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Episode 10: What’s in a Letter? Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Today
In this episode, we open the door to a deeper understanding of the LGBTQ+ community — one that has existed across every culture and era yet continues to evolve in visibility and vocabulary. As the world celebrates WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., we zoom in on the people and stories shaping change right here in our hometown. My guest, Kayla Ionetta — an educator, self-advocate, and chair of the Westport Public Schools Pride Coalition (a Gay Straight Alliance or GSA) — joins the podcast to explore identity, understanding, and how we support LGBTQ+ youth in a shifting political landscape.
Listen as GenX (me) talks to a Millennial member of the LGBTQ+ community (Kayla) about GenZ LGBTQ youth today. A delightful and enriching conversation.
What You’ll Learn
- LGBTQ+ 101: Clear distinctions between sexual orientation, gender identity, and how we feel, identify, and express ourselves.
- Personal Stories: Kayla (she/they) shares their journey as a gay, gender-fluid individual and the power of self-definition.
- Old Truths, New Terms: Are LGBTQ+ identities truly new—or have they always been part of the human story, only now being recognized and named?
- Youth Support: How local programs—from middle school mentorships to high school Pride events—create safe spaces, and the questions around parental notification and group support.
- DEI Backlash: Amid rising opposition to diversity and inclusion, how does the LGBTQ+ community remain visible and vocal?
Why This Episode Matters
Identity is not a debate—it’s a part of being human. This episode cuts through the noise with a candid, compassionate dialogue across generations and identities. Whether you’re a parent, educator, ally, or just curious, this episode challenges assumptions, humanizes complex issues, and reminds us that every young person deserves the freedom to be seen, supported, and safe.
Stay Connected:
- LinkTree page with all ways to listen, follow, and subscribe
- Follow What Do I Know? on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok
- Not on social media? Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter for new episodes and recaps
- Podcast Website listen, follow, subscribe, and learn about Bill’s story and podcast purpose
- YouTube Channel with supplemental content
View all episodes
By Bill Shakos
4.6
55 ratings
In this episode, we open the door to a deeper understanding of the LGBTQ+ community — one that has existed across every culture and era yet continues to evolve in visibility and vocabulary. As the world celebrates WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., we zoom in on the people and stories shaping change right here in our hometown. My guest, Kayla Ionetta — an educator, self-advocate, and chair of the Westport Public Schools Pride Coalition (a Gay Straight Alliance or GSA) — joins the podcast to explore identity, understanding, and how we support LGBTQ+ youth in a shifting political landscape.
Listen as GenX (me) talks to a Millennial member of the LGBTQ+ community (Kayla) about GenZ LGBTQ youth today. A delightful and enriching conversation.
What You’ll Learn
- LGBTQ+ 101: Clear distinctions between sexual orientation, gender identity, and how we feel, identify, and express ourselves.
- Personal Stories: Kayla (she/they) shares their journey as a gay, gender-fluid individual and the power of self-definition.
- Old Truths, New Terms: Are LGBTQ+ identities truly new—or have they always been part of the human story, only now being recognized and named?
- Youth Support: How local programs—from middle school mentorships to high school Pride events—create safe spaces, and the questions around parental notification and group support.
- DEI Backlash: Amid rising opposition to diversity and inclusion, how does the LGBTQ+ community remain visible and vocal?
Why This Episode Matters
Identity is not a debate—it’s a part of being human. This episode cuts through the noise with a candid, compassionate dialogue across generations and identities. Whether you’re a parent, educator, ally, or just curious, this episode challenges assumptions, humanizes complex issues, and reminds us that every young person deserves the freedom to be seen, supported, and safe.
Stay Connected:
- LinkTree page with all ways to listen, follow, and subscribe
- Follow What Do I Know? on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok
- Not on social media? Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter for new episodes and recaps
- Podcast Website listen, follow, subscribe, and learn about Bill’s story and podcast purpose
- YouTube Channel with supplemental content
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