Ryan Allen Gray grew up in a small town in North Carolina, but once he broke free of small-town America, he figured out ways to really push the boundaries.  He uses music and visual arts to share his story and loves giving others a chance to think more deeply about their beliefs.

Check out his art on...

YouTube
Instagram
TikTok

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You might have thought being gay in Canada would be a much better experience, but as it turns out for Aime Hutton of Calgary, there are some similarities to the United States LGBTQA+ experience.  In this episode, she tells her story of coming out, finding herself and ultimately giving back to the community.

She's a busy woman trying to make things better.

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Learn more about Aime at:

• Website:  www.AimeHutton.ca
• Instagram: Inch by Inch Empowerment
• Facebook: Inch by Inch Empowerment
• Facebook Group:  Inch by Inch Empowerment Community
• LinkedIn: Inclusive Employers Hiring HUB
• LinkedIn: Aime Hutton
• LinkedIn: Inch by Inch Empowerment

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In this powerful episode of the "Gay in America" podcast, a Tennessee mother of two transgender teens shares her compelling journey of resilience and determination. Faced with the harsh reality of anti-trans bias in Tennessee, Jessica found herself at the forefront of a culture war, navigating the challenges of acceptance, understanding, and support for her children.

The episode begins with Jessica's poignant recounting of the moment she arrived in Minnesota, a state she now calls a refuge. Overwhelmed with emotion, she describes seeing a giant trans flag at her neighbor's house and feeling like she had finally found water after traversing a desert. It sets the stage for an intimate exploration of Jessica's experiences, moving beyond the headlines to reveal the personal struggles, heartbreaks, and triumphs.

As the host guides us through Jessica's story, we learn about the initial signs of her children's gender dysphoria and the family's journey through crisis, counseling, and the discovery of a supportive community in Minnesota. The narrative unfolds with a raw honesty, as Jessica reflects on her own moments of tears, prayer, and the sacrifices made for the well-being of her children.

The episode delves into the complexities of leaving Tennessee, a place that was once home but became increasingly unsafe for Jessica's transgender children. We hear about the challenges faced within the family, including the unsupportive reaction of the children's father and the subsequent separation.

However, amidst the struggles, there is a sense of hope and determination. Jessica shares her efforts to rebuild their lives in Minnesota, finding support in the community, and reestablishing herself as a licensed massage therapist. The episode concludes with a glimpse into Jessica's future aspirations, both for her family and her involvement in a coalition supporting families relocating from unsafe states.

Overall, this episode is a poignant exploration of one mother's journey through adversity, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life for her transgender children. It sheds light on the broader issue of families seeking refuge and acceptance in the face of discrimination, providing a compelling narrative that resonates with compassion and understanding.

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Copyright © 2023 Open Roads Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

🎙️ In this episode of "Gay in America," we dive into the inspiring journey of HB Lozito, an LGBTQ+ activist and the executive director of Out in the Open, based in Vermont. HB shares their experiences working to empower rural LGBTQ+ communities, breaking down stereotypes, and fostering connections in unexpected places. From hosting game nights to tackling challenges end-to-end hog butchery, this episode explores the intersection of rural living and LGBTQ+ identity.

Join us for an engaging conversation that touches on the importance of trust, relationships, and building a supportive community. Whether you're living off the beaten path or dreaming of living in a rural landscape, this episode offers insights and resources.

Find out more:

Out in the Open

Andrews Inn Oral History Project

Out in the Open on Instagram

Out in the Open on Facebook

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Copyright © 2023 Open Roads Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Dr. Austin Chiang says he got into medicine because he was interested in science and people.  Once he became a physician, though, he learned that social media is a powerful tool for delivering healthcare information to a new generation of digital natives. This discovery launched a whole new side gig, where he now has a combined 960,000 followers on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok. 

In this episode of Gay in America Podcast, find out how Dr. Chiang got where he is today and how coming out in a conservative Asian family was more of a leaking out experience than a coming out one.

• Instagram:  @austinchiangmd
• Facebook: /AustinChiangMD
• Website:  www.austinchiang.com
• YouTube:  www.youtube.com/austinchiangmd
• TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@austinchiangmd

________________________________________________________________

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Copyright © 2023 Open Roads Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Aiden’s Quest to Live His Truth and Help Transgender People Access Gender Affirming Care in the United States

In this episode of Gay in America, Aiden shares his story of going head-to-head with Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and securing the right for all transgender individuals on Medicaid to receive gender affirming healthcare. This four-year battle came with setbacks, but also crystalized Aiden’s understanding of who he is and what his mission in life should be. Listen to this episode of Gay in America to hear the story of how one man on a mission has helped thousands. There’s also an exciting update to Aiden’s story at the end of the episode. Be sure to listen all the way to the end to find out what’s next on his journey!

