The Authentic Gay Man Podcast

Hello Authentic Gay Man Podcast fans.  I come to you with a full heart.  Whether you are a listener or a podcast guest, there are no words to express how deeply grateful I am for your support and participation.  YOU are what has made this podcast great!Today, I am here to inform you that this is the final episode of The Authentic Gay Man Podcast.  Sharing this news is bitter sweet.  The sweet part has been how my life has been forever changed from hearing the stories of guests and reading comments and receiving messages for almost 2 years, from men all over the world.  There have been so many men that courageously stepped forward and showed true authenticity and vulnerability.  Each one has set a shining example of what it means to be an authentic gay man.  I have grown exponentially as a result of all the stories, feedback, and relationships that have developed from the podcast.The bitter part is making a hard decision to draw a close to the podcast.  As life would have it, I've been drawn to new projects that inspire me and excite me.  The Universe has given me a clear message that it's time to focus on “humanity” rather than segments of humanity.I'm currently working on projects that may or may not interest you.  When they are ready to launch, I will definitely reach out and give you the option of continuing to follow me and my work.Until we meet again, I am wishing you the very best of what life has to offer.  I encourage you to continue your quest and journey to live fully from that place of being an Authentic Gay Man!  Sending all my love… MaddoxBe a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

This is Grant Miller's third time to be on the podcast. As one of our biggest fans, he has a lot to say. In this episode he shares how he has gone from the glass half empty to the glass half full. Instead of fighting the aging process, he is accepting and flowing with it. He talks about his pending retirement and how he has intentionally reframed his way of seeing it… from loss to opportunity. If aging and/or retirement are on your radar in the next few years, you'll find this conversation uplifting and enlightening.Grant's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

First let me say that the topic of agism is not just for those getting older! My guest, Jim Cartwright, is a holistic life coach. Our conversation was rich with different aspects of aging. I loved that Jim pointed out that agism has nothing to do with a specific age. Young people experience agism. The big ah ha was realizing that internalized agism is the big culprit and the origin of whatever agism we might be experiencing. We touched on gay elderism and how important it is, as older gay men, to educate the younger gay men on our gay history. Finally, we talked about how one can stay relevant as we get older. It's actually easier than you might think.Jim's ProfileJim's BookJim's WebsiteBody Electric Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

