In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, LGBTQ+ civil rights advocate and global lecturer Greg R. Baird sits down with David in Palm Springs to share his journey from growing up closeted in a small Michigan town to becoming a respected educator, storyteller, and champion for allyship. Greg opens up about coming out at 31, navigating painful family rejection, and the moments that shaped his calling—including a life-changing encounter with a student who credits his story with saving her life. Together, David and Greg explore the transformative power of storytelling, finding community after coming out, and learning to live with courage, connection, and authenticity at any age. This episode offers wisdom, warmth, and hope for anyone on their journey of self-acceptance and belonging.  

Takeaways & Sound Bites  

• Growing up in a small, religious town made coming out feel impossible, but college provided Greg the first space where he could blossom and explore who he truly was.  
• Early advocacy began unintentionally, as Greg and his first boyfriend spoke to college classes about being gay—long before he saw himself as an activist.  
• Family responses to coming out were painful and complicated, but over time, Greg found peace through patience, education, and accepting what could not be changed.  
• Parents’ understanding is shaped by what they know, and sometimes by those influencing them; change, when it comes, can be slow and surprising.  
• You can’t change your parents—only yourself. Greg emphasizes honoring your truth, your energy, and your value, regardless of others’ acceptance.  
• Storytelling is a transformative tool that can change hearts, minds, and even policy by revealing the humanity behind the issues.  
• A life-changing moment with a suicidal student affirmed Greg’s calling to become a global lecturer—proof that sharing your story can save lives.  
• Coming out may not happen overnight, and each person must move at their own pace and readiness. There is no “right” timeline.  
• Finding community after coming out takes intention, whether through shared activities, meetups, support groups, hobbies, or interest-based circles.  
• Real connection requires stepping beyond apps and screens, leaning into face-to-face interactions that build genuine friendships.  
• Introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between can find their place—community can look like wine groups, sports leagues, sober spaces, Disney meetups, or coffee chats.  
• Self-acceptance is foundational; be patient with yourself and trust that your personality, confidence, and comfort in community will grow over time.  
• We need connection now more than ever, especially in a challenging social climate—putting yourself out there, even gently, opens emotional doors you never expected.  
• Letting people in, rather than “coming out,” can be a more compassionate and empowering way to frame revealing your authentic self.  
• You are not alone, and hearing stories like Greg’s or those on Out Late With David can provide life-saving hope, community, and belonging.  

Greg R. Baird:  https://linktr.ee/gregrbaird and  www.GregRBaird.com.  

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/eEBC-_5dYY8   

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg   Certified

Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]
https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com https://linktr.ee/davidacotton  

© 2026 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary

In this powerful follow-up conversation, David talks with Chef Charlie Vollmar on his return to Out Late With David to share how his life has transformed since his first interview 18 months ago. Speaking from Palm Springs, Charlie updates listeners on his reinvention in San Miguel de Allende—rebuilding his life after being outed, creating a new chosen family, relaunching his culinary school, and deepening his work in cultural exchange and philanthropy. With his signature radical vulnerability, he reflects on personal growth, identity, male connection, creativity, and purpose, all while offering honest guidance for others navigating late-in-life coming out journeys. This uplifting episode highlights resilience, authenticity, and the joy of discovering life on the other side of trauma. 

Keywords

#ComingOutLater #GayMen #LGBTQStories #AuthenticLiving #ChosenFamily #ChefCharlieVollmar #SanMiguelDeAllende #PalmSpringsLGBTQ #CulinaryJourneys #GayExpatLife #Self-discovery #Authenticity

Takeaways

• Reinvention at any age is possible.
• Authenticity transforms everything.
• Mexico sparked Charlie’s creative and personal rebirth.
• Chosen family brings deep healing and joy.
• Radical vulnerability can save lives—your own and others’.
• Letting go is often the first step to moving forward.
• There is hope and purpose on the other side of trauma.
• Male connection—emotional, social, spiritual—can be profoundly healing.

