Explore every episode of the podcast Becoming Wilkinson

In this engaging conversation, David Wichman discusses his latest book, "The Four Rooms", which explores themes of sexual freedom and wellbeing, particularly for queer men. The discussion delves into the concept of the 'Four Rooms,' a framework for understanding the queer male experience, and emphasizes the importance of curiosity over judgment in navigating personal and societal challenges. Wichman also reflects on the current political climate, the significance of community, and the role of storytelling in fostering connection and resilience among marginalized groups. The conversation concludes with Wichman sharing his plans for promoting his book and engaging with audiences.


Bio :
David Wichman Also known as David-SF is an award-winning author, speaker advocate for sexual freedom and a long time sex worker.
Known for his raw intense passion in his online adult content  presence. David’s message and his work also explores the intersections of shame, desire, and self-acceptance with fearless vulnerability.
His memoir, Every Grain of Sand, earned many accolades including the 2024 American Legacy Book Award in LGBTQ+ Nonfiction, solidifying his voice within the LGBTQ+ community.
With over 18 years of experience as a sex worker, David brings a deeply personal lens to his writing, sharing stories that challenge comfort zones and highlight the complexities of sexuality and healing.
His latest book, The Four Rooms: An InQueery on Sexual Freedom and Well-being, invites readers to uncover the parts of themselves often silenced by shame and societal conditioning, offering a path toward deeper connection and self-acceptance.
Through bold storytelling and thought-provoking insights, David opens the door to meaningful conversations about identity, intimacy, and the journey to sexual well-being. His work continues to inspire and guide those seeking to embrace their full sexual selves with curiosity and compassion.

Contact David: http://www.davidsworld.me

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

To contact Wilkinson:  BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background of Matt Nightingale
02:05
Understanding Identity and Early Realizations
05:57
Marriage and the Struggle with Sexual Orientation
10:00
Coming Out and the Journey of Acceptance
14:01
Reflections on Marriage and Family Life
17:49
Navigating Relationships with Children
19:57
Public Coming Out and Community Support
22:15
Coming Out and Its Impact
25:02
Navigating Relationships and Acceptance
28:01
The Evolution of Self-Acceptance
29:58
Finding Love During a Pandemic
36:58
Current Work and Spiritual Journey

In this conversation, Matt Nightingale shares his journey of self-discovery as a gay man raised in a fundamentalist Christian environment. He discusses his early awareness of his sexual orientation, the complexities of marrying a woman while grappling with his identity, and the challenges of living a double life. Matt reflects on his experiences in reparative therapy, the impact of his coming out on his family, and the evolution of his relationships with his children and ex-wife. He emphasizes the importance of acceptance and understanding within the LGBTQ community and the Christian faith. In this conversation, Matt Nightingale shares his journey of coming out as gay, navigating the complexities of relationships, and evolving his understanding of faith and spirituality. He discusses the challenges he faced during his marriage, the acceptance he found within himself, and how he ultimately found love during the pandemic. Matt also talks about his current work in ministry and his passion for supporting others in their spiritual journeys, particularly those deconstructing conservative Christian beliefs.

keywords
LGBTQ, coming out, marriage, spirituality, identity, acceptance, Christian community, advocacy, personal journey, family dynamics, coming out, LGBTQ+, self-acceptance, relationships, spirituality, ministry, love, personal growth, divorce, community support

BIO
Matt Nightingale is a pastor, musician, speaker, writer, and spiritual director from San Francisco’s North Bay Area. He is founder and executive director of Common Sanctuary, and co-pastor (along with his long-time best friend, Tony Gapastione) of The Quest.
Matt’s musical/creative exploits have included performing a solo show at the Tulsa Jazz Hall of Fame, singing the national anthem at two 49ers games and a stint with the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. His song, “Always Entertaining Me (The La-La Song)” was featured in the hit Korean drama IRIS, and his song, “Going Home” was recorded by Broadway star and Emmy winner Loretta Devine and is featured on the soundtrack of the short film “Neighbor.”
For seventeen years, Matt worked as a worship pastor in the Evangelical Covenant Church, serving churches in Redwood City, CA; Houston, TX; Tulsa, OK; Seattle, WA; and Santa Rosa, CA. He is a graduate of the Spiritual Director Formation Program at The Journey Center Association and a member of Spiritual Directors International.
As a gay Christian, Matt is passionate about the intersection of sexuality and spirituality, and he works to create safe, sacred spaces for people exploring these identities. His TEDx talk, “Choosing Gratitude and Hope,” with his former wife, Luanne Nightingale, tells their story of a mixed-orientation marriage, an evolving understanding of faith and sexuality, and the choice to divorce with gratitude and hope.

Matt is the husband of Alejandro and the father of four adult children: Joshua, Jacob, Emily and Zachary.

CONTACT:
Matt's website:  http://www.mattnightingale.com. 
Matt is also @mattnightingale on Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram and FB.

To contact Wilkinson: BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In this conversation, John Gordon shares his life experiences, including his journey of self-discovery as a gay man, his relationships, and the challenges he faced with fear and personal growth. He reflects on his past relationships, the impact of HIV, and how he navigated life lessons that shaped his current outlook. John emphasizes the importance of facing fears and living authentically, while also discussing his current living situation and lifestyle choices.

Contact John on FB: https://www.facebook.com/john.gordon.3511

Contact Wilkinson:  BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In this engaging conversation, Dale Allen Rowse shares his multifaceted journey from a successful ballet dancer to a real estate trainer and author. He discusses his struggles with a debilitating neurological disorder, his healing journey through writing and shamanism, and the impact of his personal experiences on his literary work. Dale's insights into language, spirituality, and the creative process provide a profound understanding of his life and work.

Dale and his husband John live on a five-acre ranch in Mountain Center, California. They currently have five dogs with a miniature donkey possibly in their future. Other things that keep Dale occupied are his quilts – you can see his work online as the Quilting Cowboy – and his day job as a real estate sales educator and coach.

From Dale:

📚 Read my best-selling books: amazon.com/author/dale-allen-rowse

🌟 Learn about my journey: www.DaleAllenRowse.com

✨ Shop my quilts and patterns: www.etsy.com/shop/thequiltingcowboy

🎨 Discover more: QuiltingCowboy.com

📺 Watch more: YouTube.com/@Quiltin

Retreats:  https://www.merkaba.mx/

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Filmmaker Steve Balderson discusses his diverse filmography, the challenges of blending genres, and the complexities of distribution and marketing in the film industry. He reflects on the provocative nature of his work, particularly in 'Watch Out,' and the balance between explicit content and artistic expression in 'Sex, Love, Venice.' Balderson also shares insights on character development, casting choices, and the importance of humor and improvisation in filmmaking. He concludes with thoughts on the financial realities of independent filmmaking and his journey of learning a new language while immersing himself in European culture. In this engaging conversation, Steve Balderson shares his insights on the intricacies of casting, auditioning, and the creative processes involved in filmmaking. He discusses the importance of personal growth, facing fears, and embracing change, particularly in the context of moving to Europe. The dialogue also explores the dynamics of relationships, the impact of public perception and reviews, and the exploration of non-traditional relationship structures. Additionally, Balderson delves into the sensory experiences in film and the meticulous art of filmmaking, emphasizing the precision required in creating compelling narratives.

