Coming Out + Beyond | LGBTQIA+ Stories

This week on the podcast, host Anne-Marie Zanzal welcomes fellow author and later-in-lifer, Sarah Locke. Sarah shares her journey of coming out later in life and living with multiple sclerosis. Sarah's personal value of authenticity shines through as she relates the challenges of coming out later in life, holding boundaries with her parents, and self-advocacy while navigating the early days of her MS diagnosis. Sarah discusses her advocacy work which includes founding Locke's Promise, a nonprofit supporting individuals living with MS. Tune in and you'll be inspired by Sarah's journey of acceptance, personal growth, self-advocacy, journey to sobriety and learn why telling your story is powerfully healing.You can learn more about Locke's Promise and purchase Sarah's book, "Living Out Loud: A Memoir of Speaking Up, Breaking Free, and Finally Being Seen" here: https://www.lockespromise.com/Follow Locke's Promise on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lockes-Promise-Inc/61574949238113/?_rdr and on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lockes-promise-inc/🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:❤️ Why your story is your strength.❤️ How coming out draws the right people to you.❤️ How advocacy arising from personal challenges can give life purpose and meaning.❤️ Why support systems are crucial for well-being🏳️‍🌈 and much more!💬 Join the Conversation!💬Have you turned a personal challenge into inspiration for advocacy? Who supports you in those challenges? Comment below and let's talk about it!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

"The Catalyst Chapter: #For WLW Navigating Love's First Chapter and Beyond" Learn more about the course and register at https://annemariezanzal.com/courses-from-anne-marie-zanzal/#catalystrelationship"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples": A course for building better communication and strong relationships. https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/❤️The Best Tool For Change? Love! - Part 2This week, we're back with part 2 of Anne-Marie's engaging conversation with author and transformation coach, David Cunningham. If you haven't watched part 1, do yourself a favor, go back and give it a listen, as it's where David drops several gold nuggets of wisdom about love, self-love, and shares his coming out story.In part 2, Anne-Marie and David dig even deeper into themes of love, forgiveness, and leading a values-oriented life. David shares about how to lead with love while we're experiencing difficult emotions, shares perspective on separating our core sense of self from our emotions, how mindfulness about our values informs our behaviors, and explains why the quality of our life is never dependent on another. David also shares why he recently sent a copy of his book to every single member of Congress! This episode is a fantastic conclusion to a very compelling conversation that you won't want to miss.Connect with David on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DavidCunninghamAuthorLearn more about David's work and his book, 'Your Love Does Matter,' at https://www.yourlovedoesmatter.com/🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:❤️ The distinction between how we feel vs. who we are.❤️ Concepts of forgiveness - what does it mean? How do we achieve it?❤️ How to lead with love when we are angry or sad.❤️ How a values-led life leads to purpose and love.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!💬 Join the Conversation!💬Do you lead with love? Is self-acceptance and forgiveness a challenge for you? What did you take away from this episode? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!#comingout #comingoutandbeyond #comingoutlgbtqiastories #comingoutlaterinlife #lgbt #lgbtq #lgbtqia #2slgbtqia #lgbtqpodcast #queer #queerpodcast #podcast #love #selfacceptance #personalgrowth #transformation #leadwithlove #leadership...

"The Catalyst Chapter: #For WLW Navigating Love's First Chapter and Beyond" Learn more about the course and register at https://annemariezanzal.com/courses-from-anne-marie-zanzal/#catalystrelationship"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples": A course for building better communication and strong relationships. https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/❤️The Best Tool For Change? Love!David Cunningham believes that love is a powerful tool for transformation. As an author and transformation coach, David is committed to teaching others how to use love to create a path to acceptance, better communication, forgiveness, conscious leadership, and connectedness with others. In this part 1 of 2 podcast episode, host Anne-Marie Zanzal, explores with David topics related to his personal experiences in learning about the transformational power of love, including his coming out story and reflecting on how stepping into his identity as a gay man transformed his relationships with people he cares about. David highlights the significance of self-love and forgiveness, sharing insights from his mentors and the courage it takes to love freely, advocating for a world where love prevails as the primary way of being. This is a profound, compelling conversation centered on the power of love and our relationship to our most vulnerable emotions. Tune in next week for part 2!Learn more about David's work and his book, 'Your Love Does Matter,' at https://www.yourlovedoesmatter.com/🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:❤️ How love is instrumental to personal transformation.❤️ How coming out impacted David's relationship with his son for the better.❤️ The role of love in effective leadership.❤️ Why quality of our life comes from who we choose to be, not what we receive from others.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!💬 Join the Conversation!💬Do you lead with love? Is self-acceptance and forgiveness a challenge for you? What did you take away from this episode? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!#comingout #comingoutandbeyond #comingoutlgbtqiastories #comingoutlaterinlife #lgbt #lgbtq #lgbtqia #2slgbtqia #lgbtqpodcast #queer #queerpodcast #podcast #love #selfacceptance #personalgrowth #transformation #leadwithlove #leadership #boundaries #embracingemotions #lovefootprint #davidcunningham

