Chris and Jen - Conversation with Community Builders

In this engaging conversation, hosts Chris and Jen welcome April and Shaina Dreyson, members of the Keller South Lake community and founders of Pride Kel-So. They discuss their personal journeys, the importance of community engagement, and the role of allies in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The conversation highlights the significance of representation, the difference between tolerance and acceptance, and the transformative power of pride events in fostering a sense of belonging. April and Shana share their experiences of navigating their identities in a conservative environment and the impact of their business on the local community. They also provide valuable advice for LGBTQ+ youth and emphasize the need for empathy and understanding in bridging divides. In this conversation, April and Shaina discuss the upcoming Pride Kelso event, emphasizing the importance of community resources, safety, and personal growth. They share insights on event planning, the role of allies, and the impact of creating a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. The discussion highlights the significance of being bold and present in advocating for change, as well as the transformative power of community events.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Gratitude Moments04:13 Meet April and Shaina Dreyson09:19 Community Engagement and Representation12:33 Creating a Sense of Home and Community16:25 Personal Journeys and Authenticity23:01 Advice for LGBTQ+ Youth27:27 Navigating Personal Journeys of Identity29:17 The Role of Community and Allyship31:25 Understanding Privilege and Its Impact33:53 The Importance of Allyship in Social Movements36:47 The Need for Active Participation in Advocacy38:46 Acceptance vs. Affirmation in Relationships45:39 Creating Inclusive Spaces for All47:10 The Evolution of Community Support50:17 The Significance of Pride Events53:31 What to Expect at Pride Kelso01:00:40 Community Engagement and Fundraising Efforts01:02:09 Building Relationships with Local Organizations01:04:06 Personal Growth and Emotional Connections01:06:53 Creating Safe Spaces in Polarizing Environments01:11:22 Event Planning and Safety Measures01:19:40 Impact of Leadership in the Community01:24:15 Changing Lives in the Community01:25:23 Challenging Societal Norms01:26:54 Embracing Boldness and Visibility01:29:33 Creating a Movement for Acceptance01:31:21 The Power of Community Support01:33:47 Ways to Get Involved01:36:23 The Importance of Presence and Advocacy01:40:00 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations01:43:29 OutroPhotos link to Fort Worth Weekly article https://www.fwweekly.com/2025/06/18/pride-arrives-in-kel-so/Badge of Pridehttps://www.irvingarchivesandmuseum.com/badgeofprideThe Dreysonhttps://www.thedreyson.com/Pride Kel-So https://www.pridekelso.com/Sponsorhttps://www.pridekelso.com/sponsorRegistration/Ticketshttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/pride-keller-southlake-tickets-1335796215439?aff=oddtdtcreator&amp%3Blocale=en_US&amp%3Blang=en-us&amp%3Bstatus=30&amp%3Bview=listing&amp=Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/PrideKellerFacebook eventhttps://www.facebook.com/events/712730911222985GoFundMehttps://www.gofundme.com/f/support-pride-kelso-a-needed-changeEmail - [email protected]   Voicemail and Text available at 940-278-8129Facebook - Chris and Jen in the MorningInstagram - Chris and Jen ITMYouTube - Chris and Jen ITMSupport the show