All Out in the Open

The Invitation That Holds All the Answers Feb 17, 2025

This week on IN the Scriptures, Clare Dalton and Becca Shumway dive into Doctrine and Covenants 18-28. These revelations shaped the early structure of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and Clare and Becca explore how structure can be both a help and a hindrance to personal growth.
In the episode, Becca shares her insights on faith, the ongoing restoration and what it means to truly see the worth of every soul.

From Teen Convert to Branch President in Thailand Feb 11, 2025

In this week’s OUT and About episode, Iese Wilson interviews Max Maneekam, a gay Latter-day Saint from Thailand now living in South Carolina with his husband.
Max shares his journey of faith, from discovering the Church at age 12 to serving a mission in Ogden, Utah, to becoming the branch president of his Thai congregation at age 21 to attending BYU-Hawaii. As he has navigated religion and identity, he has been blessed to find unwavering support from his family, and he wants to be a resource for other LGBTQ+ members of the Church who face rejection, encouraging them to be brave, be yourself and know God loves you.

Seeing LGBTQ+ Individuals Through a Christlike Lens Feb 04, 2025

In this ALL Together episode, Liz Macdonald and Michael Soto sit down with Pastor Stan Mitchell, a Christian pastor with a powerful journey of faith and inclusion. Growing up in a fear-based, exclusivist Christian tradition, he gradually expanded his understanding of God’s love and eventually played a role in his Nashville church’s decision to fully embrace LGBTQ+ members in 2015. Now, he travels extensively, helping Christian families and churches navigate faith and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Pastor Mitchell discusses the wounds that religious teachings can cause—not just for LGBTQ+ individuals but also for those who uphold exclusionary beliefs out of fear and conviction. Through Jesus’s parables and stories, he illustrates the need for compassion, listening, and standing in solidarity with the marginalized. He challenges allies to move beyond passive support, reminding us that if we’re not feeling the impact of the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community, we may not be standing close enough.

Grieving the Life You Thought You Would Have Jan 28, 2025

This month on OPEN Up, Ben Schilaty and Charlie Bird sit down with Lisa Valentine Clark. Lisa is a mother of five and host of the podcasts “The Lisa Show” and “Council of Moms.”
Lisa shares her experience with grief following the death of her husband. She discusses navigating life when it doesn’t go as planned, including finding connection and living in the present.

Giving Ourself and Others Space to Grow Jan 21, 2025

This week on IN the Scriptures, Clare Dalton talks with Dan and Terri Pratt, parents of six neurodivergent children, some of whom are LGBTQ+. They share their journey of supporting their kids, overcoming internalized beliefs, and building a more inclusive faith.
Drawing on Joseph Smith’s First Vision, they discuss the importance of family support and unconditional love for youth navigating their identities. Their message: God loves us as we are, and curiosity and compassion can help us grow together.

Converting in Hong Kong... To Become Straight? Jan 14, 2025

From Hong Kong to Brigham Young University-Hawaii, Uri shares his journey as a gay member of the Church—finding God’s love, self-acceptance, and community along the way.
Tune in to this heartfelt OUT and About episode with host Iese Wilson as Uri reflects on his path, the challenges he’s faced, and his message of hope for LGBTQ+ individuals: You’re perfect, you’re brave, and you’re not alone.

Creating social safety for lgbtq+ loved-ones Jan 07, 2025

Kick off the new year with an inspiring ALL Together episode! Liz Macdonald and Michael Soto interview Dr. Lisa Diamond, professor of psychology and gender studies at the University of Utah, and her research assistants Julia Decker and Jay Christensen. The trio discusses their important research on social safety for LGBTQ+ members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and provides practical advice on creating safety and connection.

Exploring Body Image and Eating Through an LGBTQ+ Lens (with Sydney Williams, LCSW) Jan 02, 2025

In the new OPEN Up episode, Charlie Bird and Ben Schilaty sit down with Sydney Williams, LCSW, a therapist and eating disorder specialist, to explore the complex relationship between body image and the LGBTQ+ community.
They share insights into the cultural and historical factors shaping body ideals and offer practical advice on loving and trusting your body as a gift from God.

Spanish Episode: Compartiendo Nuestras Experiencias como Miembros Gays en la Iglesia Dec 24, 2024

Don’t miss the first episode of All Out in the Open in Spanish!
In this special episode of THE Exclusive, Charlie Bird and Ben Schilaty share their experiences as gay members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and answer frequently asked questions. We hope this episode can be a resource to support Hispanic individuals and families on their journeys of faith, love and understanding.

Asking Questions is the Answer: JS-H and D&C 1-2 (with Austin Peterson) Dec 17, 2024

This week Clare Dalton is joined by Austin Peterson, her collaborator on the Gatherings curriculum—Come Follow Me study groups designed for LGBTQ+ Church members and allies. Together, they dive into the early sections of the Doctrine and Covenants, exploring how asking questions can deepen our connection to God, ourselves, and others.

Pioneering A Path in Mexico Dec 10, 2024

In this episode of OUT and About, Iese Wilson sits down with André Pérez to discuss his journey as an LGBTQ+ member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints growing up in Mexico City. André saw a need for connection among Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ members and allies, and created a virtual community that continues to thrive with monthly meetings attended by over 100 people.
André shares his journey of coming out, navigating mental health struggles, and staying in the Church while advocating for change. Through his faith and identity, he has come to know Christ in deeper ways and believes life is better when we include God and strive to help others.