After a lengthy silence, Justin Mezetin states that his biggest challenge in life has been trying to understand what authenticity really is and even more challenging, how to live in authenticity. He speaks of the different ways he didn't fit in. He's gay, black, and a Seventh Day Adventist. He says that in every space, he didn't fit in because at least one of those attributes. At age 37, he's got a better grip on authenticity, but now facing the next challenge of vulnerability. We talk a lot about inner safety and how that is such an important component to both authenticity and vulnerability. The conversation was SO rich, we went overtime.Justin's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Cator Sparks, is a gay man and a dating and relationship coach. Much of his work is around online dating and how to effectively navigate the challenges while making conscious efforts to safe guard your mental health and overall wellbeing. We talk about how to deal with rejection in a healthy manner and learning to not take the downside experiences personally. We unpack how doing your personal growth work lays a foundation for a more fruitful outcome. For those that refuse to use dating apps, we discuss a wide variety of options for meeting potential dates offline in a more organic fashion. If your single and wanting to mingle, this will be a good listen.Cator's ProfileCator's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Jon Carl Lewis is a spiritual director who works with those that find themselves lacking peace or clarity when it comes to how they navigate their religion and/or spirituality. Helping his clients understand the differences between religion and spirituality and how they merge or blend together. We discussed religious wounding and the shame that can be carried throughout one's life if it isn't properly addressed. If you struggle with religious wounds or shame and you would like to find spiritual peace, this episode could be the first step in your exploration.Jon Carl's ProfileJon Carl's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Wil Fisher, is a certified coach, founder of Wilfully Living Coaching, and host of the Queerly Beloved podcast. Wil brings such an inviting conversation about what it means to open your heart. He talks about the connection with personal power, truth, and knowing and loving yourself with compassion. If you ever feel armored up in social settings or around others in general, Wil gives great insight into the compelling reasons to learn how to open yourself. This conversation was magical, filled with stories that will help you understand this process.Wil's ProfileWil's WebsiteQueerly Beloved PodcastEaston Mountain Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Randy Woodring, shares his journey with authenticity. Becoming aware of the concept of authenticity only about 3 years ago, Randy had an awakening of how inauthentic his life had been. He made it a quest to uncover all the underlying reasons that had been standing in his way. His honesty and openness with his life-long shame is a powerful example of just how to “kick the shit” out of shame. If shame has prevented you from showing up authentically in any area of your life, this episode is for you.Randy's ProfileRandy's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Serg Shepard, talks about how he has always been drawn to creativity and has a love for being in front of audiences. He danced, played instruments, posed as a nude model, and eventually found his way to the porn industry. This episode is SO unique. My takeaway is how Serg helps to dispel some of the negative biases around some of the more taboo industries, such as porn and sex workers. He states the fact that it is a job… it is a profession and there's nothing to be ashamed of in making an honest living. This conversation helped to clear up so many unanswered questions I had about being a porn star. Serg is infinitely comfortable in his own skin and he shares some real words of wisdom. I encourage you to set aside any judgements you may have about the porn industry and listen to the golden nuggets in Serg's story. If you would like to hear tips on being more comfortable in your own skin, this episode is for you.Serg's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Jonathan Lee, shares his story of a relationship ending a few days before his 40th birthday. He was blind-sided when his boyfriend of two years ended their relationship during sex… WTF! He claims that the relationship wasn't nearly as significant as the break-up. While it plunged him into a dark place that lasted for 4 months, it was the catalyst for looking long and hard at his life and the choices he was making. He has a lot to say about the hook-up culture. His 40th year was so profound that he turned his journal into a novel, entitled “40 Single Gay”. If you struggle with making emotional connections with others, this episode is for you. Our internet connection was not 100%, so please be patient because Jonathan's story is worth it!Jonathan's ProfileJonathan's Book Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Roger Miller has been married to his wife for 41 years and has a 40 year old queer daughter. Three years ago, he came out as a gay identifying man. He and his wife have decided to maintain their marriage and he now has a boyfriend. He refers to his status as a mixed orientation marriage. My take away is how quickly Roger took ownership of who he is and what he wants for his life. This conversation opened my eyes to many ideas that were not on my radar. Don't