Out Late With David

In this special crossover episode of Out Late With David, David shares his personal coming out story as a guest on The Better Man Podcast with Dean Pohlman, founder of ManFlow Yoga. Together, they explore what it means to choose authenticity later in life, the courage required to rewrite your story, and why it is never too late to live more honestly. If you’ve ever questioned parts of your identity, faced a major life transition, or wondered whether change is still possible, this conversation offers reflection, insight, and hope.The Better Man Podcast: https://manflowyoga.com/podcast/Man Flow Yoga: https://manflowyoga.com/Takeaways It’s never actually “too late” to come out or live authentically.Authenticity often requires courageous change.Many people carry questions about their identity for years before acting on them.You don’t have to “come out” to everyone — you can simply let people into your life.Cultural and subconscious homophobia can delay self-acceptance.Coming out impacts more than just the person doing it.Accepting yourself changes how you show up in the world.Personal growth requires effort and discomfort — much like physical training.Sound Bites “Coming out later in life isn’t about becoming someone new — it’s about finally allowing yourself to be who you’ve always been.”“Authenticity may disrupt your life for a while, but living a lie disrupts your life forever.”“It’s not about coming out to the world — it’s about letting people into your real life.”Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/o96tgoKn1QU YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.comDavid Cotton Coaching: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.comOut Late With David: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.comMy Links: https://linktr.ee/davidacotton © 2026 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, LGBTQ+ civil rights advocate and global lecturer Greg R. Baird sits down with David in Palm Springs to share his journey from growing up closeted in a small Michigan town to becoming a respected educator, storyteller, and champion for allyship. Greg opens up about coming out at 31, navigating painful family rejection, and the moments that shaped his calling—including a life-changing encounter with a student who credits his story with saving her life. Together, David and Greg explore the transformative power of storytelling, finding community after coming out, and learning to live with courage, connection, and authenticity at any age. This episode offers wisdom, warmth, and hope for anyone on their journey of self-acceptance and belonging. Takeaways & Sound Bites Growing up in a small, religious town made coming out feel impossible, but college provided Greg the first space where he could blossom and explore who he truly was. Early advocacy began unintentionally, as Greg and his first boyfriend spoke to college classes about being gay—long before he saw himself as an activist. Family responses to coming out were painful and complicated, but over time, Greg found peace through patience, education, and accepting what could not be changed. Parents’ understanding is shaped by what they know, and sometimes by those influencing them; change, when it comes, can be slow and surprising. You can’t change your parents—only yourself. Greg emphasizes honoring your truth, your energy, and your value, regardless of others’ acceptance. Storytelling is a transformative tool that can change hearts, minds, and even policy by revealing the humanity behind the issues. A life-changing moment with a suicidal student affirmed Greg’s calling to become a global lecturer—proof that sharing your story can save lives. Coming out may not happen overnight, and each person must move at their own pace and readiness. There is no “right” timeline. Finding community after coming out takes intention, whether through shared activities, meetups, support groups, hobbies, or interest-based circles. Real connection requires stepping beyond apps and screens, leaning into face-to-face interactions that build genuine friendships. Introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between can find their place—community can look like wine groups, sports leagues, sober spaces, Disney meetups, or coffee chats. Self-acceptance is foundational; be patient with yourself and trust that your personality, confidence, and comfort in community will grow over time. We need connection now more than ever, especially in a challenging social climate—putting yourself out there, even gently, opens emotional doors you never expected. Letting people in, rather than “coming out,” can be a more compassionate and empowering way to frame revealing your authentic self. You are not alone, and hearing stories like Greg’s or those on Out Late With David can provide life-saving hope, community, and belonging. Greg R. Baird: https://linktr.ee/gregrbaird and www.GregRBaird.com. Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/eEBC-_5dYY8 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg CertifiedProfessional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.comhttps://www.OutLateWithDavid.com https://linktr.ee/davidacotton © 2026 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary Kevin O'Connor shares his profound journey of self-discovery, coming out at 55 after two marriages and raising children. He reflects on his childhood experiences, the struggles of acceptance, and the complexities of navigating relationships. Through candid discussions, he reveals the challenges of living authentically and the joy of finding love with his husband after years of hiding his true self. Kevin emphasizes the importance of embracing one's identity and the lessons learned throughout his life. Keywords coming out, LGBTQ, self-acceptance, relationships, marriage, personal