A Reverend's Calling to Strengthen LGBTQ+ Belonging (with Dr. Rev. Marian Edmonds-Allen) Dec 03, 2024

For this week’s ALL Together episode, Liz Macdonald and Michael Soto sit down with Rev. Dr. Marian Edmonds-Allen, an ordained pastor and executive director of Parity, a nonprofit in New York City addressing the intersection of LGBTQ+ and faith communities. From starting her ministry as a single mom of four to advocating for homeless LGBTQ+ youth, Marian shares her inspiring journey of combining faith and action to create meaningful change.

Owning Your Choices When Others Disagree (with Ben & Charlie) Nov 26, 2024

OPEN Up: Ben Schilaty and Charlie Bird dive into the challenges of making authentic, personal decisions—especially when those choices are misunderstood or rejected by others. They discuss the pain of breaking the status quo and share personal stories about navigating loneliness, rejection, and the weight of following personal revelation as LGBTQ+ members of the Church. Together, they explore the importance of setting boundaries, processing past trauma, and finding healing through community and grace.

Seeing the Love of God In Others (with Tom Christofferson) Nov 19, 2024

IN the Scriptures: In this episode, Clare Dalton chats with Tom Christofferson about finding faith, hope, and love through the stories in Ether 12 and Moroni 7 from the Book of Mormon. They dive into the ups and downs of faith, what it means to trust God, and how to see yourself the way Christ does. Along the way, Clare and Tom share personal stories about navigating life’s challenges, embracing who they are, and finding connection through charity and understanding.

Converting to the Church as a Gay Youth in the Philippines (with Cris Sembrano) Nov 12, 2024

In this episode, Iese Wilson interviews Cris Sembrano, a gay Latter-day Saint and convert from the Philippines. Chris shares his journey of balancing faith and identity, from navigating cultural challenges in his hometown to finding community and love at BYU-Provo. His story highlights resilience and the strength of personal faith in finding belonging.

Being a Peacemaker in a Divided World (with Julie Spilsbury) Nov 05, 2024

ALL TOGETHER: In this special Election Day episode, hosts Liz and Michael welcome Mesa Councilmember Julie Spilsbury for an inspiring conversation about peacemaking in a divided world. Julie shares insights from her experience as a public servant dedicated to fostering unity through initiatives like the #MesaKindness campaign. From her early days in Mesa Public Schools to leading community partnerships, Julie’s journey reflects her deep commitment to bridging divides and building community. Join us for an empowering discussion on how each of us can become peacemakers in our own communities.

Sticking with a Tough Conversation (Part 2) Oct 29, 2024

OPEN UP: In this episode, Charlie and Ben continue their important conversation, choosing to stay in the discomfort to explore their differing experiences. As they navigate the tension, Ben is able to identify the root of his pain and feelings of rejection, leading to several enlightening “ah-ha” moments. Through this process, they find resolution and understanding.
The episode ends with a segment filmed two weeks later, where they each reflect on the discussion and share takeaways for listeners. Join them for a candid exploration of how engaging in tough conversations can foster growth, healing, and deeper connections.

Unpacking our Different Reactions to General Conference Oct 22, 2024

THE Exclusive: In this episode, Charlie and Ben reflect on their contrasting experiences at the most recent General Conference. Charlie had a positive and hopeful experience, while Ben felt deeply hurt and ostracized by certain messages. As they discuss the positives and negatives, the conversation shifts away from the conference itself and becomes more focused on personal pain and frustration. Ben shares his struggles with feelings of exclusion, while Charlie tries to validate his pain but struggles to fully connect with its source.
This leads to a tense moment between the two, as they try to understand each other’s emotions but find it hard to see eye to eye. The episode sheds light on how, as LGBTQ members of the church, things that may seem harmless or unremarkable to others can be deeply triggering. It’s an honest exploration of how two people can have different emotional responses to the same event and the complexities of supporting one another through those differences.

Finding Light in Troubling Times (with Dr. Kristine Coons) Oct 15, 2024

IN the Scriptures: This week Clare Dalton is joined by Dr. Kristine Coons to explore the cautionary tales found the books of Mormon and Ether. They delve into the profound lessons learned from the destruction of two civilizations, reflecting on how these narratives serve as powerful reminders of the consequences of turning away from God. Throughout their discussion, Clare and Dr. Coons emphasize the unwavering truth that God is always willing to partner with us, providing light even in our darkest moments. They highlight the importance of humility and open dialogue in fostering understanding and growth, showcasing how we can learn from one another to illuminate our paths.

Navigating Identity and Faith in New Zealand (with Shaqaila Uelese) Oct 08, 2024

OUT and About: Iese Wilson takes us to New Zealand where Shaquaila Uelese opens up about growing up, discovering her identity, and embracing the Māori term Takatapui. While her family initially struggled with her coming out, their love helped her reconnect with God and heal her testimony. Shaq also shares the inspiration behind her nonprofit, Nevertheless, which helps people heal from shame, and offers powerful advice to anyone who feels different.

Passing LGBTQ+ Nondiscrimination in a Conservative Community (with Mayor Giles) Oct 01, 2024

ALL Together: In this compelling episode, hosts Liz Macdonald and Michael Soto sit down with Mayor John Giles of Mesa, Arizona, to discuss the groundbreaking journey of passing an LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination ordinance in the city. Mayor Giles shares the intricate process of engaging with community members and church leaders, highlighting the challenges they faced in a polarized environment.