BIO

Roger Ebert gave Steve’s film FIRECRACKER, starring Karen Black and Mike Patton, a Special Jury Award on his annual Best Films of the Year list. The U.S. Library of Congress selected his film THE CASSEROLE CLUB, starring Kevin Richardson of the Backstreet Boys, for its permanent collection. Steve ranks #47 on the IMDb's Top 100 Gay and Lesbian director's working today.

Film Threat magazine praises, “Balderson makes movies that are so gorgeous that it’s not unreasonable to say that, cinematographically at least; he’s the equal of an Argento or Kubrick in their prime. Some people have perfect vocal pitch,

Steve has perfect visual composition.”

Steve’s debut book, “Filmmaking Confidential,” debuted as an Amazon and Audible best-seller. He is a contributor to The Advocate and MovieMaker magazines and shares his extensive filmmaking knowledge as a guest lecturer at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

http://www.stevebalderson.com/

http://www.filmmakingconfidential.com/

http://www.dikenga.com/

Dikenga Films | WhatsApp +1 785 565 25 35

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

JEROME COURSHON

In this week's episode of the Becoming Wilkinson podcast, my guest is Jerome Courshon.  I met him a few weeks ago when Steve Balderson's film "Sex Love Venice" was distributed and shown at the Palm Springs Cultural Center.  As an ally to the LGBTQ+ Community, Jerome loved the film and had great things to say about it. 

He shares his unique journey in the film industry, discussing his transition from acting to producing and eventually to film distribution. He emphasizes the importance of honesty in the industry, the challenges faced by independent filmmakers, and the evolving landscape of film distribution in the digital age. 

Jerome also reflects on the impact of films on relationships and the significance of creating content that resonates with audiences. He discusses the importance of integrity in personal and professional relationships, the evolving landscape of filmmaking, and the criteria for evaluating film content. He reflects on personal growth, perseverance, and the moral choices we make in life. 

The dialogue also touches on the impact of political discourse on personal beliefs and the balance between living a life of love versus fear. The conversation concludes with reflections on the value of meaningful discussions and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Finally, as CEO of Lion Heart Distribution (launched in 2022), he has quite a bit to say about the unethical behavior in this industry.

THE DETAILS:

Distribution Expert and “go-to” authority of getting independent films into the marketplace for 15 years (2007 – 2022), producer Jerome Courshon launched Lion Heart Distribution in 2022.

As the CEO, he serves and provides an ethical option for Producers & Directors to have success in the U.S. & Canadian marketplace with their movies, without being ripped off by unscrupulous distributors.

Growth of his company was exponential in 2024, and Courshon is currently seeking investors to grow the company further. Potentially interested parties may reach him through his website:
http://www.LionHeart.LA
For Filmmakers & Producers: All genres of movies are considered for distribution, as well as full-length documentaries and completed TV series.

For more info, visit:  http://www.LionHeart.LA

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In this engaging conversation, Wilkinson and Steve Balderson explore themes of personal growth, sexuality, and the journey of becoming a filmmaker. Steve shares his unique upbringing in Kansas, his awakening to his identity, and the pivotal experiences that shaped his life and career. The discussion delves into the importance of storytelling, the transformative power of love, and the lessons learned through art and self-discovery. Steve's insights on kindness, humor, and finding love in everyone he meets resonate throughout the conversation, making it a rich exploration of life as an artist and individual.

BIO

Roger Ebert gave Steve’s film FIRECRACKER, starring Karen Black and Mike Patton, a Special Jury Award on his annual Best Films of the Year list. The U.S. Library of Congress selected his film THE CASSEROLE CLUB, starring Kevin Richardson of the Backstreet Boys, for its permanent collection. Steve ranks #47 on the IMDb's Top 100 Gay and Lesbian director's working today.

Film Threat magazine praises, “Balderson makes movies that are so gorgeous that it’s not unreasonable to say that, cinematographically at least; he’s the equal of an Argento or Kubrick in their prime. Some people have perfect vocal pitch,

Steve has perfect visual composition.”

Steve’s debut book, “Filmmaking Confidential,” debuted as an Amazon and Audible best-seller. He is a contributor to The Advocate and MovieMaker magazines and shares his extensive filmmaking knowledge as a guest lecturer at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

http://www.stevebalderson.com/

http://www.filmmakingconfidential.com/

http://www.dikenga.com/

Dikenga Films | WhatsApp +1 785 565 25 35

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In this engaging conversation, Ronny Borrelli shares his personal journey of coming out, navigating life as a gay man in various environments, and his experiences in the adult film industry. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up in Lake Havasu, his transition to Palm Springs, and his return to performing arts. The conversation also touches on the importance of activism, the impact of the AIDS epidemic, and the significance of art in inspiring change.

Ronny's Bio:
Ronny Borrelli hails from Lake Havasu City, AZ where he participated in productions at the Lake Havasu's theater, Grace Arts Live in “South Pacific”, “Jekyll and Hyde: The Musical”, “Little Shop of Horrors”, “Peter Pan”, and “The Wizard of Oz”.
A resident of the Palm Springs area since 2014, he returned to his love of performing arts last year as Harvey Johnson in “Bye Bye Birdie” at the Palm Canyon Theatre.
 
He performed in “F**king Men” with The Bent and he was also featured as Spike in his first time performing at Revolution Stage Company.
 
Ronny is looking forward to pursuing his passion for the performing arts and is eager to see what other opportunities await! He’s excited to join the cast of “The Inheritance” at The Bent’s final play of season 3. (The Inheritance is an inspired two-part examination of survival, healing, class divide, and what it means to call a place home.  Part 2 will lead off The Bent’s season 4 in Palm Springs).  No wonder Ronny is excited to be chosen to be a part of this epic play!

Contact Ronny on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ronny.borrelli
Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

A short message recorded in Joshua Tree National Park, CA on February 2, 2025.

In this engaging conversation, James Jardine shares his transformative journey from a corporate banking career in Southern California to embarking on adventurous road trips and working on a fishing boat in Alaska. He discusses the challenges and experiences he faced at sea, including a harrowing incident involving a capsizing boat. The conversation also touches on personal growth, the importance of saying yes to new opportunities, and the exciting new venture of creating content together on platforms like OnlyFans. As they reflect on their past adventures and future plans, both James and Wilkinson emphasize the value of living life to the fullest and embracing change.

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024
To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Jonathan Brett is a Performer, Director, and Teacher (Credentialed in English/Theatre with a Master’s Degree in Social Emotional Learning). 

 He is a proud member of Sag Aftra.

 Some of his favorite theatrical performances include “Bye Bye Birdie” (Albert), “Let it Rain” (Mick, Best Actor- Professional, 2024 Desert Star Awards Nominee), “Little Shop of Horrors” (Seymour), “Fiddler on the Roof” (Motel), and “South Pacific” (Stewpot). He has also acted in TV shows such as “Zoey 101,” “Big Time Rush,” and “Cold Case,” as well as various other films, shows and commercials. Directed works include “Legally Blonde: The Musical” (Best Director, Best Musical, 2024 Desert Star Awards Nominee) “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” (Best Director, Best Play, 2024 Desert Star Awards Nominee) Nominee “Trap” (Best Director, 2024 Desert Star Awards Nominee), “Little Shop of Horrors” (Best Musical, 2023 Desert Star Awards Nominee), “A Christmas Carol” (Best Director Nominee, Best Play WINNER 2023 Desert Star Awards), “Theatre Duranged,” “Aladdin Jr., ” “Starlight Spotlight,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” “The Sound of Music,” “Disney’s Deviants” and more. 

