Advertise on podcast: Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage: Real Stories of Identity & Acceptance

Brandon Wolf is a nationally recognized LGBTQ+ civil rights and gun-safety advocate, author, and survivor of the 2016 Pulse nightclub massacre in Orlando, Florida. On the night of June 12, 2016, a gunman murdered 49 people at Pulse, including two of Brandon's closest friends. The experience changed the trajectory of Brandon's life, transforming profound personal grief into a commitment to advocacy and public service. In the years since Pulse, Brandon has emerged as a powerful national voice for LGBTQ+ equality and gun-violence prevention. In honor of one of his friends killed at Pulse, he co-founded the Dru project supporting LGBTQ+ young people through scholarships and grants. In 2019, he became the first Pulse survivor to testify before Congress, speaking about the critical intersection of gun violence and LGBTQ+ civil rights. Brandon's memoir, A Place for Us, traces his journey from a young man searching for belonging and life meaning to an activist determined to help create a safer and more welcoming world for LGBTQ+ people. In this deeply personal conversation with PFLAG Cape Cod's, Rick Koonce, Brandon talks about surviving Pulse, losing his friends, turning grief into purpose, and why he remains committed to fighting for a world in which LGBTQ+ people can live openly, safely, and authentically. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

What do you do when you are the highest-ranking transgender person ever to serve in the U.S. federal government and you come under attack for being who you are?    In this revealing interview, Rick Koonce sits down with Dr. Rachel Levine, former Assistant Secretary for Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services during the Biden Administration, for a candid conversation about personal resilience, public health, transgender health care, and compassionate leadership. Dr. Levine talks about facing intense personal attacks while serving in two major public offices, explaining how she learned to stay personally grounded and focused on the work rather than allowing personal attacks to define her.   Levine also discusses the growing challenges facing transgender and non-binary youth and their families today, why she believes medical care should remain evidence-based, and the importance of choosing optimism even when circumstances feel overwhelming. Her message is ultimately one of hope: progress takes patience and persistence, but community and continued action can create meaningful change. Listen to this powerful conversation about courage, leadership, and staying hopeful - and reach out to continue the conversation about turning adversity into positive change. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

Rick Koonce welcomes acclaimed theater leader Eric Rosen for an inspiring conversation about artistic leadership, resilience, and the enduring power of live theater. As Artistic Director of the historic Cape Playhouse, Eric shares how he is leading one of America's oldest summer theaters into a new era while preparing for its centennial celebration. He discusses the enormous challenge of producing Broadway-scale productions on an incredibly compressed schedule, rebuilding audiences after difficult years, and creating a theater experience that welcomes everyone. Beyond the stage, Eric reflects on his remarkable career, his experiences as a gay man, husband, and father, and how childhood adversity shaped his compassionate approach to leadership. He also explores why theater remains one of the few places where people can genuinely connect, laugh, reflect, and experience community together. Whether you're passionate about theater, leadership, or personal growth, this conversation offers valuable insights into building organizations that inspire people and stand the test of time. In this episode: How Eric Rosen revived the historic Cape Playhouse The challenge of producing Broadway-caliber shows in days Why live theater creates irreplaceable human connection Leadership lessons rooted in empathy and inclusion How personal adversity helped shape Eric's artistic vision More on Eric Rosen: Eric Rosen is an acclaimed theater director, playwright, and artistic leader who has spent more than three decades shaping American regional theater. He currently serves as Artistic Director of the historic Cape Playhouse on Cape Cod, where he is leading the revival of America's oldest continuously operating professional summer theater through ambitious productions, artistic excellence, and a vision for its second century.  Previously, Rosen co-founded Chicago's groundbreaking About Face Theatre, one of the nation's first theaters dedicated to LGBTQ+ voices, and later led Kansas City Repertory Theatre, helping establish it as a nationally recognized center for new work. Throughout his career, Rosen has championed authentic storytelling, inclusive leadership, and the power of live theater to build community and inspire change. He lives with his husband, Broadway actor Claybourne Elder, and their son, Beau. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this compelling episode of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, Rick Koonce speaks with Dallas Ducar, a nationally recognized leader in transgender health care, nurse practitioner, and executive at Fenway Health. Dallas offers a thoughtful and deeply informed look at the growing legal and political threats to gender-affirming care and explains what is truly at stake for transgender individuals and their families. Drawing from both clinical and policy experience, Dallas separates fact from misinformation and highlights why affirming care is simply compassionate, evidence-based health care. He discusses the emotional toll of discrimination, the importance of parental support, and how providers and communities can help protect access to lifesaving treatment. This conversation is both educational and inspiring, reminding listeners that behind every policy debate are real people whose health and dignity matter. In this episode: Why gender-affirming care is evidence-based and lifesaving How anti-trans legislation is spreading across the United States What parents can do when a child questions their gender identity Why affirming care is simply good health care How communities can build coalitions to protect equal rights More on Dallas Ducar: Dallas Ducar is one of the nation's leading voices in transgender healthcare - at a moment when medical access, policies, and patient care of transgender people are all under significant threats from the Trump Administration. As Executive Vice president of Donor Engagement and External Relations for Fenway Health in Massachusetts, and as a nurse practitioner, Dallas has been on the forefront of building inclusive, community-centered models of care for transgender and gender-diverse people for many years. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Rick Koonce sits down with transgender activist Alejandro Marcel to explore a life shaped by resilience, courage, and unwavering authenticity. From early childhood awareness of gender identity to becoming one of the first in the United States to undergo gender-affirming care, Alejandro shares the arc of a life devoted to social justice and service. Drawing from decades of work with LGBTQ+ communities—including HIV/AIDS patients, homeless youth, and trans elders — Alejandro offers profound insight into compassion, identity, and the ongoing challenges within the healthcare system. His story is both sobering and hopeful, reminding listeners of the importance of visibility, dignity, and self-advocacy. This conversation is a call to action — for individuals, families, and society — to lead with understanding and humanity. Key Takeaways: Gender identity is deeply rooted and often understood early in life Advocacy begins with visibility and self-acceptance The healthcare system still lacks understanding of transgender needs Resilience is built through purpose, service, and authenticity Alejandro's Bio: Alejandro Marcel, a long-time transgender activist, began his career in the early days of the gay liberation movement in (pre-AIDS-era) San Francisco, working closely with figures like Harvey Milk. He later applied movement-building strategies to collaborate with farm workers in California, and then with the civil rights movement, before shifting to focus primarily on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people.  Assigned female at birth, Alejandro knew, from an early age, that his physical body did not align with his gender identity. He experienced physical dysphoria that he describes as "feeling born with an entire cast on my body." While his early career focused on HIV/AIDS and Homeless Youth Work, in recent years his focus has shifted to concentrate on the challenges trans seniors face today in navigating America's healthcare system. That said, he remains a passionate advocate on behalf of transgender youth, and recently organized a webinar for trans elders and trans youth, sponsored by PFLAG Cape Cod.  Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this encore episode of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with Dr. Maureen Osborne, a psychologist and gender therapist with more than two decades of experience working with transgender clients. Dr. Osborne shares how an unexpected early client transformed the direction of her career and opened her eyes to the deep emotional, psychological, and social realities faced by transgender individuals. Through compassionate storytelling and real client experiences, Dr. Osborne explains gender dysphoria, the weight of secrecy, and the profound shame many transgender people carry long before they ever speak their truth. She challenges harmful myths, addresses internalized transphobia, and highlights the critical role of family, therapists, and allies in helping transgender people feel seen, respected, and affirmed. Rick and Dr. Osborne also explore the complexities of transition within long-term marriages, generational differences in gender expression, and how biology and social experience intersect in shaping identity. This thoughtful conversation offers insight, hope, and practical guidance for transgender individuals, families, and anyone seeking deeper understanding. Key takeaways: Gender dysphoria is about distress, not pathology Secrecy and shame often cause more harm than identity itself Supportive families and informed therapists can change lives Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how they can show up with greater empathy and to reach out for support, education, or connection through trusted organizations like PFLAG. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this encore of the powerful Stonewall edition of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with David Bermudez, a firsthand witness to the 1969 Stonewall Uprising. David shares a vivid, deeply personal account of what it was like to be inside the Stonewall Inn when police raided the bar, igniting a rebellion that would change the course of LGBTQ+ history. Through David's memories, listeners are taken back to a time when being gay meant living under constant threat—of arrest, public exposure, violence, and loss of livelihood. He describes the fear, the brutality, and ultimately the collective refusal to remain silent any longer. David also reflects on the long arc of progress since Stonewall, including marriage equality, the AIDS crisis, and the importance of remembering history without erasing the humanity of those who lived it. Now in his 80s, David offers wisdom for younger generations, urging unity, vigilance, and compassion across the LGBTQ+ community. His story is not just history — it is a reminder of why visibility, courage, and solidarity still matter today. Key takeaways: Stonewall was born from lived fear, resistance, and survival Progress came at a profound personal cost LGBTQ+ history must be remembered through the voices of those who lived it Unity across generations remains essential Listeners are encouraged to reach out, reflect, and continue the work of honoring and protecting hard-won freedoms. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this deeply moving encore episode of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with author Felice Cohen to explore love, secrecy, identity, and healing through storytelling. Felice shares the story behind her memoir Half In, which chronicles her nine-year, deeply intimate relationship with a woman 34 years older—her first experience of true love—at a time when she was still discovering her sexuality and sense of self. What began as a secret May-December affair became a formative coming-of-age experience that shaped Felice's understanding of intimacy, fear, and emotional risk. In conversation with Rick, she reflects on the power of writing as a tool for grief, self-acceptance, and liberation, and how bringing her story out of the shadows allowed her to finally be "all in" with life and love. Felice also speaks candidly about bisexual identity, family acceptance, and the long-term impact of loving while closeted. This episode is a powerful testament to the courage it takes to examine our past honestly and to release shame in order to make room for love again. Key takeaways: Why secrecy can shape — and limit — emotional intimacy How writing can become a form of healing and self-reclamation What it means to move from being "half in" to fully open to love More About Felice Cohen: Website: https://www.felicecohen.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/felicecohenauthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/felicecohen90/ Substack: https://felicecohen.substack.com/ Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0045EEHMO/allbooks Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys and reach out for connection, support, or conversation sparked by this episode. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2026 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this encore episode of Profiles in LGBTQ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with author and advocate Lori Duron, creator of the widely read blog Raising My Rainbow and author of the book of the same name. In the interview, originally released in February 2021, Lori shares the deeply personal and courageous journey of raising her gender-creative son, CJ, in a world that often struggles to understand difference. From CJ's early love of Barbie dolls and princess dresses to navigating schools, healthcare systems, and public judgment, Lori reflects on how parenting a gender-nonconforming child reshaped her understanding of love, fear, advocacy, and authenticity. Throughout the conversation, Lori explains what it means to be gender nonconforming, how CJ identifies as male while expressing himself in feminine ways, and why her family chose affirmation over "fixing." She also opens up about the impact on her older son, Chase, the importance of education and legal protections, and the critical role PFLAG played in supporting their family. This episode is an honest, hopeful exploration of parenting with courage and compassion. Key takeaways include: What gender nonconformity really means Why affirmation is more powerful than redirection How parents can advocate effectively for their children The importance of community, education, and support Listeners are encouraged to reach out, ask questions, and seek support as they navigate their own journeys with love and intention. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this powerful episode of Profiles in LGBTQ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with trailblazing Irish leader and LGBTQ advocate Katherine Zappone to explore her extraordinary journey through love, loss, politics, and social change. Born in Seattle and later becoming an Irish citizen through her marriage to Ann Louise Gilligan, Katherine reflects on how their partnership sparked one of Ireland's most transformative human rights movements. Together, they helped catalyze the landmark 2015 referendum that legalized same-sex marriage by popular vote—an unprecedented achievement in a deeply Catholic country. Katherine also discusses her groundbreaking tenure as Ireland's Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, where she confronted the devastating legacy of mother-and-baby homes and brought her concerns directly to Pope Francis. She shares profound insights on courage, leadership, activism, and grief—including the loss of her wife and soulmate in 2017. Her new memoir, Love in a Time of Politics, weaves together personal and political history, demonstrating how hope and determination shape social progress. Takeaways: How personal love became a catalyst for national transformation What Ireland teaches us about democracy and moral courage Insights on leadership, advocacy, and resilience How grief reshaped Katherine's public and private life Listeners who feel inspired by Katherine's story are encouraged to reach out, share their reflections, and continue conversations that drive LGBTQ equality forward. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this episode, host Rick Koonce interviews award-winning photojournalist Julia Cumes, whose work shines a light on marginalized communities around the world. Born and raised in apartheid-era South Africa, Julia witnessed the power of images to expose truth and inspire change. Her career has been shaped by a commitment to social justice and storytelling through the lens of her camera. Julia shares how her projects—from documenting Cape Cod's transgender community to capturing the stories of immigrants, women in India's Devadasi system, and Hawaii's cowboys—help challenge stereotypes and humanize those often unseen. Her portraits not only celebrate individuality but also foster empathy and understanding in divided times. Listeners will gain insight into how photography can serve as both art and activism—connecting people across boundaries and transforming hearts one story at a time. Key Takeaways: How photography can drive social change and human connection The importance of visibility for marginalized communities Storytelling as a path to understanding and inclusion Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

