Navigating the Queer Journey with PJ Brescia (they/them)

What does it mean to come out—not just once, but over and over again—as you uncover more of who you are? In this episode Renae (they/them) sits down with PJ Brescia (they/them), the heart and brains behind Baby Gay, a nonprofit devoted to supporting folks in their coming out journeys.PJ shares their story of coming out later in life, discovering their non-binary identity, and what it’s like to rewrite your life in real time. From navigating family dynamics to finding queer joy in community events, PJ reminds us that coming out isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a lifelong process of becoming.Whether you’re newly out, still figuring it out, or holding space for someone who is, this episode is full of heart, honesty, and hope.TakeawaysPJ Brescia founded Baby Gay to support the coming out process.Coming out can be a challenging journey, especially later in life.Therapy and journaling were crucial tools for PJ's self-discovery.Community support is vital for those navigating their queer identity.Internalized homophobia can impact the coming out experience.Creating inclusive spaces for all queer identities is essential.Labels can be limiting; authenticity is more important.It's okay to take time to figure out one's identity.Non-binary identity is valid regardless of appearance.Acknowledging mistakes in pronoun usage is crucial.Sharing coming out stories fosters connection and understanding.Mentorship between younger and older queer individuals is important.Baby Gay aims to create a safe space for open discussions.Queer history is vital for understanding identity.Building coalitions strengthens community efforts.The future of Baby Gay includes expanding support and resources.Mentioned in this episode:The history of the Black CatBaby Gay’s podcast!Queer Moment of Joy Guests:Nik Kacy & Nicolette J Pownall @nikkacy, @portraitsbynicoletteWilli Gardner @its.willi.gGuest Bio : PJ Brescia (they/them) is the Founder of BabyGay, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that supports and empowers people through their coming out journey by fostering storytelling and community connection. They are also the Founder of the LA Queer Events Coalition, which unites queer community leaders to amplify collective power, protect rights, and create lasting positive change for the LGBTQ+ community of Los Angeles. Since its groundbreaking launch in 2023 at the LA LGBT Center, BabyGay has grown into a larger platform, spearheading the historic initiative to establish National Coming Out Day as an official Los Angeles city holiday in partnership with LA City Council and The Black Cat. Under PJ's leadership, BabyGay creates impactful events, provides essential resources through their Welcome-Wagon Box program. PJ is also the creator of BABY GAY, a semi-autobiographical comedy inspired by their experiences of coming out later in life.Website: www.baby.gayNewsletter: BabyGay NewsletterIG: @babygaytvTikTok: @babygaytv Host Bio: Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them), is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Board-Certified Art Therapist with a deep commitment to advancing mental health care tailored to the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. As the founder and CEO of Open Space Therapy Collective, Renae has built a group practice dedicated to fostering inclusive, affirming care that prioritizes the unique needs of queer and trans individuals.A respected leader and activist in the mental health field, Renae is passionate about raising awareness and creating resources to ensure queer- and trans-informed care becomes a professional standard.To find more from us visit:Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.comInstagram: @openspacetherapycollective TikTok: @openspacetherapy YouTube: @openspacetherapycollectiveKeywords: PJ Brescia, Baby Gay, coming out, LGBTQ+, non-binary, mental health, support, community building, identity, non-binary, LGBTQ+, Baby Gay, community support, coming out stories, queer history, mentorship, identity, allyship