 As the head of the Theatre department at La Quinta High School, Mr. Brett teaches beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels of theatre (including audition technique, scene study, improvisation, playwriting, history, and mindfulness, etc.). 

 Currently, he is Directing “She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition” at La Quinta High School. The show runs November 14, 15, 16 (6:30 PM) and November 17 (2:30 PM). Tickets are available at the box office on performance days. 

 He is thrilled to have an amazing husband (Randy) and fur-child (Clarence). 

 If you would like to contact him, please email him: jonathanbretteb@gmail.com

RANDY BRENNER

In this engaging conversation, Randy Brenner shares his journey from a child performer in Philadelphia to a successful actor and director in theater and television. He discusses the challenges and joys of performing, his coming out experience, and his efforts to raise awareness and funds for AIDS through innovative theater productions. The conversation also touches on his marriage to his husband Jonathan, life in Palm Springs, and the importance of pursuing creative passions at any age.

BIO:
Mr. Brenner’s most recent directing credit, was the highly critical acclaimed Mr. Parker at Dezart Performs, nominated for 8 Desert Star Awards, including Best director, and won Best Drama Professional 2024! Previously, he was nominated for a DTL Award for his direction of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Gynecologic Oncology Unit At Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Of New York City for Dezart last season. Mr. Brenner directed a very successful staged reading of Beverly Hills Hotel Peace Talks, which will have a full production and be part of the 2024-2025 season at CVRep. premiering May 20th. He has been nominated and won multiple Awards including the New York Outer Critics’ Circle, Drama-Logue, Robbie, Phoebe, Scenie, Desert Theatre League, GLAAD, and raves from the New York Times for his off-Broadway production of The Only Worse Thing You Could Have Told Me… starring Dan Butler and, later, Greg Louganis. He has directed over 50 musicals and plays including White Christmas, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown (with an all-star Broadway cast), Fiddler…, South Pacific, Nine, Stephen Schwartz’s Snapshots (Directed/Created with Stephen Schwartz), Autumn Canticle, Man of La Mancha, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and the first gay version of Marry Me A Little sanctioned by Mr. Sondheim himself. Previously, Mr. Brenner served as director and dramaturg for the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts’ GROW Program, leading a class he developed in collaboration with Steven Schwartz and Stormy Sacks, where young adults wrote and presented new musical works. Randy would like to thank his husband Jonathan, and their fur-child Clarence for their love and support. Randy is a proud member of SDC.  

 As an actor, Mr. Brenner was last seen on stage to rave reviews as Nostradamus in 5 Star Theatricals production of “Something Rotten” at Thousand Oaks Performing Arts  Center. Previously lead roles: Ballroom (CVREP), Aladdin (Disney’s California Adventure), Beauty and the Beast (Disney Imagineering), City of Angeles (Reprise!), Follies, How to Succeed, L’il Abner (MTW), Empire, Burlesque (The Broad), Toby in Sweeney Todd (SJCLO), Guys and Dolls (La Mirada), A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shine, Tintypes (Virginia Museum Theatre). Broadway/Off- Broadway; Found a Peanut, The Front, Man of La Mancha, New Faces of ’52 (Revival), Joley (Pre Broadway). Touring; Fiddler on the Roof, The Music Man, Tintypes.TV/Film; “911: Lonestar”, “Glow”, “Seinfeld”, “My Name is Earl”, “SpongeBob”, “Evil Dead 2”, “Geppetto”. Randy is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association.

Contract Randy via Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/randy.brenner.9

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Dr. Robert Philipson
Filmmaker/Executive

Philipson is a former academic professor of African-American studies with a passion for Jazz & African art. A published author and Harlem Renaissance historian, he has produced multiple films about the intersectionality of Race, Music, & Sexuality. 

His newest film is "The Knowing"
Written by Dr. Robert Philipson and directed by Jonathan Rowan

Adam, a white man in his late 30s, is visiting his Black ex-lover, Peter, who is dying of AIDS in a DC hospital. The year is 1992. Also in attendance is Cherie, a Black lesbian naval officer who is Peter’s best friend. The two sympathetically listen to Peter’s complaints about how his “Christian” family has abandoned him until a nurse arrives to give Peter medication. While waiting in the hospital cafeteria, Adam and Cherie, meeting that day for the first time, compare notes about the course of Peter’s illness. This leads them to a terrible discovery. Adam, in particular, is confronted with a choice that, while still in shock, he doesn’t know how to handle. 

For more information on Dr. Philipson and Shoga Films, go to:
https://www.shogafilms.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

IN BRETT'S OWN WORDS:
I initially did the Ride in 1999 because, at the time, I thought I had only months to live. It was my sixth anniversary of being HIV. Medications were limited and toxic. My health was struggling greatly, so I wanted to challenge myself to fight for those living and aging with HIV/AIDS one last time, myself included. However, to my thankful surprise, I'm still here!

Since 1993, when the Ride began as the "California AIDS Ride," participants have raised more than $300+ million and completed more than 42,000 journeys on bikes from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The stigma of HIV remains very prevalent, and many in the HIV community are still reluctant to talk about it. Those living and aging with HIV/AIDS struggle daily to maintain their health and get reasonably priced health services. New infections are still alarmingly present in communities all over the US. Those becoming HIV+ are constantly saying, "We didn't know, we didn't realize, we don't care, no one told us, we thought it was a manageable disease!.

We realize that the week out on AIDS/LifeCycle is the hardest we will work all year, but it is also the most emotional and fulfilling for me and the other Riders and Roadies. 

(from 2021) My personal training story started in September after a ten-month recovery from a nasty bike crash. Thankfully, I'm now riding 100-200 miles weekly, but it can be grueling, a huge time-suck, and days filled with mental and physical challenges, but I do it with my Desert Roadrunners team of like-minded and selfless individuals. Team Desert Roadrunners represents our own 'desert love bubble.' I was raised on the idea that community and service are essential and can fulfill your wildest dreams and goals. The love that comes towards you as a Rider or Roadie, you get to give back tenfold to other people. It's incredibly emotionally filling.

The AIDS/LifeCycle advances the shared interests of the beneficiaries in reducing new HIV infections and improving the quality of life for people living and aging with HIV/AIDS. It raises crucial awareness about the ongoing epidemic, in addition to funding critical services such as HIV testing and screenings for other sexually transmitted infections, medical care, prevention services, housing, and more.

In addition to the 1.2 million people living with HIV and AIDS in the United States, 1 in 7 people do not know they live with the disease. 

https://giving.aidslifecycle.org/participant/43387

Desert Sun: https://www.desertsun.com/story/news/health/2022/06/03/palm-springs-resident-ride-545-miles-raise-funds-hiv-aids/7462292001/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Daniel Stewart
After the death of his mother when he was only six years old was when his father said it was "God's will" and he was not to question it. That was only the beginning of his problems that went on for decades.

Daniel Stewart has led a very interesting life.  As a teen, he figured out that he was gay, was outed to his religious father by a disgruntled lover and was subsequently rejected and kicked out of his home. That started him on a precarious downward spiral.  But he figured out a way to turn his life around...

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Dr. Sean Ferri, PsyD is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California (#34510) and New Jersey (#35SI00737900). He currently serves as the Senior Manger, Clinical Support and Clinical Psychologist at the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert in Palm Springs. He also maintains a private practice. His doctoral research focused on the need for expanding LGBTQ+ competency within school-based mental health programs across the U.S. Prior to his clinical work, he was an educator and taught in a multitude of settings including China, Harlem, NY, and NJ. He currently teaches Human Sexuality and Intimacy at Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education & Psychology. His areas of focus include the LGBTQ+ Community, anxiety, grief, and exploring the intersectionality of neurodivergency and gender identity.

