Our Voices, Our Stories: Preserving the history of the LGBTQ2iA+ living in Western North Carolina.

Butch Thompson, butchOUT
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  • Documentary
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‘Our Voices, Our Stories’ is dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the diverse lived experiences of the LGBTQ2iA+ in Western North Carolina. Through personal narratives, oral histories, and multimedia storytelling, we aim to honor the resilience, identity, and cultural contributions of our community—past and present. By amplifying these voices, we foster understanding, connection, and a richer, more inclusive regional history for future generations.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 2.03: Long-Term Survivor - A 40-Year Journey

    Butch Thompson shares his 40th anniversary of his diagnosis and living with HIV, reflecting on the challenges, losses, and ongoing fight against stigma. In this episode, we also explore the history, challenges, and hope surrounding HIV and AIDS, featuring insights from Michael Harney. We discuss the isolation risks of long-term survivors, medical advances, stigma, global efforts, and the importance of community support.

  2. Oct 17

    Episode 2.02: Tracy Elliot, Part 2

    In this episode, Tracy Elliott shares his journey of embracing his identity, overcoming societal and professional challenges, and his impactful work in HIV/AIDS, animal welfare, and community service. Discover how authenticity, resilience, and community engagement can transform lives and organizations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Tracy's background 00:28 Deciding to live authentically and coming out 00:57 The experience of performing in Angels in America 01:22 The liberation of embracing true identity 01:51 Transition from banking to nonprofit leadership 02:19 Moving to Atlanta and engaging in racial equality work 02:27 Shift to animal welfare and community service in Asheville 02:30 The impact of community trust and collaboration 02:36 Reflections on the evolving gay community and civil rights 02:57 The importance of ongoing advocacy and fighting for rights 03:27 Closing thoughts and message of hope

  3. Oct 3

    Episode 2.01: Tracy Elliot, Part 1

    In this episode, Tracy Elliott shares his personal journey of growing up in a small town, grappling with his identity, and navigating the challenges of coming out as gay in a conservative environment. His story offers insights into the importance of authenticity, faith, and resilience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:00 Growing Up in a Small Town and Family Life 04:06 Religious Upbringing and Spiritual Experiences 06:53 Early Awareness of Being Different and Feelings of Isolation 10:01 Discovering LGBTQ Resources and Curiosity in Library Visits 12:56 Dealing with Religious Messages and Internal Conflict 16:00 Involvement in Politics and Community Service 17:59 The Challenge of Living Closeted and Fear of Rejection 20:09 The Moment of Coming Out and Family Reactions 22:52 Reflections on Self-Acceptance and Living Authentically

    Episode 2.01: Tracy Elliot, Part 1

  4. Sep 13

    Episode 1.21: Season 1 Recap

    This episode features in-depth conversations with diverse guests from the Asheville community, sharing their personal stories of resilience, identity, and community. We explore themes of authenticity, overcoming stereotypes, and the importance of sharing our experiences to foster understanding and growth. Topics: Guest stories of courage and vulnerabilityThe importance of community and support networksOvercoming stereotypes and societal expectationsThe role of spirituality and religion in identityPersonal journeys of coming out and acceptanceImpact of storytelling on personal growth and understandingResilience in the face of adversityThe significance of shared experiences in healingFuture plans for inclusive conversations and storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the show's purpose and guest stories 01:54 Reflecting on the impact of guest vulnerability and storytelling 04:06 Highlighting Andrew Bear Gentry's transformative story 07:01 The importance of community and support in personal journeys 09:48 Exploring themes of spirituality, religion, and identity 11:57 Keith Robinette's story of coming out and self-discovery 15:00 Justin and Austin share their experiences with love and acceptance 19:53 Michael Harney's dedication to community and harm reduction 25:04 Stories of resilience and overcoming stereotypes 30:04 The significance of authenticity and living one's truth 35:00 Future plans: inclusive discussions on faith, identity, and community 39:53 Encouragement to share stories and build understanding 42:55 Closing remarks and appreciation for community contributions

  5. Sep 5

    Episode 1.20: AVL Stonewall Fest 2026

    In this episode, we look back on the inaugural AVL Stonewall Fest and explore the significance of pride, community, and authenticity through heartfelt stories from Asheville's LGBTQ+ community, highlighting personal journeys of acceptance.

  6. Aug 6

    Episode 1.19: Mike Duffy, Part 2

    In this episode, Mike Duffy shares his personal journey of coming out, overcoming societal stereotypes, and building a business that embraces authenticity and community support. He discusses the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in small towns and his plans to foster acceptance through his tree service business. Key Topics: Personal journey of coming out at age 50Challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in small townsBuilding an inclusive business that supports the communityThe importance of authenticity and self-confidenceSocietal stereotypes and societal change in HendersonvillePlans for future growth and community engagementThe role of pride festivals in fostering acceptanceThe impact of societal attitudes on personal and professional life Chapters 00:00 Living in Two Worlds: The Struggle of Coming Out 03:02 Facing Challenges: The Impact of Sexual Orientation on Work 06:03 Building a Business: Embracing Identity in the Workplace 08:59 Community Engagement: Pride and Support for LGBTQ+ 12:12 The Future of Hendersonville: Change and Progression 14:58 Personal Growth: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Authenticity

  7. Jul 30

    Episode 1.18: Mike Duffy, Part 1

    In this episode, Mike Duffy shares his life journey as a gay man in Massachusetts and North Carolina, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and resilience. He discusses his experiences in the tree business, coming out later in life, and navigating societal challenges in a predominantly conservative area. Life journey of Mike Duffy - Challenges of coming out as gay in a conservative area - Experiences in the tree service industry as an openly gay man - Impact of societal acceptance and discrimination - Personal growth and self-acceptance over the years Chapters 00:00 Coming Out and Early Struggles 08:13 Finding My Place in the Tree Business 12:33 Navigating Relationships and Apologies 15:03 Reemerging as a Gay Man 19:28 Living as a Gay Man in Western North Carolina

  8. Jul 16

    Episode 1.17: Lee Jones, Part 2

    In this heartfelt interview, Lee shares his journey of growing up in North Carolina, coming out, and navigating family dynamics as a gay man. He discusses love, loss, resilience, and the importance of authenticity in building a fulfilling life. Chapters 00:00 Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance 03:05 Navigating Family Dynamics and Relationships 05:46 Finding Joy in Nature and Personal Hobbies 08:51 Overcoming Stereotypes and Embracing Identity 12:07 Understanding Generational Changes in Identity 14:49 The Importance of Self-Love and Personal Growth Book Reference Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi - https://www.amazon.com/Flow-Psychology-Optimal-Experience-Perennial/dp/0061339202

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About

‘Our Voices, Our Stories’ is dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the diverse lived experiences of the LGBTQ2iA+ in Western North Carolina. Through personal narratives, oral histories, and multimedia storytelling, we aim to honor the resilience, identity, and cultural contributions of our community—past and present. By amplifying these voices, we foster understanding, connection, and a richer, more inclusive regional history for future generations.

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