Episode Details

At 17 years old, David was alone.

After enduring childhood sexual abuse and a difficult upbringing, he found himself dropped off on the streets of Southern California. Eventually, he made his way to the Garden Grove Gay and Lesbian Center, where he was connected with Children of the Night and Dr. Lois Lee.

In this episode of The Dr. Lois Lee Show, David reflects on surviving exploitation, finding belonging, and discovering possibilities he never imagined. Inspired by Children of the Night students performing Shakespeare, the British Consul sponsored an educational trip to England—a journey that would forever change the way David saw himself and his future.

Today, David lives on a small farm in Tennessee with his husband and works as a product manager for a software company. His story is one of resilience, healing, and the extraordinary impact of people who believe in young people when they cannot yet believe in themselves.

Topics discussed:

• Surviving childhood sexual abuse and exploitation
• Finding support through Children of the Night
• Why exploitation is rooted in survival and trauma
• A life-changing trip to England and Oxford
• The importance of feeling accepted and safe
• Misconceptions about male prostitution and sexual orientation
• Building a life, career, and family after trauma

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