journey, authenticity, love, family, memoir Takeaways Kevin came out at 55 after two marriages.He struggled with acceptance from a young age.His childhood experiences shaped his understanding of identity.Navigating relationships was complex due to his hidden sexuality.He found love with his husband after years of self-discovery.Kevin emphasizes the importance of authenticity in life.He reflects on the challenges of being a gay educator.His journey highlights the significance of family support.Kevin's story serves as an inspiration for others in similar situations.He believes in the power of sharing one's story to help others.Chapters 00:00 Kevin O'Connor's Journey of Self-Discovery02:56 Navigating Early Life and Identity05:34 College Experiences and Hidden Truths08:02 Marriage and the Struggle with Identity10:19 The Complexity of Relationships11:29 Fatherhood and Compartmentalization14:11 The Breaking Point of Authenticity20:41 Embracing Authenticity: The Journey of Coming Out24:11 Finding Love: The Role of Timing and Connection29:40 Family Dynamics: Coming Out to Loved Ones32:46 Reflections on Life: Lessons Learned and Moving Forward37:05 Closing Book Recommendation: Journey Out: Memoirs of men coming to grips with their orientation, by Gene Probascohttps://a.co/d/b2y78BtPodcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/IYLGA_lLYGs YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.comhttps://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com https://www.OutLateWithDavid.comhttps://linktr.ee/davidacotton © 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary In this conversation with David, LGBTQ+ ally and researcher Kami Hunley-Jackson, who shares her personal journey and research on the coming out process, particularly focusing on the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. The former Latter Day Saint is the mother of two LGBTQ+ children and sister to her gay brother. She discusses the challenges faced by families, the impact of religion, and the importance of communication and support systems. Kami emphasizes the need for understanding and acceptance, both for those coming out and their loved ones, and highlights the mental health implications of the coming out journey. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of religious acceptance and the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue. Keywords coming out, LGBTQ+, acceptance, mental health, family support, religion, communication, research, personal stories, allyship Takeaways Kami's personal experiences with her children and brother shaped her understanding of the coming out process.The decision between religious beliefs and family acceptance can be a painful conflict for parents.Supportive communities, like Mama Dragons, provide essential resources for families of LGBTQ+ individuals.The theater community often offers a more accepting environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.Kami's research revealed that non-religious individuals tend to communicate better during the coming out process.Mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, were prevalent among the study participants.Self-acceptance is a crucial step in the coming out journey, often requiring individuals to confront their identity.The coming out process is deeply personal and should be respected as such by family members.Creating a safe space for communication is vital for both the individual coming out and their loved ones.Religious institutions are evolving, with some becoming more inclusive of LGBTQ+ individuals.Sound Bites "I realized that I needed to search my own heart.""The love of a mother over the situation.""I acted differently this time around." Audio Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Importance of Coming Out02:36 Personal Journeys: Family and Acceptance 05:25 The Role of Religion in Coming Out08:35 Research Insights: Communication and Relationships11:13 Mental Health and the Coming Out Process14:05 Support Systems and Resources16:48 Advice for Families and Individuals19:51 Looking Ahead: Future Research Directions Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/jCsPAB9C2aM YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact David: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.comhttps://www.DavidCottonCoaching.comhttps://www.OutLateWithDavid.comhttps://linktr.ee/davidacotton © 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Thank you to Jon & Brian of Out Loud for allowing me to publish this episode from their podcast. You guys are fantastic! I've been a fan since I first discovered you on YouTube! Keep living your life, OUT LOUD!!Out Loud Podcast with Jon and Brian:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-loud/id1560962922https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHLEcaJ0RewmS9XyfVa-fwwSummary In this episode of Out Late With David, David Cotton is a guest on the podcast, Out Loud, while visiting Key West FL. Along with the hosts of Out Loud, Jon and Brian, they discuss the complexities of coming out later in life, the importance of community support, and the dynamics of relationships, especially for older gay men. He shares insights from his experiences and those of his guests, emphasizing the need for authenticity, compassion, and understanding in navigating personal journeys and family dynamics. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by older men in the dating world and offers advice on how to approach relationships with clarity and openness. Keywords coming out, LGBTQ, age gap relationships, gay community, life coaching, support, authenticity, family dynamics, relationships, self-discovery Takeaways Coming out later in life can be a complex journey.Community support is crucial for those coming out.Navigating family dynamics requires patience and understanding.Authenticity is key to living a fulfilling life.Older men face unique challenges in dating.It's important to communicate clearly in relationships.Self-acceptance is a vital part of the coming out process.Compartmentalization can hinder personal growth.You can maintain relationships even after coming out.Love can be found unexpectedly, regardless of age.Sound Bites"Don't rush into coming out.""I couldn't continue living a lie.""You have to accept who you are.""I feel transparent many times."Audio Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Out Late with David01:06 Coming Out Later in Life04:05 The Role of Community and Support07:54 Navigating Relationships and Family Dynamics12:09 The Impact of Age and Experience15:54 Living Authentically and Finding Peace18:45 Advice for Older Men in Dating Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/YOGFb9CWCjw YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.comhttps://www.OutLateWithDavid.comhttps://linktr.ee/davidacotton© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

In this episode of Out Late with David, Stefan Schneider shares his journey of coming out as gay, navigating relationships, and building a modern family. He reflects on the challenges of coming out in the early 90s, the impact of his sexuality on his marriage, and the emotional turmoil of divorce. Through self-discovery and therapy, Stefan learns to embrace his identity and finds happiness in his new life with his husband and blended family. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, communication, and the complexities of family dynamics in the LGBTQ+ community. Takeaways Coming out is a complex process that varies for everyone.The societal context during the early 90s made coming out challenging.Authenticity in relationships can create both closeness and tension.Divorce can be a painful but necessary step towards self-acceptance.Rebuilding relationships with children requires patience and love.Self-discovery often involves confronting difficult truths about oneself.Having a clear vision of what you want in a partner can guide your choices.The journey to happiness is not linear and requires effort.Childhood experiences can shape one's understanding of identity.Creating a supportive environment for children is crucial during transitions.Sound Bites "I just wanted to fit in and be normal.""The only way out is through sometimes.""I always wanted to be a dad.""I had to sacrifice something of myself.""I felt like I had split up my family.""We met on Christian Mingle." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Identity and Relationships15:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery30:00 Building a Blended Family33:48 Reflections on Happiness and Authenticity Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/YGWJGVhw2s8YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com © 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary In this interview David Cotton speaks with John Duerler who shares his journey of self-discovery as a gay man, navigating the complexities of coming out to his family and the challenges of maintaining relationships. He discusses the importance of being true to oneself, the supportive reactions from his family, and the creation of a community for gay fathers. John emphasizes the significance of open communication and offers advice for others in similar situations, highlighting that they are not alone in their struggles. Keywords coming out, LGBTQ, family dynamics, self-discovery, relationships, gay fathers, acceptance, mental health, personal growth, community support Takeaways John's journey of self-discovery began in childhood.He dated women for many years before coming out.Family support played a crucial role in his coming out process.John's children reacted positively to his coming out.He emphasizes the importance of therapy in understanding one's identity.John's relationship with his wife remains amicable despite their separation.He created a community for gay fathers to share experiences.John's podcast aims to help others navigate similar journeys.He believes in the power of open communication within families.John encourages others to seek help and support during their journey. Sound Bites"I had to be true to myself.""I want to come work for you.""It gets better.""You're not alone.""Be true to yourself. Get help." Audio Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coming Out Journeys03:00 Early Experiences and Realizations05:55 Navigating Relationships and Family Dynamics08:49 The Impact of Family and Support Systems12:13 Coming Out to Family and Friends15:10 Creating a Supportive Community18:02 Reflections on Dating and Relationships20:46 Advice for Others on Their Journey24:07 Conclusion and ResourcesBook Recommendation: Fashionably Late: Gay, Bi, and Trans Men Who Came Out Later in Life, edited by Vinnie Kinsella. https://a.co/d/dh3N2yM Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/0Dx2jCfpzlQ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com© 2024 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary Brian Janes, a successful real estate broker, came out as gay at age 49 after 26 years of marriage. He loved being married and had a strong connection with his wife, but deep down, he had a sexual desire that didn't match up with her. After years of therapy and self-help, his wife eventually told him she wanted a divorce. Brian knew he was gay from a young age but didn't know how to embrace it. He suppressed his true self and lived in fear of being found out. After his divorce, he made the decision to come out and started a podcast for men coming out later in life. Keywords: comingout, marriage, divorce, self-discovery, suppression, fear, loneliness, podcast, outlate, gay, alwaysgay