John was an ex-gay, ex-drag queen and an evangelical Christian. He married an ex-lesbian, had three children and became the poster boy for “conversion therapy” for over 15 years, traveling across the world to preach the idea you can ‘pray away the gay’. John Paulk was living proof that they could change, that God would love them, and that they could live a “normal” heterosexual life. But John was living a lie: he was still gay. Now, he’s ready to tell his story.
What this show covers
true crimeMafiaMichael ImperioliNew York9/11sensitive themesex-gay movementpublic imagerelationshipsLove in Actionresidential programLGBTQ+ issuesshamepersonal collapsepublic scandal
What listeners will find here
A dramatized look at how the Mafia exploited the aftermath of 9/11
This episode introduces UnderGround Zero: 9/11 & The Mob, a true-story series about how the New York Mafia took advantage of the chaos after 9/11. Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa headline the story, giving it a strong crime-drama pull.
A dramatized look at how the Mafia exploited the aftermath of 9/11
This episode introduces UnderGround Zero: 9/11 & The Mob, a true-story series starring Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa. It centers on an untold account of how the New York Mafia took advantage of the chaos after 9/11.
A pivotal arrival: the program, the director, and a life-changing relationship
Based on the show notes, this episode follows John as he enters the residential program that will shape his life and introduces two key figures: former Love in Action director John Smid and the woman who becomes his wife. It appears to be a turning-point chapter in the larger story.
A public image unravels as John Paulk faces exposure and denial
This preview, based only on the episode notes, points to a turning point in John Paulk’s story. Episode 5 appears to center on a visit to a D.C. gay bar, the fallout of being exposed, and the shame and self-deception that follow.
When a movement’s star marriage hits the spotlight—and starts to fracture
This preview, based only on the published show notes, points to an episode about John Paulk’s marriage becoming a high-profile symbol of the ex-gay movement. It also suggests a contrast between public success and private strain as media attention grows.
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