Contact Sean via email: drseantherapy@gmail.com.

LGBT youth crisis helpline. If you are thinking about harming yourself — get immediate support. Connect to a crisis counselor 24/7, 365 days a year, from anywhere in the U.S. It is 100% confidential, and 100% free.
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/


Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

I'm very happy that my friend Amine came by and we recorded this podcast episode.  It's a definite eye-opener!

Contact Amine here:
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amineraif/
email: amineraif@yahoo.com

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.    Text or call 988 on your cell phone for help.

LGBT youth crisis helpline. If you are thinking about harming yourself — get immediate support. Connect to a crisis counselor 24/7, 365 days a year, from anywhere in the U.S. It is 100% confidential, and 100% free.
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/


Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Ryan St. Michael is a full-time content creator based out of Palm Springs, CA. After graduating from the University of South Carolina in his home state, he moved to Cape Town, South Africa for fourteen months to study in a Masters in Public Health Program while on a Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarship. Following his time overseas, St. Michael went to law school at the University of Houston Law Center. He practiced family law litigation for four years before resigning to go into full-time business with his ex, an artist. In addition to owning and operating an art gallery for a dozen years, the couple co-founded a nonprofit for artists to train them on entrepreneurial skills. After their divorce, Ryan decided to pursue his passion of content creation.
Links:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryanstmichael
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryansaintmichael/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In Shaun's own words:
As a young boy, growing up in Virginia, I used to pour over house plan books from the local library for hours! I was fascinated with interior design, architecture, and what HOME represents to all people. I found that rooms and our environments can influence us in many ways including our emotions and our life experiences. I continued my hobby of design, and architecture appreciation throughout my teen years. I initially followed a career path in Musical Theater, but that is a story for another time. After discovering that I preferred roots to wings I decided that the traveling life was not for me and honed my skills in hospitality management with the Marriott Corporation. It is there that I found my love of service and helping others realize their dreams. I moved to the Palm Springs area eight years ago after falling in love with the architecture and the natural beauty of the Coachella Valley. I am extremely grateful to be able to help others find their piece of paradise here in our glorious valley.

Contact Shaun: https://shaunwaters.com/
Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Aaron Fury is an actor, model and medical professional. Born and raised in Washington state, Aaron’s small town charm and creative flair have served him well, engaging in a variety of entertainment roles including show producer, gogo dancer, DJ, singer songwriter and now actor and model. Aaron made the big leap from Washington State to California to pursue his dreams and see where the sun, palm trees and opportunities lead him.

CONTACT AARON:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaron_fury_/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AaronFury

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Trent Blanchard, M.A. is a human being in search of the true meaning of life! He’s spent over half of his life studying, attending endless workshops and being therapatized up the yin yang to understand his own internal struggle to figure it out and ultimately, experience that ever elusive thing called inner peace. 

What he thinks he’s figured out is that love, worthiness and perfection are the foundation of our being and that it is up to us to embark on a journey of releasing any emotional, physical, mental or spiritual beliefs that are not in alignment with this Truth. 

Whilst Trent continues to walk his own journey he feels obligated, and privileged, to share the wisdom he’s acquired with others as they walk through theirs. 

Trent Blanchard is an accidental alchemist; through the love he showed himself in facing his own struggle, he has transformed his pain into medicine that heals himself and others.

Contact:Trent Blanchard, MA
760.481.4445
https://www.instagram.com/trent4change/


Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

STEVEN DREW AUERBACH

Steven Drew Auerbach is a recognized International Business Consultant specializing in Brand Marketing/Management for over 30 years. His work has taken him around the world, and he has brought numerous luxury brands to the U.S. market.  Steven has been featured as both “A Retail Guru” and “A Top Designer to Watch” by LDB Magazine. He has also been a guest on National Public Radio due to his work in social entrepreneurship. 

Raised on the east coast by a fashion model/clothing designer mother and legal scholar/entrepreneur father, provided him with the foundation to be both a designer and business executive. Auerbach earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business/Consumer Science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He also holds certificates in International Negotiation, Importation and Harmonized Scheduling. Additionally, he earned a Writer’s Certificate from UCLA and is a published journalist and public speaker.

In 2017 Auerbach shifted his career from private business to non-profit. He has served on the advisory boards of two non-profits that focus on the health and welfare of the LGBTQ+ community, is the COO and Director of Business Development for the HIV+ Aging Research Project and is a Founding Partner of The Chosen Family Project.

Residing in Palm Springs, CA Auerbach lives with his two dogs, Rocco and Teddi, (which he declares are “full of so much love it should be illegal”).   Auerbach enjoys yoga, is an ardent reader, news junkie and makes a mean kugel. 

Web:
http://www.TheChosenFamilyProject.org
http://www.HARP-PS.org

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In Matt Irby's own words:

When the pandemic hit, I was working a corporate job in Seattle and was given the opportunity to work from home and live where I pleased. My first thought? Palm Springs! I moved here in late 2020, made a great group of friends and started doing "game nights" every week.

As game nights went on and the group got larger, it became a true source of happiness and connection in an otherwise chaotic work life I had.

Then it hit me!

If I could feel this great connecting with new and old friends playing games, aren’t there others out there wanting the same thing? I was sitting at my desk in another corporate drone meeting, and it came to me: “Play”. I wanted a cool hangout spot that I could go to and meet new people that centered around games. Then more came to my mind... why not extend it and have a café in the morning where people can work from and grab some food throughout the day, then flip it to a lounge in the evening with fun board games, outdoor games, pool tables, darts, etc. with a different selection of beer and wine?

Play was officially born and opened in September 2023.

I love sharing my passion with you and making a lot of new friends along the way! See you at Play!

Matt Irby

web site: https://www.playloungeps.com

Matt's email:  Matt@playloungeps.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

IN ANGELA'S OWN WORDS:

I was in the 3rd grade at an elementary school in rural Oregon, when my teacher Mrs. Peterson gave me the lead role of Little Red Riding Hood in the school play to help me overcome my paralyzing shyness. It worked. If she saw me now, she’d ask me to stand down and let someone else take a turn.

Following my 9-year-old acting debut, I auditioned for a nearby musical theatre company with my mom & brother.  They were both cast in the chorus of ‘The Music Man,’ and I was asked to stay off-stage and run the spotlight. My lack of singing ability stalled my career as quickly as it started.

The acting bug didn’t strike again until a modeling gig for a cheerleading uniform company helped me land an agent in Portland. From there came a handful of commercials and lots of dinner theatre.

I didn’t exactly sprint out of the gate, but I did count my blessings early with a fun role in a Robin Williams movie and a guest-star role on ER, …oooh, maybe I’ll meet Clooney!

Then there was a big writer’s strike. It went on so long my agency shut down and I was, as they say on set, ‘back to one.’ (Disclosure-I was and am in full support of my fellow union workers!)

Waiting for the phone to ring sucks, so I took matters into my own hands and produced a staged play at a small black box theatre. Surely, if I spent all my hard-earned waitressing dollars on theatrical rights, stage rentals, and hard-to-find props, I’d be discovered.

