Episode 589: Joni and Phil Broderick and Their Gay Son Kyle

My friends Joni and Phil Broderick (parents of four) and their gay son Kyle (recent BYU graduate) join us from their home in Virginia to share their story. Kyle talks about his journey to address and resolve being gay and LDS which reached a crossroads on his mission in Africa where he decided to end his mission and return home. Kyle’s parents learned—in a jolting message—that their son was gay and coming home from his mission. Kyle talks about his experiences at BYU (some good and some difficult) and deciding to step away from the Church. Joni and Phil talk about being on the receiving side of Kyle’s message and how they navigated this new reality. They talk about their path to learn how to support Kyle and address their fears—which included reading books, listening to podcasts, and prayer. Joni talks about coming to Utah to attend a NorthStar conference and learning as she arrived in Utah that Kyle was participating in a rally at BYU regarding the honor code changes. Joni talks about her decision to make signs and then attend that rally with Kyle which was covered by the Salt Lake Tribune (link in the show notes). This was a deeply spiritual experience for her. Joni and Phil talk about their personal revelation for their family and what we can do as a church to better support LGBTQ families. This is a powerful and moving podcast. If you are parents (with or without a queer child) please listen to this podcast. If you are a local leader, please listen to this podcast. It will help you be better parents and/or local leaders. And if you are a LGBTQ Latter-day Saint, I believe this will help you. Thank you, Joni, Phil and Kyle, for sharing your story. It is a beautiful family love story that will help so many! Links mentioned in the podcast: https://www.sltrib.com/news/education/2020/03/06/hundreds-byu-students/ https://www.instagram.com/p/CiiE17trsfW/ https://deseretbook.com/p/love-boldly-embracing-your-lgbtq-loved-ones-and-your-faith ** Please Check Out My LGBTQ Book At: ** Deseret Book: www.deseretbook.com/p/listen-learn-and-love-embracing-lgbtq-latter-day-saints Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/1462135773 ** Want to develop church-supported LGBTQ activities in your local area? Please join our FB group below ** https://www.facebook.com/groups/1433556613672143