What if Everyone Leads with Love? with Joël Simeu

Send us Fan MailWhat is family? Is it the people related to you by blood or by love? In this episode of Dem Bois Podcast, we question the idea of “family,” and what it really means. Today I sit down with Joël Simeu, a writer and poet from Cameroon now residing in New York, who is pursuing his PhD at Cornell University. Joel discusses his journey of self-discovery, transitioning to his chosen name Joel, and the challenges of “coming out” to a traditional Cameroonian family. He emphasizes the importance of self-love, gratitude, and community support. Joel also reflects on the impact of religious teachings and cultural expectations on his identity. Despite facing rejection from his family, he finds solace in friends and the freedom of living authentically. We talk:Joël’s transition journey - 8:11His “traditional” upbringing - 19:51“Coming out” to his family - 29:53Questioning what family actually is - 37:57Advice for listeners - 46:16Click here for transcription!Episode References:Dem Bois Pod Ep. 3 - Surviving homelessnessRead more about Joël in his bio below:Joël is a writer from Douala, Cameroon, currently based in Ithaca, NY, where he is completing his English PhD at Cornell University. His writing is grounded in a poetics of Black & queer futurity. Joël believes in the pursuit of liberation, justice, freedom, and love for all oppressed people. He enjoys going on walks and listening to jazz music. He’s an aspiring saxophonist and loves his friends. https://www.instagram.com/jojosim27Celebrate 10 years of Dem Bois Inc.!2026 marks ten years of Dem Bois Inc. To honor this milestone, we invite you to join our 10 for 10 campaign by giving $10 a month to help sustain the care, leadership, and visibility that trans men of color deserve.Your support helps build a future rooted in care, visibility, and possibility.Donate today!Donate today to support Transmasc Gender Affirming Grants and Community Wellness Packages for Trans Men of Color!The  Visibility = Possibility™️ Merch is here! - Not just merch, but a movement! Dem Bois Community Voices Facebook Group is a safe, moderated sanctuary where trans men of color can connect authentically, discuss podcast episodes, share powerful experiences, and build support networks. Dem Bois YouTube Channel! - @demboisinc - Exclusive content you won't find anywhere else!