When that didn’t work, I decided to by a camcorder and take a film class at the community college. I wrote a short film about the perils of being a struggling actress and managed to convince some friends to help me make it. My mom was even in town and worked as a free cinematographer.

The countless short films and web series may not have been seen by Spielberg, but they sure were a blast. And learning about every stage of production and every job on set paid off in ways I’m still benefitting from.  Both in working knowledge & connections.

I won best comedy writing awards, best comedy actress awards, and best indie film awards. I got to play all three Kartrashian sisters, Elizabeth Taylor and even dropped my first single complete with a music video. If only auto-tune had been around for that early musical audition!

The skills behind the scenes have helped me find a ‘day job’ that allows me to share my talents with the local non-profit, Alzheimer’s Los Angeles, where I develop and create edutainment that raises awareness and makes a difference in people’s lives. Some of the scripted works have received multiple boundary-breaking and innovation awards.

Along my journey I met the uber-talented Laura Lee Bahr, who wrote and directed a feature for me to produce and star in alongside the cutest dog in the world, who happens to be mine. It was truly an art-imitating-life story about an actress, moonlighting as a dog-walker who must save an adorable Maltese from some crazy Hollywood characters. We overcame the typical odds of an indie film and secured both national and worldwide distribution.  #humblebrag

I’ve schmoozed as a TV Academy member, performed my set on famous comedy stages and finally got to go to the Emmys.

I should probably add some more celebrity name dropping and list the high-profile credits, but this bio has gotten a little too long so you will have to click on the resume button on my website if you want to see those.

I’m grateful to be able to pursue the things I love and build fabulous relationships along the way. While I may not have my series regular role…YET, I’m certainly living my dream.

More info and to contact Angela:  http://www.angelalandis.com

Photo credit:  Danette Mitchell

Music courtesy  Zakhar Valaha/Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Freddy Rodriguez, also known as @freddynotfred, established his digital footprint with his blog on Tumblr called Blue Perk in 2011 in New York City. Over the years, Freddy has evolved Blue Perk into a dynamic lifestyle brand that has worked with various clients such as  H&M, Kenneth Cole, Samsung, Toyota, Pottery Barn, Visit Berlin, Visit Puerto Vallarta, Jet Blue, and more. 

Freddy curates content that resonates with digitally savvy, LGBTQ+, fashion-forward urbanites, offering a kaleidoscope of happy, uplifting moments. Freddy dedicates himself fully to managing his brand, dividing his time between Los Angeles, New York City, and various vibrant cultural hubs globally, perpetuating his mission of spreading joy, fashion, and LGBTQ+ acceptance through colorful experiences.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freddynotfred/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freddy.notfred 

Website: https://blueperkmoment.com/ 

Tumblr: https://blueperk.tumblr.com/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Joe Boss is a Certified Addiction Counselor II, (CADC ll) and Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC), registered with the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP). He has actively worked as an addiction and co-dependency professional in the field for over 16 years at The Betty Ford Center, ABC Recovery Center, and with renowned addiction specialist and author, Dr. Harry Haroutunian. Joe owns and operates Boss Counseling Services, focusing on co-dependence, relationship, and addiction counseling. He has also been dedicated to his own recovery from addiction and codependency for over 22 years. Additionally, he is the author of the book, Take Your Power Back, A Journal To Self-Discovery.

Website:  bosscounselingservices.net

Email:  joe@bosscounselingservices.net

Link to book:  https://a.co/d/4IlyFhe

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In Joseph's own words:
"I grew up in a large Catholic Family in the 60s and 70s.  My family has a long history of depression, suicide and addiction and I not only navigated my parent’s battles, but as an adult lived with my own.  I started singing as a child and at the age of 13 sang with the MN Orchestra in the nationally known Metropolitan Boy’s Choir.  I met my husband during my 40th birthday weekend and married him on my 43rd Birthday.  He told me the first night we met that he had a mental illness, but he was managing it successfully.  I was profoundly and deeply in love with him throughout our marriage and I think he felt the same about me.  Two weeks after we took our 16th  Anniversary roadtrip vacation, he was murdered by our mentally ill neighbor.  My life exploded and I almost killed myself with alcohol.  Luckily, with mass amounts of support I sobered up and dealt with my grief by helping to pass historic mental health legislation in the state of MN.  I formed a foundation in my husband’s name (ThePaulJamesPfeiferFoundation.org) to advocate for those suffering with a mental illness and use my lifelong passion for singing and story telling to raise $ for that foundation.  I continue to live in MN, but also own a home in Palm Springs (paradise) California".

More info:  http://www.thepauljamespfeiferfoundation.org

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

John Corr is very active on the Coachella Valley/Palm Springs theatre scene. 

He has some very interesting thoughts and stories to tell...

John on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacorrjr

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

I met JJ many years ago in Seattle.  He's an adventure seeker who just quit his corporate banking job in order to travel around the world for at least two years...  hear the why and how of his adventure.  So many of us dream about doing something like this- but he's actually doing it! 

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Steve Milliken 

Steve Milliken is the proud gay author of LATE BLOOMER BABY BOOMER—A Collection of Humorous Essays About Being Gay Back in the Day and Finally Finding My Way. Born and raised in Southern California, his literary escapade takes you on a journey through the decades, chronicling his adventures as a gay baby boomer  and his lifelong pursuit of the perfect coming-out story—spoiler alert: it's a comedy of errors…..

While the primary focus of these essays is to bring laughter to the hearts of readers, LATE BLOOMER BABY BOOMER offers more than just entertainment. While drawing comparisons to David Sedaris, it also helps bridge the gay generation gap between the younger and older gay men’s communities through its humor and historical perspective on the challenges gay men have faced through the years. His unique blend of laughter and nostalgia with sprinkles of wisdom will captivate readers as a certified remedy for those pesky "I need a good laugh and some enlightenment" moments…. 

LBBB back cover text:

What happens when the class clown becomes the teacher?

Whether teaching in the urban ghetto or navigating the gay ghetto, Steve Milliken bridges the gay generation gap as he finds the funny about the lifelong coming out process. 

This book is for anyone who is gay, knows someone who is gay, or even a “straight” guy who’s had a gay experience, like wearing a belt that matches his shoes.

"Steve Milliken's writing style is reminiscent of David Sedaris's quirky humor, but with own his unique spin. He has the true humorist's ability to find the hilariousness in all of life's awkward and sometimes painful moments. Treat yourself to this book if you love writing that will make you laugh out loud!" ANDI MATHENY, actress, acting coach, and author of Act ALIVE: The Essential Guide to Igniting and Sustaining Your Working Actor Career

Author Steve Milliken reveals, “While teaching in the inner-city with an implicit ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy, I led a double life, somewhere between Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde and Hannah Montana. While intelligent and insightful, I counter this by being incredibly gullible and naïve. Strong, yet timid, caring but sarcastic, I’m all about the balance, as any self-respecting oxymoron should be….” 

A Southern California native, his wide-ranging essays include concealing your inner sissy in the 60s, a guide for piloting the proper parameters of profanity in the workplace, tapping into your potential for prank calls, and looking behind the scenes at catering to the temperamental stars of the ’70s at the famed Brown Derby Restaurant. 

