Over the years we’ve heard LGBTQ people say that they didn’t know what life might look like for them as an adult. Many haven’t had LGBTQ role models that provide examples of a potential future, and a lot of fear that parents of LGBTQ children experience comes from the unknown as well. We thought it might be helpful for parents to get to know some of the amazing members of the LGBTQ community, just a few at a time, so that they can provide a realistic view of what life could look like for our children. Today, Jen joins guests Aaron McManus, Shannon Hansen, and Jordan Sgro in this initial episode of World of Possibility.
Special Guest: Shannon Hansen
Shannon Hansen is an HR Specialist and experienced electrical engineer with a passion for amplifying and supporting voices of the underrepresented. She has filled multiple professional and volunteer roles aimed at increasing awareness for LGBTQ+ issues in her home state of Idaho. Shannon holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Idaho. Shannon is passionate about ensuring everyone’s voice is heard, regardless of their background. Shannon chairs her local PFLAG chapter, offering support to families of local queer-identified individuals. As a trans woman, Shannon is familiar with navigating the unique complications of healthcare access within underrepresented communities and has served as an LGBTQ Patient Care Advocate. In her free time, Shannon is an outdoor and sports enthusiast. She enjoys downhill mountain biking, snowboarding, competitive water skiing, and trail running.
Special Guest: Aaron McManus
Aaron grew up in a small seaside town in Northwest England. After coming out as gay in his early twenties he navigated dating men and holding on to his religious beliefs. Searching for community he attended the first Affirmation conference to be held in the UK, where he met his husband Jed, who is from Utah. This started their transatlantic adventure together, as they dated long distance for a few years. Until they got married in the Lake District, England, surrounded by their close family. They both continue to travel and enjoy life’s adventures together—spending time with their families in both England and Utah.
Special Guest: Jordan Sgro
Jordan is the Executive Director of Encircle, an organization that offers LGBTQ+ mental health services and other programs. She is dedicated to creating world class programs for LGBTQ+ youth and families. She also works to provide a number of resources for the LGBTQ community, parents, and church leaders. Jordan loves spending time with her wife and baby, spoiling their puppy, and baking red velvet cupcakes.
Links From the Show:
In the Den is made possible by generous donors like you.
Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today at mamadragons.org.
Connect with Mama Dragons:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Donate to this podcast