Element Q Podcast: Empowering LGBTQ+ Voices, One Story at a Time

Element Q Podcast: Empowering LGBTQ+ Voices, One Story at a Time

by TJ Woodward
Self-ImprovementMental Health
Season 4
Healing, Identity & Love: Melody Velaruz on Faith, Queerness, and Trans Visibility
In Season 3, Episode 6 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with LGBTQ+ advocate, community leader, and San Diego Pride board member Melody Velaruz for a conversation about identity, healing, visibility, and love. Melody shares her remarkable journey from growing up in a strict Mormon faith tradition to coming out later in life as a queer Latina woman, navigating divorce, embracing her authentic self, and finding a healthy, loving relationship with her fiancé, Roman, a transgender man. Together, they explore what it means to build a relationship rooted in accountability, therapy, communication, and personal growth. TJ and Melody dive into important conversations about religious trauma, spirituality beyond organized religion, trans visibility, intersectionality within the LGBTQ+ community, and the courage required to challenge assumptions—even within our own community. They also discuss the impact of representation, the healing power of asking difficult questions, and how curiosity can create deeper understanding and connection. This heartfelt episode is an invitation to move beyond labels, embrace nuance, and cultivate compassion for ourselves and others. In this episode, you'll discover: • How therapy and personal healing strengthen healthy relationships • Melody's journey from Mormonism to LGBTQ+ advocacy • The challenges and rewards of trans visibility and representation • Navigating age gaps, identity, and authenticity in relationships • Religious trauma, spirituality, and reclaiming personal truth • Why curiosity and courageous conversations matter in healing • The importance of community, belonging, and chosen family • How accountability creates deeper connection and growth 🎧 Whether you're navigating your own healing journey, exploring questions of identity, or seeking greater understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences, this conversation offers wisdom, hope, and inspiration. 👉 Please subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Melody Velaruz: https://www.instagram.com/melodyvelaruz
S4 · E6
Jun 16, 2026
33:17
Season 3
What Happens When We Stop Hiding Who We Are? Beyond the Wound: LGBTQ+ Healing, Identity & Radical Self-Acceptance
In Season 3, Episode 10 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward welcomes back beloved guest Temple Hayes for a deeply personal conversation about LGBTQ+ identity, shame, healing, belonging, self-acceptance, spirituality, and the courage it takes to live authentically. Temple Hayes and TJ reflect on how dramatically the LGBTQ+ experience has changed across generations—from growing up in a time when simply saying the word “gay” could feel dangerous or shameful, to witnessing greater visibility, representation, marriage equality, Pride celebrations, and LGBTQ+ people openly building joyful lives. But this conversation goes deeper than celebrating progress. TJ and Temple explore what happens when external validation changes, when social progress appears to move backward, and when old wounds and fears continue to live within us—even after we believe we've healed. They discuss the difference between fighting against an old paradigm and standing for a new one, and why spiritual activism can begin with simply becoming more fully ourselves. The conversation also explores: • Healing LGBTQ+ shame and the fear of being discovered • The courage required to live authentically • Why identity can become a catalyst for deeper self-discovery • The difference between external validation and internal knowing • How unhealed wounds can become collective belief systems • The power of surrounding yourself with people who mirror joy, health, and possibility • Why our communities can sometimes become organized around our wounds • Moving from talking about what we don't want toward creating what we do want • The importance of creating communities centered around growth and possibility • Why younger LGBTQ+ generations shouldn't have to experience the same trauma as previous generations • TJ's personal journey of healing shame and reconnecting with his younger self • Learning to love the parts of ourselves we once felt we needed to hide • The relationship between spirituality, identity, and authentic self-expression If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to the Element Q podcast and share it with someone who needs to hear that they don't have to hide who they are. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Temple Hayes: https://templehayes.com/
S3 · E10
Aug 18, 2026
31:51
Carl Jung, Recovery & LGBTQ Healing with Gregory Fisher
In Season 3, Episode 9 of the Element Q Podcast, TJ Woodward and Gregory Fisher explore the profound difference between managing symptoms and discovering the wholeness that already exists beneath our coping strategies. Together, they unpack internalized shame, spiritual bypassing, LGBTQ+ identity, addiction recovery, compassion, Carl Jung's shadow work, and why healing begins when we stop believing we're broken. Gregory shares his remarkable story of coming out as a Southern Baptist minister, navigating recovery for nearly four decades, and learning to embrace the six-year-old version of himself who had long carried shame. The conversation offers practical wisdom for anyone recovering from addiction, trauma, religious conditioning, or simply trying to live a more authentic life. In this episode, you'll discover: Why your coping strategies are not your identity The difference between healing and fixing yourself How spiritual bypassing can delay authentic recovery Carl Jung's shadow work and its connection to modern healing Healing internalized shame and self-rejection The role of compassion in recovery Why LGBTQ+ experiences can become profound sources of wisdom Transforming activism through love instead of anger Why recovery is a lifelong journey—not a destination How embracing your authentic self creates lasting freedom If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode with someone who may need to hear it. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Gregory Fisher: https://gregoryfisher.life
