true stories of
coming out
later in life
Join certified professional life coach David Cotton as he explores the complicated journey of coming out LGBTQ+ later in life. From personal stories to expert professional advice, “Out Late With David” examines the complex transition from the closet to true authenticity.
Do you have a story to share with David and others?
Send him an email to start the conversation.
now playing
A Chance, and It Worked: The Journey to Authentic Happiness
In this episode of Out Late With David, David talks with author Peter Leahy about coming out at age 44 after 20 years of marriage and a lifetime of hiding his true self. Peter shares how years of fear, shame, and self-doubt eventually gave way to courage, authenticity, and a life he never imagined possible.
From finding support through Gay Fathers of Atlanta to building a new community, meeting his husband, and creating a fulfilling life in Palm Springs, Peter reflects on the challenges and rewards of starting over. He also shares the moving story of a letter he wrote to his former closeted self—a reminder that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is take a chance on ourselves.
This is a conversation about hope, reinvention, and the truth that it’s never too late to become who you were meant to be.
Watch all recent episodes here, or visit our YouTube channel
David’s Story
It’s Never Too Late. David’s Coming Out Story on The Better Man Podcast
In this special crossover episode of Out Late With David, David shares his personal coming out story as a guest on The Better Man Podcast with Dean Pohlman, founder of Man Flow Yoga. Together, they explore what it means to choose authenticity later in life, the courage required to rewrite your story, and why it is never too late to live more honestly. If you’ve ever questioned parts of your identity, faced a major life transition, or wondered whether change is still possible, this conversation offers reflection, insight, and hope. 🌈
Watch all recent episodes here, or visit our YouTube channel
bonus episode
In this episode of Out Late With David, David is a guest on the podcast, Out Loud, while visiting Key West FL. Along with the hosts of Out Loud, Jon and Brian, they discuss the complexities of coming out later in life, the importance of community support, and the dynamics of relationships, especially for older gay men. He shares insights from his experiences and those of his guests, emphasizing the need for authenticity, compassion, and understanding in navigating personal journeys and family dynamics. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by older men in the dating world and offers advice on how to approach relationships with clarity and openness.
Watch all recent episodes here, or visit our YouTube channel
A story of Pride
David Cotton tells his personal story of coming out later in life to television journalist Chenue Her of Iowa station WOI-TV.
Click to listen now, on your favorite podcast platform
For video episodes visit
All episodes
-
![]()
Tomm Stu
This series is just what I’ve craved and needed for years. Decent. Respectful. Encompassing.
-
![]()
Br.Aa.Co
David’s powerful and vulnerable conversations with his guests are very inspiring to listen to. Hearing the stories of people becoming their authentic selves and navigating their way in the world is… a beautiful thing…
-
![]()
16830
This is so powerful in such a positive way. David seems to have the confidence and self-comfort to help others, and to have the empathy and curiosity to learn from his guests. Really excellent.
-
![]()
PellaCher
Out Late With David is interesting and enlightening. Thanks to this outstanding host and his guests who share their experiences so candidly.
-
![]()
heybobletstalk
David and his guests are so honest and transparent. It takes courage to share this level of detail in a personal coming out story, especially when it comes after decades of non-disclosure.
-
![]()
KD
Thanks for what you are doing. The podcast was one of the most affirming things to me that let me know I was not alone. So amazing!
Hi, I’m David.
Take it from me, coming out is hard.
I'm a retired Brigadier General in the Air Force, a former senior executive in the Department of Defense, and frankly, I spent decades denying and searching for my authentic self. At age 59, I told my family, and everyone else... I'm gay!
Today, I'm at peace with who I am, living an authentic life helping others through personal life coaching.
Join me as I talk with those who've made this journey, some closeted for decades, finally able to share their truth. Their stories are often both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Welcome to "Out Late With David."
David Cotton shared his own personal coming out story as a guest on these podcasts:
To get to know more about me, you can listen to Episode 50 of the podcast, Graying Rainbows: Coming Out Later in Life LGBT+, hosted by Dr. Ginger Campbell.
Christopher Veal’s podcast, The Vulnerable Man, Episode 56, sharing my story related to being a vulnerable man, where I see this as a strength and not a weakness.