I can’t wait for you to hear the rest of my conversation with my dear friend Marcos. This time, we get into how Marcos’ life has blossomed since he made the decision to honor his true self, even when that self conflicted with the teachings of his faith. In the second half of our dialog, we discuss what’s happened since Marcos left the LDS church. We’ll learn about the journey toward embracing his full self, how his relationship with faith and spirituality has changed, and the lessons he’d share with his younger self if he could. It’s a moving story that you’re sure to find inspiring.Our conversation was too important to cut short, and too big for just one episode. If you haven’t already, check out the first half of our discussion at https://leaving-in-color.captivate.fm/episode/finding-truth-in-yourself About Our Guest:Marcos is a born and bred Californian who is proud of his multiple identities as a Chicano, gay man. His life experience and education has shaped his passion for social justice and care for marginalized communities. Marcos enjoys working in higher education to serve students, provide support, and pay it forward based on his own experiences as a first-gen college student navigating academia. He is an avid animal lover who also enjoys concerts, live theater, and the beach.Connect with Leaving in Color:Instagram - @leavingincolor.pod Email - [email protected] by Tucker WintersArt by Jen Cagle GilmoreEditing by Particulate Media

I’m so excited you’re here to experience the first episode of Leaving In Color. My dear friend Marcos joins me for a raw, real conversation about growing up in the Mormon church as a queer person of color. We’ll talk about grappling with your identity, and how painful it can be when being true to yourself conflicts with the faith that’s bound your family for generations. Our conversation was too important to cut short, and too big for just one episode. Look for the second half of this engrossing discussion in two weeks.About Our Guest:Marcos is a born and bred Californian who is proud of his multiple identities as a Chicano, gay man. His life experience and education has shaped his passion for social justice and care for marginalized communities. Marcos enjoys working in higher education to serve students, provide support, and pay it forward based on his own experiences as a first-gen college student navigating academia. He is an avid animal lover who also enjoys concerts, live theater, and the beach.Mentioned: The Book of Laman by Mette Ivie Harrison https://www.amazon.com/Book-Laman-Mette-Ivie-Harrison/dp/0998605247 Connect with Leaving in Color:Instagram - @leavingincolor.pod Email - [email protected] by Tucker WintersArt by Jen Cagle GilmoreEditing by Particulate Media

Leaving in Color is a new podcast that shares the compelling stories of people who have made the difficult choice to leave high-demand religious groups. We’ll explore the challenges and triumphs they’ve experienced on their journeys of self-discovery, liberation, and healing. I’m Christina Elmer. I’m a Martha Beck Wayfinder-trained life coach, and I’m also a recovering Mormon. I’m excited to celebrate the resilience, strength, and vibrant experiences of people of color. Subscribe to Leaving In Color wherever you get podcasts, and don’t miss a minute of these thought-provoking conversations. Together, we’ll reflect on the power of authenticity, the beauty of diversity, and the limitless possibilities that unfold when we embrace our true selves beyond the confines of tradition.