Grab your handbells, folks, because on this week's episode we dive into the topic of shame *bell sound* with none other than the shame sommelier himself, A.J. Bond!

I am so excited to have A.J. on the podcast because his podcast, Discomfortable, was a huge help for me while coming out (linked my favorite gay-themed episodes below!). Having him on Reaching Out was such a fun full circle moment for me.

A.J. goes in-depth on his coming out story and shares a few powerful memories and shame-related experiences that shaped his journey from a very young age.  It's an incredible story (and reminder) of how much shame and coming out -- or not coming out -- can be intertwined.  He is so knowledgable about the subject that it's absolutely fascinating to hear him speak about it.  I really think that some listeners will have a few 'aha!' moments as he explains how it's all connected.

Links:

• Instagram @a_j_bond
• Twitter @discomfrtble
• Michael's Discomfortable Podcast Recommendations:
  1. Getting Discomfortable with Being Gay
  2. Getting Discomfortable with Gay Sex
  3. Getting Discomfortable with Nail Polish
  4. Getting Discomfortable with Dancing
• Discomfortable Website -- A.J.'s book, coaching, and more
• Hirsute -- A.J.'s multiverse short film

Follow along with Reaching Out!

• Instagram @reachingoutpod
• Twitter @reachingoutpod
• Host @michaelwingsit