Becoming Wilkinson

Chapters:00:00Introduction to My Medical Journey02:58The Car Accident and Its Aftermath05:48Life Changes and New Beginnings08:46Couchsurfing and Unexpected Insights12:05Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Decisions17:46Navigating Medical Challenges and Surgeries23:48Reflections on Health and Healing30:04Recent Developments and Future OutlookSummary:In this podcast, the host shares a deeply personal narrative about his medical journey, starting from a car accident in 1988 that led to chronic pain and a series of health challenges, including a life-threatening blood clot and a prostate cancer diagnosis. He reflects on significant life changes, including coming out as gay, hosting Couchsurfers, and navigating the complexities of the medical system. The conversation also touches on personal growth, resilience, and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. The host concludes with insights gained from a recent road trip and a commitment to continue sharing his journey.Takeaways:The importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.Life can change dramatically due to unexpected events.Couchsurfing provided valuable insights into human connection.Prostate cancer can be slow-growing, requiring careful monitoring.Navigating the medical system can be challenging and frustrating.Personal growth often comes from facing adversity.The mind-body connection plays a crucial role in healing.Sharing personal stories can foster community and support.Travel can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.Maintaining a positive outlook is essential during health challenges.Contact Wilkinson @BecomingWilkinson@gmail.comNote: This is story of my journey, from my perspective.  It's not medical advice.  For that, you need to contact your own medical professional.

Chapters00:00Introduction to Laura Stearns01:42Exploring Trauma and Healing04:03The Impact of Childhood Experiences06:09The Role of Institutions in Abuse08:28Personal Stories of Assault11:04The Aftermath of Trauma12:59Marriage and Relationships Post-Trauma15:06Legislative Changes and Advocacy17:43Public Disclosure and Its Consequences20:38Understanding Trauma in the Arts22:08The Healing Journey and Self-Discovery26:36Navigating Identity and Relationships30:48The Impact of Trauma on Society32:24Current Projects and Future Aspirations35:49Living Authentically and Trusting Your GutSummaryIn this conversation, Laura Stearns shares her journey as an actor, author, and advocate for trauma survivors. She discusses her experiences with childhood trauma, the impact of her time in the theater community, and her healing process. Laura emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma, the implications of the Child Victims Act, and the role of art in healing. She also shares insights from her memoir and her current projects, highlighting the need for community and support for survivors.TakeawaysLaura's journey through trauma began in childhood.The theater community can harbor hidden dangers.Understanding false core beliefs is crucial for healing.The Child Victims Act allows survivors to seek justice.Art can be a powerful tool for healing and expression.Community support is vital for trauma survivors.Litigation can be a re-traumatizing experience.Self-discovery is a key part of the healing process.Sharing stories helps build connections and understanding.Trusting one's gut is essential for personal growth.Laura Stearns' BioLaura studied theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and has been working in professional theater since the age of thirteen. As a theater maker in the Twin Cities, which included twelve years on staff at the world-renowned Guthrie Theater, Laura has worked with some of the most talented artists from around the world, both on and off stage. Laura is an accomplished actor and director with a diverse skill set that has given her the opportunity to work in almost every department of theater production as a manager, technician, and designer. Now living in Southern California, she is the winner of the 2024 Desert Theatre League Award for Best Direction of The Woman in the Mirror. She also designed and fabricated the puppets for Avenue Q at Revolution Stage Company. Palm Springs audiences will recognize Laura from her performances this past season as Norma Baxter in Perfect Arrangement at The Bent, and Dr. Charlotte in Falsettos at Dezart Performs. She is also the author of Shattered: Exposing the Open Secret of the Children’s Theatre Scandal and Daring to Heal: Growing Beyond Trauma Through Awareness, Acceptance, and Action, co-author of The Minnesota Theater Standards for Safety and Accountability and co-founder of the Minnesota Theater Accountability Coalition. Her testimony at the state legislature supported the removal of the criminal Statute of Limitations for rape victims in the state of Minnesota. As a proud member of Actors Equity Association and an associate with the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, Laura is a fierce advocate for safe spaces in theater production and education. Learn more about Laura at http://www.laurastearns.comLAURA STEARNSshe/her/hersArtist ~ Advocate ~ ConsultantActor- SAG/AFTRA ~ AEADirector- Associate, Stage Directors and Choreographers SocietyIntimacy Direction - IDC Consent Forward Artist CertifiedWords and Actions Matter Contact Wilkinson: www.BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

