honest, the podcast where we explore the journeys, experiences, and triumphs of individuals who have embraced their true selves. I'm your host, Sarah, and today we have a very special guest joining us, Shohreh. In this episode, Shohreh shares their personal story of discovering their sexuality later in life and the journey they embarked on to fully embrace their identity as a lesbian. We delve into the complexities of understanding their attraction to women, their struggles with acceptance, and the empowering role of a supportive queer therapist. Shohreh also opens up about facing criticism and ridicule online, their brave act of putting up a pride flag in a conservative neighborhood, and their decision to move to a more LGBTQ-friendly city. This episode is filled with inspiration, honesty, and a reminder that it's never too late to live authentically. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into Shohreh's incredible journey on this episode of Lesbi-Honest.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Late-in-life lesbians going through a process of understanding their sexuality

- The Shohreh's gradual transition in understanding her attraction to women

- Identifying as bisexual before fully embracing the identity of a lesbian

- Struggles with accepting her sexuality and questioning past experiences

- Supportive queer therapist helping navigate feelings and guilt

- Criticism and ridicule online for their experience from men

- Process of accepting attraction to women

- Acknowledging body's signals and realizing unhappiness in marriage due to queerness

- Response video to HOA situation

- Counter flag response to conservative flag in living room

- Buying a progress flag with "you are loved" slogan

- Putting up the flag to support and provide representation for queer individuals in the neighborhood

- Recognizing attractiveness in men, but not personally attracted to them

- Interest in dating women if circumstances were different

- Learning about bisexuality through close friendships with bisexual individuals

- Initial identification as bisexual before realizing being a lesbian

- Biphobia and the pressure to choose a side

- Discovery process during the pandemic leading to divorce from ex-husband

- Happiness in current lesbian relationship

- Lack of children, but co-parenting two dogs with ex-partner

- Initial plans to open relationship disrupted by the pandemic

- Realization of being meant to be with a woman

- Guilt and unfulfillment in closeted lesbian marriage

- Asking for a divorce due to deep friendship rather than a romantic partnership

- Painful process of divorce after being together since early twenties

- Catalyst of "Untamed" by Glenn Doyle for questioning sexuality

- Friends and ex-husband suggesting Shohreh might be gay

- Initial identification as queer before realizing she is a lesbian

- Confirmation of lesbian identity through dating current partner

- Desire to live in Colorado and concerns about LGBTQ+ rights in Texas

- Safety concerns for partner presenting as masculine in Texas

- Presence of speaker's sister and family members in Colorado

- Extreme heat in Texas and desire for a different climate

- Understanding there is no 100% safe place for queer people

- Moving to a conservative suburb of Denver

- Discrimination faced from neighbors and HOA

- Discovering Colorado statute protecting right to display flags and signs on their property

- Informing HOA about the law and ordering a new flag

- Publicly out as a queer creator

- Supportive online community and mixed reactions from parents

- Strained relationship with parents post-divorce, but eventually improving

- Supportive network of friends prioritizing speaker's happiness and authenticity

- Feeling more free and authentic after embracing true identity

- Denver described as a gay-friendly city with strong LGBTQ+ presence

- Desire to move to the west side of Denver for proximity to mountains and more liberal cities

- Tip to pull up election maps to understand neighborhood voting demographics.

📚 Timestamped overview

00:02:00 Recognized attraction to men, later discovered lesbianism.

00:04:31 Divorce leads to self-discovery and new relationships.

00:09:40 Publicly out as queer, struggled with parents. Supportive friends, newfound freedom.

00:12:46 Late-life lesbianism is a gradual, confusing journey.

00:17:48 Discovery, self-reflection, divorce, and embracing lesbian identity.

00:22:49 Quickly switched to Hinge, found better matches.

00:25:46 Moving to Colorado for various reasons including dreams, family, safety, and better laws.

00:29:22 Living in a conservative area challenges LGBTQ+ couple.

00:36:26 Denver is gay-friendly with a specific geography.

00:40:40 Many people discover their lesbian identity later.

00:42:01 Shame, guilt, fault - society, childhood awareness.

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. How common do you think it is for individuals to go through a process of understanding their sexuality later in life, particularly in the context of being a late bloomer lesbian?

2. What role do you think societal factors play in delaying someone's understanding of their own sexuality?

3. Have you ever struggled with accepting your own sexuality? How did you navigate that journey?

4. Shohreh mentioned facing criticism and ridicule from men online for her experience. How do you think online spaces can both support and hinder individuals in their exploration and acceptance of their sexuality?

5. How do you think Shohreh's experience of gradually understanding her attraction to women, first as bisexual and then as a lesbian, relates to the broader concept of sexual fluidity?

6. Shohreh mentioned that reading the book "Untamed" by Glenn Doyle during the pandemic was a catalyst for them to start questioning her sexuality. Have you ever had a book or other form of media be a catalyst for self-discovery in your own life?

7. What do you think are some of the unique challenges that individuals who are in long-term relationships or marriages face when they come to realize they are not attracted to their partner's gender?

8. Shohreh and her partner decided to move to Colorado for various reasons, including political climate and LGBTQ+ rights. How important do you think location and laws are in determining where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe and accepted?

9. Shohreh talked about her experience with discrimination from the HOA in her conservative suburb. How do you think organizations or communities can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for LGBTQ+ individuals?

10. Shohreh's journey to self-acceptance involved questioning and exploring her identity. How do you think we can create spaces and resources that support individuals in their process of self-discovery and understanding their own sexuality?

Resources

https://shohrehdavoodi.com/

Untamed by Glennon Doyle (affiliate link)

Kari comes from a conservative background, with her father being a Baptist preacher and a long family history of preachers. She has been married three times and has five children, constantly questioning if the problem lies within her. At the age of 39, a family tragedy shook her and made her reevaluate her life. Feeling stuck and unhappy, she asked for a divorce in 2016 and started afresh. It was during this time that she realized she was not straight, which explained the troubles in her previous marriages. This discovery led her on a journey of self-discovery and she started coaching and supporting other late bloomers like herself. Coming out in 2018, she initially thought she was the only one with a delayed coming out, but she soon connected with other individuals who had similar experiences. Kari started a Facebook support group for late bloomers, which now boasts over 7600 members. This journey also helped Kari with her own personal development, allowing her to overcome shame and guilt and be comfortable sharing her story. She is currently writing a book to inspire others and let them know that they are not alone, advocating for everyone to embrace their true selves.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of Lesbi-Honest! I'm your host, Sarah St John, and today we have a fabulous guest joining us, Kari. Get ready for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation as Kari shares their journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and embracing their true identity as a lesbian. They open up about the supportive and unsupportive reactions they've received from within the LGBTQIA community, their boundaries with people who hold beliefs against their community, and the importance of not conforming to societal expectations. We'll also delve into their personal experiences, from their late bloomer realization to their journey toward self-acceptance and the intersection of religion and queerness. Stay tuned as Kari takes us through their inspiring story, filled with triumphs, personal growth, and the importance of living one's authentic truth. Let's dive right in!