S3 · E9
Aug 4, 2026
35:16
The Hidden Layers of Gender, Shame & Healing With Hana Leyland
In Season 3, Episode 8 of the Element Q Podcast, TJ Woodward welcomes Hana Leyland, Executive Director of the Rainbow Transformations Foundation, for a powerful conversation about identity, recovery, mental health, and the courage to embrace authenticity. Drawing from both professional expertise and lived experience as a transgender woman in recovery, Hana explores how traditional mental health and addiction systems often overlook the unique experiences of trans, gender-diverse, and intersex individuals. Together, TJ and Hana examine the intersection of trauma, shame, identity, cultural conditioning, and healing while inviting listeners to move beyond labels and into deeper curiosity. From delayed adolescence within the LGBTQ+ community to the role of hormones, attachment, social conditioning, and inner child work, this conversation challenges conventional thinking while offering compassion for the complexity of the human experience. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, a clinician, someone in recovery, or simply seeking greater understanding, this episode offers wisdom, vulnerability, and hope. In this episode, you'll discover: Why healing often uncovers deeper layers of ourselves The relationship between transition, identity, and emotional growth How shame becomes embedded through secrecy and social conditioning Why curiosity creates healing while certainty can limit growth The challenges facing transgender mental health today How recovery extends far beyond sobriety Why authentic healing requires individualized care—not one-size-fits-all solutions The importance of creating truly affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ mental health If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode with someone who may need to hear it. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Hana Leyland: https://www.rainbowtransformationsfoundation.org
S3 · E8
Jul 21, 2026
31:43
Healing LGBTQ+ Trauma Through Spirituality With Mark Anthony Lord
In Season 3, Episode 7 of the Element Q Podcast, TJ Woodward welcomes longtime friend, spiritual teacher, and ordained minister Mark Anthony Lord to explore healing, identity, recovery, spirituality, and the evolving journey of the LGBTQ+ community. Together, they reflect on Pride, the generations that came before us, and how healing our personal pain can become a gift to the collective. Mark shares his perspective that LGBTQ+ lives carry a profound spiritual invitation—not despite challenge, but through it—and opens up about reclaiming the word “queer” as an expression of authenticity, integration, and freedom. The conversation moves into powerful territory as TJ and Mark discuss coming of age during the AIDS crisis, internalized shame, spiritual recovery, religious trauma, and the difference between religion and lived spirituality. Mark also shares a remarkable personal story of healing from childhood sexual trauma and the transformational spiritual experience that changed his relationship with pain forever. This episode is an invitation to move beyond survival and toward remembrance—of our wholeness, our divinity, and our capacity to bring more love into the world. Topics include: • LGBTQ+ healing and collective transformation • Queer identity and authentic self-expression • Recovery, spirituality, and conscious healing • Religious trauma and reclaiming God • Trauma, forgiveness, and acceptance • A Course in Miracles and New Thought principles • Moving beyond anger and returning to love If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode with someone who may need to hear it. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Mark Anthony Lord: https://markanthonylord.me/
S3 · E7
Jul 7, 2026
43:17
LGBTQ+ Mental Health, Recovery & Compassion | Dr. Jessica Hamilton on Healing & Identity
In Season 3, Episode 5 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Jessica Hamilton for an honest and compassionate conversation about LGBTQ+ mental health, addiction recovery, adolescent identity development, and the healing power of human connection. Drawing from her own recovery journey and decades of experience working with marginalized communities, Dr. Hamilton shares deeply personal stories about supporting transgender youth, working with long-term HIV/AIDS survivors in San Francisco, advocating for LGBTQ+ youth in juvenile justice systems, and helping families navigate identity, acceptance, and healing with compassion. Together, TJ and Dr. Hamilton explore the emotional impact of shame, societal stigma, political polarization, social media algorithms, and the importance of repairing relationships through empathy and understanding. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that healing happens through connection, curiosity, and love — even in deeply divided times. If you’re passionate about mental health, recovery, LGBTQ+ advocacy, trauma-informed care, or creating safer spaces for authentic identity, this conversation will leave you inspired and empowered. 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Please subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Dr. Jessica Hamilton: https://drbyrdolmstead.com
