Child abuse remains one of the most urgent and under-recognized crises facing families today. In this powerful episode of Profiles in LGBTQ Courage, host Rick Koonce speaks with Jacob Stapledon, Community Engagement and Education Manager at Children s Cove, a child advocacy center on Cape Cod. Together, they shed light on the staggering reality of abuse, why LGBTQ youth are disproportionately affected, and the critical role that community members can play in protecting children.

Jacob shares sobering statistics, including the fact that 90% of children are abused by someone they know, and that LGBTQ youth often face the unique challenge of double disclosure revealing both their abuse and their identity. He explains how Children s Cove provides coordinated, trauma-informed care to help children tell their stories once, rather than reliving trauma repeatedly.

Listeners will also hear practical guidance on recognizing warning signs, safeguarding children online, and taking action when something feels wrong.

Key Takeaways:

• LGBTQ youth face unique risks and barriers to disclosure
• 90% of abuse comes from someone the child knows
• Online exploitation is rising rapidly post-COVID
• Parents and communities must stay engaged and speak up

Learn more and access resources at childrenscove.org.

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For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html

2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

In this episode of Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, host Rick Koonce sits down with 16-year-old activist and student Bradley Forcier, whose story is both inspiring and timely. Bradley, a rising junior at Falmouth Academy, shares how coming out at age 12 sparked his passion for advocacy, community involvement, and political engagement.

From leading in his school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance to starting the process of launching a local chapter of the ACLU, Bradley is already creating meaningful change. He opens up about navigating high school as a young gay man, supporting transgender friends, and his vision for a more inclusive future. Bradley also talks about his deep interest in American politics, his science fair project on bias in public opinion polls, and his dream of becoming a civil rights attorney or elected official.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience and optimism of LGBTQ+ youth, and the difference they are making every day.

Takeaways:

• How Bradley’s activism began at a young age
• The importance of safe, supportive school communities
• Insights on LGBTQ+ acceptance among Gen Z
• Why optimism matters in today’s political climate

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of tomorrow’s changemakers.

Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability.

For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html

© 2020 - 2025 PFLAG Cape Cod

Have you ever wondered what courage looks like in the LGBTQ+ community? In my podcast series, Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage, I share the powerful, authentic stories of individuals and families navigating the complex issues of sexual orientation, gender identity, self acceptance, and human love. From coming out journeys and gender transitions to parents learning how to support their children, these intimate conversations reveal the strength it takes for all of us to live and love authentically.

I'm your host, Rick Koonce. With decades of experience as a journalist and interviewer, I'm here to share stories that will educate, inspire, and remind you that none of us walks this path of life alone.

So today, I'm asking you to subscribe to Profiles in LGBTQ+ Courage wherever you listen to podcasts and and join us in celebrating the bravery it takes to live your truth and life authentically.