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Challenges of accepting one's true self in the LGBTQ+ community:

- Both supportive and unsupportive reactions from the LGBTQ+ community

- Doubt and disbelief from girlfriends due to past relationships with men

- Confrontations with straight religious individuals who are not accepting

- Setting boundaries with people who hold beliefs against the LGBTQ+ community

- Not being responsible for changing others' beliefs

- Surprise at others feeling entitled to label and judge others for their identity

- Awakening of understanding and acceptance in 2020

- Pushing boundaries of personal expression and breaking societal expectations:

- Importance of exploring and pushing boundaries

- Encouragement to draw one's own lines and not conform

- Joy of exploring new experiences and trying different styles

- Prioritizing personal satisfaction over external opinions

- Seeking validation and self-awareness in breaking free from codependency:

- Reflecting on seeking validation from others

- Need for self-awareness and healing

- Embracing eccentricity and enjoying attention

- Late bloomers and societal expectations:

- Impact of societal programming on understanding and accepting oneself

- Difficulties faced by those who realize their LGBTQ+ identity later in life

- Feeling mislabeled and uncertainty about how others label them

- Journey toward self-acceptance and embracing true identity:

- Denial, guilt, shame, and fear of accepting attraction to women

- Influence of meeting an authentic and inspiring woman

- Rejection of societal expectations and embracing...]]>💡 Guest bio

Kari comes from a conservative background, with her father being a Baptist preacher and a long family history of preachers. She has been married three times and has five children, constantly questioning if the problem lies within her. At the age of 39, a family tragedy shook her and made her reevaluate her life. Feeling stuck and unhappy, she asked for a divorce in 2016 and started afresh. It was during this time that she realized she was not straight, which explained the troubles in her previous marriages. This discovery led her on a journey of self-discovery and she started coaching and supporting other late bloomers like herself. Coming out in 2018, she initially thought she was the only one with a delayed coming out, but she soon connected with other individuals who had similar experiences. Kari started a Facebook support group for late bloomers, which now boasts over 7600 members. This journey also helped Kari with her own personal development, allowing her to overcome shame and guilt and be comfortable sharing her story. She is currently writing a book to inspire others and let them know that they are not alone, advocating for everyone to embrace their true selves.

ℹ️ Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of Lesbi-Honest! I'm your host, Sarah St John, and today we have a fabulous guest joining us, Kari. Get ready for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation as Kari shares their journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and embracing their true identity as a lesbian. They open up about the supportive and unsupportive reactions they've received from within the LGBTQIA community, their boundaries with people who hold beliefs against their community, and the importance of not conforming to societal expectations. We'll also delve into their personal experiences, from their late bloomer realization to their journey toward self-acceptance and the intersection of religion and queerness. Stay tuned as Kari takes us through their inspiring story, filled with triumphs, personal growth, and the importance of living one's authentic truth. Let's dive right in!

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Challenges of accepting one's true self in the LGBTQ+ community:

- Both supportive and unsupportive reactions from the LGBTQ+ community

- Doubt and disbelief from girlfriends due to past relationships with men

- Confrontations with straight religious individuals who are not accepting

- Setting boundaries with people who hold beliefs against the LGBTQ+ community

- Not being responsible for changing others' beliefs

- Surprise at others feeling entitled to label and judge others for their identity

- Awakening of understanding and acceptance in 2020

- Pushing boundaries of personal expression and breaking societal expectations:

- Importance of exploring and pushing boundaries

- Encouragement to draw one's own lines and not conform

- Joy of exploring new experiences and trying different styles

- Prioritizing personal satisfaction over external opinions

- Seeking validation and self-awareness in breaking free from codependency:

- Reflecting on seeking validation from others

- Need for self-awareness and healing

- Embracing eccentricity and enjoying attention

- Late bloomers and societal expectations:

- Impact of societal programming on understanding and accepting oneself

- Difficulties faced by those who realize their LGBTQ+ identity later in life

- Feeling mislabeled and uncertainty about how others label them

- Journey toward self-acceptance and embracing true identity:

- Denial, guilt, shame, and fear of accepting attraction to women

- Influence of meeting an authentic and inspiring woman

- Rejection of societal expectations and embracing personal identity

- Shaving head as a symbolic act and personal expression:

- Desire to shave head despite husband's disapproval

- Inspiration from individuals with shaved heads

- Shaving head as a blank visual slate to redefine identity

- Decision to keep shaved head after personal losses

- Convenience and freedom from time-consuming hair styling

- Plans for travel and documenting soul-led journey:

- Starting a work travel trade program for community and sustainability

- Documenting journey on blog and website

- Living a soul-led life and inspiring others to follow their dreams

- Clarity on upcoming journey and potential destinations

- Relationships with family and establishment of boundaries:

- Challenging experience of coming out to father

- Father's response of love and acceptance with underlying belief of being wrong

- Healthy boundaries regarding religion and queerness

- Introduction of special someone to family when the time comes

- Overcoming codependency and supporting others:

- Personal journey from codependency and people-pleasing

- Support group for late bloomers and expanding personal development

- Writing a book to share story and inspire others

- Importance of representation, sharing stories, and validation:

- Personal experience of discovering identity through TikTok representation

- Support and safety in acknowledging one's truth through sharing stories

- Surrendering, trusting, allowing, releasing, and sharing as key aspects

- Recognizing the importance of the podcast for sharing important stories

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00:40 Struggle, discovery, support: a journey of self-acceptance.

00:04:51 Lesbian woman finds herself and true love.

00:10:26 VX journey, fear, healthy boundaries, queerness, codependent.

00:12:39 Suppressing identities, seeking validation, conforming to societal norms.

00:16:56 Struggling with labels, past relationships, self-discovery.

00:21:37 Long-haired Christian woman shaves head for freedom.

00:24:42 Exploring boundaries, self-expression, and embracing uniqueness.

00:29:21 Rosie O'Donnell encouraged coach in early stages.

00:31:36 Mixed reactions to LGBTQIA self-discovery, personal boundaries.

00:33:51 TikTok brought visibility, representation, and validation.

00:39:53 Reach me at caridewitt.com, social links included. Embarking on a work travel trade journey. Travel, document, inspire, learn, expand, dream.

00:43:08 Second book coming, blog to share journeys.

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. In the episode, Kari mentions receiving both supportive and unsupportive reactions from people in the LGBTQIA community regarding their acceptance of their true self. How do you think these reactions from within the community can affect someone's journey of self-acceptance?

2. Kari talks about the boundaries they have set with people who hold beliefs against the LGBTQIA community. How do you think setting boundaries can be beneficial for one's mental and emotional well-being?

3. Kari discusses the importance of exploring and pushing boundaries in terms of personal expression. How do you think societal expectations and norms can limit our ability to fully express ourselves?

4. Kari reflects on their past tendency to seek validation from others. How do you think seeking validation from others can impact our sense of self-worth and authenticity?

5. Kari shares their experience of coming out later in life and the challenges associated with societal labels. How do you think society's tendency to label and categorize individuals can affect one's understanding and acceptance of their own identity?

6. Kari mentions the significance of considering how certain choices make us feel internally and prioritizing personal satisfaction over external opinions. How do you think societal pressure can influence our decision-making process?

7. Kari discusses their journey toward accepting their queerness and embracing their true identity. How do you think societal expectations and norms can create feelings of guilt, shame, and fear in individuals who don't conform?

8. Kari talks about the importance of representation and sharing stories to help others feel validated and safe in acknowledging their own truth. How do you think representation in media and storytelling can impact individuals who are questioning their identity?