"The Catalyst Chapter: #For WLW Navigating Love's First Chapter and Beyond" Learn more about the course and register at https://annemariezanzal.com/courses-from-anne-marie-zanzal/#catalystrelationship"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples": A course for building better communication and strong relationships. https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, we're revisiting an episode from season 4 on the ups and downs of catalyst relationships. Host Anne-Marie Zanzal sits down will fellow coming out and catalyst relationship coach, Barbara Rowlandson. In this episode. Barbara shares the story of her catalyst experience and reflects on how the relationship precipitated some very big and quick changes in her life. Anne-Marie and Barbara examine the gifts of the catalyst experience, the hard lessons, share some of their best advice about navigating that first lesbian relationship, and talk about steps for recovery if the relationship ends.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🏳️‍🌈 How catalysts cause us to stop and reconsider our wants and needs.🏳️‍🌈 Why grieving the end of your marriage while in a new relationship is so hard.🏳️‍🌈 Making meaning of your catalyst experience when it is over.🏳️‍🌈 Why finding community is vital for healing after a catalyst experience🏳️‍🌈 and much more!💬 Join the Conversation!💬Have you had a catalyst relationship experience? How are you today? What learn? What do you feel like you need most right now? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/TW: Hate groups, racism and homophobia are discussed. Some strong language is used. Listener discretion is advised.This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal chats with Spencer Macnaughton, Editor-in-Chief and founder of Uncloseted Media, a nonprofit LGBTQIA+ -focused newsroom. In a time when America is reconfiguring its systems to marginalize LGBTQIA+ citizens, Uncloseted Media is working to explore the anti-LGBTQIA+ landscape. Guided by principles of non-partisanship and rigorous journalistic standards, Uncloseted Media shines a light on people and stories that might otherwise go unheard in a world that is increasingly working to suppress queer voices. In this episode, Spencer shares the story of his journey in creating a nonprofit LGBTQIA+ newsroom and his own coming out experiences. Anne-Marie and Spencer also touch on the impact of societal conditioning on queer identities, the role media plays in shaping perceptions, and the urgency of telling stories that highlight the ongoing fight against hate and discrimination.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🏳️‍🌈 Why trust is essential in journalism, especially for LGBTQIA+ communities.🏳️‍🌈 Stories of resilience and allyship that inspire hope and change.🏳️‍🌈 How media representation significantly impacts LGBTQIA+ identity formation.🏳️‍🌈 Why finding community is vital for personal and collective well-being.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!You can follow Uncloseted Media on Substack here: https://www.unclosetedmedia.com/💬 Join the Conversation!💬What does LGBTQIA+ representation media mean to you? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/TW: This episode explores grief as related to the coming out experience and may be difficult for some to hear. If you are grieving and are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 9-8-8 for crisis support.Download our grief guide and worksheets here: https://bit.ly/amz-grief-handoutIn this part 2 episode on healing grief host Anne-Marie Zanzal and her fellow coach, Barbara Rowlandson continue to explore the complex emotions surrounding grief when coming out later in life. If you're someone who is in the 'messy middle' of coming out and/or divorce we highly encourage you to listen, as parts 1 and 2 of these episodes on grief address the most common experiences we see in individuals who come out later in life. Anne-Marie and Barb pick up where they left of in part 1, discussing the last two stages of grief – depression and acceptance. They discuss recognizing and addressing depression, offer practical coping strategies for the depression stage, and emphasize the significance of community.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:❤️‍🩹Why incremental change is a big deal.❤️‍🩹How aligning values with actions brings peace.❤️‍🩹How engaging with queer media can foster a sense of belonging.❤️‍🩹The importance of community and daily rituals for self-care🏳️‍🌈 and much more!Read Anne-Marie's article, "The Unexpected Grief of the LGBTQIA+ Coming Out Experience." https://annemariezanzal.com/the-unexpected-grief-of-the-lgbtqia-coming-out-experience/💬 Join the Conversation!💬Are you on the other side of the 'messy middle?' What practices did you adopt to lift the grief? ❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