Steve Milliken’s experiential essay titles include “My Rocky Horror Virginity Show,” “Sober Porn,” “My Colonoscopy Eve,” and “Bitch Ass Snitch” to name just a few….

 https://linktr.ee//stevemilliken

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

STAN ZIMMERMAN is a man of many mediums (TV, film and theatre). He’s been nominated for two WGA Awards for Best Comedy Writing – The Golden Girls and Roseanne. Stan’s also written and produced on Gilmore Girls, co-created the Lifetime sitcom, Rita Rocks, wrote on both Brady Bunch movies and rewrote the ABC-TV movie of Annie. Stan has a BFA-Drama from NYU/Circle-in-the-Square and has directed such LA productions as The Diary of Anne Frank-Latinx (eight iterations since 2018), Entertaining Mr. Sloane, A Tuna Christmas, Gemini, Spike Heels, Pledge, Heartbreak Help and his original plays -- Meet & Greet, Knife to the Heart, Yes Virginia and Have a Good One. Stan directed Off-Broadway’s Hyprov (Daryl Roth Theatre). TRWplays has published and licensed four of his works -- Yes Virginia, Silver Foxes and his suicide awareness play, right before I go, including a School Edition. Stan has appeared in the play across the U.S. Zimmerman & Berg wrote the recent Lifetime Christmas movie, Ladies of the 80’s: A Divas Christmas. Stan’s book, The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore is available from Indigo River Publishing. Stan’s next directing gig is the World Premiere of Peter Ritt’s High Maintenance (Road Theatre Company, North Hollywood, April ‘24).

Web:  https://www.zimmermanstan.com

IMDb:  https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0956785/

Buy the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Golden-Gilmore-Stan-Zimmerman/dp/1954676603/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Andrew Easton is a young scientist who decided to get into the gay adult entertainment industry as a performer.

Contact Andrew: scruffygaynerd@gmail.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

 Barbara Kerr,   APR, Fellow PRSA, is an award-winning journalist, public relations leader, and actress whose career has taken her across the United States and around the world.

Journalism, communications and public relations
An Emmy-nominated reporter as well as an anchor, producer and news director at network television affiliates in Ohio and Maryland, Barbara Kerr was named “Achiever of the Year” by the Dayton Chapter of American Women in Radio and Television. In 2019, she was inducted into the Dayton (Ohio) Area Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

As a communications and media advisor for government, business, public and nonprofit organizations, she has worked nationally in cities including New York City, San Francisco, Portland, Milwaukee and Washington, D.C. as well as internationally in Bulgaria, Hong Kong and the Philippines. 

Her honors include the “Leading Change Award” from the Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter of Women in Communications as well as recognition from the Hermes Creative Awards, MarCom Awards and the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations.

 As a member of PRSA's Portland Metro Chapter (now part of PRSA Oregon), Kerr served as chapter president in 2014, having previously served as vice president of member services and vice president of member communications. In 2016, she received the chapter’s William W. Marsh Lifetime Achievement Award.  In 2015, she was inducted into the PRSA College of Fellows. She served in multiple roles on the College of Fellows Executive Committee, including secretary-treasurer, vice chair and chair. 

 With a passion for stories about people and the arts, she has served as a freelance writer for the Desert Sun, a daily news outlet serving the Coachella Valley, and for other regional organizations.

Theater
Barbara Kerr’s lifelong love of theater began in the first grade and has continued throughout her life. 

 She has appeared in regional productions from New York City to San Francisco and in Canada and Greenland. In the Coachella Valley, she has been proud to perform with The Bent Theatre, Desert Ensemble Theatre and RJ Art Theatrical Productions.

 She received rave reviews for her performance in the one-woman play, Shirley Valentine. Her dramatic credits includeThe Lion in Winter (Eleanor of Aquitaine), Agnes of God (Mother Superior and Dr. Livingstone), Hamlet (Gertrude), Wit (Dr. Vivian Bearing), The Sisters Rosensweig (Sara), Crumbs from the Table of Joy (Gerte), The Guys (Joan), Moon Over Buffalo (Charlotte Hay), Separate Tables (Anne/Sibyl), Talley’s Folly (Sally Talley), and Monday After the Miracle(Anne Sullivan Macy). 

 She has performed in comedies including It’s Only A Play (Julia Budder), The Importance of Being Earnest (Lady Bracknell), Moon Over Buffalo (Charlotte Hay), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Helena) and Plaza Suite(Karen/Muriel/Norma).

 
Her musical credits include Gypsy (Rose), Mame (Mame), Follies (Phyllis), Company (Joanne), Anyone Can Whistle (Cora and Fay), Anything Goes (Reno), Annie (Miss Hannigan), A Little Night Music (Charlotte), The Most Happy Fella (Cleo), Bye Bye Birdie (Rosie), Applause (Margo), Lady in the Dark (Liza), and musical tributes to Stephen Sondheim, Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Rodgers and Hart, Kurt Weill and Sir NoëlCoward.

To contact Barbara:  barbararkerr@hotmail.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2024

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

In Marc's own words:
"The practice of Orgasmic Shamanism emerged as a result of exploring Shamanism, somatic movement therapy and tantra.

It is also a Mystery school practice. Mainly attributed to the Ancient Greeks and Egyptians, the mystery school is a grueling and process of radical transformation.
It is based on awakening the true self by connecting with the greater realms of the unseen, the cosmos.

All my workshops, sessions, retreats, trainings all work within a 5-stage framework:
Stage 1- Discovery: The discovery that our body is our tool to access great transformation by connecting us to oneness.
Stage 2- Initiation: After this discovery, we then find ourselves able to face our demons, our shadow, every area of our life that is seeking resolution.
Stage 3- Awakening: This is the awakening of a higher power within. It also involves the realization of the uniqueness of our essence.
Stage 4- Embodying: We then embody and harness this higher within ourselves and feel its medicine.
Stage 5- Integration: We then embody and harness this higher within ourself and feel its medicine.

Today my work is unapologetic, simultaneously subtle and explicit, supportive and radical.

I work with men to explore every aspect of their lives. Together, we explore their darkest shadows and most shameful fantasies and learn to make space for their highest gifts to emerge. At times, we sit in the stillness of the eternal void and let the energy transmissions do their job.

Everything I do aims to help people connect to their truth by engaging with the oneness within. Whether someone is a beginner, an experienced practitioner, a facilitator in training, or an advanced therapist, this work is about allowing them to be who they truly are; to engage with the flow of life; and to bring forward their highest gifts in the most effortless way possible".

For more info or to contact Marc, please visit his website (Must be 18+ years old):
https://orgasmicshaman.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Interesting Facts About Kevin Phinney:

*He has worked across the strata of media and yet so far remains below your radar.

*Over the course of his various lifetimes, he has been a drama critic, a boyfriend, fiancé, a husband , morning show radio host, an ex-husband, the creator of a gay advice column called "Ask Daddy" that briefly broke the internet and an entertainment reporter whose interviews range from stage and screen stars to musicians, politicians, news celebrities, and sports heroes.

*He's a native of Brooklyn who was raised in El Paso, Texas and graduated from a small college in Austin.

*He's  lived in Los Angeles, New Orleans, Seattle and New York City.

*These days, he divides his time between NYC and his beloved second home of Austin.

*He's currently a resident of Hell's Kitchen, and partnered to Ryan Branom, perhaps the sweetest man on Earth.

*He works part time as a Manhattan tour guide and moonlights as a screenwriter.

*He is an adult survivor of domestic violence and no longer bats an eye to be hypospadic.

*Also being Irish, his favorite drink is the next one.

*He is the only man alive who can honestly claim to have been understudy to Sonny Bono in "The Owl and the Pussycat," and to have bought U2's Bono his first margarita.