Aiden Vasquez (@breakingthechains2016) • Instagram
Transgender Family Love and Support Group | Facebook
Home - TransParent USA
Iowa cannot ban Medicaid for gender confirmation surgery, judge rules (desmoinesregister.com)

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Copyright © 2023 Open Roads Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Breaking Free from Shame: Noah’s Path to Self-Acceptance and an Authentic Life

In this episode, we dive into the life and experiences of Noah Kaib, a 27-year-old pansexual musician who embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery.

Noah grew up in a large Catholic family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and his early years were marked by hiding his true self and the weight of societal expectations. But the pandemic became a turning point in his life, pushing him to question his purpose and authenticity. Join us as Noah shares his inspiring story of resilience, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of his true passion—music.

Discover how Noah's journey led him to create music that tells the stories of the queer experience, breaking free from shame, and embracing his authentic self. From his struggles to his triumphs, Noah's story is a testament to the strength of the LGBTQ+ community and the power of self-expression.

Tune in to learn more about Noah's upcoming album, his musical influences, and the importance of representation in media, all on this episode of the Gay in America Podcast. Don't forget to subscribe and share with your friends to spread the love and inspiration!

Listen to Noah’s Music on Spotify 

Instagram:  @noahkaib

TikTok: @NoahKaibMusic

Visit our website www.GayinAmericaPodcast.com to stay connected with us and share your thoughts on this episode. We love hearing from our listeners!

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Copyright © 2023 Open Roads Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

🏳️‍🌈 Join us on a journey of inspiration and empowerment! Meet Dee Frazier, a remarkable advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in a traditional multinational engineering company. In this eye-opening podcast, Dee shares her path from intern to global chair of the LGBTQ+ employee resource group, where she's driving change and pushing boundaries. Discover her candid exploration of pansexuality, embracing identity, and building chosen families. Dee's story is a testament to the power of acceptance and the importance of safe spaces. She's on a mission to pave the way for others and create a brighter future for LGBTQ+ individuals in America. Tune in and be part of the conversation! 🎙️🌈

Dee's Facebook: DeShanda Frazier

Dee's IG: DeShanda

Dee's Philanthropy: https://itgetsbetter.org/get-help/

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In this thought-provoking episode of "Gay in America," Robert delves into a profound conversation with Dr. Blair Peters, a Canadian surgeon practicing in Portland, Oregon, who specializes in gender affirming care. Dr. Peters shares his journey and insights into this rapidly evolving field of healthcare.

The episode begins with Robert's candid admission of how the ongoing conversation about transgender care in the United States has deeply affected him. He expresses his frustration at the level of hatred emanating from the radical right and how it has left him feeling angry. However, he acknowledges that his conversation with Dr. Peters helps rebalance his thoughts and feelings on the subject, setting the stage for a crucial dialogue.

Dr. Blair Peters, a plastic surgeon specializing in gender affirming surgery, discusses the evolution of this field. He emphasizes that gender affirming care is not just a queer issue but an everyone issue, highlighting its significance in the broader healthcare landscape.

One of the central themes of the episode is the accessibility of gender affirming care in the United States. Dr. Peters sheds light on the challenges and barriers that individuals face when seeking such care. He points out that despite more doctors providing these services, the demand still far exceeds the supply, leading to long wait times, especially for complex surgeries.

Moreover, Dr. Peters addresses misconceptions about gender affirming care, particularly regarding trans youth. He dismantles the false narrative that suggests children are undergoing gender reassignment surgeries, emphasizing that trans kids do not get surgery.

The episode also explores the impact of the current political climate on transgender healthcare and the threats faced by healthcare providers who support the trans community. Dr. Peters reflects on the divisive rhetoric and the dangers it poses to those who provide and receive gender affirming care.

Ultimately, this episode serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and education when it comes to gender affirming care. It highlights the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community in the face of adversity and the need for acceptance and support from society at large.

Instagram:  @queersurgeon
YouTube:  Meet OHSU's Dr. Blair Peters - YouTube
New York Times:  Half the world has a clitoris. Why don't doctors study it?

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Copyright © 2023 Open Roads Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

In this week’s episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Lance, a 20-year-old from Sacramento, California, who turned the challenges of the pandemic into a unique and daring career.

Lance's journey is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the LGBTQ+ community. When the pandemic disrupted his academic path, he made bold decisions that led him down an unexpected and exciting path.

Lance reflects on his pre-pandemic life, sharing how he was on track for a traditional college education and a career in psychology. But when COVID-19 hit, Lance found himself at a crossroads. He opens up about the frustrations of virtual learning and how it pushed him to make a pivotal decision about his future.

Thank you for being a part of our podcast family! Your support, subscriptions, and reviews help us inspire and connect with more listeners. Remember, your voice matters in our mission to share authentic stories from the LGBTQ+ community.

(8)Lance (@mystic_fox2511) | TikTok

Lance Spears ✈️LA Sept 15th-18th (@Pic_perfect1234) / X (twitter.com)

Lance Spears @ JustFor.Fans

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