Chely Wright, the groundbreaking country music star, joins us today to share her powerful journey of coming out and reclaiming her narrative. As the first major country artist to publicly embrace her truth, Chely reflects on the fear and courage it took to break barriers in a genre not known for its acceptance. We delve into the significance of owning one’s identity, the impact of faith, and how maturity has shifted her perspective on authenticity. Our conversation touches on the challenges faced during her journey, as well as the importance of supporting those who are still navigating their own paths. Get ready for an inspiring discussion filled with wisdom, laughter, and the refreshing reminder that midlife is about embracing who we truly are and living out loud.

Takeaways:

• Chely Wright's courageous decision to come out as a gay country artist in 2010 was a pivotal moment that challenged societal norms and inspired many, showcasing the power of living authentically.
• The conversation highlights the importance of mental health advocacy, with Chely sharing her personal struggles and how therapy played a crucial role in her journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment.
• Midlife is portrayed not as a crisis, but as an opportunity for growth and reinvention, encouraging listeners to embrace change and pursue their passions without fear of judgment. She also opens up about her career pivot into working as the SVP of Corporate Social Responsibility at ISS, and how her country music career prepared her for this transition.
• Chely's insights on parenting emphasize the value of open communication with children, particularly in fostering environments where kids feel safe to share their feelings and experiences.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Oprah
• Ellen DeGeneres
• Iss
• Vanguard Music
• Hoffman Institute
• ISS