TakeawaysSuppressing your true self can lead to frustration and strain in relationships.Coming out later in life can be a difficult and lonely process.Embracing your true self can lead to personal growth and a more fulfilling life.Sharing your story and being vulnerable can help others going through similar experiences. TitlesThe Journey of Coming Out Later in LifeEmbracing Your True Self and Finding Personal Growth Sound Bites"Don't Let Your Wonder Turn Into Closure""Here I Am, a Proud Gay Man""You're Not Alone, We're All Out Here" Chapters (audio)00:00 Introduction: Brian James' Journey01:15 The Love and Connection of Marriage03:11 The Strain and Separation in Divorce04:09 Suppressing Identity and Fear of Coming Out08:27 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Discovery14:13 Coming Out to Ex-Wife and Children18:12 Starting the Podcast: Coming Inside Out23:09 Loneliness and Struggles After Coming Out28:14 Advice for Married Men Struggling with Acceptance30:31 Conclusion: Forgiving and Loving Yourself Chapters (video)00:00 Introduction and Background03:04 Suppressing True Self in a Marriage07:50 The Decision to Come Out10:43 The Power of Wonder and Curiosity13:36 Coming Out to Ex-Wife and Children17:23 Exploring the New World19:17 Regrets and Self-Kindness21:2 0Loneliness and Self-Discovery24:19 Starting the Podcast27:37 Advice for Married Men Struggling with Acceptance29:54 Summary and Closing Song Lyric Reflection: Ben Platt's "Older." Older lyrics: https://www.google.com/search?q=ben+platt+older+lyrics&oq=ben+platt+older+lyrics&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIKCAEQABiABBiiBDIKCAIQABiABBiiBNIBCDQ2NzdqMGo3qAIIsAIB&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8Older on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_sADbvPmzE Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/n3Iuqhu2K5M YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg CertifiedProfessional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com© 2024 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

SummaryDavid's guest, Brian, first came out to his wife over 20 years ago but chose to stay married for the sake of his family. It took ten years for him to decide it was time to live a different kind of life. Today, at age 59 he can finally say he’s “found his tribe.” TakeawaysThe struggle of coming out after being married for 20 yearsThe impact of coming out on family, work, and communityFinding a supportive LGBTQ+ community and a sense of belongingThe relief of embracing authenticity and self-discoveryChapters00:00 The Struggle of Coming Out After 20 Years of Marriage05:57 Finding Support and Belonging in the LGBTQ+ Community11:41 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Discovery After Coming OutBook Recommendation: Gay Men and The New Way Forward, by Raymond L. Rigoglioso - https://a.co/d/7uByFA9Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/X5L6lz_TX64YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com © 2024 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary Charles Vollmer, a successful California chef, shares his journey of coming out later in life and the challenges he faced. After being outed by his wife, he left his possessions behind and started a new life in San Miguel, Mexico. He is rebuilding his career as a culinary teacher and started sharing his story on social media. Charles discusses the unique challenges faced by men who come out later in life, the impact on their families, and the need for support and understanding. He emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and finding a community of like-minded individuals. Keywords: coming out, late in life, challenges, rebuilding, support, community TakeawaysComing out later in life can be a challenging and traumatic experience, but it can also lead to personal growth and happiness.The impact on family and relationships can be significant, and rebuilding trust and understanding takes time.Finding a supportive community and seeking professional help can be crucial in navigating the complexities of coming out later in life.Being true to oneself and embracing authenticity is essential for personal fulfillment and living a fulfilling life. TitlesThe Importance of Support and UnderstandingRebuilding After Coming Out: Finding a New Path Sound Bites"Divorcing, giving up my San Francisco Bay home of 30 years and everything in it, donating 99% of my clothing and personal belongings and selling my car. I left for Europe to begin my life over at 61."Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Charles Vollmer's Journey10:38 Starting Over: Rebuilding After Coming Out25:00 Reflections and Regrets: Lessons Learned30:59 Advice for Others: Taking Your Time and Finding Support About Charles VollmarEpicurean Exchange Culinary Travel: www.epexculinarytravel.comBlog: www.epicureanglobalexchange.comFacebook, Threads, Instagram: All @ CharlesVollmarBook Recommendation: Gay Men and The New Way Forward, by Raymond L. Rigoglioso - https://a.co/d/1AROMMu Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/SLJXxU-wUaw YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com© 2024 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

