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

TJ Woodward
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The Element Q Podcast: Empowering LGBTQ+ Voices, One Story at a Time. Powered by Element Q Healing Center and hosted by TJ Woodward. Each week, TJ interviews authors, thought leaders, therapists, coaches, and healers dedicated to empowering and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. ABOUT ELEMENT Q HEALING CENTER Our mission is to serve each person’s journey by creating space for growth, connection, and renewal. Through identity, gender, and culturally affirming practices and trauma-focused care, we empower LGBTQIA+ community members to not only discover their voice but to embrace the strength and power within it. We honor those who came before us—brave, resilient individuals who fought tirelessly for the rights and recognition the LGBTQ+ community holds today. Their strength laid the foundation for a brighter future built on courage, healing, and transformation. ABOUT THE HOST TJ Woodward is a revolutionary recovery expert, bestselling author, and addiction treatment specialist who has helped countless individuals through his simple yet powerful teachings. He is also the creator of The Conscious Recovery Method, an innovative approach to understanding and treating addiction. With years of experience, TJ specializes in helping the LGBTQ+ community heal from unresolved trauma, spiritual disconnection, and shame.

  1. Jul 7

    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/

    Healing LGBTQ+ Trauma Through Spirituality With Mark Anthony Lord

  2. Jun 16

    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

    Healing, Identity & Love: Melody Velaruz on Faith, Queerness, and Trans Visibility

  3. Jun 2

    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

    LGBTQ+ Mental Health, Recovery & Compassion | Dr. Jessica Hamilton on Healing & Identity

  4. May 19

    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

    From Addiction to Purpose Bryce Beliveau’s LGBTQ+ Recovery Story

  5. May 5

    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/

    How to Stay Calm When the World Feels Chaotic

  6. Apr 21

    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

    Sobriety Isn’t the Finish Line - It’s the Beginning with Brittany Leach

  7. Apr 7

    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

    Parenting LGBTQ+ Kids: Heather Hester on Faith, Fear & Finding True Acceptance

  8. Mar 24

    Why Internalized Homophobia Still Shows Up—Even After Coming Out

    In Season 2, Episode 26 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Betsy Spier to explore the complex and often hidden impact of internalized homophobia. Even after coming out, many LGBTQ people carry unconscious shame shaped by cultural messaging, family dynamics, and early life experiences. Betsy shares her personal story of growing up during the feminist movement, navigating identity in the late 70s and 80s, and discovering how deeply internalized beliefs can linger—even after decades of personal growth. Together, TJ and Betsy unpack how shame, trauma, and identity conditioning affect LGBTQ mental health and discuss practical ways to heal through awareness, connection, experiential therapy, and inner child work. They also explore: • How internalized homophobia shows up in everyday thoughts and behaviors • Why awareness is the first step toward healing • The power of experiential therapy and psychodrama • Why connection—not isolation—is essential for recovery • The importance of self-acceptance and internal safety This conversation is a compassionate and insightful look at the journey toward authenticity, healing, and deeper self-love within the LGBTQ community. If you’re interested in LGBTQ mental health, trauma recovery, self-acceptance, or personal growth, this episode offers powerful tools and perspectives. 👉 Subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com T J Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Betsy Spier: https://betsyspier.com

    Why Internalized Homophobia Still Shows Up—Even After Coming Out
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The Element Q Podcast: Empowering LGBTQ+ Voices, One Story at a Time. Powered by Element Q Healing Center and hosted by TJ Woodward. Each week, TJ interviews authors, thought leaders, therapists, coaches, and healers dedicated to empowering and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. ABOUT ELEMENT Q HEALING CENTER Our mission is to serve each person’s journey by creating space for growth, connection, and renewal. Through identity, gender, and culturally affirming practices and trauma-focused care, we empower LGBTQIA+ community members to not only discover their voice but to embrace the strength and power within it. We honor those who came before us—brave, resilient individuals who fought tirelessly for the rights and recognition the LGBTQ+ community holds today. Their strength laid the foundation for a brighter future built on courage, healing, and transformation. ABOUT THE HOST TJ Woodward is a revolutionary recovery expert, bestselling author, and addiction treatment specialist who has helped countless individuals through his simple yet powerful teachings. He is also the creator of The Conscious Recovery Method, an innovative approach to understanding and treating addiction. With years of experience, TJ specializes in helping the LGBTQ+ community heal from unresolved trauma, spiritual disconnection, and shame.

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