In the episode of Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal and her fellow coach, Barbara Rowlandson explore the complex emotions surround grief when coming out later in life. This is a MUST listen episode for anyone coming out and radically changing their lives in other ways, such as divorce or moving! Anne-Marie and Barb discuss the five stages of grief, emphasizing that the grief journey is not a linear path. Three grief stages - denial, anger, and bargaining - are discussed, and the conversation highlights the importance of recognizing and naming grief feelings/stages. Understanding societal expectations, navigating relationships during this emotional journey and practical advice and resources for listeners are shared in this episode. Next week - Part 2 will tackle the remaining stages of grief: depression and acceptance.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:❤️‍🩹Why the 5 stages of grief are not linear and can 'loop back.'❤️‍🩹How grief can manifest as avoidance or intellectualization.❤️‍🩹How letting go of societal expectations can be accompanied by anger.❤️‍🩹Why finding community is critical in the grief journey.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!Read Anne-Marie's article, "The Unexpected Grief of the LGBTQIA+ Coming Out Experience." https://annemariezanzal.com/the-unexpected-grief-of-the-lgbtqia-coming-out-experience/💬 Join the Conversation!💬How is grief appearing for you? What repeated thoughts are you having about grief and your journey? Let's talk about it in the comments.❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/In the episode of Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal speaks with documentary photographer, Morgan Lieberman. Morgan's work has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, Bloomberg, National Geographic, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angles Times, among others. Morgan's current documentary project, tentatively titled 'Hidden Once, Hidden Twice' focuses on documenting the lives of older lesbian partnerships. This project was borne out of a desire for lesbian community and out of recognition that the voices of the older lesbian generation have been suppressed and lost over time. In this episode, Anne-Marie and Morgan's conversation delves into the lessons learned from older generations, the significance of community, and the complexities of lesbian relationships. Morgan emphasizes the need for visibility and understanding of the unique experiences of older lesbians, while also discussing her aspirations for her documentary work.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🏳️‍🌈The significance of representation in media for the LGBTQ+ community.🏳️‍🌈How lesbian relationships are often misunderstood and oversimplified by society.🏳️‍🌈Reflections on the emotional depth and intensity of lesbian friendships and relationships.🏳️‍🌈What younger generations of lesbians can learn from the older generation about resilience and love.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!You can follow Morgan Lieberman on Instagram, who goes by thechromaticsheep.You can also donate to the "Hidden Once, Hidden Twice" GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/photo-book-on-senior-lesbian-partnerships💬 Join the Conversation!💬Are you a member of the older lesbian generation? What comes up for you when you listen to this episode? If you're of a younger generation, what surprised you about the episode? Leave your thoughts in the comments and let's talk about it!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/This week on the pod: pull up a chair and lean in as host Anne-Marie Zanzal and her fellow coming-out coach, Barbara Rowlandson, unpack all things 'comp het.' Compulsory Heteronormativity (sometimes used interchangeably with 'compulsory heterosexuality) represents the systems in place that keep women from understanding or realizing their needs and desires. If you're just starting out on your coming out journey and have ever asked yourself, "Why the heck did it take me so long to realize I am gay/lesbian/bi/queer?" then this episode is for YOU!🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🏳️‍🌈Anne-Marie and Barb each reflect on what comp het meant to them and how they felt when the learned about the concept.🏳️‍🌈Why heterosexuality wasn't a private choice for many of us, but the result of a system designed to erase queerness.🏳️‍🌈Unpacking the unprocessed misogyny behind distaste for the word lesbian.🏳️‍🌈The myth of the 'good mother' and why a mother's happiness matters to children.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!💬 Join the Conversation!💬Have you given any thought to comp het? What did you learn from this episode? What resonates? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

‼️SPECIAL FOR COMING OUT & BEYOND LISTENERS! This episode's guest, Maxine Kroll, founder/owner of Provincetown's renowned sex shop & museum, Toys of Eros, is offering 10% off purchases for our listeners! Just use the coupon code COB when completing your order to receive your discount. Shop everything Toys of Eros has to offer at https://toysoferos.com/Wing Women Weekend | Annual Conference in Provincetown, MA, during Women's Week | https://wingwomenweekend.com/"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/This week on the podcast, host Anne-Marie Zanzal has a conversation with Maxine Kroll, a lesbian and activist who has spent her life creating sanctuary for queer women and fostering acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. Maxine shares her journey of coming out, stories of activism, and reflects on the critical importance of LGBTQ spaces. From her early experiences in high school to founding Provincetown's sex-positive boutique, Toys of Eros, Maxine discusses the evolution of queer identity and the significance of education to create safety and acceptance for the LGBTQ community. She reflects on the changes in sexual exploration across generations and offers advice for those navigating their first experiences. Anne-Marie and Maxine's conversation highlights the need for continued activism and support for LGBTQ rights in today's political climate.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🕰️Reflections on the evolution of Provincetown as an LGBTQ+ sanctuary.💋Discussion on the relationship between communication and pleasure.🐘A walk down memory lane to early days of Provincetown's annual Women's Week.👩🏽‍❤️‍💋‍👩🏽Sex-positive conversation about toys, sexual health, and empowering women through education.🏳️‍🌈 Thoughts about the future of LGBTQ+ rights💬 Join the Conversation!💬Have you experienced Provincetown during Women's Week and/or been to Toys of Eros? Do you have thoughts about activism, sex-positive education, or the current state of LGBTQ+ rights? Talk about in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