Sound Bites

1.  “I didn’t just come out—I became someone I never knew I was allowed to be.”
2.  “Mexico didn’t just give me a new home. It gave me a new mind, a new heart, and a new life.”
3.  “Radical vulnerability wasn’t a choice—it was the door that saved me.”
4.  “At 60, I thought my story was over. It turns out it was only just beginning.”
5.  “I left with two carry-ons, a red backpack, a laptop, and a cup of coffee—and rebuilt everything from nothing.”
6.  “My chosen family filled a space in my heart I didn’t even know was empty.”
7.  “I wake up every day now with one thought: I can’t wait to see who I become today.”
8.  “Authenticity isn’t a destination—it changes every hour with the people you meet and the life you live.”
9.  “There is so much life waiting for us on the other side of trauma. Hold on. There’s always another side.”
10.  “Teaching isn’t my job—it’s my purpose. It’s the gift I get to give away every day.”

The Classic Cocktail Anthony Bourdain Called The 'Perfect Mixed Drink': https://www.tastingtable.com/1360085/classic-cocktail-anthony-bourdain-perfect-drink-negroni/

Boeuf Bourguignon | The French Chef Season 7 | Julia Child: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uruT8FPpeKc

Connecting with Chef Charlie

Chef Charles Vollmar
Epicurean Exchange Culinary Education
Aparicio 25, #5, Zona Centro
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, México

WhatsApp: +1 925-369-4181
Email: [email protected]

Websites:

Education: www.epicureanexchange.com
Travel: www.epexculinarytravel.com
Blog: www.epicureanglobalexchange.com

Social media:
Facebook:

• Charles Vollmar
• Epicurean Exchange Culinary Travel

Threads: @charlesvollmar

Instagram: @charlesvollmar & @epexculinarytravel

Bluesky: @carlitosv.bsky.social

January Cover of GoNaked Magazine 😉 https://gonakedmagazine.com

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com
 
YouTube Edition:  https://youtu.be/BISaHg0YRQs
 
YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg
 
Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
 
Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]
https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com 
https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com 
https://linktr.ee/davidacotton

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary  

Kevin O'Connor shares his profound journey of self-discovery, coming out at 55 after two marriages and raising children. He reflects on his childhood experiences, the struggles of acceptance, and the complexities of navigating relationships. Through candid discussions, he reveals the challenges of living authentically and the joy of finding love with his husband after years of hiding his true self. Kevin emphasizes the importance of embracing one's identity and the lessons learned throughout his life.  

Keywords  

coming out, LGBTQ, self-acceptance, relationships, marriage, personal journey, authenticity, love, family, memoir  

Takeaways  

• Kevin came out at 55 after two marriages.
• He struggled with acceptance from a young age.
• His childhood experiences shaped his understanding of identity.
• Navigating relationships was complex due to his hidden sexuality.
• He found love with his husband after years of self-discovery.
• Kevin emphasizes the importance of authenticity in life.
• He reflects on the challenges of being a gay educator.
• His journey highlights the significance of family support.
• Kevin's story serves as an inspiration for others in similar situations.
• He believes in the power of sharing one's story to help others.

Chapters  

00:00 Kevin O'Connor's Journey of Self-Discovery
02:56 Navigating Early Life and Identity
05:34 College Experiences and Hidden Truths
08:02 Marriage and the Struggle with Identity
10:19 The Complexity of Relationships
11:29 Fatherhood and Compartmentalization
14:11 The Breaking Point of Authenticity
20:41 Embracing Authenticity: The Journey of Coming Out
24:11 Finding Love: The Role of Timing and Connection
29:40 Family Dynamics: Coming Out to Loved Ones
32:46 Reflections on Life: Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
37:05 Closing  

Book Recommendation: 

Journey Out: Memoirs of men coming to grips with their orientation, by Gene Probasco

• https://a.co/d/b2y78Bt

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:  https://youtu.be/IYLGA_lLYGs  

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]
https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
 https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com
https://linktr.ee/davidacotton  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary  

