Episode 713: Kevin Ahlstrom, Two Gay Brothers, Ally

My friend Kevin Ahlstrom (married father, mid-30’s, active LDS, attorney living in Southern California) joins us to talk about his journey to understand and love his two gay brothers Kyle and Keith. Kevin talks about his earlier years and learning to put aside past conclusions by listening to queer people and then be in a better position to understand, love and support. Kevin talks about seeing healthy, happy same-sex relationships—and how those relationships can thrive just like straight relationships. Kevin talks about the importance of helping queer people not feel shame for who they are, how this isn’t a disability or something that needs to be endured, and what we can do to better support our queer family members. Kevin talks about how our job is to love and not judge. Kevin also talks about his own faith crisis where he and his wife decided to leave the church over this issue—but then decided to stay. Kevin talks about ten ideas he received on what he can do in his circle of influence to support queer members as part of his decision to stay. Kevin also talks about honoring, loving, and supporting those who do step away from the Church. Kevin also talks authentically about why he doesn’t currently hold a temple recommend—but continues to participate/serve in his Ward which he loves and wants to be part of. This was one of the best podcasts we’ve done with a straight family member sharing how to love and support queer family members. It should also be a helpful podcast for LGBTQ members to hear an ally’s voice of love, understanding and support. It is also an excellent podcast for those in a faith crisis over this issue but want to find a way to stay in the Church. Thank you, Kevin, for being on the podcast and being so honest with your thoughts on this tender topic and your relationship with the Church. I was so moved listening to you. Your story will help so many. Links: Kevin’s Facebook post from 2021: www.facebook.com/kevin.ahlstrom.1/posts/pfbid0WJfasUtS3M6sdaa6K4MiLkzQ9qHE7UK5BquQWgLBAEcoJ1Gyy8X3fT8zGYPL58BWl Elder Daines Oct 2023 Conference talk: www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2023/10/13daines?lang=eng Char Ahlstrom (Kevin’s mom) podcast from 2022: soundcloud.com/user-818501778/episode-581-char-ahlstrom-lds-mother-of-6-two-gay-sons Richard Ostler books/bio/etc: www.papaostler.com Facebook Group to support LGBTQ Latter-day Saints: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1433556613672143