Navigating the holiday season can prove to be an arduous endeavor, particularly for those who are in the process of coming out. In this discussion, we, Anne-Marie Zanzal and Barbara Rowlandson, share our personal experiences and the myriad challenges we faced during our own holiday seasons. We provide practical strategies to help you establish boundaries, cultivate joy within small rituals, and maintain your peace while remaining true to yourself. Our aim is not to advocate for perfection but to foster a sense of steadiness amidst the emotional complexities that the holidays can evoke. Join us as we explore these themes and equip you with tools to navigate the upcoming festivities with greater ease."The Catalyst Chapter: #For WLW Navigating Love's First Chapter and Beyond" Learn more about the course and register at https://annemariezanzal.com/courses-from-anne-marie-zanzal/#catalystrelationship"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples": A course for building better communication and strong relationships. https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/🎄Holiday Survival When Coming Out 101!Ho-Ho-Hoping to survive the holidays as you navigate coming out later in life? Say no more! Your host Anne-Marie Zanzal and fellow late-in-life coach Barbara Rowlandson cover their best tips for keeping it together over the holidays. Getting through the November/December holidays as you transition from one life to another can feel rocky, but there are things you can do to support yourself and protect your peace. If you're finding your dreading the upcoming holiday season, this episode is for you!🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🎄 Why coming out at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner isn't a great idea.🎁Practical advice for establishing boundaries with friends and family who have questions about your separation/divorce/sexuality.🕯️ How having an ally at holiday events is an excellent buffer for unwelcome interactions.🥧Advice for creating new traditions.🏳️‍🌈 and much more!💬 Join the Conversation!💬Are you dreading the winter holidays? What has you most concerned? Have you already been through this experience? How did you make the holidays and family time work for you? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/You can also tune into this episode of Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Apple Podcasts: (

Wing Women Weekend | Annual Conference in Provincetown, MA, during Women's Week | https://wingwomenweekend.com/"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples"  https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/📣Dakarai Larriett's Fight for Fairness in Alabama!This week on the podcast, host Anne-Marie Zanzal sits down with Alabama Senate candidate Dakarai Larriett. Dakarai Larriett is the son of a U.S. Army veteran, a successful entrepreneur, longtime community volunteer, and — above all — a proud Alabama native, deeply committed to serving the citizens of his home state. Dakarai’s passion for public service was ignited during his junior year as an exchange student at Howard University in Washington, DC. His career took him from New York to Texas and Michigan before his heart drew him back to Alabama. Dakarai has dedicated his time and resources to serving the community. In addition to his volunteer work with United Way, Meals On Wheels and the Humane Society, Dakarai leads the board representing the 60 families and businesses located in the Mercantile on Morris, a mixed-use development in downtown Birmingham. Dakarai's story is inspiring and his experiences inform his sense of fairness and justice. After having been falsely arrested, Dakarai has made it his mission to fight against corruption and has set his sights on the U.S. Senate, running as the Democratic candidate in 2026. Dakarai and Anne-Marie talk about his coming out story, his philosophy on servant leadership, his first-hand experience with institutional corruption, and the significance of his faith and personal experiences in shaping his world view.You can find Dakarai Larriett's website here: https://dakarailarriett.com/🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🚨How Dakarai's false arrest in 2024 ignited a passion for justice and change.🏳️‍🌈 Understand how Dakarai's coming out was influenced his upbringing in a strict religious environment.🌎How travelling to over 55 countries has broadened his perspective on global issues.🌟How Dakarai aims to bridge divides in a polarized political landscape.✝️The evolution of Dakarai's faith journey, ultimately leading to the United Methodist Church.💬 Join the Conversation!💬What are your biggest perceived challenges in coming out? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on powerful stories from Coming Out & Beyond!