9. Kari emphasizes the joy of exploring new experiences and trying different styles without the obligation to fully commit. How do you think experimenting with personal expression can contribute to one's self-discovery and self-acceptance?

10. Kari reflects on their past experiences of burying parts of themselves and striving for validation based on societal expectations. How do you think societal programming can make it difficult for individuals to understand and embrace their true selves?

Relevant Links

LesbiHonest.show

KariDewitt.com

Katherine Johnson earned her B.A. in Christian Ministries from Spring Arbor University and has over 20 years of ministry experience in a wide variety of fields, both in churches and parachurch organizations. She has also earned an M.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Western Seminary and a Th.M. from Columbia Theological Seminary with a focus on Hebrew and Old Testament exegesis.

Katherine is passionate about helping people to encounter Scripture in ways that foster a life-giving relationship with God and personal growth in Christlike love. She is dedicated to The Reformation Project’s mission because she is convinced that the full inclusion of LGBTQ believers in the life of the church would lead to greater flourishing not only for LGBTQ Christians but also for the Kingdom of God “on earth as it is in heaven.”

ℹ️ Introduction

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another episode of Lesbi-Honest, the podcast where we delve into the stories and experiences of LGBTQ+ women in all their diverse and beautiful forms. I'm your host, Sarah St John, and today we have a truly powerful and inspiring tale to share with you.

In this episode, we'll be exploring the journey of Katherine, who has undergone a profound process of self-discovery and acceptance of her sexual orientation. What sets Katherine's story apart is the deep connection she has with her faith in Jesus, which has always been a guiding force in her life.

Growing up, Katherine felt different, struggling to fit in with either boys or girls. She wasn't interested in typical teenage pursuits like makeup, hair, and boys, which left her feeling alienated and weird. To cope with the pressure to conform, she pretended to have crushes on boys, all the while suppressing her true feelings.

But it wasn't until she experienced intense emotions for a woman that Katherine began to realize she wasn't straight. Yet, deeply ingrained beliefs associating homosexuality with sin made it difficult for her to reconcile her faith and her identity. Feeling like an outsider, Katherine yearned for belonging and authenticity.

Her journey took an unexpected turn when she met her partner, Erin. They both approached their beliefs and understanding of homosexuality from different angles – Katherine with deep study and intellectual analysis, and Erin with a more relational perspective. Their paths intertwined as they embarked on separate journeys of research and self-discovery, discovering new understandings and challenging their preconceptions.

Through their exploration, Katherine felt called to work with the Reformation Project, a mission dedicated to advancing LGBTQ inclusion in the church. Katherine's role in the organization involves overseeing programming and supporting ambassadors who promote LGBTQ inclusion in their respective contexts.

Amidst this incredible transformation, Katherine and Erin also navigated the delicate process of coming out to their loved ones. They carefully chose who to share their truth with, based on the expected difficulty of the conversation. And while they feared losing friendships, family, and their faith community, they found support and affirmation in unexpected places.

Join us as we unravel Katherine's remarkable journey of self-discovery, faith, and love. We'll explore the challenges she faced, the moments of triumph, and how she found strength and community along the way. It's a story that showcases the power of embracing one's true self, regardless of the expectations and barriers imposed by society and religion.

So grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready for an emotional and enlightening journey on this episode of Lesbi-Honest.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Discovering and accepting one's sexual orientation

- Feeling different and not fitting in with boys or girls while growing up

- Coping with pressure]]>💡 Guest bio

Katherine Johnson earned her B.A. in Christian Ministries from Spring Arbor University and has over 20 years of ministry experience in a wide variety of fields, both in churches and parachurch organizations. She has also earned an M.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Western Seminary and a Th.M. from Columbia Theological Seminary with a focus on Hebrew and Old Testament exegesis.

Katherine is passionate about helping people to encounter Scripture in ways that foster a life-giving relationship with God and personal growth in Christlike love. She is dedicated to The Reformation Project’s mission because she is convinced that the full inclusion of LGBTQ believers in the life of the church would lead to greater flourishing not only for LGBTQ Christians but also for the Kingdom of God “on earth as it is in heaven.”

ℹ️ Introduction

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another episode of Lesbi-Honest, the podcast where we delve into the stories and experiences of LGBTQ+ women in all their diverse and beautiful forms. I'm your host, Sarah St John, and today we have a truly powerful and inspiring tale to share with you.

In this episode, we'll be exploring the journey of Katherine, who has undergone a profound process of self-discovery and acceptance of her sexual orientation. What sets Katherine's story apart is the deep connection she has with her faith in Jesus, which has always been a guiding force in her life.

Growing up, Katherine felt different, struggling to fit in with either boys or girls. She wasn't interested in typical teenage pursuits like makeup, hair, and boys, which left her feeling alienated and weird. To cope with the pressure to conform, she pretended to have crushes on boys, all the while suppressing her true feelings.

But it wasn't until she experienced intense emotions for a woman that Katherine began to realize she wasn't straight. Yet, deeply ingrained beliefs associating homosexuality with sin made it difficult for her to reconcile her faith and her identity. Feeling like an outsider, Katherine yearned for belonging and authenticity.

Her journey took an unexpected turn when she met her partner, Erin. They both approached their beliefs and understanding of homosexuality from different angles – Katherine with deep study and intellectual analysis, and Erin with a more relational perspective. Their paths intertwined as they embarked on separate journeys of research and self-discovery, discovering new understandings and challenging their preconceptions.

Through their exploration, Katherine felt called to work with the Reformation Project, a mission dedicated to advancing LGBTQ inclusion in the church. Katherine's role in the organization involves overseeing programming and supporting ambassadors who promote LGBTQ inclusion in their respective contexts.

Amidst this incredible transformation, Katherine and Erin also navigated the delicate process of coming out to their loved ones. They carefully chose who to share their truth with, based on the expected difficulty of the conversation. And while they feared losing friendships, family, and their faith community, they found support and affirmation in unexpected places.

Join us as we unravel Katherine's remarkable journey of self-discovery, faith, and love. We'll explore the challenges she faced, the moments of triumph, and how she found strength and community along the way. It's a story that showcases the power of embracing one's true self, regardless of the expectations and barriers imposed by society and religion.

So grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready for an emotional and enlightening journey on this episode of Lesbi-Honest.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Discovering and accepting one's sexual orientation

- Feeling different and not fitting in with boys or girls while growing up

- Coping with pressure to conform by pretending to have crushes on boys

- The role of faith in the Katherine's journey

- Feeling a conflict between her faith in Jesus and her sexual orientation

- Believing she couldn't be both a follower of Jesus and gay

- Realizing that her faith and sexual orientation can coexist

- Partner's role in Katherine's journey

- Differing approaches to understanding homosexuality

- Both engaging in separate journeys of research and self-discovery

- Discussing and sharing what they learned

- Significance of the partner's sister's upcoming wedding

- Prompted questioning of views on homosexuality

- Reflecting on whether they could support their sister

- The intertwining of the Katherine and Erin's lives

- Feeling guided by God in their separate journeys

- Initial attraction and insecurity about initiating a friendship

- Katherine's role in the conference

- Overseeing planning and programming for the pre-conference ambassador retreat

- Responsibility for the parents and process program

- Expecting increased responsibilities as the conference approaches

- Erin's transition from previous job to working at a vet clinic

- Need for work-life balance and change from ministry work

- Enjoying working with animals at the vet clinic

- The Reformation Project and its programs

- Mission to advance LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church

- Programs include support for parents, training for pastors, and leadership development

- Katherine's role in overseeing programming and the ambassador program

- Discovering affirming views through research

- Realizing the Bible doesn't condemn committed and loving same-sex relationships

- Writing a position paper expressing this belief

- Receiving an A on the paper

- Coming out to friends and family

- Gradually coming out to trusted, accepting individuals

- Choosing who to come out to based on anticipated difficulty of the conversation

- Later having a conversation with the speaker's mother in person

- Friendship and relationship with Erin

- Meeting in college and quickly becoming best friends and roommates

- Both studying ministry and doing ministry together

- Both initially believing homosexuality was off-limits

- Challenging conversations and shifting relationships

- Questioning beliefs during seminary and studying scripture more deeply

- Realizing that biblical scholars are on the affirming side

- Having difficult conversations when the speaker's relationship with Erin became known

- The struggle to find affirming ministry jobs

- Planning to move to an affirming seminary disrupted by the pandemic

- Finishing an online degree and searching for affirming ministry jobs

- Difficulty finding jobs grounded in scripture and hiring

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. How do you think Katherine's faith in Jesus shaped her understanding of herself and her sexual orientation?

2. Can you relate to Katherine's experience of feeling different and struggling to fit in while growing up? How did that impact her journey of self-discovery?

3. How do you think societal expectations and gender stereotypes influenced Katherine's coping mechanisms, like pretending to have crushes on boys?

4. Discuss the significance of Katherine's initial belief that she couldn't be both a follower of Jesus and gay. How did that change over time?

5. How did Katherine and her partner approach their understanding of homosexuality and their beliefs? How did their different approaches contribute to their journey of self-discovery?

6. How did the upcoming wedding of Katherine's partner's sister prompt them to question their views on homosexuality? What role did their separate research and shared discussions play in this process?

7. How do you interpret the idea of the speaker and their partner feeling guided by God and their lives being intertwined from the beginning? What role does faith play in their journey?

8. Discuss the insecurities and fears Katherine and her partner had when they initially felt an attraction to each other. How do you think those fears were influenced by societal expectations and their personal beliefs?

9. Explore the speaker's role in planning the pre-conference ambassador retreat and the parents and process program. How do you think these programs contribute to LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church?

10. Reflect on the speaker's decision to transition from a previous intense ministry job to working at a vet clinic. How do you think this change of environment and focus has impacted their well-being and work-life balance?

Relevant Links

Lesbihonest.show

Reformation Project

God and the Gay Christian

The Late Life Lesbian program (affiliate link)

Sally grew up in Wichita Falls, Texas, in a devout Christian family. She was raised in a Church of Christ congregation and was taught from a young age that her church community was like family to her. However, there were also difficulties in her home due to her father's past and his struggles with anger. Despite these challenges, Sally's mother emphasized the importance of prioritizing God in their lives.

As Sally grew older, she realized that she was different but could not identify why. It wasn't until her junior year of college that she discovered she was attracted to women. However, during that time, there was no acceptance or conversation about homosexuality, especially within Christian circles. Sally kept her feelings to herself for 15 years, even as she pursued her career in law and coaching.

Eventually, Sally reached a breaking point and felt compelled to share her secret. She wrote a letter pouring out her heart to God and sought counseling. The counselor received her with kindness and understanding, offering her a safe space to talk. This experience helped Sally understand that God could handle her confusion and emotions.

After sharing her secret with the counselor, Sally gained the courage to come out to her parents, who joined her in seeking therapy to address unresolved family issues. Sally had hoped that working on her relationship with her father would, in turn, change her sexual orientation, but that was not the case. Despite this, Sally remains grateful for the progress they made, and she now cares for her 93-year-old father as his primary caretaker.

Sally's journey has been one of self-discovery, acceptance, and overcoming societal pressures. Through it all, she has relied on her faith to guide her and has learned the importance of being true to herself.

ℹ️ Introduction

On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, host Sarah St. John interviews guest Sally, who shares their journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and the challenges they faced in their Christian community. Sally discusses the importance of reading books for wisdom and promotes the website centerpeace.net. They delve into the difficulties of coming out as affirming to their church, family, and friends, highlighting the subconscious challenges individuals may face. Sally expresses frustration with those who refuse to do the necessary research on the subject, praying for fellowship and understanding amongst each other. They reflect on the progress made in LGBTQ+ resources over the years, emphasizing the importance of not getting discouraged by naysayers.

Sally, coming from the tradition of autonomous churches of Christ, discusses the struggle some churches have with accepting someone as both gay and Christian. They explore the transition from "side B" to "side A", embracing relationships and potentially marriage with the same sex, and seek to understand the process of transitioning. Sally shares their lifelong process of interpreting Scripture and the journey that led them to become affirming of same-sex relationships based on their interpretation. They recommend books, including their own memoir, "Affirming: A Memoir of Faith, Sexuality, and Staying in the Church," and a book by Karen (presumably their wife) called "Scripture Ethics and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships," for those seeking a deeper exploration of Scripture.

Sarah discovers Sally through their books and attends events hosted by their organization, Centerpeace, which nurtures a supportive community. Sally sheds light on their personal story, acknowledging the fear and frustration they once felt regarding God's love and acceptance. They stress the importance of understanding that sexual orientation is not a choice and dismantling stereotypes about LGBTQ individuals. Sally encourages listeners to read books on the topic and have open discussions about them, especially with trusted pastors. They highlight...]]>💡 Speaker bio

Sally grew up in Wichita Falls, Texas, in a devout Christian family. She was raised in a Church of Christ congregation and was taught from a young age that her church community was like family to her. However, there were also difficulties in her home due to her father's past and his struggles with anger. Despite these challenges, Sally's mother emphasized the importance of prioritizing God in their lives.

As Sally grew older, she realized that she was different but could not identify why. It wasn't until her junior year of college that she discovered she was attracted to women. However, during that time, there was no acceptance or conversation about homosexuality, especially within Christian circles. Sally kept her feelings to herself for 15 years, even as she pursued her career in law and coaching.

Eventually, Sally reached a breaking point and felt compelled to share her secret. She wrote a letter pouring out her heart to God and sought counseling. The counselor received her with kindness and understanding, offering her a safe space to talk. This experience helped Sally understand that God could handle her confusion and emotions.

After sharing her secret with the counselor, Sally gained the courage to come out to her parents, who joined her in seeking therapy to address unresolved family issues. Sally had hoped that working on her relationship with her father would, in turn, change her sexual orientation, but that was not the case. Despite this, Sally remains grateful for the progress they made, and she now cares for her 93-year-old father as his primary caretaker.

Sally's journey has been one of self-discovery, acceptance, and overcoming societal pressures. Through it all, she has relied on her faith to guide her and has learned the importance of being true to herself.