miss this episode!Roger's ProfileHusbands Out to Wives Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Wil Smith's dream was to be a school teacher, but he abandoned that dream because he believed that he could never do that as a gay man in the 70s. Instead, he went to medical school only to find out that he hated it. Next stop was the pharmaceutical industry with a job that afforded him the luxury of cocaine and high priced escorts, in an effort to cope with his sexuality. He's still a work in progress as he aspires to be fully self-accepted. Hear how life can come full circle sometimes.Wil's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Brian Falduto, shares his story of how dramatically his life changed when a movie, he had a role in, hit the silver screen at age 10. He had a great experience during the filming process, not realizing how the boys at school would react to his character. Now, 20 years later, he's been asked to return for a reunion for the original movie cast. Listen to the episode to hear how he navigated his way back to self.Brian's ProfileBrian's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Larry Jacobson, gave up his business, his CEO title, his life partner, and all of his material worth to realize his life-long dream of sailing all the way around the world. He discovered his dream when he was only 13 and finally made his 6 year voyage at 46. In the end, he states that is the most powerful experience that led him to his most authentic self. His wisdom on “Fear” is absolutely worth your time to listen to this episode.Larry's ProfileLarry's Passion Speech and Two TEDx TalksLarry's Book: The Boy Behind the Gate Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Wil Fisher, talks about being very well likes with lots of friends through the 7th grade. Then, in the 8th grade, two girls started a rumor that spread like wildfire, leaving Wil's social life and popularity in the proverbial shitter. It took about 3 years for Wil to recover, but the experience left a lasting effect. Our conversation centers around Wil's story of how he learned to own who and what he is and be fully expressed in whatever that looks like… did I say drag?Wil's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Paul Haynes, has spent his life thus far, working toward a conscious authentic way of being. He recounts various aspect and experiences that have forged him into the man he is today. This journey all started with his mother dying from cancer, when he was only 7 years old. Our conversation was about reverse engineering the process of becoming an authentic gay man. If you would like insight on how some of your more memorable experiences are actually directing you toward authenticity, you will enjoy this convo.Paul's ProfilePaul's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Jarrod Bruce Lee, identifies as an authentic gay man. He shares his journey from childhood to present, recounting the many experiences that carried him away from the authenticity that he came into the world with. Physical and emotional violence between his parents and living in fear. The weight of his father's disapproval. Realizing he was different from the other boys in school and feeling like he didn't belong. Being overweight and having body issues from being constantly ridiculed. When he reached dating age, being rejected because he is Asian. Then, in his early twenties, having a life changing experience that turned everything around, bringing him a profound sense of love, compassion, and gratitude for his parents, his life, and ultimately brought him back in the direction of his true authenticity… coming home to himself.Jarrod's ProfileJarrod's Instagram Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Craig Cullinane speaks of how much body shame he experienced as a result of religious and family messages that he received growing up. His body shame was so great that he couldn't even take his shirt off at the local pool. This translated into sexual shame that was debilitating anytime he engaged erotically. His journey and his wisdom learned will be helpful for any man who has body shame.Craig's ProfileBody Electric School Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, David Bellamy, came out at an earlier time in life. But, for most of his life, he lived with the motto that “It's none of anyone's business.” As a result, he didn't let most people know who he really was. He states that it was mostly a fear of rejection. Now, in his 60s, he has realized that the motto that he so strictly lived by, did not allow him to have the genuine and close relationships he desires. Being a guest on the podcast was a major step in letting the world know him for who he truly is. This is a very delightful and heartfelt conversation with some of our dialog being about attracting an ideal mate and embracing the belief that you're never too old and it's never too late.David's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Daniel Rodriguez Schlorff had his career on track, a nice place to live, and all the trappings of a good life. Then, at 27, his mother tragically died in an auto accident, up ending every aspect of his life. The loss caused him to question everything about his existence and big changes came about. The loss of his mother altered him forever. His story truly is about all the wisdom that comes with loss. Today, Daniel has come to full acceptance and full self-forgiveness. He misses and loves his mom every day.Daniel's ProfileDaniel's Wedsite Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