Reclaiming Your Sexual Self Workshop | with Mallory Hanfling, LCSW | Friday, Oct. 17th, 2025 | The Provincetown Inn, Provincetown, Massachusetts during Women's Week | 9:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. | Reclaiming Your Sexual Self Tickets, Fri, Oct 17, 2025 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite Mallory Hanfling, a late-in-life lesbian/firefly, queer therapist, and sexuality educator provides attendees with the SexEd that you wish you got in high school. Covering everything from anatomy and the mechanics of all different types of queer sex, to toy maintenance, and to sexual communication and consent, Mal will help you reconnect with your sexual self, learn how to listen to and trust your body, and answer the questions you were too shy to ask out loud."Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" is a comprehensive course for lesbian couples who are seeking to build a better relationship. Designed by lesbian psychologist and couples therapist, Dr. Robin Sesan, this course is ideal for any lesbian couple who finds themselves stuck in a rut, desires connection, and wants to build emotional safety in the relationship. This do at your own pace course includes video instruction, worksheets, and offers an online community in Authentically Us, where couples can discuss the outcomes of their assignments for each course unit. Yes, you can learn how to create positive interaction and build intimacy that lasts! Learn more and register at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/🫣OK, I'm Gay, Now What? Download the free Self-Care and Boundary-Setting Scripts guide that accompanies this episode! http://bit.ly/3V0qlQsCalling all later-in-life newbies! If you're a woman who is just starting the process of coming out, this episode is for you. Host Anne-Marie Zanzal and her fellow coach, Barbara Rowlandson, unpack the complexities of coming out later in life, discussing themes such as compulsory heterosexuality, internalized homophobia, cognitive dissonance, and the importance of community support. Anne-Marie and Barb provide insights on navigating early feelings, setting boundaries, and the significance of self-acceptance in the journey of identity exploration. Don't forget to download the free 1 pg pdf with the 3-circle map for clarity and scripts for boundary setting, starting challenging conversations, and journal prompts.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 Ideas for boundary setting when having challenging conversations.🏳️‍🌈 The external forces that keep us from identifying our authentic sexuality until later in life.🧠 Understanding how our brains keep us safe and the concept of cognitive dissonance.🌟Why "LGBTQ affirming" support may not be enough and what to look for in a therapist or coach.📢 Practical advice and achievable steps for change.💬 Join the Conversation!💬What are your biggest perceived challenges in coming out? Let's talk about it in the comments!❤️Join Authentically Us! A supportive community for those coming out later in life to the LGBTQIA+ community. Connect, share, and find guidance on your journey through mutual support groups, workshops, and live Zoom meetups. 💜Sign up today at www.annemariezanzal.com💠 Visit our website: : [ www.annemariezanzal.com]💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariezanzalpurposefulempowerment/

Reclaiming Your Sexual Self Workshop | with Mallory Hanfling, LCSW | Friday, Oct. 17th, 2025 | The Provincetown Inn, Provincetown, Massachusetts during Women's Week | 9:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. | Reclaiming Your Sexual Self Tickets, Fri, Oct 17, 2025 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite Mallory Hanfling, a late-in-life lesbian/firefly, queer therapist, and sexuality educator provides attendees with the SexEd that you wish you got in high school. Covering everything from anatomy and the mechanics of all different types of queer sex, to toy maintenance, and to sexual communication and consent, Mal will help you reconnect with your sexual self, learn how to listen to and trust your body, and answer the questions you were too shy to ask out loud."Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" is a comprehensive course for lesbian couples who are seeking to build a better relationship. Designed by lesbian psychologist and couples therapist, Dr. Robin Sesan, this course is ideal for any lesbian couple who finds themselves stuck in a rut, desires connection, and wants to build emotional safety in the relationship. This do at your own pace course includes video instruction, worksheets, and offers an online community in Authentically Us, where couples can discuss the outcomes of their assignments for each course unit. Yes, you can learn how to create positive interaction and build intimacy that lasts! Learn more and register at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/In this episode of Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal welcomes Mallory Hanfling, a Philadelphia-based therapist specializing in identity development, coming out, and connecting with one’s most authentic self. As the founder of Courage to Grow Counseling, Mallory provides a safe and supportive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, helping them navigate the challenges of later-in-life coming out.But Mallory’s work doesn’t stop there—she’s currently pursuing a PhD in Human Sexuality at the California Institute for Integral Studies (CIIS). Her research focuses on how community mitigates the impact of compulsory heterosexuality on later-in-life LGBTQIA+ individuals.As a passionate advocate for community, Mallory coined the term "Fireflies" to represent women, non-binary, and trans people who are exploring their sexual identity later in life. Through her weekly Firefly peer support group, she helps Fireflies at all stages of their journey connect, share, and empower one another.Whether you're coming out later in life, questioning your identity, or looking for a supportive community, Mallory’s insights and experiences will resonate deeply.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How Mallory helps later-in-life LGBTQIA+ individuals navigate identity development🏳️‍🌈 Why community is essential for those coming out later in life🧠 The role of therapy in healing from compulsory heterosexuality🌟 What it means to be a "Firefly" and how to join the Firefly peer support group🎓 How Mallory’s PhD research is changing the conversation around later-in-life queerness📢 Practical advice for embracing authenticity and self-discovery🌐 Learn More About Mallory HanflingYou can learn more about Mallory and her work on her website, https://www.couragetogrowcounseling.org/aboutBooks that resonated with Mallory are Untamed by Glennon Doyle

