Content warning: This episode contains discussion around conversion therapy.In this episode, we talk with John, whose story of finding and accepting his true self resonated deeply with visitors to our Freedom Exhibition. John shares the profound sense of liberation he felt by embracing his truth and the positive effect it has had on his life. John delves into the struggle of reconciling his role in the church community with his sexuality, and how this conflict influenced his identity and sense of belonging. He also describes his journey away from the harmful belief that he could change his sexual orientation through faith, marking the significant moments of self-acceptance that shaped his path forward. We discuss the pressures of societal norms and expectations and how the drag community became a surrogate family for John, offering him acceptance and a sense of home. Listen to the full episode to hear this compelling story and the meaningful lessons of living authentically.This episode was hosted by Colette Burroughs-Rose and Caroline Dyer. Production was expertly handled by Big Tent Media https://www.instagram.com/bigtent.media/ Heard Storytelling is a spoken stories company that creates positive change. Further info on our work can be found at https://www.heardstorytelling.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/heardstorytelling/ Special thanks to our storyteller John https://www.instagram.com/cakedoesdrag/ If this story has moved you, please reach out. Follow this link https://shorturl.at/ITY02 to our Google Form to send a message to John or to share your personal story with us. Your words could offer support, inspire change, or even be featured in a future episode. Join the conversation and be part of our storytelling community.Please note that the views and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the individuals expressing them and do not necessarily reflect those of the Heard Storytelling team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.