Jordan Gonsalves: Growing Up LGBTQ+ in Conservative Texas

Coming Out Stories

Wednesday, 21 August 2024 - 36 minutes

What does it mean to grow up LGBTQ+ in a conservative environment?
Jordan Gonsalves is a podcaster and journalist from New York, who shares his deeply personal journey of understanding his sexuality in the conservative suburbs of Houston, Texas.
Jordan's reflections on childhood bullying, societal pressures, and the early realization of being different paint a vivid picture of the struggles many LGBTQ+ individuals face during their formative years.

Growing up within a devout Catholic family, the fear of being gay led to years of self-suppression, but during an internship in San Francisco, Jordan found freedom in a new city and then support from a fellow gay intern.

This episode captures the raw emotions of living a double life and the ultimate release in embracing one's true self. From a transformative conversation by the San Francisco Bay to a revealing trip to India, Jordan's journey towards self-acceptance is compelling.

Moreover, the episode celebrates the preservation of queer history, featuring touching stories from the "But We Loved" podcast. Hear from queer elders like Stonewall Riots participant Martin Boyce, whose experiences echo the resilience and courage of the LGBTQ+ community across generations. Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring episode that underscores the power of storytelling and the enduring fight for acceptance and equality.

Find Jordan on X and Instagram

Presented by Emma Goswell

Produced by Sam Walker

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