Listeners will gain insights into the collaborative efforts that were crucial for overcoming resistance, as well as the personal stories that fueled their commitment to justice and inclusion. The episode emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships within the community, demonstrating how these connections ultimately led to the successful enactment of legislation that enhanced protections for millions. Tune in to hear about the power of dialogue and the impact of community-driven change.

Podcast Announcement - All Out In The Open Sep 24, 2024

In this live event from the gather conference, Charlie and Ben discuss the future of the podcast and where things are headed

Bonus: How Has Dating Ben? Jun 27, 2024

In this episode Ben and Charlie discuss future plans for the podcast, the gather conference, and get an update on how dating has gone for Ben

Season 6 Wrapped Mar 19, 2024

Season 6 has come to a close! Ben and Charlie are joined by Sound Guy Mike to talk about the highlights from the season, including another AI written segment! Things are getting shaken up for Season 7 - keep an eye on our instagram for more.

How Do I Work Through Past Statements From Church Leaders? Mar 12, 2024

Ben and Charlie are joined by historian Barbara Jones Brown to discuss how they work through difficult things that past church leaders have said.

What If I Feel Stuck? Mar 05, 2024

Ben and Charlie are joined again by Kade Cope to discuss how they deal with moving forward when they have felt stuck.

How Do I Balance the 2 Great Commandments Feb 27, 2024

Ben and Charlie are joined by Kade Cope to discuss how we can balance loving God and loving our neighbors.

How Do I See Myself In the Scriptures? Feb 14, 2024

In this episode Charlie and Ben share some of their recent insights while reading through the Book of Mormon. They share things they learned and how they have related it to their lives

How Can I Share My Story? Feb 06, 2024

In this episode Ben and Charlie share some guidelines that have helped them when sharing their story with others.

How Can I Be Supportive as a Leader? Jan 30, 2024

Ben and Charlie are joined by Rick Sorensen to discuss his experiences as a church leader and how you can support LGBTQ members.

What's it Like When a Kid Comes Out? Jan 23, 2024

In this episode Ben and Charlie are joined by Luke and Tiffany Sorensen to discuss their experiences as a son and mother when coming out.

What Are Gatherings? Dec 19, 2023

Ben and Charlie are joined by Clare Dalton to discuss the importance of gathering together, and how you can start your own gathering.

What is Consent, and How can it Help Protect Against S.A.? Dec 12, 2023

In this episode Ben and Charlie are joined by Abigail Morrison to discuss what consent looks like and some helpful tips that can help to keep you safe.

What If a Loved One Insists I Leave the Church? Dec 05, 2023

Ben and Charlie are joined by Troy Williams of Equality Utah to discuss how to handle relationship dynamics when a love one decides to leave the church.

How Come All the Allies are Middle Aged Moms? Nov 28, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie are joined by Cynthia Winward to talk about middle aged moms and why they make such great LGTBQ allies.

Bonus: Hot Takes on Thanksgiving Nov 21, 2023

In this bonus episode Ben, Charlie, and Sound Guy Mike talk about their hot takes on Thanksgiving.

What are you Scared to Ask a Transgender Person? Nov 14, 2023

In this Episode Ben and Charlie are joined by Michael Soto to talk about some of the questions often asked about what it's like to be transgender.
Content Advisory: This episode contains medical terms referring to genitalia and gender reassignment surgeries

What If Staying Single Doesn't Feel Right Anymore? Nov 07, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie sit down to discuss life changes for Ben.

How Do I Foster a More Secure Relationship With God? Oct 31, 2023

Ben and Charlie are joined by Tami Combs to discuss attachment theory, and how that can apply to your relationship with God.

What If I Feel Like a Failure? Oct 24, 2023

In this episode Charlie and Ben are joined by Joey Shephard (they/them) to discuss where feelings of failure can come from and how to deal with them.

How Do I Explain the Church's Stance on Homosexuality? Oct 17, 2023

In this episode Ben and Charlie are joined by Kimberly Teitter to discuss how they explain the church's stance on homosexuality with others.

Do You Ever Feel Conflicted Paying Tithing? Oct 10, 2023

In this episode, Charlie and Ben discuss how paying tithing can be a conflicting experience for LGBTQ individuals.

What do I do if listening to Conference hurts? Oct 03, 2023

In this episode Charlie and Ben discuss their thoughts and feelings on general conference.

Season 6 Opener - Live Event Sep 19, 2023

Join us as we kick of Season 6 - with a live event from the gather conference! As always Ben and Charlie kick off the next season with a Q&A session.

Bonus: Season 6 Is Coming! Aug 29, 2023

Come join us for the live Sseason 6 Premier on September 15th! It will be at the Utah Valley Convention Center at 7PM.

Classic Episode: Do you think the Church will change? Aug 15, 2023

Ben and Charlie discuss whether or not they expect changes in Church doctrine and policy regarding same-sex couples.

Classic Episode: What are the Pros and Cons of Coming Out? Aug 01, 2023

Ben and Charlie are joined by Stacey Harkey for a discussion of the pros and cons of coming out.

Classic Episode: What are the Stages of Coming Out? Jul 25, 2023

Ben teaches Cass's 6 Stages of Coming Out. Scott Christofferson joins Ben and Charlie to talk about their experiences in each stage, as well as give advice for how friends and family can support LGBTQ+ loved ones throughout the process.