In this episode of Out Late with David, Bill Schroeder shares his transformative journey of coming out as a gay man at the age of 60 after 37 years of marriage. He reflects on the feelings of fear and authenticity that led him to finally embrace his true self. Bill discusses the emotional challenges he faced, the reactions of his family, and the importance of self-discovery. He emphasizes that it's never too late to live authentically and offers advice for others who may be struggling with their identity.   Keywords   coming out, LGBTQ, authenticity, self-discovery, family dynamics, life coaching, personal growth, emotional journey, gay men, late life coming out  

Takeaways  

• Turning 60 was a pivotal moment for Bill.
• He felt his life was fake before coming out.
• Fear of losing family and friends kept him in the closet.
• Bill's camping trip was a time for deep reflection.
• His ex-wife's support was crucial for his journey.
• Family reactions varied, with his daughter initially upset.
• Bill's son took time to accept his father's new identity.
• He found a sense of belonging in the LGBTQ community.
• Authenticity has brought him peace and happiness.
• Bill encourages others to take baby steps in their journey.

 Sound Bites  

"I wanted to feel more authentic."
"I could have done this 10 years ago."
"Fear kept me in the closet for years."  

Chapters  
00:00 A Turning Point at 60
12:40 The Journey of Coming Out
19:55 Authenticity and Self-Discovery
22:09 Advice for Others in the Closet  

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:  https://youtu.be/9TEPfX13JB8  

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]
https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com https://linktr.ee/davidacotton  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary  

In this conversation with David, LGBTQ+ ally and researcher Kami Hunley-Jackson, who shares her personal journey and research on the coming out process, particularly focusing on the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. The former Latter Day Saint is the mother of two LGBTQ+ children and sister to her gay brother. She discusses the challenges faced by families, the impact of religion, and the importance of communication and support systems. Kami emphasizes the need for understanding and acceptance, both for those coming out and their loved ones, and highlights the mental health implications of the coming out journey. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of religious acceptance and the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue.   Keywords   coming out, LGBTQ+, acceptance, mental health, family support, religion, communication, research, personal stories, allyship  

Takeaways  

• Kami's personal experiences with her children and brother shaped her understanding of the coming out process.
• The decision between religious beliefs and family acceptance can be a painful conflict for parents.
• Supportive communities, like Mama Dragons, provide essential resources for families of LGBTQ+ individuals.
• The theater community often offers a more accepting environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Kami's research revealed that non-religious individuals tend to communicate better during the coming out process.
• Mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, were prevalent among the study participants.
• Self-acceptance is a crucial step in the coming out journey, often requiring individuals to confront their identity.
• The coming out process is deeply personal and should be respected as such by family members.
• Creating a safe space for communication is vital for both the individual coming out and their loved ones.
• Religious institutions are evolving, with some becoming more inclusive of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Sound Bites  

• "I realized that I needed to search my own heart."
• "The love of a mother over the situation."
• "I acted differently this time around."  

Audio Chapters  

00:00 Understanding the Importance of Coming Out
02:36 Personal Journeys: Family and Acceptance 05:25 The Role of Religion in Coming Out
08:35 Research Insights: Communication and Relationships
11:13 Mental Health and the Coming Out Process
14:05 Support Systems and Resources
16:48 Advice for Families and Individuals
19:51 Looking Ahead: Future Research Directions  

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:   https://youtu.be/jCsPAB9C2aM 

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact David: 

• mailto:[email protected]
• https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
• https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com
• https://linktr.ee/davidacotton  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary  

At age 67, Wendy Cole transitioned from male to female after a lifetime of hiding her true identity. In this candid conversation, Wendy shares the emotional cost of repression, her turning point in 2014, and how she found joy, health, and purpose by finally embracing who she is. Now a mentor and advocate, Wendy is helping others navigate their own gender journeys and working to humanize what it means to be transgender.  

Keywords  

transgender, coming out, identity, support, mental health, community, authenticity, transition, LGBTQ+, personal growth  

Takeaways  

• Wendy transitioned male to female at age 67.
• She felt a lifelong sense of not belonging.
• Gender identity is formed in the brain during the second trimester.
• Wendy faced significant societal and familial pressure to conform.
• She repressed her identity for decades due to fear and shame.
• The DSM's classification of LGBTQ+ identities has evolved over time.
• Wendy found support and community later in life.
• She emphasizes the importance of living authentically.
• Wendy's mission is to educate others about transgender experiences.
• It's never too late to pursue one's true identity.

