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The Vibe of a Gay City: Finding Community, Freedom, and Connection
Airs August 21

What makes a city feel undeniably, unapologetically gay? Is it the rainbow flags, the nightlife, the history, the people—or something deeper?

In this episode of The Mindfully Gay Podcast, John Cottrell and Jerry Buie return after a brief summer hiatus to reflect on Jerry’s recent visit to Wilton Manors, Florida—one of America’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ communities. Their conversation expands into a heartfelt exploration of gay neighborhoods, queer belonging, chosen family, aging, visibility, and what it means to live in places where authenticity is not merely tolerated, but celebrated.

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“Beyond the Closet, Beyond the Church: Queer Faith, Shame, & Spiritual Freedom”
Aired August 7th on The Mindfully Gay Podcast

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Mindfully Gay Podcast, John and Jerry explore the complicated relationship between queer identity, religion, spirituality, shame, and self-acceptance.

Prompted by messages from listeners around the world — including countries where being LGBTQ+ is still criminalized or deeply oppressed — this conversation examines what it means to grow up hearing that who you are is somehow wrong, sinful, or in need of fixing.

Jerry opens up about his experience growing up Mormon, serving a mission, marrying a woman, and desperately trying to “pray away” his sexuality through devotion, obedience, fasting, and faith. John reflects on growing up Catholic and receiving the painful mixed message so many queer people know well: “It’s okay to be who you are… just don’t tell anybody.”

Together, they unpack the emotional and spiritual consequences of hiding, suppressing identity, and internalizing religious shame. They discuss religious trauma, conversion therapy, coming out in conservative environments, and the exhausting pressure many LGBTQ+ people feel to earn love, acceptance, and belonging.

But this episode is also about healing.

John and Jerry explore the possibility of reconnecting with spirituality outside the walls of organized religion — through nature, yoga, ceremony, mindfulness, community, ancestors, authentic conversation, and the wisdom already living within ourselves. They reflect on queer people as bridge builders, healers, truth tellers, and carriers of unique spiritual gifts and “magic.”

This heartfelt conversation speaks directly to anyone navigating:

• Religious trauma
• Faith after coming out
• LGBTQ+ identity and spirituality
• Shame and self-acceptance
• Conservative religious environments
• Queer healing and authenticity
• Spirituality outside organized religion
• The search for belonging and inner peace

Whether you are questioning your faith, rebuilding your relationship with spirituality, healing from rejection, or simply trying to live more authentically, this episode offers compassion, honesty, and hope.

Watch the full video episode on YouTube at The Mindfully Gay Podcast YouTube Channel

Download and stream the audio podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Visit Mindfully Gay Podcast for updates, social events, and more episodes.

@mindfully_gay (Instagram)

Send us Fan Mail

“Beyond the Closet, Beyond the Church: Queer Faith, Shame, and Spiritual Freedom”

Airs August 7th on The Mindfully Gay Podcast

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Mindfully Gay Podcast, John and Jerry explore the complicated relationship between queer identity, religion, spirituality, shame, and self-acceptance.

Prompted by messages from listeners around the world — including countries where being LGBTQ+ is still criminalized or deeply oppressed — this conversation examines what it means to grow up hearing that who you are is somehow wrong, sinful, or in need of fixing.

@mindfully_gay (Instagram)