Beth F. Coye, a retired U.S. Navy Commander, writer, and Wesley Palms resident, shares her remarkable journey as a life-long advocate for social justice. From authoring a groundbreaking study on women in the Navy, to helping shape lasting change through her work on the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Beth has been a warrior for equality and inclusion. Now at Wesley Palms, Beth has continued her activism by establishing the first LGBTQ+ group for residents and team members. In this episode, Beth reflects on "what makes her come alive," reminding us that bravery is not separate from community—but essential to its growth.
00:45 – Standing with and Standing up to Community
Host Anna Hall asks: what happens when you feel betrayed by your own community? And how can speaking up help a community to evolve.
01:33 – Meet Beth F. Coye
Beth's background as a retired U.S. Navy Commander, educator, writer, and Wesley Palms resident.
02:17 – Leaving the Navy: Betrayal and Bravery
Beth shares why she retired early after being targeted for her sexual orientation.
03:02 – Belonging in the Military
Finding purpose and professional belonging while serving in intelligence and NATO-related roles.
04:38 – The Coye Study and Advancing Women in the Navy
How Beth led a landmark study that helped open ranks and opportunities for women.
06:49 – Family, Expectations, and Choosing a Path
Reflections on her parents, independence, and what drew her to the Navy.
08:00 – Military Brat to Warrior Spirit
Beth's childhood, identity, and sense of service shaped by military family life.
09:27 – Love, Identity, and Life in the Closet
Personal reflections on love, secrecy, and the emotional cost of hiding one's identity.
11:21 – Coming Out
Beth discusses coming out to her parents and later living openly after leaving the Navy.
13:51 – My Navy Too
Beth introduces her book and its importance for understanding women's and LGBTQ+ experiences in the Navy.
15:04 – Repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
Beth's activism and lobbying work in Washington, D.C., to support repeal efforts.
17:12 – Finding Community at Wesley Palms
Life as the first openly lesbian resident at Wesley Palms and helping build LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion.
18:08 – Continuing Activism in Senior Living
Launching an LGBTQ+ gathering and serving as Resident Representative.
21:33 – What Matters Now
Aging, companionship, purpose, and joy in later life.
22:12 – Meet CT
Beth introduces her dog CT and reflects on care, connection, and community support.
24:26 – Final Reflections
Beth shares a quote from Howard Thurman and a call to live fully and authentically.
Belonging is a fundamental human need—but true belonging often requires courage.
Bravery is not the absence of fear; it is choosing integrity and service despite risk.
Systems change when individuals speak up, document inequities, and persist.
Identity suppression can have profound psychological costs, comparable to trauma.
Purpose and activism do not end with retirement—they evolve.
Inclusive senior living communities can be powerful spaces for continued growth, leadership, and advocacy.
Living fully means doing what makes you come alive, at every stage of life.
The Coye Study – Landmark study on the status of women in the Navy
Z-116 Policy Change – Career and advancement reforms for women in the Navy
Service Members Legal Defense Network (SMLDN) – Advocacy organization supporting LGBTQ+ service members
Howard Thurman – Theologian and author, quoted at the end of the episode
Guest Bio
Beth F. Coye is a retired U.S. Navy commander. She had two sub-specialties on active duty: Intelligence/National Security and Human Resource Management, and was one of the first women to command a shore activity. A graduate of Wellesley College, the American University School of International Service and the School of Naval Warfare, Beth taught International Relations, Seapower, and Organizational Development at the Naval War College, and Political Science at Mesa Community College; University of San Diego; and San Diego State. A freelance writer and activist, she lives in Pacific Beach, California. Since 2019, Beth has called Wesley Palms home.
Host Bio
Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & Community Officer at Front Porch Communities & Services, Anna leads initiatives that foster belonging, creativity, and human thriving—building communities where everyone feels valued and inspired to make a difference.
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The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered, legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation.
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