ℹ️ Introduction

On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, host Sarah St. John interviews guest Sally, who shares their journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and the challenges they faced in their Christian community. Sally discusses the importance of reading books for wisdom and promotes the website centerpeace.net. They delve into the difficulties of coming out as affirming to their church, family, and friends, highlighting the subconscious challenges individuals may face. Sally expresses frustration with those who refuse to do the necessary research on the subject, praying for fellowship and understanding amongst each other. They reflect on the progress made in LGBTQ+ resources over the years, emphasizing the importance of not getting discouraged by naysayers.

Sally, coming from the tradition of autonomous churches of Christ, discusses the struggle some churches have with accepting someone as both gay and Christian. They explore the transition from "side B" to "side A", embracing relationships and potentially marriage with the same sex, and seek to understand the process of transitioning. Sally shares their lifelong process of interpreting Scripture and the journey that led them to become affirming of same-sex relationships based on their interpretation. They recommend books, including their own memoir, "Affirming: A Memoir of Faith, Sexuality, and Staying in the Church," and a book by Karen (presumably their wife) called "Scripture Ethics and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships," for those seeking a deeper exploration of Scripture.

Sarah discovers Sally through their books and attends events hosted by their organization, Centerpeace, which nurtures a supportive community. Sally sheds light on their personal story, acknowledging the fear and frustration they once felt regarding God's love and acceptance. They stress the importance of understanding that sexual orientation is not a choice and dismantling stereotypes about LGBTQ individuals. Sally encourages listeners to read books on the topic and have open discussions about them, especially with trusted pastors. They highlight the experience of LGBTQ individuals from devout Christian backgrounds who desire acceptance without compromising their faith. Through their conversation, Sarah and Sally delve into various aspects of Sally's journey and provide insight into the intersection of faith and sexuality.

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. How do you think the Sarah's family will react when they reveal their true selves?

2. Do you agree with the Sally's belief in the power of reading and wisdom? Why or why not?

3. Have you encountered challenges when trying to come out as affirming to your church, family, or friends? How did you handle those challenges?

4. Why do you think some individuals are resistant to doing the necessary research on LGBTQ+ issues? How can we encourage them to become more informed?

5. Do you think progress is being made towards creating a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in religious communities? Why or why not?

6. Have you ever attended a conference or retreat specifically designed for LGBTQ+ Christians? What was your experience like?

7. Are you familiar with the "side A" and "side B" terminology? How do you feel about it?

8. How important do you think it is for LGBTQ+ individuals to find a spiritual community that accepts and nurtures their faith?

9. Have you ever had to reconcile your interpretation of Scripture with your personal beliefs? How did you go about that process?

10. What can we do as individuals and as a society to create a more accepting and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals within our religious communities?

Relevant Resources

LesbiHonest.show

CenterPeace.net

Affirming: A Memoir of Faith, Sexuality, and Staying in the Church

Loves God, Likes Girls: A Memoir

Scripture, Ethics, and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships

The Bible and Sexuality: A Course Reader

Bible, Gender, Sexuality: Reframing the Church's Debate on Same-Sex Relationships

God and the Gay Christian

Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays vs Christians Debate

Walking the Bridgeless Canyon: Repairing the Breach Between the Church and the LGBT Community

🔀 Kirby's story started with their exploration of gender identity and expression as non-binary.

🌈 They built a strong community in the LGBTQ+ space on TikTok, where they discovered their true identity as a lesbian. 🌺🌈

💔 Kirby also opened up about their previous marriage to a man and the challenges of coming out to their partner, Tommy. But their bond remains solid as co-pilots in life, raising their kids together and making beautiful music. 🎶👩‍👩‍👦‍👦

🧡 Kirby's soulmate, Ember, went through a similar journey, and their long-distance relationship blossomed into a beautiful connection. 💞 Their love and support for each other are undeniable!

🎉 Join us on our podcast, "Lesbi-Honest," as we share inspiring stories like Kirby's and explore the complexities of love, identity, and self-discovery in the LGBTQ+ community. 🌈✨

Together, let's celebrate love, break barriers, and build a world where everyone can be their authentic selves! 💖✨ #LesbiHonest #LoveIsLove #QueerJourney

Relevant Links:

Find Kirby on TikTok

Kirby's LinkTree

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On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, our guest Marisa shares her personal journey of grappling with her sexuality and faith. Raised in a mixed religious household, Marisa had a strong foundation in faith but began experiencing a sense of difference from an early age. She struggled with her identity and the conflict between her faith and being gay, initially dismissing Christians. However, through reading books and connecting with a supportive church community, Marisa began questioning and reevaluating her beliefs.

Marisa emphasizes the importance of finding peers who share similar experiences and understanding. She found a sense of belonging and acceptance in a church that embraced her as a gay individual. Her faith and church community have become anchors in her life and have helped her navigate the challenges of her sexuality.

Throughout the episode, Marisa also discusses her current relationship with her partner, which is long-distance but strong. Despite the challenges, they make time for each other through regular visits, FaceTime, and Bible study together. They are committed to making the relationship work and have even discussed the possibility of one of them moving to Dallas.

Marisa shares her admiration for Kathy Baldock's book, "Walking the Bridges Canyon," which explores the acceptance of diversity in terms of gender identity and sexuality. She questions why anyone would refute the arguments presented in the book after reading it and uses the diversity in nature as an analogy to advocate for acceptance in humans.

Join host Sarah St John and guest Marisa as they dive deep into Marisa's personal journey, the importance of community, and the intersection of faith and sexuality. This thought-provoking episode will inspire listeners to embrace their own identities and seek understanding and acceptance.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- The podcast opens with a discussion about the creation of Eve and her role as a companion for Adam. It focuses on the fact that Eve is another human, emphasizing her similarities and sameness rather than her visual differences. The bond between Adam and Eve is described as a kinship bond similar to that of family or friends.

- Marisa shares her personal experience with online dating and the struggles of finding a genuine connection. She discusses the frustration of dealing with fake profiles and scammers. She then shares how she met her current partner and how their relationship feels divinely ordained. She talks about their shared values and interests and the positive reactions from her church community and parents towards their partner.

- Marisa talks about her upbringing in a mixed religious household and her strong faith foundation. She shares her struggles with depression, self-identity, and reconciling her faith with her sexuality. She discusses the importance of finding supportive peers and a church community that embraces her as a gay individual. She emphasizes the role of community and the importance of holding onto hope and staying true to one's self.

- Marisa mentions books she has read related to the topic, particularly ones that explore the compatibility of being gay and Christian. Marissa and Sarah discuss the clobber passages, explaining that they don't refer to committed same-sex relationships but to ancient times involving domination and violence. They praise the availability of new books that provide more depth and understanding on the topic.

- Marisa opens up about a negative confrontation with her family over a relationship with a woman in high school and shares her personal experience of being in an abusive relationship. She discusses her conflicting thoughts and feelings about her sexual orientation. She expresses gratitude for the supportive relationship she now has with her parents and her current partner being accepted into the family.

- Marisa and her partner are in a...]]>ℹ️ Introduction

On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, our guest Marisa shares her personal journey of grappling with her sexuality and faith. Raised in a mixed religious household, Marisa had a strong foundation in faith but began experiencing a sense of difference from an early age. She struggled with her identity and the conflict between her faith and being gay, initially dismissing Christians. However, through reading books and connecting with a supportive church community, Marisa began questioning and reevaluating her beliefs.