S3 · E5
Jun 2, 2026
35:53
From Addiction to Purpose Bryce Beliveau’s LGBTQ+ Recovery Story
In Season 3, Episode 4 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with Bryce Beliveau—Admissions and Outreach Coordinator at No Matter What Recovery and a proud graduate of the program—to explore the raw truth of addiction, identity, and healing within the LGBTQIA+ community. Bryce shares his powerful journey from growing up as a gay child in a small Midwestern town—feeling isolated, ashamed, and “othered”—to finding belonging through musical theater, and ultimately spiraling into addiction. With striking honesty, he opens up about how substances like alcohol and meth temporarily silenced the inner voices of shame, only to lead him into a rapid downward spiral. What follows is a story of resilience, recovery, and transformation. Bryce reveals how finding an LGBTQIA+-affirming treatment space changed everything—allowing him to feel seen, safe, and supported for the first time. Today, he dedicates his life to helping others take that same first step toward healing. This episode dives into: The impact of toxic shame and spiritual disconnection Why LGBTQIA+-affirming care matters in recovery The power of community, stillness, and self-acceptance How asking for help can change—and save—your life 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Please subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com
S3 · E4
May 19, 2026
31:35
How to Stay Calm When the World Feels Chaotic
In Season 3, Episode 3 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with Davina Kotulski—a licensed therapist, author, and internationally recognized LGBTQ+ advocate—to explore how we can cultivate inner resilience, healing, and authenticity in a deeply divided world. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, Davina shares compassionate, practical tools for navigating emotional triggers, political stress, and collective trauma—while staying grounded in love, self-awareness, and truth. Together, TJ and Davina unpack: The emotional impact of political and cultural polarization Lessons from LGBTQ+ history, including the AIDS crisis and the marriage equality movement. How to balance activism with inner peace The difference between reactivity and conscious response Why self-care and nervous system regulation are essential right now How to stay connected to your truth—even in difficult conversations Davina’s work bridges mental health, social justice, and spiritual growth, offering a powerful roadmap for anyone seeking to live with greater authenticity, resilience, and self-acceptance. 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Please subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Dr. Davina Kotulski: https://drdavinakotulski.com/
S3 · E3
May 5, 2026
34:23
Sobriety Isn’t the Finish Line - It’s the Beginning with Brittany Leach
In Season 3, Episode 2 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with Brittany Leach, Marketing Director at Gossip Grill, to explore the transformative journey of healing, sobriety, and self-discovery within the LGBTQ+ community. Brittany shares her personal story of stepping away from alcohol, confronting suppressed emotions, and rediscovering joy in its most authentic form. What begins as a conversation about nightlife and community quickly evolves into a profound exploration of identity, trauma, and what it truly means to “meet yourself.” With over 17 years at Gossip Grill, Brittany has helped shape one of the most inclusive and community-driven spaces in San Diego. This organization gives back nearly $500,000 annually to causes including mental health, unhoused support, and trans advocacy. Her work blends storytelling, connection, and purpose-driven marketing to create meaningful impact both online and in real life. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why sobriety can initially feel harder—not easier How identity shifts when you remove coping mechanisms The role of community in healing and transformation Why compassion is the key to personal and collective growth How moments of joy signal true emotional recovery 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety, questioning your identity, or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com
S3 · E2
Apr 21, 2026
32:36
Parenting LGBTQ+ Kids: Heather Hester on Faith, Fear & Finding True Acceptance
In Season 3, Episode 1 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward interviews Heather Hester, speaker, author, advocate, and host of the award-winning More Human. More Kind. podcast—to explore what it truly means to support and love LGBTQ+ children. Heather shares her personal journey as a parent of two LGBTQ+ kids, opening up about the fear, confusion, and deep transformation that followed her son’s coming out at 16. What began as a search for answers became a mission to help other families navigate similar experiences with compassion and courage. As the author of Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias, Embrace Your Child. Empower Their Authenticity: Heather’s work centers on meeting people exactly where they are—guiding them through complex, emotional moments with a calm, grounded presence. Together, TJ and Heather dive into: The intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ identity How to move through fear-based beliefs Why doing your own “inner work” as a parent matters The importance of community, boundaries, and grace Letting go of control and embracing authentic connection 👉 Subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Heather Hester: https://www.heatherhester.net
S3 · E1
Apr 7, 2026
37:23
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