Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about conversion therapy, psychological abuse, and self-harm. We share these stories to raise awareness and foster healing, but we recognize they may be difficult to hear. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources like The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) are available to provide support.
Conversion therapy survivor Syre Klenke speaks openly about the damaging impact of being forced into years of so-called “treatment” as a teenager and the depression that followed, while also showing how authenticity and community became a way forward. Joining John Corella, Syre recalls the shock of being taken to a conversion therapy conference under the guise of a family outing, the gaslighting he endured from both licensed therapists and church leaders, and the loss of everyday teenage milestones like dating and prom. These stories reveal how conversion therapy robs young people of their sense of safety and self, leaving scars that last well into adulthood. Yet Syre also reflects on the resilience it takes to survive, the courage to tell the truth, and the importance of building spaces where no one has to hide who they are. This episode confronts the damaging reality of conversion therapy while reminding us that healing is possible through honesty, courage, and community.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad with John Corella
01:26 Meet Syre Klenke: Comedian, Activist, Conversion Therapy Survivor
04:46 What Conversion Therapy Really Means and Why It’s Damaging
07:58 Surviving Four Years of Forced Conversion Therapy
12:05 Losing High School Milestones and Identity
18:43 The Most Traumatizing Moments of Conversion Therapy
27:49 Abuse and Self-Harm Tactics Inside Conversion Therapy
29:29 Mental Health Struggles and Depression Afterward
34:33 Religion, Patriarchy, and Gender Roles in Conversion Therapy
39:09 Why Survivor Stories Must Be Told
42:14 Conversion Therapy in Politics and the Supreme Court Case
01:04:30 The Boldest Act: Sharing Your Story Authentically
Connect with Syre Klenke: Instagram
Connect with John Corella:
Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
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