Big Gay Overalls - Stories of Love, Identity and Pride

Ever feel like you’re living someone else’s story? I know I did for most of my life. In this episode, I’m opening up about how I broke free from the expectations and narratives that kept me trapped and started rewriting my story—a story that feels like mine. I’ll share the questions I asked myself to get unstuck, the small but powerful actions that changed everything, and why it’s never too late to turn the page. Whether you’re feeling stuck, questioning your path, or just curious about what it means to live authentically, this episode is for you. Let’s explore how you can take control of your narrative and create a life that truly fits who you are. Plus, I’ve got details on my free Authenticity 101 webinar and my brand-new eBook, Dying Inside: The Cost of Living Inauthentically. 🎙️ Hit play and start writing your next chapter—one that’s all about YOU. 💌 Connect & Engage: Visit biggayoverallspodcast.com AUTHENTICITY 101 WEBINAR REGISTRATION  https://bookme.name/lisakirkman/authenticity-101 Dying Inside Ebook Amazon Stores US https://a.co/d/54QZFo6 AU  https://amzn.asia/d/2Hc9Cww UK https://amzn.eu/d/jefXR2x CA https://amzn.eu/d/jefXR2x 📲 Follow on socials @biggayoverallspodcast for more stories, insights, and conversations. If you’d like to connect with me, collaborate, or explore ways we can work together—whether it’s for coaching, storytelling projects, or speaking engagements—I’d love to hear from you!  Visit www.biggayoverallspodcast.com or email me directly  Let’s create something meaningful together! Join our supportive community: Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Skool  https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode meaningful!  And please leave me a 5 Star Rating and Review if you love the Podcast! Connect with me Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

In this week’s episode of The Big Gay Overalls Podcast, Lisa gets real about the unspoken cost of living inauthentically. Drawing from her own journey, she paints a vivid picture of what it feels like to wear the "wrong outfit" in life—the quiet suffocation, the bone-deep exhaustion, and the constant hum of anxiety that comes from pretending to be someone you’re not. But it’s not all heavy. Lisa shares the life-changing shift that happens when you start embracing your true self—step by tiny step. With her trademark humour and vulnerability, she explores how authenticity is more than just a buzzword; it’s a liberation that impacts your relationships, your health, and your happiness. Whether you’re struggling with identity, stuck in a career that doesn’t feel right, or just feeling like life isn’t fitting quite right, this episode will resonate. Lisa also gives practical tips for beginning the journey toward your truth, no matter how daunting it feels. As she celebrates her 50th birthday, Lisa reflects on the life she’s curating with intention, freedom, and love—and invites you to start curating yours. 🎙️ Listen now, and start shedding the layers that no longer serve you. Your most authentic self is waiting. 💌 Connect & Engage: Visit biggayoverallspodcast.com 📲 Follow on socials @biggayoverallspodcast for more stories, insights, and conversations. If you’d like to connect with me, collaborate, or explore ways we can work together—whether it’s for coaching, storytelling projects, or speaking engagements—I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.biggayoverallspodcast.com or email me directly  Let’s create something meaningful together! 🌟 Connect with us on social: IG, Threads, TikTok: @biggayoverallspodcast Join our supportive community: Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Skool  https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode meaningful!  And please leave me a 5 Star Rating and Review if you love the Podcast! Connect with me Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

In this episode of Big Gay Overalls, I’m diving into something close to my heart—authenticity. For years, I lived a life that looked great on the outside but felt completely out of sync with who I really was. It wasn’t until I hit my mid-40s that I started doing the hard, messy work of figuring out who I truly am and living in alignment with that truth. I’m sharing my story—the ups, the downs, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. From facing my fears to peeling back years of conditioning, it’s been a wild ride, but I can tell you this: living authentically has been the most freeing, joyful, and meaningful thing I’ve ever done. I’ll also talk about the little steps you can take to start showing up as your true self, even if it feels scary as hell. Whether it’s journaling, having those tough conversations, or just looking in the mirror and saying, “I’m enough,” there’s a way forward for you. So, grab your overalls (metaphorically or literally!) and join me for this deep, honest chat about what it means to live your truth. I hope my story inspires you to take that next step toward your own authenticity—because you deserve it, and the world needs your magic. Let’s do this together. Keep your overalls on and press play! Join the conversation, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs it. Together, let’s own our stories and make authenticity contagious. Keep your overalls on and dive in! If you’d like to connect with me, collaborate, or explore ways we can work together—whether it’s for coaching, storytelling projects, or speaking engagements—I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.biggayoverallspodcast.com or email me directly  Let’s create something meaningful together! 🌟 Connect with us on social: IG, Threads, TikTok: @biggayoverallspodcast Join our supportive community: Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Skool  https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode meaningful!  And please leave me a 5 Star Rating and Review if you love the Podcast! Connect with me Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

This week on the Big Gay Overalls Podcast, it’s a long-awaited, behind-the-scenes Q&A featuring my wife, Sharon! Join us for an honest, heartfelt, and occasionally hilarious conversation as Sharon puts me in the hot seat. From exploring the early days of my coming-out journey to reflecting on the power of connection, identity, and authenticity, we dive deep into the stories that have shaped my life and this podcast. We talk about: Navigating relationships and self-discovery. Overcoming fears and embracing authenticity. The importance of finding your tribe, online and offline. And yes, some wild and funny moments from my dating days. This special episode is packed with candid insights, laughter, and love. Don't forget to send in your questions for future Q&A episodes! Hit subscribe and follow the podcast on all the socials or check out the website at www.biggayoverallspodcast.com. If you’d like to connect with me, collaborate, or explore ways we can work together—whether it’s for coaching, storytelling projects, or speaking engagements—I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.biggayoverallspodcast.com or email me directly  Let’s create something meaningful together! 🌟 Connect with us on social: IG, Threads, TikTok: @biggayoverallspodcast Join our supportive community: Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Skool  https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode meaningful!  And please leave me a 5 Star Rating and Review if you love the Podcast! Connect with me Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

In this heartfelt episode I sit down with Denise from Rainbow Remix to unpack the complex emotions and fears surrounding recent political turmoil in the U.S.  Despite living oceans apart—Lisa in Australia and Denise in the UK—we explore how the LGBTQI+ community worldwide can come together, offering validation, support, and action to those who feel unseen and unsafe.  Together, we share valuable resources, practical ways to be an ally, and the critical importance of small gestures in creating safe spaces. This episode reminds us all that even across borders, the power of empathy and solidarity can make a profound difference.  Tune in for a grounding conversation that strengthens the resolve to stand with and for each other. 🌈💙 Mental Health and Support Resources Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Advocacy and support for LGBTQ+ rights. National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) Legal support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and families. GLAD (Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders) Legal rights organization dedicated to ending discrimination. The Trevor Project Suicide Prevention for LGBTQ+ Young People Hotline: 1-866-488-7386 Crisis intervention and mental health support for LGBTQ+ youth. Q Chat Space Online chat community for LGBTQ+ teens. Garden of Peace Project Support for marginalized communities, including safe passage resources. Crisis Support Lines (U.S. Based) Trans Lifeline Hotline: 1-877-565-8860 Support line run by and for trans people. BlackLine Hotline: 1-800-604-5841 Support for Black, Native, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities. Thrive Lifeline Hotline: 1-313-662-8209 Crisis line led by trans individuals, focused on marginalized groups. LGBT National Help Center Hotline: 1-888-843-4564 Resources and peer-support hotline for the LGBTQ+ community. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Hotline: 988 Available for anyone in crisis in the U.S., with trained counselors available 24/7. These resources provide essential support for the LGBTQ+ community and can be lifesaving for those in crisis. Share them widely and keep them handy to offer help to someone in need. Assistance in areas such as mental health, peer support, and general well-being. Here are some notable organizations: Australian National Services: QLife: Provides anonymous, LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral services via telephone and webchat from 3 pm to midnight daily. Contact them at 1800 184 527 or visit qlife.org.au. Beyond Blue: Offers mental health support with resources specifically for LGBTIQ+ individuals. Reach them at 1300 224 636 or explore their resources at beyondblue.org.au. Lifeline: Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au. Additional Resources: Rainbow Door: A free service providing support, information, and referrals to LGBTIQA+ individuals in Victoria. Contact them at 1800 729 367 or visit rainbowdoor.org.au. LGBTIQ+ Health Australia: The national peak health organization for LGBTIQ+ health, offering various resources and support services. Learn more at lgbtiqhealth.org.au. These organizations are dedicated to supporting the LGBTIQ+ community across Australia. If you or someone you know needs assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to these services. These resources are here for anyone who needs them, and sharing them is a simple way to show support, especially if you know someone who might be struggling. 🌟 Connect with us on social: IG, Threads, TikTok: @biggayoverallspodcast Join our supportive community: Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Skool Subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode meaningful! Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Website www.biggayoverallspodcast.com Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

In this episode of the Big Gay Overalls Podcast, I dive into the complex journey of navigating friendships after coming out later in life. I share my her personal experiences with shifting relationships, the anxiety of revealing her true self to longtime friends, and the challenges that come with redefining support networks. Whether you’re in the midst of your own journey or seeking to support a loved one, I offer insights on handling friendship shifts with courage and grace. I reflect on the grief and joy that come from embracing authenticity, recognising that true friendships will evolve alongside us. 🌈💙 Tune in for an honest conversation about finding your “soul friends” and building resilient, supportive circles as you step into your true self. Share your own experiences in the comments, connect with our amazing community, and, as always, keep embracing who you are. 🏳️‍🌈💪 🌟 Connect with us on social: IG, Threads, TikTok: @biggayoverallspodcast Join our supportive community: Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Skool (link in the show notes) Subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode meaningful! #BigGayOverallsPodcast #ComingOutJourney #FriendshipAndGrowth #LGBTQCommunity #Authenticity Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Website www.biggayoverallspodcast.com Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

I’m thrilled to welcome Angela Briones, the remarkable host of The Gay Podcast For Everyone. We dive into everything from the importance of embracing your unique voice to navigating the lifelong process of coming out, both to ourselves and others. Angela shares her personal journey of being in the closet for over a decade and how she finally found the courage to tell her truth. We also explore the shared experiences of late-in-life realisations, the complex journey to self-acceptance, and the role of empathy in supporting loved ones. Whether it's about breaking stereotypes, finding chosen family, or opening up conversations for parents and allies, this episode is packed with honest storytelling and deep insight. Don’t miss out on this engaging and heartfelt discussion filled with laughter, and powerful takeaways. If you're seeking inspiration, understanding, or simply a good chat, hit play and join us! Find Angela Briones and The Gay Podcast For Everyone here: Instagram/Threads: @thegaypodcast_foreveryone Make sure to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts or questions. We love hearing from you! Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Website www.biggayoverallspodcast.com Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

In this heartfelt episode of the Big Gay Overalls Podcast, I am joined by my wife, Sharon, for a candid discussion about our personal experiences with identity, shame, and societal expectations. From awkward first periods and taboo topics like menstruation, to navigating sexual identity and embracing authenticity later in life, we unpack it all.  Whether you’ve felt the weight of hiding who you truly are or struggled with the shame around natural biological events, this conversation is for you. We dive deep into how we’ve learned to break free from those old stories, own every part of our identities, and support one another along the way.  If you’re on a journey of self-discovery or looking for a space where real conversations happen, don’t miss this episode. And don’t forget to join the Embracing My Big Gay Overalls community for more supportive, open discussions! Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/biggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/biggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Website www.biggayoverallspodcast.com Email Lisa@biggayoverallspodcast.com

Welcome back to the Big Gay Overalls Podcast! In this episode, I’m sharing a deeply personal story about what it was like living in the closet for 10 years. If you've ever struggled with hiding who you truly are, feeling suffocated by the weight of a double life, or fearing rejection from those around you, this episode is for you. I’ll talk about the fears, the facade, the mental toll, and the eventual breakthrough that allowed me to embrace my true self. This is a story of survival, but more importantly, it's a story of freedom. It’s time to shed the shame, stop hiding, and live in full colour. I hope my journey will inspire you to reflect on your own path toward authenticity and self-love. If you or someone you know needs support in this journey, don’t forget to check out our ‘Embracing My Big Gay Overalls’ community—it’s a safe space for anyone navigating the complexities of coming out and living authentically. Subscribe, share, and join us on this powerful journey to freedom and acceptance! #ComingOut #LivingAuthentically #BigGayOveralls #LGBTQJourney #OvercomingFear #SelfAcceptance #FreedomInAuthenticity" Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Website www.biggayoverallspodcast.com

In this episode of Big Gay Overalls Podcast, I am joined by the inspiring Jen Vertanen, a coach, podcaster, and powerhouse advocate for living your best damn life. Together, they dive into the complexities of coming out late in life, the challenges of living in the closet for years, and the liberation that comes with finally embracing your true self. Jen shares her personal journey of navigating life’s ups and downs, balancing a corporate career, and stepping into her identity as a pansexual woman. The two explore how living authentically, even if it means reinventing yourself in your 50s, brings unmatched freedom and joy. They also discuss the importance of community, self-love, and not letting societal labels define who you are. If you’ve ever felt out of place or struggled to live authentically, this episode will resonate deeply. Our conversation is real, raw, and filled with empowering insights on how to break free from societal expectations, own your story, and create a life of joy and meaning. 🌈 Key Points:  - Jen’s journey from feeling lost to embracing her true identity - The emotional weight of living in the closet and how to step out - Reclaiming your narrative and finding freedom later in life - How to navigate life’s chaos while embracing your authentic self - The power of community and support in living unapologetically Subscribe to the Big Gay Overalls Podcast for more candid conversations on living your most authentic, unfiltered life. Let's break the mould, together. 💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Have you felt the shift from living in the closet to owning your story? Share your experiences! 👖 Join the Embracing My Big Gay Overalls community: https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about 🔗 Follow us on Instagram and Threads: @biggayoverallspodcast #BigGayOverallsPodcast #LivingAuthentically #ComingOutStory #LateBloomer #LGBTQI #SelfLove

In this episode of Big Gay Overalls Podcast, I take a deep dive into the concept of self-love and what it really means—especially for those of us coming out later in life.  Spoiler alert: it’s all about giving yourself grace and being okay with not getting everything right from the get-go.  Coming out late in life means you’re probably carrying decades of internalised doubt and shame, and it’s easy to think that everything will just fall into place once you come out. But as I share from my own experience, it’s a process. Self-love isn’t instant, and we need to practice forgiveness, patience, and kindness toward ourselves as we navigate this new chapter. I also explore the importance of surrounding yourself with people who celebrate your authentic self. The ones who truly lift you up? They belong in your circle. The rest? Well, they don’t. Setting boundaries and curating the energy you allow in your life is one of the ultimate acts of self-care. Join me for an honest, heartfelt conversation on the challenges and beauty of coming out later in life—and why it’s never too late to embrace who you really are. 🌈💖 Want to dive deeper into this topic or join a supportive community of women on the same journey? Check out the Embracing My Big Gay Overalls group linked in the show notes. Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Pinterest www.pinterest.com/biggayoverallspodcast

🌈🎙️ Welcome to the Big Gay Overalls Podcast! 🎙️🌈 In this episode, we’re thrilled to have Jess Estrada an inspiring CrossFit Coach/Affiliate Owner and proud member of the LGBTQI+ community, join us to talk about her journey of coming out, building strength inside and out, and living authentically. 🌈💪 Jess shares how fitness, community, and self-acceptance have shaped her life and career. ✨ What we dive into in this episode: Jess’s journey to coming out later in life Overcoming challenges and embracing self-acceptance The importance of community and chosen family How to find joy and pride in every step of your journey Whether you’re into fitness, coming out later in life, or just looking for some real talk and inspiration, this episode is for you! Tune in for an uplifting and motivating conversation. 💖 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more incredible stories from the LGBTQI+ community! 🎧 Tune in now and be sure to follow the podcast for more stories from the LGBTQI+ community! #BigGayOverallsPodcast #JessEstrada #CrossFitCoach #LesbianPride #LGBTQIStories #ComingOutJourney #SelfAcceptance #PrideAndStrength #LGBTQIFitness #wlw #lateinlife 

Today I talk through the pursuit of Acceptance, both of myself, others and situations. Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Pinterest www.pinterest.com/biggayoverallspodcast

I am so excited to have Jillian Abby as my guest this week.  She is the author of Perfectly Queer, Speaker, Podcaster & Writer.  We have an amazing conversation about Jillian’s own journey to coming out late in life, and finding purpose, fulfilment and her own happy ending. You can grab a copy of Perfectly Queer through Hay House and also Amazon and other online sellers as well as book stores.  It is also available in Audiobook as ready by Jillian.  Trust me when I say it is worth the read!! Give her a follow Insta www.instagram.com/jillianabbyauthor Threads www.threads.com/jillianabbyauthor TikTok www.tiktok.com/hellojillianabby Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Pinterest www.pinterest.com/biggayoverallspodcast

This week I dig into our need for connection on this wild, crazy journey we are all on.  It can be confusing to find a space where you can unpack your lifetime of experience. Let me know your thoughts…am I just missing the point? Podcast with the team from The Rainbow Remix https://youtu.be/2UwYU1qmcsc?si=Fm8D-DSBjxqLKeyB Give them a follow Insta www.instagram.com/the_rainbow_remix Threads www.threads.com/the_rainbow_remix Connect with me Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1 Pinterest www.pinterest.com/biggayoverallspodcast

This week I have an exciting announcement about our new Skool group - Embracing My Big Gay Overalls.  I've been asked about creating a space for connection so here tis.  Link to join is below But onto the episode and this is a big one this week.  I talk through some of the process I took and the feelings I felt with initiating separation from my then husband.   Embracing My Big Gay Overalls Community https://www.skool.com/embracing-my-big-gay-overalls-7167/about Follow us Instagram www.instagram.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast Threads www.threads.com/mybiggayoverallspodcast TikTo https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast?_t=8pDLqxeBnzr&_r=1

This week I dig into things I have realised I am still afraid of on this journey.

This week I am excited to introduce my amazing wife Sharon to talk through her journey as coming out late in life and the foundations of our relationship

This week I talk about all the labels that are attached to being LGBTQI+ either by ourselves or others. And are they really neccessary? All prompted by a new hair cut......

Well we all had to start somewhere and this is part of my story I have rarely spoken about. My first female relationship. This contiues my quest to find true authenticity and mbrace my own story