10. Michael Dumlao - The life of a gay, immigrant of color. Code-switching and the life of Guncles, gay-uncles!

Epics Podcast

Oct 8 2021 • 1 hr 4 mins

Show Notes: EpicsPodcast.com/episodes/MichaelDumlao

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Are you the black sheep in your family who chafes at traditions and seeks examples of how to redefine them?

Then do I have a guncle for you!

This week we are all graced by the presence of Michael Dumlao. Michael was born in the Philippines, raised in Australia, schooled in California, and now resides in Washington DC with his husband Daniel. He is an expert in advancing diversity, equity, and social justice, serves as a senior advisor for leaders in government, defense and intelligence AND is the author of his new book The Wisdom of Guncles!

I can not tell you how much I enjoyed my conversation with Michael. He shared a lot about his unique journey from the Philippines to Australia to the US and the racism and homophobia he encountered along the way. He taught me about what it is like for a person like him to walk into a new space having to assess how safe he is to be his true self in that space. I am still so struck by that because it is a process that I have never had to do because of who I am and I have been oblivious to the stress that others experience with a seemingly mundane moment. I didn’t know about the “code-switching” that people like Michael have to do in everyday experiences. Code-switching is when someone changes the way that they speak, act or interact with others who are different from themselves. This is something that I don’t think I have ever had to do so it was a very informative conversation for me, not to mention so much fun.

To continue to follow along with Michaels Epic story follow the links below to his website, socials and to his book, The Wisdom of Guncles! Now remember, if you buy The Wisdom of Guncles from the link below or on Michael’s page on the Epics website, you are not only supporting Michael and you are not only supporting the podcast but you are also supporting a local bookstore near you!