Marisa emphasizes the importance of finding peers who share similar experiences and understanding. She found a sense of belonging and acceptance in a church that embraced her as a gay individual. Her faith and church community have become anchors in her life and have helped her navigate the challenges of her sexuality.

Throughout the episode, Marisa also discusses her current relationship with her partner, which is long-distance but strong. Despite the challenges, they make time for each other through regular visits, FaceTime, and Bible study together. They are committed to making the relationship work and have even discussed the possibility of one of them moving to Dallas.

Marisa shares her admiration for Kathy Baldock's book, "Walking the Bridges Canyon," which explores the acceptance of diversity in terms of gender identity and sexuality. She questions why anyone would refute the arguments presented in the book after reading it and uses the diversity in nature as an analogy to advocate for acceptance in humans.

Join host Sarah St John and guest Marisa as they dive deep into Marisa's personal journey, the importance of community, and the intersection of faith and sexuality. This thought-provoking episode will inspire listeners to embrace their own identities and seek understanding and acceptance.

❇️ Key topics and bullets

- The podcast opens with a discussion about the creation of Eve and her role as a companion for Adam. It focuses on the fact that Eve is another human, emphasizing her similarities and sameness rather than her visual differences. The bond between Adam and Eve is described as a kinship bond similar to that of family or friends.

- Marisa shares her personal experience with online dating and the struggles of finding a genuine connection. She discusses the frustration of dealing with fake profiles and scammers. She then shares how she met her current partner and how their relationship feels divinely ordained. She talks about their shared values and interests and the positive reactions from her church community and parents towards their partner.

- Marisa talks about her upbringing in a mixed religious household and her strong faith foundation. She shares her struggles with depression, self-identity, and reconciling her faith with her sexuality. She discusses the importance of finding supportive peers and a church community that embraces her as a gay individual. She emphasizes the role of community and the importance of holding onto hope and staying true to one's self.

- Marisa mentions books she has read related to the topic, particularly ones that explore the compatibility of being gay and Christian. Marissa and Sarah discuss the clobber passages, explaining that they don't refer to committed same-sex relationships but to ancient times involving domination and violence. They praise the availability of new books that provide more depth and understanding on the topic.

- Marisa opens up about a negative confrontation with her family over a relationship with a woman in high school and shares her personal experience of being in an abusive relationship. She discusses her conflicting thoughts and feelings about her sexual orientation. She expresses gratitude for the supportive relationship she now has with her parents and her current partner being accepted into the family.

- Marisa and her partner are in a long-distance relationship. She talks about their commitment to making it work and the various ways they stay connected, including visits, FaceTime, phone calls, texting, and Bible study together. She expresses gratitude for her partner's ability to work remotely and discuss the possibility of one of her moving to Dallas for more opportunities and a larger community.

- Marisa mentions Kathy Baldock, a straight ally who has written a book called Walking the Bridges Canyon, praising her extensive research and wealth of information on the topic. She compares the diversity in nature to argue for acceptance of diversity in gender identity and sexuality in humans. She questions why human diversity would be limited when other aspects of the world embrace it, suggesting that humans should be given more credit and acceptance for their own diversity.

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. How has the Marisa's experience with online dating shaped their perspective on relationships? Has it made them more skeptical or more hopeful?

2. What role did the Marisa's faith play in her journey of self-discovery and acceptance of her sexuality?

3. How important is it for LGBTQ+ individuals to find a supportive community, whether that be through their faith or otherwise? Why?

4. How can books and blogs play a role in educating and guiding individuals who are struggling with their sexual orientation and faith?

5. How did Marisa and Sarah's understanding of the "clobber passages" in the Bible change after reading books on the topic? Have their views on these passages shifted?

6. How has the long-distance nature of Marisa's relationship impacted their commitment to each other? What strategies do they use to maintain a strong connection despite the distance?

7. What are some of the reasons Marisa believes it would be beneficial for her partner to move to Dallas? Do you think these reasons are convincing? Why or why not?

8. How does the Marisa's comparison of diversity in nature to human diversity challenge traditional views on gender identity and sexuality? Do you agree with her argument? Why or why not?

9. Reflect on Marisa's belief that her story gives hope to others in similar situations with their parents. How important is it for queer individuals to see positive examples of acceptance within their own families?

References Mentioned:

(Disclaimer: Some Links May Be Affiliate Links)

Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate by Justin Lee

Walking the Bridgeless Canyon: Repairing the Breach Between the Church and the LGBT Community by Kathy Baldock

God and the Gay Christian: The Biblical Case in Support of Same-Sex Relationships by Matthew Vines

Scripture, Ethics, and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships by Karen Keen

The Bible and Sexuality: A Course Reader by Karen Keen

Subscribe, Leave a Message, or Register as a Guest:

lesbihonest.show

- Opening Segment: Expressing Hope for Maintaining Friendship Despite Changing Circumstances

• Emphasizing the importance of friendship even after major life changes
• Sharing personal experiences and perspectives on maintaining connections

- Seeking Solace and Support from Local LGBTQ+ Groups

• Exploring the importance of community in times of personal growth and change
• Specific focus on finding LGBTQ+ groups that cater to gay Christians

- Personal Journey: Coming to Terms with Authenticity

• Reflecting on childhood experiences and early signs of attraction
• Realizing the yearning for authenticity in later years
• Discussing the impact of societal expectations and internalized beliefs

- Divorce Process: Civil, Amicable, and Uncontested

• Sharing experiences of navigating the divorce journey
• Highlighting the importance of open communication and mutual respect

- Hope for Future Relationships and Friendship

• Expressing wishes for personal fulfillment and growth for oneself and former spouse
• Discussing the desire to maintain a friendship and support each other's happiness

- Listening to the Narratives of Others

• Finding strength and inspiration through hearing stories of similar experiences
• Encouraging listeners to share their own stories and experiences

- Introducing the Podcast's Goal and Format

• Explaining the objective of inspiring and validating unique journeys
• Encouraging engagement through voice messages and guest forms

- Connecting through TikTok Tuesdays

• Announcing the start of live TikTok sessions for community engagement
• Giving details about the initial schedule and possibility of changes based on feedback

- Call to Action: Subscribing, Rating, and Sharing the Podcast

• Encouraging listeners to subscribe to the podcast for future episodes
• Requesting 5-star ratings and reviews if enjoying the content
• Asking listeners to share the podcast with someone who could benefit from the message

- Closing Segment: Farewell and Future Engagement

• Expressing gratitude for listeners and promising future episodes
• Signing off with a reminder that their unique journey is valid and valuable

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. Have you ever had a longing or yearning for something that you couldn't quite understand? How did you navigate through those feelings?

2. Can you relate to Sarah's experience of feeling like they were living a charade or not being true to themselves? How did you handle those emotions if you've been in a similar situation?

3. What role do you think societal expectations play in shaping our identities and relationships? How have these expectations influenced your own life?

4. How do you think Sarah's conservative Christian upbringing affected their understanding of their own sexuality? Have you had any experiences or beliefs that conflicted with your own identity?

5. Sarah expressed a desire to remain friends with her ex-spouse. Do you think it's possible to still maintain a close friendship with someone after a romantic relationship ends? Why or why not?

6. Sarah mentioned finding strength and solace through listening to the narratives of others who have gone through similar experiences. Have you ever found comfort in hearing someone else's story? How has it affected your own journey?