David's story starts with his account of being abused inside and outside the home with every form of abuse possible. By the time he was 19, he had attempted suicide twice and failed, which further added to his feelings inadequacy. He found himself in a psych ward, where he felt safe for the very first time in his life. David's journey is filled with simple wisdom. He clearly demonstrates that you can come back from anything, if you take responsibility for your own experiences and do your work.David's ProfileDavid's EmailDavid's Phone: 828-808-3879 Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Douglas Henry Lewis Jr grew up in the south with many religious messages that told him he could never be successful, happy, or accepted as a gay man. He never allowed himself to subscribe to those hateful messages. In stead, he moved to NYC and created a life where he is fully and unapologetically self-expressed. For a young man of only 27, Douglas has done an impressive amount of self-work. He lives a joyful life and it shows in every way. If you struggle to realize that you can be anybody you want to be and you can show up in life any way you choose, this episode is for you.Douglas' Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Hank Estrada tells a story of an uncle who sexually abused him from age 5 to 16. His struggle with multiple therapists before he found one that was truly qualified to help him. His journey to be able to completely and effectively separate his sexual abuse from his sexual attraction for men. This man has freed himself from the shackles of shame and guilt that are shrouded around surviving childhood sexual abuse. If you have endured childhood sexual abuse, this episode is a very powerful testament to what is possible, if you are willing to do the work.Hank's ProfileHank's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Grady Throneberry, the first openly gay police chief in Kentucky and a former bi-vocational pastor, gets thrown into the fire, when a spurned boyfriend outs him to his church and the city major. All hell broke loose and Grady went through the most painful and dark period of his life at 64. With sheer courage and determination, he came back from the clusterf*&k and shares a story of rising from the ashes, filled with love, support, romance, and fulfillment.Grady's ProfileGrady's WebsiteGrady's Book Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Pete Simmonds, was an incredibly creative child that had the creativity squashed out of him by a school councilor.  He spend many years doing what others wanted him to do, but ultimately found that to be detrimental to his spirit.  For the last twenty years, Pete has leaned into rediscovering and reclaiming that part of his being.  Now, creativity plays a primary role in every area of his life, from family, to relationships, to business.  If you struggle to connect with the creative nature of your being, this episode is for you.Pete's ProfilePete's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Hello Fans, Followers, and Supporters.  I Have News About the 2023 Season of The Authentic Gay Man Podcast.First, I wish to thank you for your continued support of The Authentic Gay Man Podcast.  This podcast is only possible because of your support.  No amount of guests or episodes are worth anything, if there aren't people like you, listening and sharing.Second, I want to share that I have decided to take a well deserved break for the remainder of December, to return on January 3rd of 2023I have published an episode of The Authentic Gay Man Podcast every Tuesday for a full year, along with several bonus episodes, Fireside Chats With Maddox, and I need a short break to nurture my mind, body, and spirit.Me and my boyfriend have just tested positive for Covid, although the decision to take the break had already been make, Covid is a definite confirmation of my decision.Third, I also wish to inform you that, for the 2023 season, I have decided to publish an episode every other Tuesday.  After one year of experience, I see some changes that I believe will enable me to provide a better experience for you.There are several reasons for this decision:It is my intention to bring you quality over quantity.It will be a more doable process to locate 26 guests in a year, rather than 52 guests.It will enable me to spend more time working on the bonus episodes of Fireside Chats With Maddox, where we take a deep dive into topics rarely discussed by men.My life has changed dramatically this year.  I'm in a serious relationship that requires a great deal of my time and energy and I believe that it is worthy of my time and energy in that my journey in this relationship provides me with epic wisdom to share with you.It allows me time and energy to work on the next step of my dream in my work with the GBTQ male community, which I am not ready to reveal at this point…please stay tuned.  It will eventually be reveals.  Timing is everything!And Fourth and most important, I want to wish you a wonderful holiday season, no matter what faith or belief system you follow.  I hope your holidays are filled with love and laughter!I will see you in 2023!  Much love to you!Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Alex Amorosi, shares his experience of multiple relationships in row that all ended very much the same.  In each relationship, he gave so much of himself away that there was nothing left for him.  Then, he reached the point when his inner voice spoke so loud and clear that he couldn't deny it any longer.  He realized that the voice had always been there, but he had chosen not to listen to it.  If you tend to give too much of yourself away in relationships, this episode is for you.Alex's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Dan Babineau had a wife, a daughter, and a life that was completely centered around evangelical religion.  When he came out at age 48, his family, his friends, and his church turned their back on him, leaving him isolated and alone.  In the darkest time of his life, he had to figure out a way to start over, from completely nothing.  While Dan speaks of how hard this was, he says, "if I can do it, anyone can do it."  Now, 10 years later, Dan lives a peaceful and content life, surrounded by friends who love and support him.  He doesn't have any regrets and doesn't wish he had done it any differently.  If you ever second guess yourself, this episode is for you.Dan's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Rick Clemons, talks about the wild ride of coming out late in life after many years with a wife and two daughters.  During his first two years of being out, he refers to himself as being an asshole and how his ego was so engaged that he had to take a pause and do some self-awareness and forgiveness work to get his head on straight.  If you've ever felt out of control and going in many different directions all at once, this episode is for you.Rick's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Robert Lowther shares a story about a topic rarely mentioned.  While I hear many stories about men who suffer from some form of addiction and 12 step programs are common, there is very little conversation about those individuals that are in relationship with an addict or alcoholic.  Robert shares two lengthy relationships with men that he "enabled", thinking he was doing everything he could to be supportive.  The stark awarenesses that these relationships led Robert to are profound.  Addiction or not, if you are in a relationship of any kind, this episode is for you.Robert's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guests, Brian Janes and Brian George recount their lives as closeted gay men.  They both knew they were gay at an early age, but completely repressed that knowledge for several decades, both coming out in their early 50s.  Ironically, each of them were married with two children.  Their stories are somewhat similar in some ways and then very different in other ways.  This definitely allows you, the listener, to see this from more than one perspective.  The powerful impact of this episode is illuminating the profound costs that come along with long term repression of who you really are.  If you or someone you know is struggling with the decision to come out and embrace who you truly are, this bonus episode is for you.  Please share this with someone that may be struggling.Brian Janes' ProfileBrian George's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Jim Soha, talks about the various aspects of his life that carried him on his journey from "head to heart".  There was his duel education in seminary and med school; his marriage to his wife and sharing 2 children with her; his divorce and coming out; his marriage to his soulmate, who died suddenly after 10 years together.  I found myself really relating to Jim's "head to heart" story.  If Jim's story doesn't lift you up, his infectious energy certainly will.  This episode is filled with wisdom bombs.Jim's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Andrew O'Malley, shares how free he was to completely express himself as a child.  His parents never expected his to conform in any way.  But then, as he got older and went to school, the pressure to conform became so strong, that he succumbed, living life as other's expected for over a decade.  His journey back to his authentic self was filled with challenges that has brought his noticeable wisdom for a 28 year old.  If you are tired of conforming to the expectations of others and you would like to lean into expressing yourself more authentically, this episode is for you.Andrew's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