Child abuse remains one of the most urgent and under-recognized crises facing families today. In this powerful episode of Profiles in LGBTQ Courage, host Rick Koonce speaks with Jacob Stapledon, Community Engagement and Education Manager at Children s Cove, a child advocacy center on Cape Cod. Together, they shed light on the staggering reality of abuse, why LGBTQ youth are disproportionately affected, and the critical role that community members can play in protecting children. Jacob shares sobering statistics, including the fact that 90% of children are abused by someone they know, and that LGBTQ youth often face the unique challenge of  double disclosure  revealing both their abuse and their identity. He explains how Children s Cove provides coordinated, trauma-informed care to help children tell their stories once, rather than reliving trauma repeatedly. Listeners will also hear practical guidance on recognizing warning signs, safeguarding children online, and taking action when something feels wrong. Key Takeaways: LGBTQ youth face unique risks and barriers to disclosure 90% of abuse comes from someone the child knows Online exploitation is rising rapidly post-COVID Parents and communities must stay engaged and speak up Learn more and access resources at childrenscove.org. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html   2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this episode of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with 16-year-old activist and student Bradley Forcier, whose story is both inspiring and timely. Bradley, a rising junior at Falmouth Academy, shares how coming out at age 12 sparked his passion for advocacy, community involvement, and political engagement. From leading in his school's Gender and Sexuality Alliance to starting the process of launching a local chapter of the ACLU, Bradley is already creating meaningful change. He opens up about navigating high school as a young gay man, supporting transgender friends, and his vision for a more inclusive future. Bradley also talks about his deep interest in American politics, his science fair project on bias in public opinion polls, and his dream of becoming a civil rights attorney or elected official. This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience and optimism of LGBTQ+ youth, and the difference they are making every day. Takeaways: How Bradley's activism began at a young age The importance of safe, supportive school communities Insights on LGBTQ+ acceptance among Gen Z Why optimism matters in today's political climate Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of tomorrow's changemakers. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

Have you ever wondered what courage looks like in the LGBTQ+ community? In my podcast series, Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, I share the powerful, authentic stories of individuals and families navigating the complex issues of sexual orientation, gender identity, self acceptance, and human love. From coming out journeys and gender transitions to parents learning how to support their children, these intimate conversations reveal the strength it takes for all of us to live and love authentically. I'm your host, Rick Koonce. With decades of experience as a journalist and interviewer, I'm here to share stories that will educate, inspire, and remind you that none of us walks this path of life alone. So today, I'm asking you to subscribe to Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage wherever you listen to podcasts and and join us in celebrating the bravery it takes to live your truth and life authentically.

In this episode of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, I sit down with Massachusetts State Senator Julian Cyr, who represents Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket. Julian shares his powerful journey of growing up as a young gay man on the Outer Cape, finding his voice through activism, and ultimately stepping into leadership to serve his community. We talk about how his early experiences shaped his commitment to public service, the lessons he learned from the AIDS epidemic, and why authenticity is a core value in both politics and personal life. Julian also opens up about the pressing issues facing Cape Cod today—including the housing crisis, climate change, and public health—and how his lived experience informs the way he leads. This conversation is both inspiring and practical, offering wisdom for anyone navigating their own journey of courage, leadership, or advocacy. Key Takeaways: Growing up LGBTQ+ on Cape Cod shaped Julian's values and resilience. The importance of authenticity in leadership and advocacy. Housing, climate, and public health challenges on Cape Cod today. Why the LGBTQ+ community must stand united—especially for trans rights. I'd love to hear your thoughts—reach out and share your own story of courage. Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html © 2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod