EP. 70 - Andrew James: Growing Up Gay | Facing Terminal Cancer

Former Republican leader Mike Triggs discussed being outed as gay, leaving the GOP, and warning about growing attacks on LGBTQ rights. He urged people to stay engaged, vote, and speak out to protect equality and democracy. Political War on LGBTQ Rights

In this episode of The Courage to Be Courageous, host Dan Bolen welcomes his partner John Preston, who holds a master’s degree in exercise science and wellness from Arizona State University, for a timely and inspiring conversation about the power of exercise in managing stress and maintaining emotional balance. Together, they discuss how physical movement not only strengthens the body but also helps reduce anxiety, improve resilience, and foster community. John also introduces the True Turn Pro, a unique tool designed to enhance mobility, flexibility, and core strength. The episode is a reminder that staying active is an act of courage and self-care in an increasingly stressful world. YouTube Video John Preston Website True Turn Pro

In this inspiring episode, Andrew James shares his journey of growing up as a gay man in the Jehovah's Witness faith. He discusses the challenges of his childhood, his eventual departure from the religion, and how he built a successful career as an interior designer. James also opens up about his current battle with stage four cancer, offering a message of hope, resilience, and the power of positive thinking.

Barbara shares the story of embracing her gay brother after he came out later in life, highlighting her family's unconditional love. In this heartfelt interview, she reflects on why being gay should never be a reason to disown a loved one.

In this powerful episode of The Courage to Be Courageous, host Dan Bolen welcomes writer and ally Susan Montag for an open conversation about fear, growth, and standing up for marginalized communities. Susan shares her journey from a conservative upbringing in Iowa to becoming a strong LGBTQ+ ally and advocate. She reflects on the deep cultural biases she had to unlearn, how raising a gay son and having a trans son-in-law shaped her activism, and the importance of community, truth, and courage in today’s divisive climate. Together, Dan and Susan explore how writing, connection, and speaking out can be tools for resistance and healing in a world that often feels chaotic and unsafe.

In this powerful episode of The Courage to Be Courageous, host Dan Bolen speaks with Isaiah Bell, a biracial gay man who endured years of conversion therapy as a teenager. Isaiah shares the painful reality of trying to change who he was to please his family and church, and the long journey toward self-acceptance. Together, Dan and Isaiah explore the lingering impact of conversion therapy, the political and social challenges still facing the LGBTQ+ community, and the importance of using our voices to create lasting change. This is a moving conversation about truth, healing, and the courage to be yourself.

In this episode, we welcome Zach Cohen, who shines a light on the incredible work of the Ali Forney Center, a lifeline for homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Born from the legacy of Ali Forney, a young advocate who sought safety and justice for his peers and was tragically murdered in the streets of New York, the center provides housing, meals, medical care, and life skills to thousands of vulnerable youth every year. With a mission to protect and empower, the Ali Forney Center continues to grow, offering hope and a fresh start to those rejected by their families. Discover the impact of their work and how you can support this vital cause.

 In this episode, John Kazanjian, recounts the profound impact of his mother’s death during his college years and how he honored her dreams by excelling academically and professionally, even achieving acceptance into Harvard. He reflects on navigating life as a closeted gay man during a conservative era, his 35-year relationship with his partner Jack, and the devastation of Jack’s passing. Through personal reinvention, entrepreneurial ventures, and the development of the Soul Intelligence System with a close friend, John found solace and purpose. His story is a powerful testament to the courage required to embrace life's challenges and live authentically.

In this podcast episode, Dan Bolen welcomes Raymond Macon, both former Jehovah's Witnesses, to discuss their personal experiences of being disfellowshipped from the church for being gay and acting on it. They reflect on the impact of organized religion, the challenges they faced with guilt and shame, and how they ultimately found freedom in embracing their true selves. Their conversation sheds light on the restrictive nature of certain religious doctrines while emphasizing the importance of personal authenticity, acceptance, and love.

Mike Krupit has a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics from Queens College in New York graduating in 1985. He started as a software engineer and worked his way up to Chief Technical Officer, and then the Chief Operations Officer and finally CEO of a company called CD Now which sold music on the internet. Mike is now the owner of his own company called Trejectify which is in leadership development, organizational development and business growth coaching. Mike was married for 36 years and has a son who is a teacher in Florida and a daughter that is 29 years old. Mike knew he had same sex attraction during his younger years. However, he was raised during the AIDS crisis and was fearful of coming out for many years. He realized the greatest fear of denying or fooling himself. It’s quite a story of how he came out to his wife and son and daughter late in life and also his professional clients and peers at the age of 60 years old. This is fascinating story of the courage that Mike used to be his authentic self with his beautiful wife and his two children. The outcome is courageous and inspiring!  Mike can be reached at [email protected]