"Once upon a time on June 14, 2025".And one day in June, a broken, poor little boy stole money from his uncle and threw himself a big party and a parade. He lined up all his toy tanks and his toy soldiers. He pretended to be important as he stood behind his little glass-enclosed podium and watched as the festivities unfolded before him. He was surrounded by (those whom he had convinced himself were) his friends. But they all knew the truth. They weren't real friends. He had bought them with favors and gifts. Their friendships were nothing but transactions on paper with loyalty written in water. He was hidden behind the podium, but there were some who were sitting close to him who could see the truth. They remained silent as they observed that his small feet could not come close to filling the shoes he was wearing. His body, though chubby for his age, was overwhelmed by the oversized suit he was trying to wear.  Simultaneously, in all the villages near and far, the true warriors gathered. They knew their secret power. They gathered in love, realized that they were united in brotherhood and they simply stood and let their light shine for all to see. The light from each village shot in beams overhead. The beams joined forces above, becoming a bright, white cosmic mass - shining into the darkness for the entire world to see.  The light began to affect the clouds overhead. The water began to pour out of the clouds. As the rain hit the people gathered in the villages, they began to smile and laugh and sing and dance. They were experiencing the joy of the real party.But as the rain hit the small boy’s parade, it began to wash away and disintegrate his small toys as if they were made of paper. The street before him became a river.  The water overwhelmed the boy’s podium, turning it over and knocking him to the ground. He slipped out of his oversized suit. His big-boy shoes washed away.  Various folks who had come to observe his party and parade, (and his so-called friends) all dashed for cover, leaving him utterly alone.  He stood up, with nothing left accept the cameras that he had placed to show off his pretend party to the world.  But the world finally saw the truth: Everyone looked down with pity and disgust at the broken, naked, friendless little poor boy with no clothes.© Wilkinson/2025

Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:29Coming Out Journey03:50First Experiences and Relationships07:55Finding Love and Long-Term Partnership11:46Becoming an Author14:43Writing Themes and Audience18:28Future Projects and Aspirations21:19SummaryIn this conversation, Blake Allwood shares his journey of self-discovery, from his coming out experience in a conservative environment to becoming a successful author. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up in a small town, his exploration of sexuality, and the impact of his relationships on his life. Blake also delves into his writing career, revealing how he transitioned from being terrified of writing to publishing numerous books, primarily focused on gay romance. He reflects on the importance of authenticity and the lessons learned.Takeaways*Blake's coming out story was influenced by his upbringing in a conservative environment.*He didn't fully understand his sexuality until he was in college.*Therapy played a crucial role in Blake's self-discovery.*Blake's first sexual experience was with a man he met at a bar.*He identifies as demisexual, preferring emotional connections over casual encounters.*Blake has been with his husband for over 30 years, emphasizing the importance of finding the right partner.*His writing journey began as a way to help a troubled foster son.*Blake has published around 35 books, mostly focused on gay romance.*He enjoys writing stories that offer hope and happy endings.*Blake's audience primarily consists of straight women who enjoy gay romance.BioBlake Allwood was born in Tennessee, then moved to Missouri after earning a degree in Early Childhood Education from Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa. He met his husband Shaun in 1995 and they officially married in 2015, once gay marriage was legalized; although they still consider Valentines Day 1995 as their true “anniversary date”. Twenty-two years later (2017), after fostering 12 children together, he and his husband sold their home, purchased an RV and began traveling the country with their two dogs. Most of Blake’s stories are inspired by the places they have visited in their ongoing travels. His first book, Aiden Inspired, was released in 2019 and he has now written over 30 books. On June 1st, Blake released his latest book, Cleats and Pumps, which is an NFL football player to drag queen star novel. Blake also writes under the pen name of Adam J. Ridley for his urban fantasy fans looking for stories revolving around gay characters. His first series is The Witch Brothers Saga, starting with Emerald Earth.  