Grey Jacks shares his evangelical upbringing and how internalized homophobia had plagued him for over 10 years after he realized he was gay.  It made it nearly impossible for him to come out.  Fortunately, he had the opportunity to observe an older gay man that exemplified the man that he knew he wanted to be.  Once he finally came out in his mid twenties, all the internalized homophobia dissipated and he was able to embrace himself as a healthy gay man and step into his power.  He recounts that his coming out felt like he was receiving a calling to example healthy behavior for other gay men.  If you are experiencing internalized homophobia, this episode is for you.Grey's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Tony Scott, came out to loving and accepting parents at age 16.  But, his challenge was the church he had spent his whole life in, telling him he was an abomination.  He finally came out and was really active in the LGBTQ community and all was well. Then, a once in a life time job opportunity to work on the staff of an internationally recognized evangelical mega church took him back in the closet for 10+ years, before truly embracing his authentic self as a gay man.  How many men can say that they have not one, but two coming out stories?  Tony states that he has no regrets.  If you struggle to reconcile your sexuality with your spirituality, this episode is for you.Tony's ProfileTony's Website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Julio Alvarez grew up with a father that continually criticized him for most everything he was and everything he did.  This set him up for an intense and ongoing need for external validation.  Once he got away from his father, he realized that he took the critical voice with him... in the form of his inner critic.  He went through a period of time where he did everything he could to numb himself to the effects of that critical voice. Through trial and error and personal growth work, Julio came to understand that his love, acceptance, and compassion for that inner critic was the key to building the inner strength that he needed to be able to fully validate himself on an internal level.  Woven into this story of the inner critic is Julio's beautiful account of meeting the man that became his current husband.  The way the two stories intertwine is filled with hope.  If you struggle with an inner critic or a need for external validation, this episode is for you.Julio's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Nick Gray, is an LGBTQ community ally, an author, and a cocktail party host, extraordinaire.  He shares his story of moving to NYC in his mid twenties, not knowing a single soul and what he did to create an epic social network, centered around meaningful connections and community.  He was so wildly successful, he decided to write a book. The book is so easy to follow that anyone can build their own connections and community by merely following his "paint by numbers" instructions.  If you experience any form of loneliness or isolation, Nick can show you how easy it is to put an end that.  All you have to do is "TAKE THE 2 HOUR COCKTAIL PARTY CHALLENGE!"  Due to the nature of this topic, this is the most FUN episode I've recorded.  Sharing it with you totally excites me!Nick's ProfileHow to Host a Party WebsiteThe 2-Hour Cocktail Party: Book infoThe 2-Hour Cocktail Party: AmazonNetworking Event: How to Host One, EasilyClothing Swap: How to Plan the PartyHosting a Happy Hour: Nick Gray's How-to GuideNick Gray's personal website Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Bill Brochinsky, shares inside stories of the health care system and AIDS that I have never been exposed to before.  He speaks of taking a stand with the hospital where he worked, making efforts to implement more compassionate care of patients with AIDS.  With every patient he cared for, he could see himself reflected back to him.  He made a deal with the Universe and the Universe granted his wish.  If you ever feel like you are in darkness, with no light at the end of a very long tunnel, this episode is for you.Bill's Profile Be a GuestFollow on FacebookMaddox's LinksMailing List SignupRate & Review