7. The podcast aims to emphasize that it doesn't matter how or when someone comes to terms with their reality. How do you think this message can empower and validate individuals who may be struggling with their own journey?

8. Sarah is specifically looking for...]]>❇️ Key topics and bullets

- Opening Segment: Expressing Hope for Maintaining Friendship Despite Changing Circumstances

• Emphasizing the importance of friendship even after major life changes
• Sharing personal experiences and perspectives on maintaining connections

- Seeking Solace and Support from Local LGBTQ+ Groups

• Exploring the importance of community in times of personal growth and change
• Specific focus on finding LGBTQ+ groups that cater to gay Christians

- Personal Journey: Coming to Terms with Authenticity

• Reflecting on childhood experiences and early signs of attraction
• Realizing the yearning for authenticity in later years
• Discussing the impact of societal expectations and internalized beliefs

- Divorce Process: Civil, Amicable, and Uncontested

• Sharing experiences of navigating the divorce journey
• Highlighting the importance of open communication and mutual respect

- Hope for Future Relationships and Friendship

• Expressing wishes for personal fulfillment and growth for oneself and former spouse
• Discussing the desire to maintain a friendship and support each other's happiness

- Listening to the Narratives of Others

• Finding strength and inspiration through hearing stories of similar experiences
• Encouraging listeners to share their own stories and experiences

- Introducing the Podcast's Goal and Format

• Explaining the objective of inspiring and validating unique journeys
• Encouraging engagement through voice messages and guest forms

- Connecting through TikTok Tuesdays

• Announcing the start of live TikTok sessions for community engagement
• Giving details about the initial schedule and possibility of changes based on feedback

- Call to Action: Subscribing, Rating, and Sharing the Podcast

• Encouraging listeners to subscribe to the podcast for future episodes
• Requesting 5-star ratings and reviews if enjoying the content
• Asking listeners to share the podcast with someone who could benefit from the message

- Closing Segment: Farewell and Future Engagement

• Expressing gratitude for listeners and promising future episodes
• Signing off with a reminder that their unique journey is valid and valuable

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. Have you ever had a longing or yearning for something that you couldn't quite understand? How did you navigate through those feelings?

2. Can you relate to Sarah's experience of feeling like they were living a charade or not being true to themselves? How did you handle those emotions if you've been in a similar situation?

3. What role do you think societal expectations play in shaping our identities and relationships? How have these expectations influenced your own life?

4. How do you think Sarah's conservative Christian upbringing affected their understanding of their own sexuality? Have you had any experiences or beliefs that conflicted with your own identity?

5. Sarah expressed a desire to remain friends with her ex-spouse. Do you think it's possible to still maintain a close friendship with someone after a romantic relationship ends? Why or why not?

6. Sarah mentioned finding strength and solace through listening to the narratives of others who have gone through similar experiences. Have you ever found comfort in hearing someone else's story? How has it affected your own journey?

7. The podcast aims to emphasize that it doesn't matter how or when someone comes to terms with their reality. How do you think this message can empower and validate individuals who may be struggling with their own journey?

8. Sarah is specifically looking for later in life lesbian stories for future podcast episodes. What can we learn from these stories, and why do you think it's important to amplify voices from this particular demographic?

9. Sarah mentions starting live TikTok sessions to connect with the audience. How do you feel about podcast hosts using other platforms to engage with listeners? Are there any other platforms you enjoy interacting with your favorite podcast hosts on?

10. In closing, Sarah asks listeners to share the podcast with someone who could benefit from the message. Who in your life do you think would find this episode or podcast particularly impactful, and why?

Relevant Links

https://www.lesbihonest.show/

Leave a Message

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Emily Bettdur's story begins with her conservative Catholic upbringing that provided little exposure to homosexuality. Despite this, she found herself frequently commenting on attractive women while dating her ex-husband. It was her husband who eventually confronted her about her potential attraction to women, leading Emily to question her own feelings. Over time, she realized that she was indeed attracted to women. However, she struggled with societal expectations and the idea of following a predetermined checklist for life. Despite having a good relationship with her husband, Emily's desire and longing for women continued to grow. Eventually, the conflict caused issues in their marriage, and they both recognized the need for each of them to figure things out individually. Emily's husband suggested that she explore her feelings further by going on a date with a woman. This experience confirmed for Emily that she desired a life with a woman and staying in her marriage would only lead to unfulfilled yearning. She understood that staying in her marriage would lead to dissatisfaction and unfairness for both her and her ex-husband. They made the difficult decision to get divorced and separate, allowing Emily to embrace her true identity.

ℹ️ Introduction

On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, host Sarah St John invites guest Emily Bettdur to share her experience of going through a divorce and realizing her true sexuality. Emily opens up about the sadness and grief she felt during the divorce process, but also highlights how both she and her ex-spouse knew it was the right thing and approached it logically. They were able to navigate the divorce relatively easily, sitting down together to file paperwork and create a plan. Despite the emotions that arose, the couple remained mature and amicable, resulting in a strong friendship that continues to this day. Emily's ex-spouse has even found love with a new girlfriend, whom Emily accepts and loves.

However, not all divorces are as amicable, and Emily shares the contrast with her wife's relationship with her own ex-husband, who is not on good terms with her. Emily and her current wife both identify as late-life lesbians, and Emily dives into their belief in true love and their dating history. They met on a dating app and, despite past negative experiences, felt an instant connection. After eight months of dating, they got married and have been together for almost three years. Emily emphasizes the strong communication and love they share, which surpassed their expectations. Yet, she also discusses the fear and anxiety they experienced before getting married again due to their previous divorce. Nevertheless, they are grateful for finding the right person and having a strong relationship.

The conversation takes a turn as Emily delves into coming out as LGBTQ+ to her family while going through the divorce. Her mother had a shocking and initially incomprehension reaction, questioning if therapy couldn't save the marriage. She needed time to process and sought guidance from a priest, but eventually accepted Emily's partner. Emily stresses the importance of giving families time to process and grieve when accepting LGBTQ+ loved ones, acknowledging that the grieving process may involve anger and need to be met with grace and space.

The episode touches on the difficulties of grieving and guilt in this situation. People often feel guilty for grieving because they feel responsible for the relationship ending. Emily highlights how women, in particular, may question their own feelings if they miss their ex-husbands while identifying as lesbians, and the common experience of feeling jealous when ex-husbands move on. She reassures listeners that it is normal to experience extra emotions and question one's sexuality during this process. Grieving is allowed and necessary, even if one feels responsible for the end of the relationship. Emily acknowledges]]>💡 Guest bio

Emily Bettdur's story begins with her conservative Catholic upbringing that provided little exposure to homosexuality. Despite this, she found herself frequently commenting on attractive women while dating her ex-husband. It was her husband who eventually confronted her about her potential attraction to women, leading Emily to question her own feelings. Over time, she realized that she was indeed attracted to women. However, she struggled with societal expectations and the idea of following a predetermined checklist for life. Despite having a good relationship with her husband, Emily's desire and longing for women continued to grow. Eventually, the conflict caused issues in their marriage, and they both recognized the need for each of them to figure things out individually. Emily's husband suggested that she explore her feelings further by going on a date with a woman. This experience confirmed for Emily that she desired a life with a woman and staying in her marriage would only lead to unfulfilled yearning. She understood that staying in her marriage would lead to dissatisfaction and unfairness for both her and her ex-husband. They made the difficult decision to get divorced and separate, allowing Emily to embrace her true identity.

