In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with LGBTQ-affirming therapist, public speaker, and award-winning author Chris Tompkins to explore how religious messaging, childhood conditioning, and internalized shame shape the lives of queer people—and how we begin to unlearn it all. Chris opens up about growing up gay in a religious household, the painful symbolism of “bearing his cross,” and how shame became a quiet companion in his early life. We unpack what it means to receive “messages from the playground”—those early scripts about identity and worth that continue to live in our subconscious—and how they manifest in adulthood.

Together, we dive into the process of healing religious trauma, redefining our connection with spirituality, and the journey of "breaking up with God" in order to find a version of divinity that truly affirms us. Chris also shares how his own spiritual evolution—from shame-filled prayers to authentic, loving self-acceptance—was central to his recovery from toxic coping mechanisms. We talk about queer identity, parenting, anger, compassion, and how to hold space for all parts of ourselves. Whether you’re navigating your own healing, supporting LGBTQ+ youth, or seeking a more loving spiritual path, this episode is a moving invitation to return to yourself—with grace, curiosity, and a whole lot of love.

There’s laughter, truth bombs, tender moments, and a few hallelujahs along the way. This one’s for anyone who’s ever wrestled with faith, family, or fitting in—and is ready to come home to their fullest, freest self. 🌈✨

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✨ Connect with Chris Tompkins & His Work ✨

📘 Author – Raising LGBTQ Allies: A Parent’s Guide to Changing the Messages from the Playground (available wherever you find books!)

🎤 Featured On – TEDx, NBC, HuffPost, Psychology Today, The Advocate & more

📱 Follow on Instagram – @aroadtriptolove

🌐 Visit his website – www.aroadtriptolove.com Check his latest writing, resources, and events

Want to support his work or book him for a talk? Chris is the expert on queer identity, religious trauma, parenting, and healing through inclusion.