Everything else is all lies, rumor and innuendo.

Contact Kevin via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.phinney.12

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Find Micky on his IG:   https://www.instagram.com/luismigueldmc/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

STEWART WADE
From a young age, Stewart Wade knew he wanted to tell stories. He performed skits in the backyard for his captive parents and friends, and attempted his first novel at age ten.  A bit later, Stewart tried his hand at poetry, short stories, and playwriting, ultimately getting a Master’s degree in Theater, Film and Television from UCLA.   

After a few years in the Hollywood trenches, Stewart wrote and directed his first feature film, Coffee Date, starring Wilson Cruz, Jonathan Silverman,  Sally Kirkland, Elaine Hendrix, Jason Stuart, and Debbie Gibson. The movie garnered numerous awards and received a limited theatrical release, ultimately playing in rotation for a year on MTV's LOGO channel. His next movie, Tru Loved, starred Najarra Townsend and Jake Abel, and featured Jasmine Guy, Alexandra Paul, Alec Mapa, Cynda Williams, Bruce Vilanch, Nichelle Nichols, Vernon Wells -- and Jane Lynch. It also won several awards before playing in rotation on Here!TV for many years.   

Next up, Stewart directed and co-produced Such Good People, a screwball comedy written by David Michael Barrett and starring Michael Urie, Randy Harrison, and James Urbaniak, with supporting roles by Scott Wolf, Ana Ortiz, Lance Bass, Alec Mapa, Tom Lenk, Drew Droege, and Rick Overton.   At about this same time, Stewart created Coffee House Chronicles.  This web series is an ongoing passion, as each episode is self-contained and can be produced when time and money allow.

Most recently, Stewart has written and directed his first drama, Say Yes, and now the sequel, Baby Steps. Both star Patrick Zeller and Matt Pascua, and are available on Amazon Prime.

Contact: Stewartnla@aol.com

Web:  http://www.stewartwadefilms.wordpress.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

BILLY CLIFT

Emmy nominated filmmaker, Billy Clift,  “A Long Road to Freedom: The Advocate Celebrates 50 years”, has created a vast body of work that consists of a wide range of different genres.  Such as the Feature film “Jacked”, on Homeless youth, The short films, “Monty”, Montgomery’s Clift’s last dying day, “No Goodbyes”, a true story about love in a concentration camp, and “Lena’s Dance” ( Dee Wallace). The ridiculous cult comedies, “Baby Jane?” And “Hush Up Sweet Charlotte” (Mink Stole, Varla Jean Merman), realty tv such as “Food Fetish”, “Behind the Bar” and the travel show “Underground”.  Streaming tv shows, (two seasons) “Not So Straight in Silver Lake”, (Daniel Franzaese, Calpernia Adams), “My Sister is So Gay”, (Loni Anderson, Debra Wilson, Ray Dawn Chong) and in post for “The Lair : Hollywood” to be streaming in January 2024.

He's created over 40 music video’s of different musical styles…  short form documentaries focusing on people who have made significant contributions to society like Arron Walton, a CEO of a black Public relations firm to Lawyer, Gloria Allred who has been a strong force in underserved rights.

He is in post-production for the feature film “Here We Are”, a film on racism during the pandemic, starring Sally Kirkland, Christine Elise, Elizabeth Regan, Wil J. Jackson and Mel England.  He's also in post-production for the documentary “Our Lady in The Kitchen” About a painting that had been stolen by the Nazis, ending up in a household in Silver Lake, California. 

Billy is in pre-production with a plethora of different projects, continually striving to push his creativity to find new fresh ways to tell stories.

Email Billy:   billyclift@me.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

J Craig Fong  is a recovering attorney.  It is not clear whether an attorney ever truly recovers.

 A graduate of Yale and the University of Pennsylvania, J has been a corporate attorney and a civil rights advocate. J served as the Director of Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund and also as the Board Chair of Asian Pacific AIDS Intervention Team in Los Angeles. 

In recent decades, J was an immigration attorney with offices in Hollywood, Pasadena, and Palm Springs, focusing primarily on family unification cases and visas. 

Currently, he serves as a Commissioner on the Palm Springs International Airport Commission. 

He lives in the Cathedral City Cove, with his two cats Benji and Merlin, and with his husband Andrew.

Email J at: jcf@fongaquino.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Craig Chester is an award winning actor best known for his roles in the movies “Swoon”, ”Grief”, “Frisk”, “Kiss Me, Guido”, “I Shot Andy Warhol” and as the Birkin Bag Guy on “Sex & The City”.

He transitioned to a successful career as a television writer when St. Martin’s Press published his memoir, “Why The Long Face? The Adventures of a Truly Independent Actor”, writing and producing three seasons of LOGO’s “Big Gay Sketch Show” and HBO’s smash hit, “True Blood”.

He is currently working on a new memoir and “Adam & Steve 55+”, the sequel to 2005’s “Adam & Steve”, which he starred in and also wrote and directed.

He lives in Palm Springs, CA.

Craig's Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mrcraigchester/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

BENNETT YELLIN
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Bennett received his B.A. in fiction from U.C.L.A.  Still not ready to enter the real world, he enrolled at UMass in Amherst for an M.F.A. in fiction. It was there — on the first day of school — that he met and befriended Peter Farrelly. On a lark, they tried writing a comedy together and this spec script ultimately got into the hands of Eddie Murphy and the Zucker Brothers, creators of Airplane and The Naked Gun. Both Murphy and the Zuckers asked the duo to write movies for them, and their career was off and running.

Yellin wrote exclusively with Peter for years until they asked his brother Bobby to join them. The three went on to write a number of unproduced features together until they created Dumb and Dumber in 1994 and reunited in 2014 to co-write the official sequel chronicling the further idiotic adventures of Harry and Lloyd, Dumb and Dumber To.
In 2007, the Farrelly Brothers branched out on their own and Yellin partnered with James Robert Johnson to create a professional writing duo that has endured for sixteen years. Among the plethora of projects they’ve tackled during their career — some produced, others not — the two have co-written Let’s Scare Jessica to Death for Paramount Pictures, the Fox situation comedy Unhitched, the direct-to-DVD thriller Joy Ride 2: Dead Ahead, Paramount Pictures’ Hotel For Dogs 2, the Anchor Bay action-thriller In the Blood with Gina Carano, the 20th Century Fox family film, Santa’s Little Helper, and the Warner Brothers re-boot of the Police Academy series, Police Academy: Takin’ it to the Streets. More recently, Yellin and Johnston have co-written a live action family stage show adaptation of the hugely popular Angry Birds IP, and the two are currently at work creating an original pilot for a new animated show.

Bennett's Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bennett.yellin

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

GAMÉL

Artist's Statement:
"In 2020, I left the tech industry and moved to Palm Springs to pursue my passion for art full-time. During this time of adjustment, I worked on a painting titled  "The Other Side",  which proved to be prophetic. In January 2022 I experienced a personal tragedy when my mother passed away from COVID-19. In spite of this sorrow, I found solace and purpose in my artwork which helped me to cope. My works are unique in their use of color, space and materials, drawing on influences from the Renaissance period as well as 60's Pop Art and 21st Century design. The themes explored in these pieces reflect my struggles with life experience and strive for self-alteration. My works often combine hyperreal painting with a variety of materials such as acrylic, oil, steel, wood, transparent resin and Plexiglass to create an immersive viewing experience for the viewer.

