In previous episodes, we discussed the importance of coming out, which is a deeply personal and pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ individuals. And while living openly can empower us to be our authentic selves, a number of complex factors can keep us in the closet.
In this episode, author, public speaker, and former teacher Kevin O’Connor joins us to discuss his personal journey out of marriage to embrace his sexuality at 55 and live authentically as a gay man.
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Kevin O'Connor is the author of Two Floors above Grief. His career spans over fifty years as a writer, teacher, principal, curriculum designer, and university instructor. He authors content and provides training in mathematics instruction, principal leadership, support for substitute teachers, LGBTQ advocacy, Sexual Health/Family Life, self-publishing, and marketing.
Kevin enjoys chronicling the stories of families and friends through tracing genealogical histories, writing and picture collections. His prior writing includes personal letters, articles in professional publications, dissertation, anthologies and presentations delivered at conferences, seminars and webinars.
Kevin sings and performs in theaters, and is active with SMART Ride, a bicycling group that rides annually from Miami to Key West, raising funds for HIV awareness, treatments and education. He was an elementary teacher, principal, professor and curriculum coordinator in California, Illinois and Florida from 1973-2020.
In his final educational position, Kevin authored content and provided training in areas including support for substitute teachers, LGBTQ advocacy, and Sexual Health/Family Life. He resides in Ft. Lauderdale with his husband, Leon. Their family includes five sons and seven granddaughters.