My guest, Fernando Velez, shares how painful being in the closet and unable to be himself was for him.  He describes how hard he tried to get the love and validation, that he needed, from others... friends and partners.  It never worked out that way.  He experienced constant rejection until he realized that he couldn't expect acceptance or love from others, unless he was willing to give it to himself first.  Fernando is obviously an old soul, who shares much wisdom.  If you struggle with accepting and loving yourself, this episode is for you.Fernando's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

Paul J Williams tells a story about how he tried alcohol, pot, cocaine, and ecstasy.  Each was not his thing and he walked away.  But, a perfect storm presented itself the first time he used crystal meth, while engaging is sex.  In that moment it calmed his shame of being gay, gay sex, being sexually abused, and his fear of being inadequate.  This went on for years until the final play of the perfect storm was an attempted suicide.  Clean and sober since 2015, Paul's story of what his life is like now is interesting and inspiring.  I suspect many will relate to some aspects of his journey.Paul's ProfilePaul's WebsitePaul's YouTube ChannelBook: The Velvet RageBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

Alex Benedict's most challenging event in life was his family falling apart as a result of his mother's suicide.  He had a brother and sister that he was estranged from for over 20 years.  His sister's tragic death to lung cancer brought he and his brother back together, with a very unexpected outcome.  If pride is hijacking your happiness by preventing you from forgiving, this episode is for you.Alex's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

David Beers returns for his second guest appearance.  This time, with an epilogue story of a major life transformation that he experienced, since we recorded the first episode.  After a lifetime of struggling to be his most authentic self, David, spontaneously, stepped into his power and spoke his truth on the stage at a United Methodist Conference.  He speaks of how this experience has already manifested obvious changes and opportunities in his life.  If you could use a little inspiration right now,  you'll benefit from David's story.David's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

My guest, Taylor Brorby, got outed to his parents, in his mid 20s, by an aunt.  It came very unexpected and caught Taylor completely off guard.  His parents were not amused. Taylor went through about 3 years of torment until he finally severed contact with his parents, admitting that they had become abusive.  His journey is that of triumph in the wake of a very painful experience.  Taylor's story is very inspiring, filled with strength, courage, and eventually thriving.  Although we didn't talk about this during the episode, I think the moral to the story is... the longer you wait to come out, the greater the chance that someone or something could blindside you before you are prepared.Taylor is an essayist and poet.Taylor's ProfileTaylor's WebsiteBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

My guest, Jon Carl Lewis, was raised in an evangelical religion and received early messages that being gay was definitely not OK.  For 10 years, starting at puberty, Jon Carl did everything he could do to "pray the gay away".  When that failed, in his early 20's, he entered into conversation therapy.  His personal recounting of this experience blew my mind.  At age 56, his journey with reconciling his love for Jesus and undeniably being gay has been a very long and slow process.  His breakthrough came only 2 years ago.  Now, he describes a beautiful sense of inner peace.  If religion has played havoc with your life as a homosexual, I invite you to listen.Jon Carl is a spiritual director, writer, and public speaker.Jon Carl's ProfileJon Carl's WebsiteBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

