What Happened When I Shared My LGBTQ+ Story as a Keynote Speaker

I could share the 1,000+ comments from audience members who've said my talk was inspiring, energizing, powerful, etc.

But today, I want to share a comment that struck a different tone:

“Not sure what the connection to Chris’ sexuality and choices have to do with [industry]. It’s a divisive and inappropriate way to promote his choice of sexual identity in an audience where some see this as immoral…Think of other controversial issues you wouldn’t want a keynote to open with—abortion, climate change, gun control, antivax, etc.”

That wasn’t feedback about my content.
It was feedback about my existence.

I’ve shared this story before—hundreds of times.

Three minutes and forty-seven seconds of my coming out journey and a life-changing conversation with my dad.

Not as a protest.
Not as a disruption.
Not as a political point of view.

But as a deeply human moment—of love, authenticity, and truth.

The inspiration for Ripple Effect Leadership...a radically human approach to leadership that transforms the way we see and connect with each other.

The truth is, what stirred discomfort wasn’t a divisive stance.

It was a single moment I mentioned: a kiss.

That was too "controversial” and too "polarizing."

And that’s when it hit me:

My message isn't polarizing.

I am.

Simply showing up as a full human being.

You know, your presence is a mirror.

When you step into your truth, it reflects something back to the people around you.

For most, that reflection builds trust and connection.
For others, it brings discomfort.

Not because of what you say.
But because of what you surface.

That reflection reveals the deeper work still ahead: The places where inclusion isn’t fully lived. The quiet ways we ask people to shrink, so others won’t feel challenged.

I share these stories because they matter. Because identity is not a distraction from leadership—it shapes it.

And because the wholeness of our humanity should not have to be negotiated for a seat at the table.

Or a spot on the stage.

So if you’ve ever been asked to make yourself smaller—
To leave parts of yourself outside the room—

Know this:

You are not too much.
You are not off-topic.
You are not alone.

Let the mirror do its work.

—

Chris Rollins is an inspirational leadership keynote speaker and creator of the Ripple Effect Mindset™. Inspiring leaders to act with intention in a world craving trust and connection. Specializing in leadership, teamwork, and creating inclusive, human-centered workplaces. Start a ripple that drives lasting impact today.