Classic Episode: Am I Being Deceived? Jul 11, 2023

This is one you don't want to miss! Ben and Charlie are joined by David Butler for a conversation on how to recognize which thoughts come from the Spirit.

Classic Episode: Why do You Stay in the Church? Jul 04, 2023

Charlie and Ben talk about why they decide to move forward in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Classic Episode: Is There a Place for Me at Church? Jun 28, 2023

Ben, Charlie, and McKay Bryson have a raw conversation about what it's like to be a gay member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Classic Episode: How Can We Prevent LGBTQ Suicide? Jun 20, 2023

Suicidal ideation is very common and can surface in unexpected ways. This week we are joined by Taryn Hiatt, the Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. We talk about myths surrounding suicide, warning signs, and practical steps anyone can take when life feels overwhelming. Please do not miss this important episode. For further education, extra resources, and advice on how to change our culture around suicide and mental health, you can visit Utah's suicide prevention coalition at liveonutah.org.

Classic Episode: How do I Reconcile my Patriarchal Blessing? Jun 06, 2023

What happens when you're LGBTQ/SSA but your patriarchal blessing mentions temple marriage? Dr. Richard Bushman, author, professor, scripture historian, and stake patriarch, joins us this week for an important discussion on how to reconcile sexual orientation with promises mentioned in a patriarchal blessing. Don't miss this episode!

Bonus: Season 4 Wrapped! May 09, 2023

Season 4 has come to a close. Ben, Charlie, and Sound Guy Mike talk about their favorite moments of the season, as well as what to look forward to for the next!

How Does Coming out Affect my Parents? May 02, 2023

Allison Dayton joins Ben and Charlie to talk about a mother's perspective when their child comes out.

Bonus: Announcing the Gather Conference! Apr 25, 2023

Ben and Charlie announce the Gather Conference. Find out more at gather-conference.com

How Do I Build Community? Apr 11, 2023

In this episode Nadia and Nori join Ben and Charlie to discuss what it's like growing up as part of an immigrant family, and how it parallels the LGBTQ experience in many ways.

How do I Navigate the Gay Adolescence? Apr 04, 2023

Trigger Warning: S. A.
In this episode, Molly Flake joins Ben and Charlie to discuss what the gay adolescence is and how she has navigated it.

How Could Coming Out Affect My Marriage? Mar 28, 2023

In this Episode, Ben and Charlie are joined by Liv to discuss how coming out as queer affected her marriage with her husband.

How can I Find Joy in the Temple as an LGBTQ Individual? Mar 21, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie discuss how they feel when they go to the temple and what they get out of attending.

How do I Move Forward When Eternity Seems so Uncertain? Mar 14, 2023

Eric Hales joins Ben and Charlie again to discuss why eternity can seem so uncertain and how they deal with that uncertainty.

Does Anyone Date and Keep Going to Church? Mar 07, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie are joined by Eric Hales and Will Edgel to discuss their experience as a couple who is dating and active in the chruch.

How do I Deal with All the Judgement? Feb 28, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie discuss what they do to deal with judgment.

Is Same Sex Attraction a Trial? Feb 21, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie are joined by Bryson to discuss their perspectives on whether same sex attraction is a trial or a blessing.

Why am I Feeling so Overwhelmed? Feb 14, 2023

In this episode, Ben and Charlie are joined by Bekah to discuss why LGBTQ+ people often experience feeling overwhelmed.

Bonus: What if AI wrote an Episode? Feb 07, 2023

In this episode Ben, Charlie, and Austin read an episode of Questions From the Closet written by Chat GPT.

Is the Pride Flag OK? Jan 31, 2023

In this episode Ben and Charlie are joined by Austin Peterson to discuss the history of the pride flag and what it means for members of the chruch.

Bonus episode: Getting to Know Ben and Charlie Jan 24, 2023

In this bonus episode, Ben and Charlie look on the lighter side and ask each other some questions to get to know each other a bit better.

What's it Like in the Closet? Jan 17, 2023

In this special pre-recorded episode, Ben and Charlie chat with Matt Jager about what it's like to be in the closet.

Bonus episode: "Fear, Pitied, and Honored" Jan 10, 2023

In this bonus episode, Ben shares an essay he wrote for a Jewish/LDS inter-faith conference.

Christmas Update! Dec 20, 2022

Listen for a Christmas Update!

Why Come Out if I can Pass as Straight? Dec 13, 2022

Steven Kapp Perry joins us to discuss why people choose to come out, and shares the stories of many others.

Why is Gen Z so Gay? Dec 06, 2022

In this episode Ben and Charlie are joined by Dr. Lisa Diamond and her student Julia Decker to discuss why so many of Gen Z are coming out as LGBTQ

How Can I Comfortably Talk About Sex? Nov 29, 2022

Ben and Charlie are joined by Dr. Chelom Leavitt to discuss how to have healthy conversations about sex.

Bonus: Charlie's New Book! Nov 22, 2022

Ben interviews Charlie about his new book, Expanding the Borders of Zion!
Preorder your copy now at www.mrcharliebird.com

What Is Minority Stress? Nov 15, 2022

Ben and Charlie are joined by their friend Aliah Hall to discuss minority stress, what it is, and how they experience it. Towards the end of the episode they all experienced a moment of minority stress which they talk through together. That part of the conversation was not meant to stay in the episode, but it was decided to keep it in

Is Being Gay Part of my Identity? Nov 09, 2022

Join Ben, Charlie, and Cole as they discuss whether being gay is an essential part of your identity.