Sound Bites  

• "I was punished for breaking my glasses."
• "I was taken to a psychiatrist."
• "I was threatened with being committed."
• "I couldn't take it anymore."
• "I was doing this out of survival."
• "I was pretty much on my own."
• "I was going to do this for me."
• "It's never too late to take charge."

Audio Chapters  

00:00  Wendy's Journey of Self-Discovery
11:58  The Struggles of Repression and Acceptance
22:15  Transitioning and Finding Community
32:29  Living Authentically and Educating Others  

More About Wendy Cole:   

• http://meetwendycole.com/
• https://wendycolegtm.net/category/podcasts/
• Demystifying the Transgender Journey Podcast: https://wendycolegtm.net/episode-001-demystifying-this-podcast/

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:    https://youtu.be/eU5v97dHNIs 

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact David: 

• mailto:[email protected]
• https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
• https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com
• https://linktr.ee/davidacotton  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Thank you to Jon & Brian of Out Loud for allowing me to publish this episode from their podcast. You guys are fantastic! I've been a fan since I first discovered you on YouTube! Keep living your life, OUT LOUD!!

Out Loud Podcast with Jon and Brian:

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-loud/id1560962922
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHLEcaJ0RewmS9XyfVa-fww

Summary  

In this episode of Out Late With David, David Cotton is a guest on the podcast, Out Loud, while visiting Key West FL. Along with the hosts of Out Loud, Jon and Brian, they discuss the complexities of coming out later in life, the importance of community support, and the dynamics of relationships, especially for older gay men. He shares insights from his experiences and those of his guests, emphasizing the need for authenticity, compassion, and understanding in navigating personal journeys and family dynamics. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by older men in the dating world and offers advice on how to approach relationships with clarity and openness.  

Keywords  

coming out, LGBTQ, age gap relationships, gay community, life coaching, support, authenticity, family dynamics, relationships, self-discovery  

Takeaways  

• Coming out later in life can be a complex journey.
• Community support is crucial for those coming out.
• Navigating family dynamics requires patience and understanding.
• Authenticity is key to living a fulfilling life.
• Older men face unique challenges in dating.
• It's important to communicate clearly in relationships.
• Self-acceptance is a vital part of the coming out process.
• Compartmentalization can hinder personal growth.
• You can maintain relationships even after coming out.
• Love can be found unexpectedly, regardless of age.

Sound Bites

• "Don't rush into coming out."
• "I couldn't continue living a lie."
• "You have to accept who you are."
• "I feel transparent many times."

Audio Chapters  

00:00  Introduction to Out Late with David
01:06  Coming Out Later in Life
04:05  The Role of Community and Support
07:54  Navigating Relationships and Family Dynamics
12:09  The Impact of Age and Experience
15:54  Living Authentically and Finding Peace
18:45  Advice for Older Men in Dating  

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:   https://youtu.be/YOGFb9CWCjw  

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]  
https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com
https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com
https://linktr.ee/davidacotton

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary  

In this conversation, Wayne Scott shares his journey through a mixed orientation marriage, detailing the challenges and transformations he and his wife faced. They navigated the complexities of identity, love, and commitment, ultimately redefining their relationship through non-monogamy. Wayne emphasizes the importance of communication, patience, and the willingness to adapt as individuals grow over time. His story serves as a testament to the possibility of creating a fulfilling partnership that honors both personal and shared desires.  

Keywords  

mixed orientation marriage, non-monogamy, relationships, LGBTQ+, marriage advice, communication, love story, personal growth, therapy, bisexuality, coming out, LGBTQ+  

Takeaways  

• Mixed orientation marriages can thrive without ending in divorce.
• Communication is key in navigating relationship challenges.
• Non-monogamy can be a viable option for some couples.
• Patience is essential when exploring new relationship dynamics.
• It's important to redefine what marriage means to you.
• Love can persist through difficult transitions in a relationship.
• Couples can create their own rules for their relationship.
• Support from a therapist can facilitate difficult conversations.
• Children can adapt to their parents' non-traditional relationships.
• Personal growth is a continuous journey within a marriage.

Sound Bites  

• "It doesn't always end in divorce."
• "A new idea turned his marriage into a love story."
• "Your marriage can be whatever you want it to be."
• "It's okay to take a couple years to figure it out."
• "It can be whatever you want it to be."
• "They chose to break the rules and norms of society."

Audio Chapters  

00:00 Navigating Mixed Orientation Marriages
09:50 The Shift to Non-Monogamy
20:01 Lessons Learned from Non-Traditional Relationships  

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:    https://youtu.be/wHFdiTkYoYk  

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

In this episode of Out Late with David, Stefan Schneider shares his journey of coming out as gay, navigating relationships, and building a modern family. He reflects on the challenges of coming out in the early 90s, the impact of his sexuality on his marriage, and the emotional turmoil of divorce. Through self-discovery and therapy, Stefan learns to embrace his identity and finds happiness in his new life with his husband and blended family. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, communication, and the complexities of family dynamics in the LGBTQ+ community.   

Takeaways  

• Coming out is a complex process that varies for everyone.
• The societal context during the early 90s made coming out challenging.
• Authenticity in relationships can create both closeness and tension.
• Divorce can be a painful but necessary step towards self-acceptance.
• Rebuilding relationships with children requires patience and love.
• Self-discovery often involves confronting difficult truths about oneself.
• Having a clear vision of what you want in a partner can guide your choices.
• The journey to happiness is not linear and requires effort.
• Childhood experiences can shape one's understanding of identity.
• Creating a supportive environment for children is crucial during transitions.

Sound Bites  

• "I just wanted to fit in and be normal."
• "The only way out is through sometimes."
• "I always wanted to be a dad."
• "I had to sacrifice something of myself."
• "I felt like I had split up my family."
• "We met on Christian Mingle."  

Chapters  

00:00 Navigating Identity and Relationships
15:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery
30:00 Building a Blended Family
33:48 Reflections on Happiness and Authenticity  

Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:  https://youtu.be/YGWJGVhw2s8

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Summary  

Mark Dembo shares his journey of coming out at the age of 59, reflecting on the challenges and transformations he faced in his relationships, particularly with his wife and children. He discusses the emotional weight of living a life that felt inauthentic and the liberation he felt upon embracing his true self. Mark emphasizes the importance of support from family and community, and the complexities of navigating a mixed-orientation marriage. His story highlights the potential for love and acceptance even in the face of significant life changes. Mark emphasizes the significance of love and understanding in navigating the challenges of coming out later in life, offering insights and advice for others on similar journeys.   Keywords   coming out, LGBTQ, self-discovery, relationships, family dynamics, support groups, acceptance, personal growth, authenticity, mental health  

Takeaways  

• Coming out later in life can be a complex journey.
• Self-acceptance often comes with emotional weight.
• Support from family is crucial during the coming out process.
• Navigating relationships requires patience and understanding.
• Community support can provide a sense of belonging.
• Publicly embracing one's identity can be liberating.
• It's important to allow space for emotions in relationships.
• Guilt is a common feeling for those coming out later in life.
• Maintaining friendships post-separation is possible.
• Every individual's journey is unique, but shared experiences can help.

Sound Bites  

• "I was living somebody else's life."
• "I consider myself so very lucky in who she is."
• "I want to do whatever I can to help."
• "You have nothing to feel guilty for."
• "I recognize that I didn't choose this."
• "I can't fight that; it's who I am."

Audio Chapters  

00:00 Mark's Journey of Self-Discovery
07:51 The Impact of Coming Out on Relationships
15:45 Navigating Family Dynamics
20:57 Finding Community and Support
26:05 Publicly Embracing Authenticity  


Podcast website and resources: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com  

YouTube Edition:  https://youtu.be/8RrNuddNU-c  

YouTube Channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg  

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton:  https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com  

Contact me:  mailto:[email protected]  

© 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.