Unshaming

If religion ever made you feel like you didn't belong, this episode is for you.I grew up gay, Catholic, and deeply ashamed. And most of my shame points back to the church. For the very first episode of Unshaming, I sat down with the one person who started to change that for me — Father Jim Martin, one of the most outspoken advocates for LGBT people in the Catholic Church today.He is also the author of a new book called Work in Progress and leads “Outreach”, the ministry bringing LGBTQ Catholics back to the Church. He has over 1 million followers across social media and has become one of the most important and controversial figures in American Catholicism.What we cover:Religious trauma origin storiesThe Church's treatment of LGBTQ peopleWhy the transactional God doesn’t existThe recent sexual abuse settlements Father Jim grieving his mother who passed away this yearForgiveness and mercyIf this resonated, please share it with someone who is on their unshaming journey, and subscribe so you never miss an episode!Executive ProducerJordan GonsalvesProducersAmanda McLoughlin, MultitudeBrandon Grugle, MultitudeEditorDeanna Chapman, MultitudeProduction & Publicity Franklin BenavidesMorgan JonesBen LauerDio AnthonyLarry ColtonAdam BermanSpecial thanks to:Chip ConleyLarry Colton & John McCoyMike Phillps & Jay MortonBill Glenn & Scott HafnerRobert HolgateJenny & Jude GonsalvesDeeDee ToweryKevin Palmer & Tom EllicottMichael & Laura WernerAlex Berman & Alex ScottaSteve HouckDave KozDavid BeattyPaul GrossingerRandy QuebecTom ViolaBroadway Cares / Danny WhitmanJulie StamplerDavid VogelBrooke & Will MuggiaJudi & David IssacsonReesa ManningKathleen SalemiCindy & Neil LyonAnil CrastoTeresa KerstenCary BermanRhett WilsonTom Emrich & Jonathan Carver MooreNick ScandaliousDixie Webster DavisDavid SchutteStuart SpencerJay KuoNed LustbaderKen Lustbader & Jay KiddSusan & Joyce LowenbergSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve ever felt judged or like you’ve had to hide who you are, you’re invited to the Unshaming dinner party. A place where you are safe to be your authentic self and where your curiosity knows no limits. Hosted by journalist Jordan Gonsalves, we’ll have raw conversations with experts and storytellers to explore how shame is quietly shaping our relationships, our culture, our sense of self - and what becomes possible when we stop hiding and start belonging. Dinner’s ready.Weekly episodes drop 6/17 on YouTube. Subscribe now!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThe third episode of my new show, "But We Loved" with iHeartMedia. Here's the description: But We Loved is a new podcast that showcases the untold stories of queer history through intimate interviews with LGBTQ+ elders, who share their wisdom, their struggle, and — most importantly – their triumph. You'll learn queer history, but through the storytelling you'll feel like you were actually there.Listen on: Apple Spotify Amazon Music See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThe second episode of my new show, "But We Loved" with iHeartMedia. Here's the description: As a gay kid growing up Catholic, in conservative Texas, Jordan Gonsalves knew nothing about queer history. Now, as a journalist, he’s searching for the stories he craved when he was coming of age. Through intimate interviews with LGBTQ+ elders, Jordan uncovers the untold stories of queer history. And in the process, he discovers the role models he always needed and the wisdom they’ve been waiting to pass down.Listen everywhere you get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThe second episode of my new show, "But We Loved" with iHeartMedia. Here's the description: As a gay kid growing up Catholic, in conservative Texas, Jordan Gonsalves knew nothing about queer history. Now, as a journalist, he’s searching for the stories he craved when he was coming of age. Through intimate interviews with LGBTQ+ elders, Jordan uncovers the untold stories of queer history. And in the process, he discovers the role models he always needed and the wisdom they’ve been waiting to pass down.Listen everywhere you get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailAnswering your sex & dating questions! Don't get too excited... you're getting #unshaming advice. Letter 1 — 3:56 Letter 2 — 31:30 Letter 3 — 47:21 Shenny De Los Angeles returns to the pod this episode. She is an actress, activist, and poet. Engage with her here. Shenny’s instagram:  Shenny’s email where you can write to her: [email protected] #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.  Email us your unshaming questions and stories at [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailWtf does unshaming even mean?! We dive into it all in this episode. Nikila Cranage, host of Bad Behavior Podcast, joins the show.In this episode, we reference Jor's unshaming journey. You can listen to his episode on the shame of being gay here. We also reference an episode of the Oprah Winfrey Show about forgiveness — watch that here.TW: this episode briefly touches on sexual abuse.#StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailA glimpse into the royal life of a prince...Prince Manvendra's family is part of a 600 year dynasty in India. Learn more about him below: NY Times article  Prince Manvendra on the Oprah Show #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailUnshaming returns in Fall 2021! You can #StayUnshaming with us instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.  