About Randy
Survived Abuse. Lived a Lie. Learned to Thrive.
Hi! My name is Randy, and I wrote a memoir titled WHY: A Memoir. In a nutshell, the memoir covers my life in that I survived abuse only to live a lie before learning to thrive as my true self. That’s a perfect summation of the book, which is another effort to inspire and empower other LGBTQ+ to escape religious stigma and love themselves and others.
And realize it’s ok to laugh and even cuss a little.
The Journey
From Exodus to Freedom
I was featured in the award-winning documentaries Pray Away and For They Know Not What They Do. My story reveals the struggle of coming to terms with being a gay man of an evolving faith.
In my former career as Randy Thomas (now Scobey), I served as the last Executive Vice President of Exodus International. In this role, I contributed to several books, was featured in The Los Angeles Times, and was interviewed by worldwide media outlets as a lead spokesperson for the organization I would eventually help shut down.
We announced Exodus was closing on June 19th, 2013. As my entire world blew up in front of me, it was one of the best days of my life.
Advocacy
The Stained Glass Closet Does Not Match Authentic Love
Since embracing my life and truth, while walking out my healing, I have tried to help others find the next right step in their journey. I have also worked passionately against the toxic ideology that underlies conversion therapy — especially in its “pastoral” form of ex-gay ministry.
Today
Glad You’re Here
Today, I live with my husband Dan, our daughter, and two fur babies in the suburbs of Orlando. I may not know the specific questions, experiences, or beliefs you bring to this space, but I’m glad you’re here. This is a place for us to journey and communicate together.
The Book
Read Randy’s Story
WHY: A Memoir chronicles the journey from surviving abuse, living a lie, and learning to thrive as his true self.