Coming Out Stories

In this episode, meet the hugely successful author Simon James Green. Simon writes books for a YA audience that include vital representation for LGBTQ+ teens. This has led to his books being vilified and even banned. Simon talks about growing up gay in the UK in the shadow of Clause 28, a time when being true to oneself seemed nearly impossible. Simon recounts his personal journey of gradual self-revelation—a roadmap marked by subtle hints and professional expressions rather than a single defining moment. This powerful narrative underscores the importance of visible LGBTQ+ role models and challenges the often unspoken assumption of heteronormativity. We explore the myriad ways people navigate their identities, reminding us all that creating safe spaces for genuine self-expression is vital. We also discuss the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, delving into the resurgence of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments and the book bans that Simon faces as an author. Oh, and our Emma is getting married! HUGE congratulations to her and the wonderful Siobhan! Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Imagine growing up wanting a Barbie doll but feeling afraid to ask for it. In this episode, award-winning author Dean Atta, shares his poignant journey of self-discovery and the courageous story of coming out at 15. Dean reveals the trials and triumphs of navigating childhood and adolescence as a queer individual, offering a heartfelt reflection on his first crush and the strength he found within himself amidst rejection and misunderstanding. Dean talks about the challenges of coming out within a mixed-race family during the 80s and 90s. We also discuss the powerful themes in his memoir, "Person Unlimited," and how cultural heritage has been a cornerstone in his journey toward self-acceptance. The conversation takes a broader look at the impact of LGBT representation in education and the ongoing fight for inclusivity. We discuss the significance of having queer-positive books in school curriculums, the importance of supportive educators, and the role of mental health practices in fostering resilience. Dean shares his personal journey to self-love, emphasizing the importance of nurturing supportive relationships and mental well-being. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

What does it mean to grow up LGBTQ+ in a conservative environment? Jordan Gonsalves is a podcaster and journalist from New York, who shares his deeply personal journey of understanding his sexuality in the conservative suburbs of Houston, Texas. Jordan's reflections on childhood bullying, societal pressures, and the early realization of being different paint a vivid picture of the struggles many LGBTQ+ individuals face during their formative years. Growing up within a devout Catholic family, the fear of being gay led to years of self-suppression, but during an internship in San Francisco, Jordan found freedom in a new city and then support from a fellow gay intern. This episode captures the raw emotions of living a double life and the ultimate release in embracing one's true self. From a transformative conversation by the San Francisco Bay to a revealing trip to India, Jordan's journey towards self-acceptance is compelling. Moreover, the episode celebrates the preservation of queer history, featuring touching stories from the "But We Loved" podcast. Hear from queer elders like Stonewall Riots participant Martin Boyce, whose experiences echo the resilience and courage of the LGBTQ+ community across generations. Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring episode that underscores the power of storytelling and the enduring fight for acceptance and equality. Find Jordan on X and Instagram Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

What does it take to come out after 55 years of hiding your true self? Kevin O'Connor, an author and a gay man found the courage to embrace his identity after decades of living a different life. In this episode, you’ll hear Kevin's reflections on his early inklings of being gay in the 1960s, his struggles with authenticity, and the pivotal moment when his youngest son came out at 16, prompting Kevin to finally confront his own buried feelings. This episode delves into the complexities of coming out later in life and the transformative power of embracing your true self. Kevin's unique upbringing in a Victorian house-turned-funeral home provides the backdrop for his memoir "Two Floors Above Grief," Kevin's story isn't just about his personal journey; it's a testament to the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ acceptance and rights. Find out more about Kevin and his work here Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Happy Pride Month! Today's episode comes from brilliant children's author Robert Tregoning Robert shares his journey from a rural village in County Durham, through the turbulence of the '80s and '90s, to becoming an advocate for authenticity and self-expression. From childhood memories of defying gender norms to finding solace in understanding friends, we uncover the impact of societal expectations on his formative years. We also get a sneak peek into his new book, "A Fairy Called Fred," and hear the incredible story of how he met his husband. You can learn more about Robert and his work at his website here Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Ben Green grew up trans in a small Connecticut town. Now an activist and author of "My Child is Trans: Now What?" Ben reflects on just how different his childhood was to his sister's as he tried to navigate the complexities of gender identity without any trans role models. This story explores the profound impact that representation—or the lack thereof—can have on a young person's journey to self-discovery and authenticity. From the supportive embrace for his bisexuality, partly due to shows like "Modern Family," to the more challenging acceptance of his trans identity, Ben casts a light on the ever-present need for mainstream representation for all of the LGBTQ+ community. We round off our time with Ben by discussing his evolution from teaching to public speaking, ignited by a TEDx talk's viral success and his drive to connect with a wider swathe of allies through storytelling. His book serves as a beacon of hope, offering parents of trans children a joy-centered guide in a landscape often clouded by negativity. The conversation also celebrates recent positive strides in LGBTQ legislation, emphasizing the power of local advocacy in effecting change. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Imagine embarking on a voyage of self-discovery that doesn't truly begin until the age of 40. That's the reality for Jenny, a trans woman with a tale that unfolds with laughter, adversity, and, above all, authenticity. As she reminisces about her childhood in Woking and the challenges of expressing her true identity pre-internet, Jenny's experiences from makeshift gender expression at home to her eventual powerful coming out in Manchester shine a light on the journey many in the trans community face. For Jenny, the world of Drag was a haven that embraced her when she needed it most, but she soon realised that was not where she truly belonged and found her way to comedy. Jenny's story is a testament to the power of finding your tribe and the transformative effect of unconditional love. Yet, it's not without its heartbreaks, something she candidly shares, including the violent encounter that marred an early performance and the ongoing struggle for acceptance. Step into the spotlight with Jenny as she stands tall in the world of comedy, using her wit to disarm hecklers and her compelling stories to carve out a space as a trans entertainer. Her upcoming Edinburgh show "Seahorse" promises to be a whirlwind of humor and honesty, reflecting the unique perspectives of her life. Prepare to be moved and amused! Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Imagine the courage it takes to forge a path as a black queer woman in a world where your identity intersects with a rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and belief systems. This is the life of Anna DeShawn, a social entrepreneur from Chicago. who came out in a religious household and went on to create spaces where queer voices can echo and resonate. In an intimate exchange, Anna and Emma navigate the complexities of family acceptance in the black community, revealing both the struggles and the victories and the evolution of her identity through terms like 'queer', 'gay', and 'lesbian'. We learn about Anna's father's journey from disbelief, to becoming a beacon of support, demonstrating how love can transcend even the most rigid of barriers. Anna also educated us on the queer media landscape, where she is carving out her legacy. She unveils the motivations behind E3 Radio and the Qube app, platforms that amplify marginalized voices and create a symphony of black and brown queer narratives. Her ambition mirrors that of icons like Robin Roberts, who have laid the groundwork for visibility and representation. Connect with Anna on Instagram X or TikTok Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

From his first inklings of being different at a summer camp, to the seismic shift that occurred when he saw real gay representation in corporate America, