What happens when the “right thing” steals your voice? We sit down with Sam Leeson, who grew up in a small town where reputation came first and casual homophobia kept her hidden. She married a friend because it felt safe on paper, became a parent she adores, and built a career helping others advocate for themselves in birth and early parenting—while feeling unsafe and unheard at home. A panic attack at a school drop-off cracked the facade, linking past trauma to a present she could no longer tolerate. By 2010, Sam chose to leave, come out, and face the grief, doubt, and judgment that followed.

Sam explains how honoring her children’s needs—letting them live where they felt safest, even with her ex—became the cornerstone of healing. We explore missteps, estrangement, and repair: the son who went quiet, the conversation in a parked car, and the choice to answer every question with honesty when they were ready. She shares the difference between co‑parenting from control versus respect, and how modeling happiness teaches kids to set their own bar. We also unpack family of origin dynamics: a mother who equated parenting with sacrificing joy, the protection of low contact, and the moment a cancer diagnosis reshaped how Sam wanted to move forward. Boundaries, chosen family, and deliberate forgiveness play leading roles.

This conversation is frank about abuse, why survivors don’t “just leave,” and the messy aftermath—financial fear, lonely nights, and the long tunnel toward a brighter life. If you’ve ever felt trapped by expectations or terrified to disappoint people you love, Sam’s story offers a map: choose safety, tell the truth, and let time do its work. Subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more listeners find stories that make brave choices feel possible.

Sam Leeson:

Sam is the founder of babyREADY and has spent over 25 years supporting individuals and couples—especially 2SLGBTQIA+ families—on their journey to parenthood. Through education, coaching, and hands-on care, she’s helped thousands navigate fertility, pregnancy, and early parenting with confidence. A trusted voice in the field, Sam has been featured on international podcasts, national radio programs, and in top parenting publications. Her engaging approach empowers clients to feel seen, supported, and more informed than they ever expected.

website: www.babyREADY.info

Check out her podcast: https://www.babyready.info/becomingpodcast

all socials: @babyREADYlgbtq

Hi and welcome to Thrive and Decide. I’m your host Sarah Thress. This podcast is intended to help women who are going through a divorce, continplating divorce or have lost a spouse feel seen, heard, understood and not alone. All the beautiful souls who share on here are coming from a place of vulnerability and a common belief that sharing your story will help others. You will also hear from industry experts on what to do and not do while going through a divorce.

Sarah Thress
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