What is Bi Erasure? Nov 02, 2022

In this episode, Ben and Charlie are joined by Sarah Winters, a bisexual BYU student. Together they delve into what bisexual erasure means, as well as clear up misconceptions about bisexuality.

Can I Be Out On My Mission? Oct 25, 2022

In this episode Elder Carpenter discusses what it's like to be out on a mission.

What's it like to be on a pedestal? Oct 18, 2022

Sarah Kellar Langford interviews Charlie and Ben about the challenges (and blessings!) of being public figures in the LGBTQ/Latter-day Saint space. This previously unreleased episode was recorded over the summer between seasons 3 and 4.

Am I needed? Oct 11, 2022

Ben and Charlie are joined by Clare Dalton, a seminary teacher who shares her experience coming out and finding her place.

How do I build bridges? Oct 04, 2022

Michael Soto, President of Equality Arizona, joins to talk about overcoming division. He shares personal family stories and talks about working with the Church to pass an LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination policy for the city of Mesa.

Questions From the Closet Season 4 Live Q+A Sep 27, 2022

Join us for a live Q+A to kick of Season 4 of Questions from the Closet!

Join us for a LIVE event in Mesa, Arizona! (Season 4 Kickoff!) Sep 01, 2022

Ben and Charlie announce their Season 4 live event.

Bonus: Season 3 Recap Jul 05, 2022

Ben and Charlie are joined by Sound Guy Mike to discuss the highlights of Season 3!

How Do I Create Spaces of Belonging? Jun 28, 2022

Bonus: Meet Charlotte Jun 21, 2022

Join us as we talk with Charlotte, Ben's land lady and friend.

What if I don’t feel God’s love? Jun 14, 2022

Barry Donakey joins for a conversation about divine silence.

What is gender dysphoria? Jun 07, 2022

Alexis Hovorka joins Ben and Charlie to talk about her experience with gender dysphoria.

What does the research say about healing? May 31, 2022

Dr. Lisa Diamond returns with her colleague Josh Christensen to discuss their findings on a recent LGBTQ+/religious study about healing from emotional trauma.

How do I Respond to Hurtful Comments? May 24, 2022

Jessica Abele joins us to discuss how to respond when a loved one says something hurtful.

What's it like to be gay at BYU Hawaii? May 17, 2022

Iese Wilson shares his experience as a gay student at BYU-H and highlights challenges faced by international LGBTQ+ members of the Church.

Is there a place for my family at Church? May 10, 2022

Sadi Rogers discusses her experiences finding a place for her family at church after marrying her wife.

How can I support friends who make different decisions? May 03, 2022

Robert Jaramillo joins Ben and Charlie to talk about how he manages friendships with other gay men who are on different life paths.

What's it like to go to conversion therapy? Apr 26, 2022

Dustin Liechty recounts his experiences going to conversion therapy before his mission as a teenager, then again after his mission as an adult.

What if I'm totally and completely devastated? Apr 19, 2022

Ben and Charlie talk about the pain associated with being a gay Latter-day Saint and how they find beauty and hope at their lowest points.

What does it mean to be demisexual? Apr 12, 2022

Colette Dalton (she/her) joins Ben and Charlie to talk about how she came to identify as demisexual.

Does accepting my orientation change who I am? Apr 05, 2022

Derek Driggs joins Ben and Charlie for a conversation about identity and coming out.

Can I watch shows with LGBTQ+ characters? Mar 29, 2022

Brian Tanner joins Ben and Charlie to talk about media that features LGBTQ+ characters.

What if I don't fit the stereotype? Mar 22, 2022

Pyper America joins Ben and Charlie for a conversation about how to find belonging when you feel like you don't fit in.

Live Q&A Event (Audio Recording) Mar 15, 2022

Tammy Uzelac Hall (of the Sunday on Monday Podcast) moderates a live Q&A with Charlie and Ben. Recorded on March 11, 2022.

How do I deal with loneliness? Mar 08, 2022

Jonny Liu joins Ben and Charlie to talk about how he stays happy single.

Can it just be me and Jesus? Mar 01, 2022

Laura Fuchs joins Charlie and Ben for a conversation about coming out and finding community.

What if I don't fit in either community? Feb 22, 2022

Dr. Greg Petersen joins Ben and Charlie for a conversation about how he finds fit as a gay member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

What happens when you fall in love? Feb 15, 2022

In this vulnerable episode, Charlie shares what it was like to unexpectedly fall in love while at BYU.

QFTC Live Event Reschedule Details Jan 29, 2022

Charlie and Ben ramble about rescheduling the Live Season Kickoff!

Season 2 Recap! Dec 21, 2021

Ben and Charlie talk about their favorite episodes from Season 2 and announce a live event for next season's kickoff.

What is conversion therapy? Dec 14, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Dr. Steve Smith (he/him) who talks about what conversion therapy is and why he considers it a harmful practice.

What is it like to face Church discipline? Dec 07, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by John Gustav-Wrathall and James Brinton who share their respective experiences facing Church discipline after marrying same-sex partners.

Is sexuality fluid? Nov 30, 2021

Dr. Lisa Diamond (she/her) joins Ben and Charlie to share her research on sexual fluidity.

Do you think the Church will change? Nov 23, 2021

Ben and Charlie discuss whether or not they expect changes in Church doctrine and policy regarding same-sex couples.

Bonus: Ben's Tap Recital + Sound Guy Mike Nov 19, 2021

Ben treats the listeners to a riveting tap performance followed by a "get to know you" interview with our sound guy, Mike!