He will release two new books under Adam J. Ridley this fall.Contact Info:Email: Blake@blakeallwood.comWebsite: blakeallwood.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.allwood.5Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeallwood9/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/authorblakeallwood.bsky.socialTo contact Wilkinson:  BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Chapters00:00Introduction and Background02:39Coming Out Journey04:44Navigating Family Dynamics06:59Spiritual Awakening and Identity09:32Career Transitions and Purpose14:33Coaching and Trauma Recovery19:19Future Aspirations and Reflections21:14Navigating Nonprofit Challenges23:00Understanding Trauma and Its Impact25:45The Intersection of Religion and Identity27:52Exploring the Nature of Joy33:02The Role of Mindfulness in Healing39:42Life Lessons and Personal GuardrailsSummaryIn this conversation, Brad Ward shares his journey of self-discovery, coming out, and the impact of trauma on his life. He discusses his transition from a career in banking to nonprofit work and coaching, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and healing. Brad also explores the concept of joy and its vulnerability, while reflecting on the lessons he has learned about kindness and compassion.TakeawaysBrad's coming out journey began at a young age.He faced challenges in reconciling his sexuality with his religious upbringing.Brad experienced trauma related to his identity and upbringing.He transitioned from banking to nonprofit work, finding purpose in helping others.Mindfulness plays a crucial role in managing trauma and emotions.Joy is a complex emotion that requires presence and authenticity.Brad emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion in life.He believes in the power of community for LGBTQ+ individuals.Brad's work focuses on helping clients heal from trauma.He is currently writing a book exploring the nature of joy.BioBrad Ward, PCC, TICC, TIRC brings 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to his professional coaching practice. His style is all about inclusivity, support, and holistic growth. He reminds clients that leadership is found within: it's an inner journey. Drawing on his professional and personal experiences and insights, he helps his clients to expand their perception of themselves and their strengths, and to deepen their appreciation of who they are. Brad is a Professional Certified Coach credentialed through the International Coaching Federation, a Certified Trauma-Informed Coach and Certified Trauma-Informed Relationship Coach from Moving The Human Spirit, and a Certified Values Coach from Discover Your Values, LLC.https://www.bradwardcoaching.com/mailto:brad@bradwardcoaching.comContact Wilkinson:  BecomingWilkinson@gmail.comPhoto: Copyright Wilkinson/2025

Chapters:00:00Introduction and Background01:12Theater Experience and Personal Growth01:55Coming Out Journey07:07Family Dynamics and Relationships07:45Boy Scouts and Early Trauma12:37Path to Acting and New Beginnings15:39Moving to New York and New Opportunities17:47Journey Through New York and Palm Springs18:57Love and Relationships in Transition19:37Theater Dreams and New Beginnings21:24The Impact of 'The Inheritance'22:29Vulnerability on Stage27:05Life Lessons and Moving ForwardSummary:In this conversation, Sam Moffatt shares his journey of coming out as a gay man, detailing the challenges he faced growing up in a Southern Baptist family, including experiences with conversion therapy. He discusses his early involvement in theater, his move to New York City to pursue acting, and the complexities of his relationship with his parents. Sam emphasizes the importance of kindness, understanding, and the power of changing one's environment for better mental health. He also shares insights on the significance of humor and authenticity in life.Bio:Samuel Moffatt is a stage and screen actor, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist originally from Duncan, Oklahoma. Now based in New York City after a recent move from Palm Springs, Samuel is passionate about musical theatre and has brought his talents to a variety of roles across both coasts. A graduate of Texas A&M University, he blends his theatrical work with original music, accompanying himself on piano and guitar. Whether performing under the spotlight or writing his next song, Samuel brings heart, authenticity, and a deep love for storytelling to everything he does.Takeaways:*Sam's journey of coming out was challenging due to his Southern Baptist upbringing.*He faced conversion therapy, which was traumatic and damaging.*Sam's experience in Boy Scouts led to legal troubles and further challenges.*Acting became a vital outlet for Sam, allowing him to express himself.*He moved to New York to pursue his dreams after college, despite his parents' wishes.*Sam's relationship with his parents has improved over time, but remains complex.*He emphasizes the importance of kindness and understanding towards others.*Sam believes in the power of changing one's environment for better mental health.*He encourages others to pursue their passions, even in the face of adversity.*Humor and fun are essential in life, according to Sam.https://www.instagram.com/samuelmoffatt/https://www.tiktok.com/@samuelmoffattContact Wilkinson: BecomingWilkinson@gmail.comPhoto: Wilkinson/2025