Kyle Elliott had a variety of social masks that he wore in his professional life.  He had his career and his coaching side hustle and he had been under the impression that his personal life was not relevant to his professional life.  But, when he stepped through his fears, doubts, and anxieties and began to remove the social masks and allow his followers and clients to see him for who he really is, he was surprised at the outcome.  Whether you are employed or are an entrepreneur, this story will likely apply.Kyle is a career coach specializing in Tech and Silicone Valley.Kyle's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

Please note that this conversation includes explicit talk about various aspects of sexual behavior.  I experienced this conversation about SEX as extraordinary!  My guests, Mike Iamele, Jon Carl Lewis, and Tony Scott each shared such wonderful and diverse perspectives.  This was truly a collaborative exploration.If you are weary of "locker room talk", but find genuine and open conversations around sex to be very challenging, I invite you to listen.A few areas we unpacked...the universal shame around sexsex and Christianitysex as a spiritual experiencethe lack of "healthy" conversations about sex in social settings or during sexual actssex as a form of self-expressionsex as a form of vulnerabilitynormalizing conversations about sexand a whole lot more!Mike's ProfileMike's Website Jon Carl's ProfileJon Carl's Website Tony's ProfileTony's Website Be a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

Don McCarthy remembers a time when he struggled with his own authenticity.  He put everyone before himself and couldn't feel or express his own feelings.  After working for many years to put self-care in place, he thought that issue was behind him.  Then, his elderly mother had a fall and caregiving provided him with an even deeper and more challenging opportunity to grasp and learn self-care.  One of the "aha" moments of this episode was realizing how self-care plays a big role in our ability to be truly authentic.  Listen to find our how.Don's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

My guest, Berend McKenzie grew up in a home with adoptive parents that taught him to lie at an early age, in order to make the family look good.  When his lies didn't measure up, he was physically abused.  Berend experienced his life as so painful that he made his first unsuccessful suicide attempt, while in the third grade.  He set the house on fire with the intention of jumping into the fire.  Later, to numb himself from the pain, he started using alcohol at age 13 and it progressed to heavy Meth addiction that resulted in him losing all of his teeth at age 21.  He was diagnosed with HIV at age 16 and told he would die.  In spite of all this, Berend had an awakening and miraculously begin to turn his life around.  His story of healing and redemption will truly inspire you.Berend is a writer, actor, and producer.Berend's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

Jeremy Long's story starts with a family that didn't know how to validate or love him.  He intentionally mimicked one of the characters in "Queer As Folk", when he was only 16.  An addiction to drugs and all the chaos that went along with it, landed Jeremy in rehab, not once, but twice before he had his transformational moment.  Jeremy finally told himself the truth. When we remove the blockade, the Universe can work its magic in our life.  Now, in his upper 30s, Jeremy talks about his life of passion, purpose, community and, above all, self-love.  If you ever feel like you aren't enough, you'll want to listen to this one.Jeremy is a coach, queer facilitator, and founder of The Conscious Queer Community.Jeremy's WebsiteJeremy's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

My Guest, Anthony Meek, shares his story of how his inability to connect and honor his most authentic self, paved the way for an energy of desperation.  That desperation attracted a lengthy string of one-right-after-the-other crisis, to include a partner in poor health that had a severe addiction.  After 14 years of caregiving and ongoing crisis, Anthony had his "AHA" moment when he knew he had to step into full authenticity and take care of himself first.  Anthony talks about what a lack of authenticity looks like and what it can cost you.  He also shares what full authenticity looks like and what it can do for you.  If you struggle to be yourself, this episode is the ticket.Anthony's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links

My Guest, Tyler Boyle came out a little later in life.  He shares his unique perspective on the rude awakening of what he thought gay life was going to be like, after coming out... and what it really was.  While coming out stories are abundant in our community, "after coming out" stories are definitely underrated.  He speaks on how feeling like "the other" was such a big part of his experience.  If you haven't yet come out or you have come out later in life and feel like you missed something, this episode is for you.  Tyler dropped some serious wisdom bombs!Tyler is an artist, speaker, entertainer, and teacher.Tyler's WebsiteI Have Never Been In Love (talk that went viral)Tyler's ProfileBe a GuestFollow Us on FacebookPower Moments With MaddoxAll Maddox's Links