How do I recognize personal revelation? Nov 16, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Sarah Keller-Langford (she/her) for a discussion on how they recognize and receive personal revelation.

Can I be out at church? Nov 09, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by MTC Instructor Sarah Chapman (she/her) for a conversation about being out at church.

How can I minister to LGBTQ+ youth? Nov 02, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Trish Thornock (she/her) to discuss how she has approached LGBTQ+ topics as a youth leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

What common factors contribute to LGBTQ+ suicide? Oct 26, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Dr. Quintin Hunt (he/him) to discuss factors that contribute to LGBTQ+ suicide, common warning signs, and how loved ones can help.

Am I possessed by an evil spirit? Oct 19, 2021

Adam Berg joins Ben and Charlie for a conversation about how they respond when people make up explanations as to why they are gay.

What does it mean to be intersex? Oct 12, 2021

Blaire Oslter joins Ben and Charlie to provide information on what it means to be intersex and share personal stories relating to being intersex and overcoming infertility. (This episode contains anatomical and sexual terminology).

How do I know God loves me? Oct 05, 2021

Emily Belle Freeman joins Ben and Charlie for a conversation about how they have come to know and feel God's love.

How can I move on from past mistakes? Sep 28, 2021

Keldy Zabriskie shares his story of overcoming a cycle of drug addiction, prison, and homelessness, as well as what it was like transitioning female to male.

What if my family isn't supportive? Sep 21, 2021

Dr. Lacey Bagley (she/her) joins Ben and Charlie for a discussion on how LGBTQIA+ individuals can cope and improve relationships with unsupportive family members.

What if my spouse comes out as gay? Sep 14, 2021

Ben and Charlie interview Jessica Frew about how she responded when she found out her husband was gay.

What if I'm afraid to come out? Sep 07, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Taylor Jessop to talk about how she worked through the fear of coming out.

How can I be happy with who I am? Aug 31, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Tyler McFarland and Ryan Clifford to talk about how they came to accept and love who they are.

What do I do if I’m hurt by something a Church leader says? Aug 24, 2021

Ben & Charlie process how it feels when they are hurt by something a Church leader says.

Is it ever too late to come out? Aug 17, 2021

Meghan Decker shares her experience coming out at 60 years-old.

Am I being deceived? Aug 10, 2021

This is one you don't want to miss! Ben and Charlie are joined by David Butler for a conversation on how to recognize which thoughts come from the Spirit.

Live Q&A Event (Audio Recording) Aug 03, 2021

Charlie and Ben kicked off season 2 of Questions from the Closet with a live Q&A! Catch the audio from the amazing event here.

Season 2 Kickoff with LIVE Event! Jul 06, 2021

We hope you can join us (whether virtually or in-person) for our season 2 kickoff! We are hosting a live event in Provo, UT where you can ask real-time, in-person questions to Ben and Charlie. Check out this short bonus episode for details!

How do you deal with burnout? May 11, 2021

Ben and Charlie do a recap of the episodes they have recorded so far and announce a short break in order to prepare future content.

What do the scriptures say about homosexuality? May 04, 2021

Dr. Eric Huntsman, ancient scripture historian, joins Charlie and Ben for a conversation about references to homosexual behavior in canonized LDS scripture.

What if I like my straight friend? Apr 27, 2021

Ukiah Reynolds joins Charlie and Ben to talk about what to do if you have a crush on a straight person.

Do you keep your covenants? Apr 20, 2021

Ben and Charlie have a discussion about the covenants they have made in relation to their sexual orientations.

How do I create a safe space for youth in Seminary? Apr 13, 2021

Alec Barrow talks with Ben and Charlie about how he has created a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth as a Seminary teacher.

Bonus: Kissing Girls Apr 09, 2021

Ben and Charlie tell stories about kissing girls.

How can I change? (It's not what you think!) Apr 06, 2021

Corrine Chidester-Priest tells Charlie and Ben how she went from a self-proclaimed "homophobe" to a strong, visible ally.

What does it mean to be non-binary? Mar 30, 2021

Charlie and Ben talk with Bobbi Lee about what it’s like to be non-binary. \

What if loved ones are disappointed in my choices? Mar 23, 2021

Charlie and Ben are joined by Jessica Wells for a conversation about what to do when loved ones are disappointed in choices surrounding sexual orientation.

Will God change my orientation? Mar 16, 2021

Charlie and Ben have a conversation about trying to change their sexual orientations through spiritual practice and conversion therapy.

What are the pros and cons of coming out? Mar 09, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Stacey Harkey for a discussion of the pros and cons of coming out.

How do I figure everything out? Mar 02, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Joey, a current student at BYU, to discuss how they have made decisions in the uncharted territory of being a LGBTQ+ member of the Church.

Bonus: Disney movies are totally about gay Latter-day Saints. Feb 26, 2021

Welcome to the first Bonus episode! Ben and Charlie joke about how Disney movies are about the gay Latter-day Saint experience.

Can I be in a relationship and stay in the Church? Feb 23, 2021

Charlie and Ben are joined by Summer Lee-Corry for a conversation about what it's like to attend worship services while in a relationship that is not sanctioned by the Church.

How do I start a support group? Feb 16, 2021

Charlie and Ben go through the logistics of starting a local LDS/LGBTQ+ support group with Michelle Sherwin and Byron Korth, who recently started a successful group in their home Stake.

