Meet Madeline Cole | YouTuber

We had the good fortune of connecting with Madeline Cole and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Madeline, what do you want people to remember about you?
I want people to watch my videos and remember that no struggle is permanent. My hope is that I have helped them in some way learn how to get out of the vicious cycle of OCD and find freedom in living in the uncertainty of life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Starting my channel was definitely not easy. I just remember looking back and thinking about how hard it was for me to discover HOCD in the first place. For years I thought I was going crazy, I didn’t have a name for what I was going through. I suspected I had already struggled with other themes in the past (existential OCD, perfectionism, contamination, etc.) but none of those themes were as taboo as Sexual Orientation OCD. I noticed people did not like to talk about it. Most individuals that weren’t aware of HOCD, and even some people in the OCD community would spread false information about the theme because of its unusual nature. I would constantly see comments saying that it wasn’t real, it was made up by people afraid to come out, etc. etc. After seeing so many people that I knew had HOCD (from all sexualities by the way) see those comments and panic, I realized I should make a video about it. I just sat down and thought to myself, even if it is made up, here is the stark reality: People are struggling. People do need a label to figure out what it is they are struggling with. People need other people to lift them up and explain to them how to deal with it. And that is why I do what I do. I want people to know, yes this is a strange phenomenon, yes this is embarrassing to discuss and admit, but ultimately we are in this together.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely take them to German Village first. There’s so many things to do and see, especially during the holidays. Early in December, my family and I like to go see the village lights. The streets of German Village are lit with luminaries and restaurants, shops, and even a few private homes along the route are open late with special deals, free treats and live music. Designated parking areas and shuttles are available as well. This is one of my favorite Columbus traditions. Last time I went there were some small businesses selling various crafts, baked goods, and other handmade items. I love supporting local and they are always good quality and well-priced. I would also take them to Panacea Spa in Upper Arlington. I would either get the two person massage and cocktails, or I would buy the amenities day pass which includes the salt sauna, steam room, and pool. It is always a much needed, relaxing experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my subscribers, and all of the people in the HOCD support groups on Facebook. They have helped me so much on my journey with HOCD and I could not be more thankful for the endless love and support.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@maddycole/videos

Image Credits
Madeline Cole