What does it mean to come out later in life — and then learn how to live, work, and lead from that truth?

In this powerful returning guest episode of Empowered & Out, Coach Jon welcomes back Aime Hutton for a deeper conversation about identity, self-acceptance, coming out in adulthood, and what it takes to feel safe and seen in the workplace. Aime shares her personal journey of coming out in her 40s, the fear she carried before saying it out loud, the role family played in that process, and how self-acceptance became her superpower.

Together, Jon and Aime unpack what authenticity really looks like when you are still figuring yourself out on your own timeline. They also dig into workplace inclusion, disability advocacy, accommodations, belonging, and the difference between simply surviving at work and actually thriving there.

Aime also shares insights from her work with Open Door Group’s Work Abilities Program, where she helps adults living with barriers find meaningful, lasting employment, along with her leadership as Chair of the Gender and Sexual Diversity Advisory Board for the Calgary Police Service.

This conversation is honest, affirming, and deeply needed for anyone navigating identity, confidence, and career without wanting to abandon themselves in the process.

Chapters:
00:00 Welcome back and introducing returning guest Aime Hutton
02:12 Aime’s new role with Open Door Group and today’s focus
03:40 Energy check-in and grounding through work and weather
06:14 “Self-acceptance is my superpower” — where that came from
11:26 What was happening internally before coming out
13:23 Fear, family, and what felt most at risk
17:09 What surprised Aime most after coming out
19:55 Advice for anyone in the “I think I’m ready, but I’m terrified” stage
22:15 Coming out at work and learning what safety really looks like
29:12 Helping adults with barriers find meaningful, lasting employment
32:00 What workplaces need in order for people to thrive
39:43 How employers can rethink inclusive hiring
45:48 Leading systems change with the Calgary Police Service
49:29 Mentoring, pronouns, and speaking to the right room
52:04 Rapid-fire questions with a Canadian twist
57:20 One action step toward self-acceptance without forcing danger
58:53 Final reflections and closing message

If this episode reminded you that you are not behind in your becoming, share it with someone who needs to hear that today. And if you’re ready for support around identity, confidence, workplace belonging, or career direction, book a discovery call through the show notes or DM me the word READY.

https://linktr.ee/empoweredandout