By August of 2022 I opened my own gallery in Palm Springs where I exhibit these pieces. In my continual pursuit of self-expression, knowledge and experiences, I am constantly challenging myself to create pieces that are distinctively my own. My aim is to produce artwork that tells a story of resilience and what it means to be human, ultimately striving to evoke an atmosphere of eternal search or hunger for meaning. Through this work I have found healing in the midst of tragedy and hope in spite of life’s struggles. I believe that art is a powerful form of communication and I strive to create pieces that are both informed and individualized, reflecting the depths of my soul for all to witness. My journey continues with each canvas and every brushstroke as I work towards a brighter future. Thank you for joining me in this exploration".
                                                                                                 Gamél/Palm Springs, CA/September 2023

Web:  https://www.jongamelart.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jongamelart/

email: jon@jongamel.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Paul Hietter

This is Paul's second visit as a guest on my podcast.  This time we discuss aging as gay men in Palm Springs and a few of life's learned lessons.

Paul is a true renaissance man - having worked in a number of industries, with his favorites of being a caterer and event planner to the stars and a new thought minister.

He is always happiest when he is of service and learning something new.   

Overcoming life’s obstacles seems a good hobby and with hiking, working out, being a Chef and humanitarian, there is never a dull moment. 

Currently single, and a cat daddy of Rumi and Leo,  Paul lives in Palm Springs, CA.

He may be reached at 760-567-5820 or PaulHietter@icloud.com.

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Nathan Serrato
As an ICF Certified Life Coach, Reiki Practitioner, Yoga Instructor, and Master Practitioner & Trainer in Time Line Therapy®, Hypnotherapy, and NLP; Nathan Serrato helps queer leaders and visionaries in their journeys toward deeper intimacy, spiritual reclamation, and purpose driven living so that they can fully embody their authentic, gifts and savor the joys of the queerdom along the way. 

Website: queerconscious.com/soulconfidence
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queerconscious/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Originally from Boston, for the last decade, Alan Carvalho has been semi-retired in Cathedral City, CA. He continues shooting videos throughout the valley with his company: Cambridge Video.

He's been with his partner for 50 years and they've been in a 3 person relationship (throuple) for 28 years (they all live together).  And now they're ready to conquer the next stage of retirement!

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Bill Marx

William Woollcott Marx (born January 8, 1937) is an American pianist, arranger, and composer. He is the adopted son of actors Harpo Marx and Susan Fleming.

Marx was placed in the Children's Home Society in Los Angeles by his birth parents when he was eight months old, and four months later he was adopted by Harpo Marx and his wife, Susan Fleming. He attended the Juilliard School, where he studied composition and he studied with composer Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. He began working in entertainment when he was 12 years old, when he was put in charge of his father's props for shows, including his harp. At 16 he became arranger and musical conductor for his father.

Marx's compositions include concertos for alto saxophone, flute, harp, piano, and violin.] He also composed symphonies and scores for films, including the score for the film Weekend Pass (1984).

Marx transcribed music that his father composed, because the elder Marx did not read music. The two worked together on two albums that Harpo recorded in the early 1960s. He also composed and arranged for recording artists in both jazz and popular music.

In 1961, Marx signed with Vee-Jay Records. His projects there included arranging cover versions of music for four albums by the Castaway Strings. In 1967, he began writing music for commercials.

In the 1970s, he composed for several low-budget horror movies, including Scream Blacula Scream, Terror at Red Wolf Inn, and Count Yorga, Vampire. For these projects, he often collaborated with lyricist Marilyn Lovell. He continued his work on films outside the horror genre throughout the 1980s, such as arranging music for John Cassavetes' Big Trouble .

As a performer, Marx has played in jazz clubs, lounges, and theaters In the late 1980s, Marx and harpist Carrol McLaughlin toured the United States, giving performances and promoting Harpo Speaks, his father's autobiography.

In the early 1990s, Los Angeles magazine named Marx the most popular lounge pianist in that city. In 2002, he received a star at 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
                                                           (Adapted from wikipedia).
Buy the books:

Bill's book: https://www.amazon.com/Son-Harpo-Speaks-Bill-Marx-ebook/dp/B00INB1JLW/

Harpo's book: https://www.amazon.com/Harpo-Speaks-Marx-ebook/dp/B06XWDPNB4/

Susan's book : https://www.amazon.com/Speaking-Harpo-Susan-Fleming-Marx-ebook/dp/B09XTJ1KC6/

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

Gina Zollman grew up in Southern California, always singing in choirs and being in shows. She graduated from UCSD with a BA in Linguistics and a minor in Music. Her choral career extended way beyond college, culminating with performances at Carnegie Hall in NYC and at the Nokia and The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in LA.

After being trained on Wall Street and establishing herself as a successful stockbroker in San Diego, Gina moved back to the LA area and worked as an executive in her family’s business, but soon show biz called and Gina pivoted to what she’d always longed to do. Soon she was a SAG member and putting on one-woman shows at nightclubs and bistros across the Southland. A highlight was selling out the Hollywood-Roosevelt Cinegrill, receiving 3 standing ovations, her name emblazoned on the 30-foot marquee. 

Gina has also performed extensively in Palm Springs, appearing at The Arthur Newman Theatre with her one-woman show, appearing with Derrik Lewis and his “It’s Better With a Band” series, various nightclubs, and guest starring at Jazzville, at Agua Caliente Resort this past November.

Gina recorded her first CD “Anywhere With You” and released it at Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood in March of 2023, to critical acclaim. She is poised to appear in 3 musical theatre productions at The Palm Canyon Theatre’s 2023-2024 season and has 2 one-woman shows she is booking in the US and Canada: “Love, Loss, and What I Weighed” including comedy as well as all the songs from her CD; she is also starring in a brand new “Anne Murray Tribute Show.” She has been called a “song stylist par excellence” and excels at getting to the heart of her carefully chosen songs, mostly from the Great American Songbook, sprinkled with original material and arrangements.

Contact Gina at: http://www.ginazollman.com

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2023

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

"I had another experience when I was meditating that affirmed my life was transforming again. I dreamed I was standing on a river bank. There were people in canoes peacefully rowing in a river. I came to understand that the river was peaceful flow. The people in the canoes waved and smiled to come in. I looked up and down the river bank. There were countless people standing on the banks. Some walked into the river and a canoe appeared for their transport. Some shook with fear on the side. Those in the river were committed. Somehow I knew it was a big commitment. I waded in and the next thing I knew I was in a canoe. I felt immense peace. I knew I would never go back to the river bank. At the same time, there was no judgment about those on the river bank. There was a simple invitation to wade into the peaceful river of life...

I have witnessed the prison-house closing in on the growing child within myself and within my family. My work is dedicated to millions who have felt bound by the conditions that would imprison. My story is not unique. My message is simple, never ever give up! There is always hope. It is my intention that as you hear the story of my journey,  you will remember from deep within you-- your calling, your purpose, and your recovery of the truth of who you are. You are already free. You simply need to remember."           

Larendee Roos
Founder Director Miracle Activation Center
Founder CEO Roos Advisors
Partner Ador Development
Facilitator Trainer Pathways of LightGrateful
Spouse, mom, and grandmother. Daughter of Abba Father.

To contact Larendee, simply text her at 1-801-209-3611

Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2022

Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.

To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com

NOTE: This episode with Larendee originally aired in early 2022 when my podcast was new and I had few listeners/followers.  I've re-mixed the audio and I'm re-publishing it now because a larger audience should hear her story.