In this powerful premiere episode of Hard to Swallow, host Joshua “Joshie” Palmer invites listeners into his deeply personal journey—from growing up immersed in the church to coming out at 27 and rebuilding life, love, and faith on his own terms.

Fresh out of surgery and full of reflection, Joshie shares how ministry once became a mask, how the LGBTQ+ community saved his spirit, and how dating in your late 30s can be equal parts hilarious and exhausting. From kickball fields to dating apps to pop culture obsessions like Labubu and K-pop Demon Hunters, this episode sets the tone for a podcast that is as real as it is relatable.

Whether you’re in the closet, out and proud, deconstructing faith, or just here for the stories—this one’s for you.

Takeaways:

* You don’t have to choose between faith and identity

* App dating is chaos (and we all know it)

* You are worthy of joy, community, and love

🎧 Subscribe now for weekly episodes that’ll make you laugh, cry, reflect—and maybe feel like you just got a virtual warm hug.