I didn't fully realize I could embrace my identity as a gay man until I discovered the power of storytelling, the power of being real. Then, it hit me: If I'm going to help brands tell their stories with honesty, I have to start by telling my own. If you are an LGBTQ+ founder, do not wait for permission, you don't need it. If you are an LGBTQ+ founder, don't wait for permission, you don't need it. People do not buy what you do, they buy who you are and how you make them feel.