Join us for this powerful conversation with host Jordan Gonsalves on grief, intuition, validation from social media, and following your dreams.Thank you for a fabulous Season 2. You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThis episode contains discussion around sexual abuse and suicide.Victoria Lee is a fiction author, PhD Psychologist, and neuroscientist. She also lives with Psychotic Depression. Her work centers around representing people with mental illnesses as folks who have the same hopes and dreams as everyone else. Her new novel, A Lesson in Vengeance.  does just that.If you or someone you know is being or has been sexually abused, and would like help, please find resources below: National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1.800.656.HOPE Chat with a trained specialist RAINN.org Resources for survivors and allies You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailWhat's it like losing a core piece of your identity? Losing a core sense of belonging? Hair. In this episode, we explore these questions through the hair loss journey of Ronald Hinton, who documented his experience in the new documentary My Hair, My Rules.You can stream My Hair, My Rules, here. You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThis episode contains candid descriptions of human rights violations against LGBTQ+ people in Chechnya. Listener discretion is advised. Tanya Lokshima is the associate director for Human Rights Watch’s Europe and Central Asia division, based in Moscow. She has extensively covered and exposed the human-rights abuses against LGBTQ+ people in Russia/Chechnya throughout her career. You can follow her work here.Background information: New Yorker article exposing the anti-gay purges in Chechnya Welcome to Chechnya documentary Information on Halimat Tarmova Information on the Russian LGBT Network — the organization helping LGBTQ+ flee persecution You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThis episode contains candid descriptions of sexual abuse and child molestation — listener discretion is advised. In this episode, Shaun T tells his story of surviving child molestation by his mother’s boyfriend. He discusses how he forgave his abuser and ultimately learned to forgive himself. He also shares how his experiences made him a better partner, father, and person.Shaun T is one of the most iconic fitness influencers in the world. His message of trust and believe has flourished into an entire brand that has impacted millions of lives.If you or someone you know is being or has been sexually abused, and would like help, please find resources below: National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1.800.656.HOPE Chat with a trained specialist RAINN.org Resources for survivors and allies You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailWhat’s it like recovering from a stroke where you lost everything? Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor shares her journey of how experiencing a near-death brain hemorrhage helped her achieve inner peace. Her new book “Whole Brain Living” describes how we can all achieve connectedness, love, and healing by training our brains.Get connected with Dr. Jill below. watch her TED talk here watch her Oprah interview here purchase “Whole Brain Living" You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailWhy do we fear death and dying so much? What is it like to stare it in the face with a diagnosis of Cancer?In this episode, children's author Sharon Frances and her partner Matthew Rodriguez openly discuss their personal experiences with Cancer. Sharon is a Breast Cancer survivor while Matthew lost his last wife to Throat Cancer. They are the co-founders of the Well Beings Studio, a non profit using the arts to help children with Cancer express themselves.You can read their books here: Little Green Monster: Cancer Magic! By Sharon Frances (formerly Chappell) Wet Wings: Poetry through Breast Cancer, By Sharon Frances (formerly Chappell) Shifting with the Tides: Yoga Poems for All Ages, By Sharon Frances (formerly Chappell) Scoops of Joy, By Matthew Rodriguez and Sharon Frances References to Windows and Mirrors in children’s literature: Emily Seed, 1988, Curriculum as Window and Mirror Diversity in Children’s Literature with Windows and Mirrors You can support Unshaming at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailMentalhealth.org reports that 1 in 5 adults feels "disgusting" about their bodies. How do we break free from the toxic cycle of body shaming ourselves? How do we create peace with our body image? Allison Ross,  eating and body image therapist and author of "Non-Dieting: How to Love your Body and Be Healthy in Diet Culture" discusses: the origins of body image issues body neutrality understanding the role of social media in our body image issues You can support the show at patreon.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. Producers/Editors: Jor Gonsalves & Sam StoneSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThis episode contains explicit language around experiences with racial slurs. Tony Lee is a 27-year-old Asian-American journalist for NBC News. He has reported on COVID-19 and the rise in Anti-Asian hate attacks in depth. In this episode, he discusses his experiences growing up Asian-American in the United States, being fetishized as a gay Asian man, and the complexities of being an Asian-American journalist in 2021.You can support the show at patron.com/unshaming. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com. Episode Producers/Editors: Jor Gonsalves & Sam Stone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailWhat is it like dismantling everything you believe in for your authentic self? In this episode, we explore the freedom and devastation that comes with relinquishing your former life. A letter from an Unshaming listener, this touching story about choosing yourself surrounds Anna Mouchref's decision to leave Islam. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.Letter Author: Anna MouchrefEpisode Producers/Editors: Jor Gonsalves & Sam StoneSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailQuan Huynh murdered another human being in gang related violence and was charged with second degree murder in 1999. He entered prison without remorse and left prison, a changed man. His story is not about his crime though — it's about his transformation during his 22 years in prison: humanizing himself as a person with grief, ambitions, and potential.  He is the bestselling author of Sparrow in the Razor Wire: Finding Freedom from Within While Serving a Life Sentence.  He now works as the senior post release program manager for Defy Ventures, a non profit helping those with a criminal past transform their lives through entrepreneurship.  #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailBarb Zablotney was crowned Miss Wheelchair Pennsylvania in 2018. After a tragic car accident in 2007 that left her paralyzed from the waste down, she became a fierce advocate for women with disabilities. Although 61 million Americans live with a disability, why is that we know so little about this community? In this episode, Barb candidly shares how she navigates her daily routine, seeing friends, dating, and sex. She opens up about her own internalized ableism and how able bodied people can be more inclusive of folks with disabilities.This episode contains graphic descriptions of Barb's car accident  from 4:54 — 6:52.#StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailWhat exactly is failure and why are we so afraid to admit that we've experienced it? Even harder to admit, is that we're currently experiencing some kind of failure. But can our failures teach us something about who we are and what we need? In this episode, Jasper Soloff, a high profile Hollywood photographer opens up about how successes in one area of his life inevitably equate to failures in others. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThis episode contains frank discussion about mental and sexual trauma. The Brain and Behavior Research institute estimates that up to 1/20 Americans have Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). If a person experiences 5/9 BPD symptoms, they can be diagnosed. In this episode Megan Brogdon speaks candidly about her BPD experience in an effort to end the stigma around living with a mental illness. You can learn more about BPD here. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan Mail34 million Americans are low-income according to the US Census Bureau. What’s life like for them? In this episode, Xiomara Contreras shares her memories of growing up on food stamps and living in a home where she shared a twin bed. When she became a teenager, she was selected to attend a prestigious boarding school on scholarship and later graduated from Northwestern and accepted a job at Google — all the while going back and forth between these two worlds. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailThis episode contains explicit language about sex and sex work. Host Jor Gonsalves interviews New York City Dominatrix Godess Talia. In what she describes as a career, she defines what a dominatrix is and discusses her business model, her clientele, and of course — her wildest stories. The mission of #Unshaming is to shine a light on communities that are otherwise silenced. The sex work community is no exception. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailA deeply underrepresented community: the people who take medication for their mental Illnesses. In this episode, we hear from health coach Claudia Canabal about her depression and decision to medicate for it. Claudia details her internal work to undo the "I'm not crazy" narrative and touches on fears of being medicated for life. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailCan regret actually be productive? Why get stuck on things you can never change? Won't it lead to unhappiness? In this episode with poet/actress/activist Shenny De Los Angeles, we dive into all of these questions and debunk the idea that regret is negative. We explore the importance of regret and how it can be a tool to hold ourselves accountable.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailSadasia McCutchen discusses how she overcame her shame of being  a darker skinned black woman. She also explains her belief that your struggle is part of your ultimate path to finding and fulfilling your greatest purpose. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailTrans entertainer Ivana Black tells the story of finding and unshaming her womanhood in a time when America's transphobia was rampant. She openly discusses her experiences with the black market and what womanhood means to her. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailHaley Johnston shares her story of unshaming body image. During her time at UT Austin, she struggled with disordered eating and over-exercising which resulted in her missing her period for two years. Her journey to body love has included regaining her period but also a passion for women’s health and self-love. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailHost Jor Gonsalves takes us on his unshaming journey of being gay. Jor discusses the pain, the shame, the freedom, and the joy of his coming out story. #StayUnshaming with us at instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailAIDS activist and health educator Jahlove Serano discusses his journey to unshame his HIV positive status: from being diagnosed at 15, running away from home, and dropping out of school in fear of others finding out to becoming the face of several global "end HIV" campaigns. #StayUnshaming with us at  instagram.com/unshaming and unshamingpodcast.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.