Let’s be really clear here: we are starting with a framing that LGBTQ+ individuals have a right to exist…as they are. We would love for you to play with this idea with us as we talk about how patriarchy impacts this particular demographic. One of the best ways to learn about our own biases is to be in open communication and proximity with others who don’t share our views. We would love to continue the conversation in the chat and on Instagram.

In this episode, we interview Rebecca Minor LICSW (she/they—bio below), who has a wealth of information and insights as this population is one she knows well. From working with families of transgender folks, to facilitating support communities for queer individuals, she has a breadth of knowledge most of us can only guess at. So…instead of doing that, let’s learn from someone who’s got the firsthand (and second-, and third-, and more…) experience and knowledge of what helps, what hurts, and what we’re still figuring out.

Rebecca Minor, LICSW, is a queer clinician, consultant, and educator specializing in the intersection of trauma, gender, and sexuality. As a gender specialist, Rebecca partners with trans and gender nonconforming youth through their journey of becoming and serves as a guide to their parents in affirming it. She has authored articles on LGBTQ+ youth, contributed to textbooks, and is frequently quoted as an expert on gender-affirming care. Rebecca is the founder of Prism Therapy Collective, where the approach is always trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming. Her internationally recognized consulting and parent coaching work supports organizations, schools, and businesses in building cultural responsiveness and inclusivity. She also leads bi+ (in)visibility, a community for bi+ people navigating their queer identity in the context of a straight-presenting relationship. Rebecca is an adjunct faculty member and lecturer at Boston University School of Social Work, and the author of the forthcoming book Raising Trans Kids: What To Expect When You Weren’t Expecting This (Row House, 2025).

Website: www.genderspecialist.com

Instagram: @gender.specialist

Facebook: Rebecca Minor LICSW

LinkedIn: Rebecca Minor, LICSW

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Flipping the tables on Carly this time…Rob asks all the questions without any heads-up on what they are. This is a raw, emotional take on that current moment of Carly’s story as she begins to see patriarchal structures for what they are—and how that changed literally everything.

For those who grew up being taught a more egalitarian way, it may be foreign to see how some of us struggle to understand the dynamics…but when you have never seen or heard of other options, it’s nearly impossible to feel like there’s any other way, and the emotional gaslighting (often by your own self) is intense.

Has this been a situation you’ve experienced? We’d love to hear about it!

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I had it in my mind that I wanted to interview Valerie Hamaker of Latter Day Struggles, but was torn between talking about faith crisis for Season 2, or patriarchy for Season 3. When she offered to meet with us in the wake of their resignation from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I knew it needed to be about patriarchy…as it’s fingers were all over their story, and the faith crisis/transition narrative tells itself.

Valerie is a brilliant and humble woman with deep love for the faith heritage we all share, and we were so excited and honored to have the opportunity to talk with her. We highly recommend listening to her other episodes/series on patriarchy on her website.

* Instagram: https://instagram.com/latterdaystrugglespodcast

* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valeriehamakerlatterdaystrugglespodcast

* Website: https://valeriehamaker.com/

* Find her courses, how to work with her, sign up for her extra podcasts, newsletter, etc.

* Scroll to the bottom to see links to different podcast topic series they’ve discussed

bell hooks The Will to Change

Breaking Down Patriarchy episode that discusses how to be an anti-patriarchist. This episode spurred many conversations in our own home, but also was the impetus for Valerie and Nathan’s series about how patriarchy harms men.

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Did the Barbie movie make you angry? Cringe? Did you think it was funny, but not at all a message? Were you even willing to watch it? We’d love to hear your take on it! Join us in the chat…

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Season 3 is here!

In this episode, we delve into the complex topic of patriarchy, exploring its definitions, manifestations, and implications in society. We discuss the importance of understanding patriarchy not just as a system that is inherent to benefits men, but as a structure that can be harmful to all genders. The conversation highlights the need for self-reflection and engagement in discussions about gender roles, representation, and the impact of patriarchal systems on individuals and communities. We set the stage for a deeper exploration of these themes throughout the season.

Join us on Instagram or join the chat on Substack!

In this episode, we dive into the intricate tapestry of family dynamics and religious expectations with Carly’s cousin-in-law (that’s a thing…promise), Abbie. Abbie shares her personal journey of navigating her upbringing within the church, the challenges of balancing personal beliefs with familial expectations, and the profound impact these experiences have had on her family life. Join us as we explore the complexities of faith, identity, and the courage it takes to forge one's own path. This episode is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience found in embracing one's truth.

Through the conversation, Carly, Rob, and Abbie discuss Abbie's journey through faith, family, and personal growth. They explore the complexities of growing up in the church, the challenges of navigating expectations in marriage, integrating expectations when starting and joining a family, and the importance of storytelling in healing. Abbie shares her experiences of questioning experiences related to church during her teenage years, the impact of her mother's illness on their church attendance, and the beauty found in both pain and joy. The conversation highlights the gray areas of belief and the significance of finding one's own path in spirituality.

In this conversation, Abbie, Rob, and Carly explore the complexities of navigating faith transitions, particularly within the context of Mormonism (specifically as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). They discuss the challenges of having difficult conversations with loved ones, the importance of creating support systems, and the healing that can come from open dialogue.

Abbie shares her personal journey of investigation and the emotional turmoil that often accompanies leaving a faith. They emphasize the need for compassion and understanding in conversations about spirituality and the diverse paths individuals take in their spiritual journeys.

Season two starts in August, and we are so excited to share these new topics with you! Please like, share, comment, rate, and review wherever you end up listening.

Thanks for being here!

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Our last episode of the official Season 2! We will be back again with weekly episodes starting on August 7.

We are looking to interview experts in the different aspects of patriarchal systems…know someone? Send them our info. We’d love to chat!

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LDS Faith Crisis Report PDF (complete)

Includes the graphs we reference throughout:

* GRAPH 1: Faith Crisis Stages (from the report linked above):

* GRAPH 2: Cycle of Disaffection (from report linked above)

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