Summary
In this episode of Out Late with David, Bill Schroeder shares his transformative journey of coming out as a gay man at the age of 60 after 37 years of marriage. He reflects on the feelings of fear and authenticity that led him to finally embrace his true self. Bill discusses the emotional challenges he faced, the reactions of his family, and the importance of self-discovery. He emphasizes that it's never too late to live authentically and offers advice for others who may be struggling with their identity. Keywords coming out, LGBTQ, authenticity, self-discovery, family dynamics, life coaching, personal growth, emotional journey, gay men, late life coming out
Takeaways
- Turning 60 was a pivotal moment for Bill.
- He felt his life was fake before coming out.
- Fear of losing family and friends kept him in the closet.
- Bill's camping trip was a time for deep reflection.
- His ex-wife's support was crucial for his journey.
- Family reactions varied, with his daughter initially upset.
- Bill's son took time to accept his father's new identity.
- He found a sense of belonging in the LGBTQ community.
- Authenticity has brought him peace and happiness.
- Bill encourages others to take baby steps in their journey.
Sound Bites "I wanted to feel more authentic."
"I could have done this 10 years ago."
"Fear kept me in the closet for years."
Chapters 00:00 A Turning Point at 60
12:40 The Journey of Coming Out
19:55 Authenticity and Self-Discovery
22:09 Advice for Others in the Closet
Podcast website and resources:
https://www.OutLateWithDavid.com YouTube Edition: https://youtu.be/9TEPfX13JB8 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvsthP9yClKI4o5LxbuQnOg Certified Professional Life Coach, David Cotton: https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.com Contact me: mailto:david@davidcottoncoaching.com
https://www.DavidCottonCoaching.comhttps://www.OutLateWithDavid.com https://linktr.ee/davidacotton © 2025 David Cotton Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved. The "Out Late With David" podcast and its content are the property of David Cotton Coaching, LLC. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from David Cotton Coaching, LLC is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to "Out Late With David" and David Cotton Coaching, LLC with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
