In this deeply personal conversation with TJ Lor, Ruti Mejia shares her experience of coming out as a lesbian and Two-Spirit woman to her immigrant parents, both former church ministers, and the emotional journey that followed. Drawing strength from Indigenous teachings, trusted friends, and an extended family of community members, Ruti reflects on the courage it took to live openly, the unexpected tenderness of her mother's response, and the freedom she has found in being fully herself.

In this deeply personal conversation, Nicole Staples reflects on growing up gay in a community where acceptance was not always easy, building a life with her longtime partner, and finding unexpected purpose through motherhood and foster care. Joined by her mother, Carol Staples, Nicole shares stories of family, resilience, and the ways caring for children who have experienced trauma has challenged her to confront her own past and embrace the life she has built.

In this episode of Joy of Being, Xue shares his experience growing up Hmong and queer within a family and religious community shaped by traditional expectations. He reflects on coming out, navigating difficult conversations with his parents, and finding healing through time, understanding, and renewed relationships. Through his involvement in organizing queer BIPOC gatherings in the Twin Cities, Xue also explores the importance of friendship, chosen family, and creating spaces where people can feel welcomed, connected, and free to be themselves.

In this episode of Joy of Being, host Bhavana Goparaju speaks with Natasha Chandrasekharan, a South Asian queer and nonbinary immigrant, fiber artist, and educator, about the complexities of identity, belonging, and building community across cultures. After nearly fifteen years in the United States, Natasha reflects on finding freedom through queer friendships, creative expression, and self-discovery, while confronting the uncertainty of being forced to leave the country following a sudden job loss. Through a deeply personal conversation, Natasha explores the meaning of chosen family, the importance of separating self-worth from productivity, and the joy of creating a life grounded in authenticity, solidarity, and love.

In this episode of Joy of Being, 19-year-old Masyn Arguelles reflects on growing up as a young lesbian in Crookston, Minnesota, sharing stories of first love, relationships, and the freedom to be herself. Through memories of her aunt, the unwavering support of her mother and sisters, and her experiences within the community, Masyn explores the importance of family, acceptance, and finding confidence in who you are. Her story offers a message to LGBTQIA+ youth and their families: love who you love, embrace who you are, and never let the judgment of others determine your happiness.

In this episode of Joy of Being, host TJ Lor sits down with Regina Zapata and Masyn Arguelles in Crookston, Minnesota, for an intergenerational conversation about identity, family, acceptance, and the freedom to be yourself.

Regina reflects on growing up in a small rural community, the challenges of being different, and the lasting influence of her Aunt Letty, whose humor and unconditional love helped shape her understanding of acceptance. Masyn shares her experiences as a young lesbian growing up in Crookston, where family support and a strong sense of self have helped her navigate the expectations and judgments of others.

Together, their stories remind us that the joy of being begins with embracing who we are, honoring those who came before us, and creating spaces where future generations can feel safe, loved, and accepted.

Caley shares her experiences supporting and loving her trans brother Kai. She talks about the joys she witnessed as her brother grew into himself, and how she walks with him with unconditional love as he faces the joy of living and the challenges often faced being trans.

Rachel tells her story of being a fierce and loving parent to her trans son Kai. She speaks to love, the need for patience with family, and what it means to love with grace and humility of your trans child.