What hurtful things do Church members say? Feb 09, 2021

This week Ben and Charlie are joined by T.J. Thomas, a therapist who identifies as bisexual, for a conversation about hurtful things that well-meaning members of The Church of Jesus Christ might say to an LGBTQ+ individual. They also have a discussion about bisexuality and what it's like for T.J. to be a male, bisexual, Latter-day Saint.

Why do you stay in the Church? Feb 02, 2021

Charlie and Ben talk about why they decide to move forward in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

How can I safely navigate gay culture? Jan 26, 2021

Charlie and Ben are joined by Derek Lundahl to talk about the moral "pendulum swing" that often accompanies LGBTQ+ individuals raised in religious cultures, and how to set boundaries and stay safe after coming out.

What is asexuality? Jan 19, 2021

Ben and Charlie are joined by Tearza Foyston for an in-depth conversation about asexuality.

Can I date? Jan 12, 2021

Ben and Charlie talking about their experiences dating while staying active in the Church.

How can I help? Jan 05, 2021

Charlie and Ben are joined by Rachel Bloxham to talk about how allies can help support LGBTQ+ individuals.

How do I find gay people like me? Dec 29, 2020

This week Ben and Charlie are joined by Victoria Hutchings, group leader of Affirmation San Francisco, for a conversation about how to find community and support among other LGBTQ+ people. Ben and Charlie talk about finding community through coming out and Victoria shares some of her journey becoming more involved with church after stepping away when she was young.

Did pornography make me gay? Dec 22, 2020

Among the worries presented to us by gay Latter-day Saints, one of the most common is that early exposure to pornography might have altered their orientation. This week we were joined by Liam Essig, an expert in pornography use and addiction recovery, for a conversation about the myths of pornography use, associated shame, and how to overcome unwanted viewing.

What is the gay agenda? Dec 15, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Sarah Kellar Langford to talk about the phrase "gay agenda" and what they hope to accomplish through visible LGBTQ+ advocacy .

Is there a place for me in the Church? Dec 08, 2020

Ben, Charlie, and McKay Bryson have a raw conversation about what it's like to be a gay member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

How do I talk to youth about LGBTQ+? Dec 01, 2020

Youth leaders often ask us how they should approach LGBTQ+ topics in a religious setting. Today we sat down with Dave Smurthwaite to talk about his experience as a youth leader and how he ended up doing LGBTQ+ trainings with seminary teachers in Utah.

How can my child be just like you? Nov 24, 2020

We (Charlie and Ben) both get a lot of messages from parents asking how they can help their kids stay In the Church and be just like us. This week we sat down with Jessyca Fulmer, who became one of the first "poster children" of the LDS/LGBTQ+ space when her coming out was featured in a Mormon Message. Jessyca talks about her experience coming out publicly, feeling social pressure from Church membership, and what it was like having her video taken down after she got engaged to her wife Savannah.

How do I fit in the Plan of Salvation? Nov 17, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by LDS scholar and theologian Terryl Givens to talk about how LGBTQ+ individuals fit into the Plan of Salvation.

What are the stages of coming out? Nov 10, 2020

Ben teaches Cass's 6 Stages of Coming Out. Scott Christofferson joins Ben and Charlie to talk about their experiences in each stage, as well as give advice for how friends and family can support LGBTQ+ loved ones throughout the process.

How can I be an LGBTQ+ ally while supporting Church teachings? Nov 03, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Ally Isom to talk about how active members of the Church can be allies to their LGBTQ+ loved ones while supporting current Church teachings and policies.

How do I teach my kids about LGBTQ+? Oct 26, 2020

Charlie and Ben are joined by Dr. Lisa Hansen to discuss how parents can safely and effectively teach their children about LGBTQ+ topics.

What should my pronouns be? Oct 20, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Marina to talk about pronouns. Marina shares her journey coming out as transgender and how using she/her/hers pronouns has helped her feel more like herself.

Where are all the lesbians? Oct 13, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Sammi Taylor to talk about how coming out as lesbian differs from coming out as a gay man, and why LGBTQ+ women seem underrepresented compared to LGBTQ+ men.

What does it mean to be queer? Oct 06, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Tyler LeFevor to talk about the "Q" in LGBTQ+. They discuss origins of the label, common assumptions about those who identify as queer, and how they view "queer" in relation to their own and identities.

What if I have a crush on my roommate? Sep 29, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Zach Ibarra to talk about handling roommate crushes, straight crushes, gay crushes, and more.

What made you gay? Sep 22, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by psychologist Dr. Jeff Case to debunk myths about the origin of same-sex orientation. They have a conversation about early sexual abuse, social conditioning, and other factors that have historically been used to explain why people are gay. (This episode contains some mature content).

Should I go on a mission? Sep 15, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Sarah Langford to talk about deciding whether or not to serve a Church mission, and how being LGBTQ+ affected that decision.

What should I do if think a family member is gay? Sep 08, 2020

Charlie's sister Anne Bird Rodman joins us for a conversation about what Anne did when she first suspected Charlie was gay. We talk about vulnerability and have a discussion on how to create a more safe, loving environment for others.

Should I go to BYU? Sep 01, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Michael Griffin, an openly gay BYU professor, to talk about their experiences at Brigham Young University. We talk dating culture, honor code, and past and present environment for LGBTQ+ students.

How can I be an ally from the closet? Aug 25, 2020

Collette Dalton, therapist and gay Latter-day Saint, joins us as we brainstorm ways to support the LGBTQ+ community even if you still don't feel comfortable being out publicly.

