Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated today at a college speaking event in Utah. Regardless of where you stand politically, murder is never the answer to disagreement. In this special episode, Joe and Rya give us their personal response to the news.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Understanding the difference between supportive curiosity and invasive questioning isn't just about avoiding awkwardness. Many of us want to ask questions about LGBTQ experiences. We care deeply and want to show genuine interest, but the fear of saying something wrong keeps us from asking authentic questions. The truth is, some questions that feel perfectly reasonable in our minds can actually hurt the people we're trying to support. Even worse, we might be asking those questions right now without realizing it. This episode gives three rules for knowing which questions are okay and which are not.

Photo by Andy Rennie

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

It's our third year anniversary of Trandescendant Podcast! And boy, do we have a shocking episode for you. We decided to expand our podcast from two to three generations. And this might surprise you, but Rya has a transgender son. This is his story. You might expect that having a transgender parent would make the journey easier for a transgender child, but the reality is far more complex. Each person's path to authenticity looks different, even within the same family. Kelly shares how college transformed his confidence and allowed him to step fully into his identity, while Rya reflects on her own very different transition experience. Joe offers the rare perspective of a grandfather who has supported two family members through transition, revealing insights that only come from walking this path multiple times. 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Have you ever tried to have an important conversation with a family member only to watch it explode into an argument you never wanted? Most people think there are only two choices when something needs to be addressed: stay silent and let resentment build, or speak up and risk a fight. But there's another option. Joe and Rya break down a simple five-step method that transforms even the most sensitive topics into productive conversations. Whether you're advocating for an LGBTQ family member or addressing your own needs, this approach turns potential conflicts into opportunities for deeper understanding and stronger relationships.

Photo by Kindel Media 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

What happens when the conversations that matter most feel impossible to have? Too many families avoid difficult talks until relationships reach a breaking point. They think they're protecting each other when they're actually making everything worse. Most family conflicts aren't caused by different beliefs. What matters is how we approach our loved ones. When you practice these two simple conversation techniques, even the hardest topics become manageable. This episode gives us proven tools that work when relationships feel like they're hanging by a thread.

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Have you ever noticed how some of the most hurtful rejections come wrapped in language that sounds accepting? Coded phrases hide judgment behind politeness, creating what feels like acceptance but actually delivers conditional love with strings attached. From military culture to church communities, conditional acceptance creates exhausting energy costs for LGBTQ+ people who must constantly manage which parts of themselves are acceptable. Love that comes with disclaimers and conditions isn't really love at all. 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

The global landscape of LGBTQ+ rights reveals dramatic contrasts that might surprise you. While places like Iceland, Canada, and the Netherlands boast acceptance rates above 90%, over 30 countries in sub-Saharan Africa still criminalize LGBTQ+ identities entirely. Yet beneath these stark differences lies a hopeful truth: younger generations worldwide are driving unprecedented change. From Taiwan becoming Asia's first country to legalize same-sex marriage to underground activist networks fighting back in the Middle East, progress is happening in unexpected places. The generation that grew up with the internet has created a global culture of acceptance that transcends borders, and the statistics prove it. For the first time in history, a majority of people globally say their area is a good place for gay and lesbian people to live.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Is it better to stop hiding who you are, or are there times when staying private is the better choice? This question divides even the most supportive allies and LGBTQ+ advocates. From teenagers navigating hostile family situations to adults managing workplace dynamics, every coming out decision is complicated. The debate is even more layered when considering the differences in coming out between gay and transgender people. How can allies be most supportive? Advocates of both perspectives offer compelling arguments that deserve serious consideration before we make a decision as a community.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Real people are losing access to healthcare, having their gender markers erased, and watching their rights disappear with each new executive order and state law. While some allies post supportive messages online, many don't grasp the depth of fear gripping the LGBTQ+ community right now. Joe and Rya examine the harsh realities while also spotlighting victories around the world. When hate rises, so must we. That means moving from comfortable concern to uncomfortable action. This episode give concrete steps each of us can take to make a real difference.

Photo credit: Alex Radelish

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Thousands of Christian parents feel trapped between two impossible choices: fully supporting their LGBTQ+ child or staying faithful to their religious beliefs. This devastating dilemma tears families apart and leaves both parents and children feeling abandoned. Do we have to choose between them, or is it possible to have both?

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show