Chapters00:00Introduction and Background03:02Life in California vs. Nashville05:59Growing Up in Minnesota08:51Coming to Terms with Sexuality11:45Experiences with Conversion Therapy15:01Finding Community and Connection17:57Creating the Gay Men's Collective20:56Navigating Relationships and Vulnerability23:56The Importance of Meaningful Connections35:30The Importance of Connection and Respect36:14Reflecting on Past Relationships and Self-Discovery38:35Memorable Connections and Energetic Relationships39:07Navigating Dating Apps and Open Relationships41:08Embracing Single Life and Personal Growth43:34The Journey into Coaching and Teaching47:30Connecting with Amy Grant and Personal Heroes50:57Family Dynamics and Discovering Siblings01:01:12Life Lessons and Personal PhilosophySummaryIn this conversation, Matt Moran shares his journey from growing up in Minnesota to navigating life in Nashville and California. He discusses his late realization of his sexuality, experiences with conversion therapy, and the importance of community for gay men. Moran emphasizes the need for meaningful connections and vulnerability in relationships, ultimately leading to the creation of the Gay Men's Collective, a platform for gay men seeking authentic connections. In this engaging conversation, Matt Moran and Wilkinson explore themes of connection, self-discovery, and personal growth. They reflect on past relationships, the importance of energetic connections, and the journey of being single. Matt shares his experiences with coaching and teaching, as well as his connection with Amy Grant, a significant figure in his life. The discussion also delves into family dynamics, including the discovery of siblings and the complexities of personal history. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of understanding others' stories and the lessons learned from their own experiences.Sound Bites"I didn't have any clue that I was gay.""I want to be like these guys.""I realized I'm still gay.""I started sleeping around.""I never ever had gay friends in my life.""I definitely prefer some element of connection.""I didn't jerk off until after I was married.""I have a guidepost that feels kind of internal.""I would rather struggle with loneliness single.""I love teaching and engaging with participants.""Amy Grant was a lifeline for me growing up.""He told me everything I don't want him to know.""We probably have more siblings out there."Bio:For the past two decades, Matt Moran has coached people from all walks of life across the globe, helping individuals and teams to present themselves, both internally and to the external marketplace, with excellence and precision. Through his training and one-on-one coaching, Matt has worked with Fortune 500 companies in nearly every industry, transforming the often daunting task of public presentation into one of simplicity and confident ease. In addition to his work as a professional coach, Matt Moran has dedicated his expertise to guiding individuals and teams on a transformative journey toward self-improvement, self-acceptance, confidence building, spiritual growth, and overall personal well-being. His passion lies in fostering connectedness, empathy, and authenticity, empowering individuals to unlock their true potential and find genuine fulfillment.http://www.matt-moran.comhttp://www.gaymenscollective.comContact Wilkinson: BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

CHAPTERS:00:00Introduction and Setting the Scene03:03John's Journey of Self-Discovery06:07College Life and Relationships08:55Love and Loss: The Story of Ted12:11Reflections on Coming Out14:58Life After Antioch: Moving and New Beginnings18:05The Impact of the AIDS Epidemic21:01Family Dynamics and Acceptance23:57Final Thoughts and Reflections24:20Coming Out and Family Dynamics28:32Life in New York and the Search for Belonging32:53Embracing Identity and Personal Growth36:30The Journey of Writing a Memoir41:43Struggles with Addiction and Recovery48:55The Future: Theater Adaptation and Life LessonsTAKEAWAYS:John's journey of self-discovery began in college.He had a significant coming out moment while biking.His relationship with Ted was transformative and deeply impactful.Family acceptance played a crucial role in his life.John reflects on the challenges of navigating love and loss.The AIDS epidemic shaped his experiences and relationships.He emphasizes the importance of embracing one's identity.SUMMARY:In this engaging conversation, John Giarelli shares his personal journey of self-discovery, coming out, and navigating love and loss within the LGBTQ community. He reflects on his experiences at Antioch College, the impact of the AIDS epidemic, and the complexities of family acceptance. John discusses the lessons learned throughout his life, the importance of embracing one's identity, and the motivation behind writing his book. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt exploration of belonging and the ongoing quest for self-acceptance.BIO:John Giarelli was born in Connecticut in 1957. He received his BA from Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio in 1980 and his MA from the University of Connecticut in 1988. He taught English literature and writing for 30 years at several colleges and universities across the country. He has lived in Boston, Washington, DC, San Francisco, New York City, and Los Angeles, and has traveled extensively throughout Europe. He is done with cities and currently lives in a small town in the mountains between Los Angeles and Palm Springs. His recently published memoir, “A Gay Boomer Story,” is a roller coaster ride through the past seven decades. His story begins in the straight-laced 1950s, and runs through the tumultuous 60s, “Coming Out” in the Disco era of the 70s, moving to San Francisco in the 80s, and wandering through America’s Gay ghettos in the 90s. He finally settled down with dogs and nature in the mountains, and is currently producing a theatrical adaptation of his book and taking it on the road. Contact John:    Email: jliterati@gmail.com.        Phone# 323-271-8788Contact Wilkinson: BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Chapters00:00Introduction and Community Life03:03John's Early Life and Struggles05:54Coming Out and Embracing Identity08:58The Journey into Ex-Gay Ministry11:48Family Dynamics and Healing15:01The Cracks in the Ex-Gay Ministry19:57Transitioning Away from Ex-Gay Beliefs25:04New Relationships and Personal Growth35:03Redefining God and Spirituality38:32Living Authentically and Embracing Life42:41Exploring Sexual Freedom and Relationships50:17The Impact of Ex-Gay Ministries56:23Supporting the Transgender Community58:01Lessons Learned and Guiding PrinciplesTAKEAWAYS:John was raised in a complicated household that impacted his emotional development.He discovered his identity as a homosexual later in life after years of confusion.John believed he was doing God's work while involved in ex-gay ministries.He struggled with intimacy in his marriage due to his sexual orientation.John's journey led him to question the beliefs he had held for years.He found freedom in accepting his identity and moving away from ex-gay beliefs.John emphasizes the importance of living authentically and being true to oneself.He is actively involved in supporting the LGBTQ community in Hot Springs.John reflects on the impact of ex-gay ministries and the harm they cause.He believes in making amends to those affected by his past actions.SUMMARY:In this conversation, John Smid shares his journey from a complicated upbringing to discovering his identity as a gay man. He discusses his experiences with ex-gay ministries, the struggles he faced with family acceptance, and his eventual transition away from those beliefs. John reflects on his current views on faith, sexuality, and the importance of community support, emphasizing the need for authenticity and personal growth.From John J. Smid:I was born in July of 1954. Throughout my life I have lived through the mantra, “How can things be better?” As I continue to ask that question, my life has gone through several quite impactful life transitions.I have been married three times. I have two children and four grandchildren from my first marriage. Each marriage was a classroom of life for me through which I grew more aware each time that being a gay man wasn’t always easy to embrace.I spent over 25 years trying to suppress my natural sexuality in order to please God and my then, religious beliefs. 22 of those years I was deeply entrenched in the Evangelical ExGay movement. I was the Executive Director for Love In Action, a residential ExGay ministry and a board member for eleven of those years with Exodus International, a worldwide coalition of ExGay ministries.I resigned from Love in Action in 2008 and at that time began a search for what was really true for me and my religious beliefs. I’ve spent these last 17 years working to make amends whenever possible for the messages I taught and the impact they had on hundreds of people very personally. Through personal reconnections with program clients and speaking out I hope I am at least making a dent in the harm done.After 24 years in my second marriage, I finally grew the courage to answer that life question once again. For life to be better I needed to fully embrace my homosexuality and life a more authentic life.Today, I am married to my husband Larry. We spend most of our time managing our acreage in central Arkansas and our little Airbnb cabin.  We have a wonderful LGBTQ+ community here and are very active socially with our friends.Website:http://www.johnjsmid.comJohn's book: https://johnjsmid.com/exd-out-2/Contact via email: js@johnjsmid.comTo contact Wilkinson:  BecomingW

Steven Druckman, a Pulitzer-nominated playwright and NYU professor, shares his artistic journey and personal evolution. He opens up about his coming out experience, the challenges of family relationships, and the role of love in life. Druckman discusses the impact of HIV/AIDS on his artistry and reflections on kindness, acceptance, and self-discovery. Listeners will find inspiration in his insights on navigating identity and the complexities of being an artist in today’s world, as well as his upcoming projects and aspirations.