The Podcast Tour
From a vision board to the microphone
I made a vision board a couple of years ago, specifically for my book. One of the words I clipped from a magazine was ‘podcasts.’ And let me tell you, in the last couple of weeks, that vision has come to life.
I’m not used to being on stage or behind a microphone. For most of my career in churches and even in my work today in tech, I’m normally the person who’s working for the people who do those kinds of things. I’ve had an aversion to it. But part of me has begun to wonder if that was less about my fear of it, or just the residue of years of being told that voices like mine don’t matter.
In recovery, I’ve learned the power of sharing our stories. Healing happens when we are able to speak truthfully about our past — all of it — the good, the bad, and the things we never thought we’d ever say out loud. But it doesn’t stop with us. When we find the courage to share our experiences, it gives other people the freedom to do the same. And it makes the world a little less lonely for the person who isn’t quite ready to speak yet. I’m so grateful to the hosts who have given me the space to do just that.
While many of these were slated for my release week in May, the recent Supreme Court news has moved many hosts to release our conversations early. Here is a roundup of those interviews, as well as a few from the past. I’ll keep this post updated as new episodes drop.
If you or someone you know has a podcast, I’d love to join it and chat about faith, sexuality, belonging, and all things Conversion Therapy Dropout. Drop me a line and let’s set something up!
Getting Better with Jothan Van Ness
I nearly fainted when the producer for JVN’s podcast reached out. Jonathan is just as lovely in person as they are on Queer Eye. We covered a lot of ground, including the realization that we grew up only an hour apart in Illinois. I’m so thankful for Jonathan making space for this conversation and for their continued support.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Also, this was all JVN’s idea and original choreography:
The Culture Study Podcast
I absolutely adored this conversation. We talked (and laughed!) through the complexities of Evangelical culture. We dove into listener questions about the theology of conversion therapy, the importance of these stories in media, and how to navigate relationships with non-affirming family members.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Complexified
I joined Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson to discuss my personal journey and, importantly, my reaction to the recent SCOTUS ruling. This is a great listen if you're looking for a deeper dive into the intersection of religion, politics, and culture.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Love, Take Two
I’ve been a huge fan of José (@nycgaydad) and Jaimie for a long time. It was a joy to chat with them about my journey from the megachurch world to finding my life and home here in New York City.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Raif Derrazi
I sat down with Raif just hours after the Supreme Court released their decision in Chiles v. Salazar. We discussed the long-term impact of my eight years in conversion therapy and our immediate reactions to the ruling striking down Colorado’s ban on the practice. And we discussed why faith is still important to me.
The Happily Never After
In one of my earlier interviews, Heather and I talked about faith, identity, and the practical steps required to live one’s truth. We share Chicago roots and a history in the church world, which made for a very soulful conversation.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Creative Sobriety
This will always hold a special place in my heart because it was the first interview I did about Conversion Therapy Dropout. Kristen and I explored how sobriety finally gave me the clarity and space to begin the work of writing my story.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
So honored to have made this list!!