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" is a comprehensive course for lesbian couples who are seeking to build a better relationship. Designed by lesbian psychologist and couples therapist, Dr. Robin Sesan, this course is ideal for any lesbian couple who finds themselves stuck in a rut, desires connection, and wants to build emotional safety in the relationship. This do at your own pace course includes video instruction, worksheets, and offers an online community in Authentically Us, where couples can discuss the outcomes of their assignments for each course unit. Yes, you can learn how to create positive interaction and build intimacy that lasts! Learn more and register at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/Wing Women Weekend, October 15-18, 2025, Provincetown, MA - a conference for women/non-binary persons who are new to the LGBTQIA+ community! This conference is all about connection, finding queer community, and having a whole lot of FUN! For the full conference schedule and to sign up, visit https://wingwomenweekend.com/ and use the coupon code PRIDE in June to receive 10% off.This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal and fellow later-in-lifer Barbara Rowlandson talk about #wlw dating later in life. Barbara Rowlandson is a coach for women who come out later in life with a focus on catalyst relationship recovery and dating resilience, and a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario, Canada. Dating later in life - whether you're new to dating women or a long-out person who just hasn't dated in a very long time - dating can feel daunting, complex, and disappointing. Anne-Marie and Barbara explore the unique challenges of dating women later in life, the importance of understanding personal values and doing self-work, how to uncover limiting beliefs about dating, cultivating psychological flexibility, dealing with dating disasters and more. This is a fantastic episode for any woman who is about to step into the dating pool, or for those who have been dating and struggling to meet the right person.For those interested in Barbara's coaching services, you can book a free consultation call here: https://calendly.com/lavender-dating-team/connection-call-with-barbLearn more about Barbara's services and find 'The List' pdf downloadable template mentioned in the podcast at https://lavenderdating.com/ Direct link to 'The List' pdf download: https://lavenderdating.com/the-list❓ What to Expect in This Episode:🌈Discussion about finding yourself and getting clear about values after a long term relationship, and why this is an important step before dating.🌈Clues on how to recognize limiting beliefs - and how to counter them.🌈Reflection on setting boundaries and how to hold them.🌈Tips for mindfulness practices to beat dating anxiety.🌈Thoughts on what to do when you encounter a 'dating disaster.'✨ Why This Matters:Taking the next step...

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" is a comprehensive course for lesbian couples who are seeking to build a better relationship. Designed by lesbian psychologist and couples therapist, Dr. Robin Sesan, this course is ideal for any lesbian couple who finds themselves stuck in a rut, desires connection, and wants to build emotional safety in the relationship. This do at your own pace course includes video instruction, worksheets, and offers an online community in Authentically Us, where couples can discuss the outcomes of their assignments for each course unit. Yes, you can learn how to create positive interaction and build intimacy that lasts! Learn more and register at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/Wing Women Weekend, October 15-18, 2025, Provincetown, MA - a conference for women/non-binary persons who are new to the LGBTQIA+ community! This conference is all about connection, finding queer community, and having a whole lot of FUN! For the full conference schedule and to sign up, visit https://wingwomenweekend.com/ and use the coupon code PRIDE in June to receive 10% off.This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal interviews Dr. Samantha Winterberg, who shares her personal journey of coming out and her extensive experience in health psychology. Anne-Marie and Dr. Winterberg discuss the catalysts for coming out, the challenges of navigating open relationships, and the importance of communication. Dr. Winterberg's new workbook, "Coming Out in Adulthood" addresses the fears associated with coming out and the impact of childhood trauma on LGBTQ+ identities. Their conversation touches on spirituality, the role of religion, and the significance of understanding one's identity beyond societal labels. You can order your copy of "Coming Out Later in Life" here: https://a.co/d/dvRYXUeFind Dr. Samantha Winterberg online at https://www.bayintegrativewellness.com/Follow Dr. Winterberg on Instagram: samanthawinterberg A book that Dr. Winterberg found to be personally transformative is "Living in the Light: A Guide to Personal and Planetary Transformation" by Shakti Gawain: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/336734.Living_in_the_LightDr. Winterberg's coming out song is I Shall Be Released by Grace Potter and the Nocturals: https://youtu.be/CyLcyqrmF3o?si=nKfbC0bXXm2f-tl6❓ What to Expect in This Episode:🌈Discussion about how childhood trauma can impact the coming out process, but it does not define it.🌈Reflections on the importance of spirituality in self-acceptance and joy.🌈Thoughts on why open relationships require strong communication and self-awareness.🌈Understanding why coming out is often catalyzed by significant life events or relationships.✨ Why This Matters:Understanding and contextualizing our formative experiences is crucial for insight during the coming out in adulthood process. This episode underscores how addressing fears, gaining self-acceptance, and coming out on your own terms can lead individuals to better mental health.💬 Join the...

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples"  Learn more and register at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/Authentically Us is an online peer support community for late-blooming women who love women. Learn more about Authentically Us at https://annemariezanzal.com/This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal chats with Tennessee drag queen Kennedy Ann Scott. Kennedy is one of six drag queens featured in the soon to be released Harper Collins publication, "No Tea, No Shade: Life as a Drag Queen" (scheduled release date is September 23rd, 2025, now available for pre-order purchase). Kennedy's story is characterized as a journey of acceptance. Bullied as middle and high school student, Kennedy had the support of a teacher who made life bearable and ultimately inspired him to become an educator himself. Now a middle school teacher, Kennedy, who was recently award teacher of the year by his school board, fosters acceptance and safety for his students. As Kennedy Ann the drag artist, she also works to champion LGBTQ and trans rights, emphasizing the need for acceptance and understanding in society, particularly for marginalized communities.You can order your copy of "No Tea, No Shade: Life as a Drag Queen" in advance now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/006343055X/?bestFormat=true&k=no%20tea%20no%20shade&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-en...Book description:"No Tea, No Shade is an essential read for anyone who has searched for a way to feel like themselves." -- BooklistIntimate, hilarious, and inspiring essays by celebrated drag queens Kennedy Ann Scott, Lagoona Bloo, Alexis Michelle, Olivia Lux, Julie J., and Nina West.No Tea, No Shade is a collective anthem written by six drag queens who believe in equality, peace, and in a world that loves and respects all people. The defiant legacy of drag will endure fearmongering and hate because their hearts have endured the unthinkable, their courage has been relentlessly tested, and to be blunt, they have the balls to prevail.Kennedy Ann Scott was awarded Teacher of the Year in Nashville, Tennessee. Lagoona Bloo starred on the Off-Broadway hit Drag: the Musical, and Alex Michaels received a stellar review from the New York Times for their role in La Cage Aux Falles at Barrington Stage Company. Olivia Lux starred in Rent and Kinky Boots. Julie J raised more than $100,000 for trans and LGBTQIA+ organizations. Nina West received an honorary doctorate in May 2024 and is a well-known entertainer, having worked with everyone from Glenn Close to Kermit the Frog.When these gorgeous queens wear a stunning gown with picture perfect makeup, haters label them as inappropriate and unlawful. They are entertainers not predators. Drag is an art of self-expression that, at its core, affirms and uplifts LGBTQIA+ people.No Tea, No Shade features thirty essays discussing:Social activism, Drag Story Hour, and education.Coming out, gender, and equality.Relationships, setting goals, and rejection.Celebrating womanhood, family, and image.Despite the pervasive danger of being authentic and real, these drag artists have chosen to fight for LGBTQIA+ rights....

"Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples" is a comprehensive course for lesbian couples who are seeking to build a better relationship. Designed by lesbian psychologist and couples therapist, Dr. Robin Sesan, this course is ideal for any lesbian couple who finds themselves stuck in a rut, desires connection, and wants to build emotional safety in the relationship. This do at your own pace course includes video instruction, worksheets, and offers an online community in Authentically Us, where couples can discuss the outcomes of their assignments for each course unit. Yes, you can learn how to create positive interaction and build intimacy that lasts! Learn more and register at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/Wing Women Weekend, October 15-18, 2025, Provincetown, MA - a conference for women/non-binary persons who are new to the LGBTQIA+ community! This conference is all about connection, finding queer community, and having a whole lot of FUN! For the full conference schedule and to sign up, visit https://wingwomenweekend.com/ and use the coupon code PRIDE in June to receive 10% off.It's an exciting week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, as host Anne-Marie Zanzal is joined by psychologist Dr. Robin Sesan and lesbian business owner and marketing expert Anna Empey to discuss themes surrounding lesbian relationships. This episode comes at the precipice of the launch of their collaborative project, "Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples," an evidence-based course, culturally sensitive course on the psychology of lesbian relationships and practical advice on how to build stronger bonds in couples. In this wide-ranging conversation, Anne-Marie, Anna, and Robin cover topics such as sexual minority stress, attachment styles, misconceptions about lesbian identities, the importance of lesbian community and much, much more. The episode is a must-listen for any queer woman, in a relationship or not, who desires a deeper understanding of the challenges and strengths of lesbian intimate partner relationships.Learn more about the Strengthening Love: Building Secure Bonds for Lesbian Couples course at https://healthylesbianrelationships.com/❓ What to Expect in This Episode:🌈Conversation about challenges of lesbian couples in finding effective, culturally informed couples therapy.🌈An overview on attachment theory and sexual minority stress.🌈Personal stories of identity shifts and relationship dynamics in later-in-life lesbian relationships.🌈Insights on the impacts of societal expectations and internalized homophobia on queer relationships.✨ Why This Matters:Lesbian intimate partner relationships are unlike any others. Challenges of lesbian relationships are not well researched or talked about in common discourse around couples therapy, and therefore it can be very difficult to find information relevant exclusively to lesbian couples. Lesbian couples deserve to have competent care and to be understood in their identities and for their unique joys and challenges. 💬 Join the Conversation:Are you in a committed lesbian relationship? What have you noticed that is different about lesbian relationships that sets them apart for heterosexual, gay, or non-binary partnerships? Let's talk about it in the comments!🔗 Visit our website:Anne-Marie's : [ 