SummaryIn this episode David interviews Larry Best, a retired trial lawyer who came out 20 years into his marriage, now living a full life with his partner and husband of 20 years. Their conversation explores the coming out journey of Larry, who shares his unique story of coming out to his business partner and wife. Larry's decision to come out was driven by a combination of personal factors, including the need to be true to himself and the impact it was having on his mental health. The reactions from his business partner and wife varied, with his business partner making a joke and his wife experiencing a range of emotions. Larry's decision to get married was influenced by societal expectations and the belief that he could suppress his attraction to men. However, he eventually realized that he had been living a lie and needed to come out. The process of telling his wife and children was challenging, with mixed reactions from each family member. Larry and his wife initially tried to maintain a co-parenting relationship, but over time, their relationship deteriorated. Larry also faced challenges in his professional life, with some clients distancing themselves after learning about his sexual orientation. However, he eventually transitioned to a successful career as a plaintiff lawyer. Overall, Larry's story highlights the complexities and emotional impact of coming out and navigating relationships and careers. In this conversation, Larry shares his experience of coming out and how it changed his perception of the world. He discusses the importance of joining LGBTQ political and social organizations to connect with the community. Larry also talks about how he found his partner and offers advice for men who are at the beginning of the coming out process. He emphasizes the need for support and understanding for spouses and family members during this time.TakeawaysComing out is a deeply personal and complex journey, with each individual facing unique challenges and reactions from loved ones.The decision to get married while suppressing one's true sexual orientation can lead to internal conflict and a sense of living a lie.The process of coming out can have a significant emotional impact on spouses and children, with reactions ranging from relief to anger and despair.Supporting loved ones through the coming out process requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to be present and listen.Coming out can have professional implications, with potential challenges in maintaining client relationships and navigating workplace dynamics. Coming out can change one's perception of the world and the people in it.Joining LGBTQ political and social organizations can provide a social network and help in meeting like-minded individuals.Finding a partner after coming out can take time and patience.Support and understanding for spouses and family members are crucial during the coming out process.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage00:20 Unusual Coming Out Story02:27 Reactions from Business Partner and Wife03:31 Emotional Impact on Wife05:45 Supporting Wife Emotionally06:12 The Decision to Get Married08:04 Realization of Being Gay11:22 Fear of Coming Out18:26 Divorce and Financial Settlement24:45 Telling the Children29:44 Reflections on the Coming Out Process33:34 Impact on Business and Career41:15 Changing Perception44:10 Connecting with the LGBTQ Community45:53 Finding a Partner51:06 Advice for Men Coming Out57:09 Supporting Spouses and Family58:35 Understanding the Wife's Perspective59:04 Closing RemarksLarry Best's online memoir: https://medium.com/@laurencebestBook Recommendation: Fashionably Late: Gay, Bi, and Trans Men Who Came Out Later in Life, edited by Vinnie Kinsella. https://a.co/d/dh3N2yM Gay Fathers Worldwide: https://gayfathersworldwide.wordpress.com/ Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/uLCzcLsxCUoCertified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: david@davidcottoncoaching.com© 2024 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Shaun Williams - founder of Gay Fathers Worldwide and Bent Couch CounsellingSummary In this episode, David Cotton interviews licensed counselor Shaun Williams; he previously had successful career in construction when he came out as gay after 25 years of marriage. After coming out he changed his career to help others finding their true selves. Shaun shares his experiences growing up in the 80s, discovering his sexuality at a young age, and the weight of keeping his secret. He discusses the impact on his family and the challenges he faced in coming out. Shaun also talks about the creation of Gay Fathers Worldwide, a support group he formed for men who have come out later in life. He emphasizes the importance of finding a safe space and community for support and understanding.TakeawaysComing out later in life can be a lonely and isolating experience, but finding a safe space and community of others who have had similar experiences can provide support and reassurance.The weight of keeping a secret about one's sexuality can have a significant impact on mental health and well-being.The process of coming out can be challenging and may involve difficult conversations with family members and loved ones.Creating a support group or community for individuals who have come out later in life can provide a valuable resource for connection, understanding, and shared experiences.Chapters 00:00 Introduction00:48 Growing Up in the 80s02:16 Discovering His Sexuality03:16 Getting Married04:15 The Weight of the Secret05:12 Dealing with Guilt and Shame06:11 Living a Lie07:11 Finding Purpose in Helping Others09:06 Impact on Family11:30 Inspiration from Daughters12:56 Coming Out and Seeking Help13:53 The Process of Coming Out15:19 Creating Gay Fathers Worldwide19:11 Regrets and Lessons Learned23:20 Acceptance in the Gay Community26:27 Late-Life Coming Out Experience28:25 Creation of Gay Fathers Worldwide29:21 Common Experiences of Children31:48 New Life and Career36:41 Importance of Community37:37 Conclusion Bent Couch Counselling: https://www.bentcouch.com.au/Gay Fathers Worldwide: https://gayfathersworldwide.wordpress.com/Podcast website: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/C7PJTAcmGT8Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: david@davidcottoncoaching.com© 2024 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.