Episode 770: Lori LeVar Pierce, President Exponent II, LGBTQ Ally, Feminist, Active LDS

My friend Lori LeVar Pierce (grew up in the South, BA and MBA from BYU, corporate executive, married mother of three, teacher, lives in Columbus, Mississippi) joins us to introduce listeners to Exponent II—which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Lori talks about the purpose of Exponent II (including a quarterly magazine, a blog, annual retreat) as it supports Mormon women and gender minorities. Lori also shares insights for other Latter-day Saints who are navigating the sometimes-complex road of career, family, marriage, and church participation—including where women’s voices sometimes are not fully sought after or valued. Lori also talks about how to best support her three children—all of which are queer—including a transgender (they/them) child, and two bisexual children. I was so moved with Lori’s perspective and principals to help other parents support their queer kids. This family story is a beautiful love story. Thank you, Lori, for being on the podcast. Your mature and thoughtful voice and perspective is needed. I learned so much from you. I’m grateful for your work (and many others) at Exponent II as we work to expand the borders of Zion where more feel welcome, needed and a greater sense of belonging. I encourage everyone to listen to this episode and check out Exponent II. Links: Exponent II: exponentii.org/ Exponent II fundraiser: exponentii.org/support/ Subscribe to the Exponent II Magazine: exponentii.org/product/subscription/ Lori’s e-mail: board@exponentii.org Lori’s blog post mentioned in the podcast: exponentii.org/blog/guest-post-what-i-wanted-to-say-today-in-testimony-meeting/ Candice Wendt blog post mentioned in the podcast: exponentii.org/blog/guest-post-the-insidious-exchange-of-community-for-covenants/