Shaun Williams - founder of Gay Fathers Worldwide and Bent Couch Counselling

Summary
In this episode, David Cotton interviews licensed counselor Shaun Williams; he previously had successful career in construction when he came out as gay after 25 years of marriage. After coming out he changed his career to help others finding their true selves. Shaun shares his experiences growing up in the 80s, discovering his sexuality at a young age, and the weight of keeping his secret. He discusses the impact on his family and the challenges he faced in coming out. Shaun also talks about the creation of Gay Fathers Worldwide, a support group he formed for men who have come out later in life. He emphasizes the importance of finding a safe space and community for support and understanding.

Takeaways

• Coming out later in life can be a lonely and isolating experience, but finding a safe space and community of others who have had similar experiences can provide support and reassurance.
• The weight of keeping a secret about one's sexuality can have a significant impact on mental health and well-being.
• The process of coming out can be challenging and may involve difficult conversations with family members and loved ones.
• Creating a support group or community for individuals who have come out later in life can provide a valuable resource for connection, understanding, and shared experiences.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:48 Growing Up in the 80s
02:16 Discovering His Sexuality
03:16 Getting Married
04:15 The Weight of the Secret
05:12 Dealing with Guilt and Shame
06:11 Living a Lie
07:11 Finding Purpose in Helping Others
09:06 Impact on Family
11:30 Inspiration from Daughters
12:56 Coming Out and Seeking Help
13:53 The Process of Coming Out
15:19 Creating Gay Fathers Worldwide
19:11 Regrets and Lessons Learned
23:20 Acceptance in the Gay Community
26:27 Late-Life Coming Out Experience
28:25 Creation of Gay Fathers Worldwide
29:21 Common Experiences of Children
31:48 New Life and Career
36:41 Importance of Community
37:37 Conclusion

Bent Couch Counselling: https://www.bentcouch.com.au/

Gay Fathers Worldwide: https://gayfathersworldwide.wordpress.com/

Podcast website: https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com

YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/C7PJTAcmGT8

Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com

Contact me: david@davidcottoncoaching.com