Wing Women Weekend, October 15-18, 2025, Provincetown, MA - a conference for women/non-binary persons who are new to the LGBTQIA+ community! This conference is all about connection, finding queer community, and having a whole lot of FUN! For the full conference schedule and to sign up, visit https://wingwomenweekend.com/ and use the coupon code PRIDE in June to receive 10% off."Maybe I'm Not Straight" and "When the Catalyst Relationship Ends" are do-at-your-own-pace courses for women who are reconsidering their sexual orientation and overcoming the end of their first lesbian relationship. Accessible, information-packed, and easy to do, these courses represent many years worth of experience working with women who come out later in life. Purchase your course and receive your first month subscription to Authentically Us, a safe online space for women who are coming out and beyond, for free! Learn more at https://annemariezanzal.com/courses-from-anne-marie-zanzal/This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, host Anne-Marie Zanzal welcomes back her fellow coach Barbara Rowlandson to the podcast for a conversation about things they wish they understood before embarking on a divorce journey. Anne-Marie and Barb cover some of their biggest missteps and common negative and usually-untrue beliefs that many women hold about the divorce experience. Anne-Marie and Barb reflect and share advice with compassion, encouraging curiosity, and share a few laughs throughout this very informative and engaging episode. While Anne-Marie and Barb both identify as lesbians and are speaking from their experiences in divorcing their ex-husbands, this episode is relevant for any woman, queer or straight, divorcing a person of any gender.❓ What to Expect in This Episode:🌈Conversation about getting the facts from professionals before making decisions.🌈Encouragement to slow down and go through the process thoughtfully.🌈Advice about taking time through the process for self-discovery and healing.🌈Emphasis on why community and professional support is key to navigating separation and divorce in the best way possible.✨ Why This Matters:The decision to leave your marriage is one that may be fraught with anxiety, guilt, and shame. It takes time and deliberation to reframe our thinking and unlearn messages about what it means to be a good woman, wife and mom. Learning to prioritize ourselves may feel hard, but that's because it is unfamiliar, not because it is not worth doing.💬 Join the Conversation:Are you thinking about separating from your spouse? What are your biggest concerns? Let's talk about them in the comments.🔗 Visit our website:Anne-Marie's : [ annemariezanzal.com]🔗 Follow us on social media:💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠 Twitter: twitter.com/annemariezanzal💠LinkedIn:

Wing Women Weekend, October 15-18, 2025, Provincetown, MA - a conference for women/non-binary persons who are new to the LGBTQIA+ community! This conference is all about connection, finding queer community, and having a whole lot of FUN! For the full conference schedule and to sign up, visit https://wingwomenweekend.com/ and use the coupon code PRIDE in June to receive 10% off."Maybe I'm Not Straight" and "When the Catalyst Relationship Ends" are do-at-your-own-pace courses for women who are reconsidering their sexual orientation and overcoming the end of their first lesbian relationship. Accessible, information-packed, and easy to do, these courses represent many years worth of experience working with women who come out later in life. Purchase your course and receive your first month subscription to Authentically Us, a safe online space for women who are coming out and beyond, for free! Learn more at https://annemariezanzal.com/courses-from-anne-marie-zanzal/This week on Coming Out & Beyond: LGBTQIA+ Stories, we bring you a guest who has had not one, but two coming out stories! Nate is a trans man who began his gender journey in his 50s. Nate's gender transition was preceded by coming out as a lesbian in his mid-30s. In his conversation with host Anne-Marie Zanzal, Nate shares his journey of self-discovery, discussing the challenges of coming out to family, the importance of support groups, and the complexities of navigating male privilege. Nate reflects on his transition, the medical changes he underwent, and the emotional impacts of his sexuality and gender transitions. Nate's story reminds us of the significance of self-acceptance and offers advice for others in the LGBTQIA+ community.For information, advocacy and support for gender transitions, visit https://www.diversitycenter.org/ ❓ What to Expect in This Episode:🏳️‍⚧️Messages about the importance of self-acceptance during the transition journey.🏳️‍⚧️Thoughtful reflections on male privilege, and its unexpected, negative associations.🏳️‍⚧️One man's thoughts on clues that he might not be the gender he was assigned at birth.🏳️‍⚧️Conversations about the differences between coming out as gay vs. coming out as trans.✨ Why This Matters:Self-kindness, self-acceptance, and a strong sense of self-worth are crucial for LGBTQIA individuals, especially through a gender transition journey. This episode aligns with the our principles for wellness during the coming out process: self-compassion, community, and mindfulness.💬 Join the Conversation:Are you questioning your gender? Or maybe you've recently realized that you aren't the gender you were assigned at birth. How are you coping? What are you noticing? Let's talk about it in the comments.🔗 Visit our website:Anne-Marie's : [ annemariezanzal.com]🔗 Follow us on social media:💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amzanzal💠 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/annemariezanzalcoaching/💠 Twitter: