About this episode

Syre Klenke shares his experiences with conversion therapy and its lasting impact while discussing the importance of authenticity and community in healing.

Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about conversion therapy, psychological abuse, and self-harm. We share these stories to raise awareness and foster healing, but we recognize they may be difficult to hear. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources like The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) are available to provide support. Conversion therapy survivor Syre Klenke speaks openly about the damaging impact of being forced into years of so-called “treatment” as a teenager and the depression that followed, while also showing how authenticity and community became a way forward. Joining John Corella, Syre recalls the shock of being taken to a conversion therapy conference under the guise of a family outing, the gaslighting he endured from both licensed therapists and church leaders, and the loss of everyday teenage milestones like dating and prom. These stories reveal how conversion therapy robs young people of their sense of safety and self, leaving scars that last well into adulthood. Yet Syre also reflects on the resilience it takes to survive, the courage to tell the truth, and the importance of building…

People in this episode

Host: John Corella

Guest: Syre Klenke

Topics covered

• conversion therapy
• psychological abuse
• self-harm
• resilience
• community support

Keywords

• conversion therapy
• psychological abuse
• self-harm
• resilience
• community
• healing
• authenticity

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Trevor Project

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