How do I navigate the Family Proclamation? Aug 18, 2020

Charlie and Ben are joined by John Gustav-Wrathall, who describes himself as "the most active non-member in the Church." They have a conversation about The Family: A Proclamation to the World that evolves into a discussion about personal revelation and agency.

What is opposite-sex dating like? Aug 11, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by their friend Deb Hutchins to talk about stories from dating the opposite sex and why they each decided to stop.

How should I come out to my family? Aug 04, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Twitter legend Eli McCann to discuss how they came out to their loved ones.

Should I stay single and celibate? Jul 22, 2020

Charlie and Ben discuss how they feel about being described as "celibate" and making the choice to stay single. They also discuss how to thrive as single people and how personal revelation has guided their life choices.

What's it like being married to a gay man? Jul 16, 2020

Margaret Steward was surprised one Sunday morning when her husband of 30 years came out to her as gay. In this episode, Margaret and her husband Travis talk about what that experience was like and how they feel about their future. Charlie and Ben also share experiences of when they tried to date girls.

How do I reconcile changes in Church policy? Jul 07, 2020

LDS author Tom Christofferson joins us to discuss changes in Church policy. We cover the November 2015 policy that affected LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, as well as its reversal in 2019. We have a conversation about dealing with challenging teachings or topics in a church setting, and how we maintain faith when policies change.

How can we stop LGBTQ+ suicide? Jun 30, 2020

Suicidal ideation is very common and can surface in unexpected ways. This week we are joined by Taryn Hiatt, the Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. We talk about myths surrounding suicide, warning signs, and practical steps anyone can take when life feels overwhelming. Please do not miss this important episode. For further education, extra resources, and advice on how to change our culture around suicide and mental health, you can visit Utah's suicide prevention coalition at liveonutah.org.

Should I go to Pride? Jun 23, 2020

The month of June commemorates LGBTQ Pride. For many LGBTQ individuals, Pride events are a way to spread visibility, create a sense of belonging, and celebrate how far they have come. For some, however, Pride might seem dangerous or scary. This week we are joined by Erika Munson to talk about the decision of whether or not to go to Pride, as well how to make Pride a safe and memorable experience.

What do I do when going to church is hard? Jun 16, 2020

Attending church can sometimes be difficult for LGBTQ individuals. This week, Kelly Peterson, convert, return missionary, and college basketball player, joins us to talk about what she does when she feels uncomfortable or out of place at church.

What's it like to be transgender? (Trans 101) Jun 09, 2020

Ann Pack joined us this week to discuss the “T” in LGBTQ and how being transgender differs from being gay. She shares part of her journey of understanding her gender identity and why she chose to transition.

How do I reconcile my patriarchal blessing? Jun 02, 2020

What happens when you're LGBTQ/SSA but your patriarchal blessing mentions temple marriage? Dr. Richard Bushman, author, professor, scripture historian, and stake patriarch, joins us this week for an important discussion on how to reconcile sexual orientation with promises mentioned in a patriarchal blessing. Don't miss this episode!

How can we talk about LGBTQ topics at church? May 26, 2020

Bishop Carl Hull joins us to talk about what happened when he felt prompted to have an LGBTQ inclusion lesson with his ward. He shares stories about changing perceptions and how he has helped create a safe, open environment in his congregation. Carl's full story can be found on Ben's blog! (benschilaty.blogspot.com - "The Eyes of My Understanding Were Opened": A Bishop's Journey - August 31, 2016 )

How can I support my LGBTQ child? May 19, 2020

Becky Mackintosh, author of "Love Boldly," joins Ben and Charlie to talk about how she has supported her gay son through his coming out process, and beyond. They discuss tips for keeping open parent/child communication and what parents can do to support their LGBTQ children. Becky's story can be found at www.beckymackintosh.com

Should I go to therapy? May 12, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Jeff Case, a clinical therapist, to discuss when and why one might consider going to therapy. They share experiences about what it's like to be both a therapist and a client, and give practical advice to anyone seeking to improve mental health.

How can I find a place where I belong? May 05, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Rachel Alder, a Social Worker and Miss Utah 2019 contestant, to talk about belonging. They have a conversation about feeling different, and how they came to find authenticity, support, and a place where they belong.

How do I overcome shame? Apr 28, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Stacey Harkey from the popular comedy show "Studio C" to talk about how each of them have overcome shame surrounding their orientations. They have a conversation about internal positivity that includes funny stories about Cosmo, Studio C, and dating Stacey's best friend's old roommate.

What does it mean to be bisexual? Apr 21, 2020

Recorded remotely from our actual closets! Ben and Charlie are joined by Vinnie Jones, a bisexual dancer and choreographer. Vinnie shares how she views her orientation and how being bisexual differs from being straight or gay.

Should I come out? Apr 14, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Travis Steward, an active gay Church member and former mission president. They discuss what it's like being in the closet and why they felt the need to begin "coming out" to people around them.

Am I gay? Apr 06, 2020

Charlie and Ben are joined by Daniel Spencer, a popular comedian and student at BYU. They have a conversation about how each of them came to the realization they are attracted to men.

Should I label myself? Mar 27, 2020

Ben and Charlie are joined by Creed Orme, an BYU student and active member of the Church. They have a conversation on labels and describe how each of them labels their orientation and why.

Introduction Mar 27, 2020

Ben and Charlie introduce themselves and the podcast series.

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