ℹ️ Introduction

On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, host Sarah St John invites guest Emily Bettdur to share her experience of going through a divorce and realizing her true sexuality. Emily opens up about the sadness and grief she felt during the divorce process, but also highlights how both she and her ex-spouse knew it was the right thing and approached it logically. They were able to navigate the divorce relatively easily, sitting down together to file paperwork and create a plan. Despite the emotions that arose, the couple remained mature and amicable, resulting in a strong friendship that continues to this day. Emily's ex-spouse has even found love with a new girlfriend, whom Emily accepts and loves.

However, not all divorces are as amicable, and Emily shares the contrast with her wife's relationship with her own ex-husband, who is not on good terms with her. Emily and her current wife both identify as late-life lesbians, and Emily dives into their belief in true love and their dating history. They met on a dating app and, despite past negative experiences, felt an instant connection. After eight months of dating, they got married and have been together for almost three years. Emily emphasizes the strong communication and love they share, which surpassed their expectations. Yet, she also discusses the fear and anxiety they experienced before getting married again due to their previous divorce. Nevertheless, they are grateful for finding the right person and having a strong relationship.

The conversation takes a turn as Emily delves into coming out as LGBTQ+ to her family while going through the divorce. Her mother had a shocking and initially incomprehension reaction, questioning if therapy couldn't save the marriage. She needed time to process and sought guidance from a priest, but eventually accepted Emily's partner. Emily stresses the importance of giving families time to process and grieve when accepting LGBTQ+ loved ones, acknowledging that the grieving process may involve anger and need to be met with grace and space.

The episode touches on the difficulties of grieving and guilt in this situation. People often feel guilty for grieving because they feel responsible for the relationship ending. Emily highlights how women, in particular, may question their own feelings if they miss their ex-husbands while identifying as lesbians, and the common experience of feeling jealous when ex-husbands move on. She reassures listeners that it is normal to experience extra emotions and question one's sexuality during this process. Grieving is allowed and necessary, even if one feels responsible for the end of the relationship. Emily acknowledges the fear and uncertainty of envisioning a new life on one's own and missing the safety and stability of the previous relationship, as well as financial concerns.

As the episode progresses, Sarah and Emily discuss their shared experiences as late-life lesbians and the importance of providing support tailored to this specific journey. Emily talks about her own support program and course for women coming out later in life, offering resources, group chats, and weekly live meetings. She highlights the need for additional support beyond therapy and counseling. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating the divorce process with children involved, emphasizing the importance of honesty, validation, and maintaining a close relationship for their well-being.

Emily also recounts her personal journey of coming out to her mother first, who then informed the rest of the family. While there were some boundary issues with certain family members regarding public displays of affection, Emily stood up for herself and her partner and saw positive change ensue. She believes that coming out can push others to self-reflect and ultimately lead to growth and acceptance.

Throughout the episode, Emily sheds light on her upbringing in a Catholic conservative family, her gradual exploration of her attraction to women, and the societal pressure to follow a checklist that influenced her decision to stay in her marriage despite her growing interest in women. Ultimately, Emily realized that she needed to be true to herself and pursued a divorce, knowing that sacrificing her true desires would lead to bitterness and resentment in the long run.

"On this episode of Lesbi-Honest, Sarah St John invites Emily Bettdur to share her journey of divorce, self-discovery, and acceptance as a late-life lesbian. Through their conversation, listeners gain insight into the complexities of navigating divorce, coming out to loved ones, and finding support as they pursue their true desires and authentic selves. Stay tuned for an empowering and informative episode filled with empathy, understanding, and personal growth."

❇️ Key topics and bullets

1. Experience of Going Through a Divorce

- Feelings of Sadness and Grief

- Mutual Understanding that Divorce was the Right Thing

- Relatively Easy Divorce Process

- Maintaining a Strong Friendship with Ex-Spouse

2. Finding True Love and Building a Strong Relationship

- Dating History and Finding a Perfect Match

- Strong Communication and Love in the Relationship

- Fear and Anxiety about Marriage Again

- Uncanny Connections with Partner

3. Coming Out as LGBTQ+ and Dealing with Family Reactions

- Signs of Sexual Orientation Throughout Marriage

- Identifying as Bi and Spouse's Acceptance

- Ending the Marriage due to New Relationship

- Coming Out to Family and Mother's Initial Shock

- Mother's Acceptance and Seeking Guidance

- Importance of Giving Families Time to Process and Grieve

4. Grieving and Dealing with Emotions

- Grief and Guilt in the Divorce Process

- Questioning Feelings and Identity

- Missing the Safety and Stability of the Previous Relationship

- Fears and Uncertainties about the Future

5. Launching a Support Program for Women Coming Out Later in Life

- Storytelling on YouTube and Instagram for Support

- Creating a 12-Week Support Program and Course

- The Importance of Tailored Support for Coming Out Later in Life

6. Navigating Co-Parenting and Discussing Separation with Children

- Honest Communication with Children about Separation

- Validating Emotions and Maintaining a Close Relationship

- Stability, Step-Siblings, and Co-Parenting Arrangements

7. Coming Out to Extended Family and Changing Perceptions

- Mom's Support in Coming Out to Family

- Positive Changes and Boundary Issues with Uncle

- Standing Up for Authenticity and Reconciliation with Uncle and Aunt

8. Discovering and Embracing Sexual Orientation

- Growing Up in a Conservative Environment

- Denying and Exploring Attraction to Women

- Societal Expectations and Sacrifices in Marriage

- Confirmed Desire for Life with Women and Deciding to Divorce

🧞‍♂️ Discussion questions

1. How did the speaker's experience of going through a divorce differ from the typical divorce narrative? What made their situation relatively easy and amicable?

2. How did the speaker's relationship with their ex-spouse evolve after the divorce? How did they maintain a strong friendship and still spend time together?

3. The speaker's ex-spouse has a new girlfriend who is accepted and loved by the speaker and their wife. How do you think this level of acceptance and friendship affects the dynamics of their post-divorce relationships?

4. The speaker mentions that not all divorces are as amicable, citing their wife's relationship with her ex-husband. How do varying levels of amicability affect the overall healing process for the individuals involved?

5. The speaker and their wife both identify as late-life lesbians. How does discovering and accepting one's sexuality later in life impact the divorce process and subsequent relationships?

6. The speaker emphasizes the importance of giving families time to process and grieve when accepting LGBTQ+ loved ones. How can individuals balance their own emotional needs while allowing their families the space to grieve and potentially come to terms with their sexuality?

7. Grief and guilt are two of the hardest things to deal with during the divorce process. How do these emotions manifest and what strategies can individuals use to cope with them?

8. The speaker discusses the fear and anxiety they experienced before getting married again after their divorce. How does the fear of repeating past mistakes impact relationships? How can individuals navigate these fears while also remaining open to love and connection?

9. The speaker mentions the challenges and uncertainties of envisioning a new life on one's own after a divorce. How can individuals build a sense of stability and security in their single lives?

10. The speaker highlights the importance of validating children's emotions and being honest with them during the divorce process. What impact can honest communication and validation have on children's well-being during this challenging time?

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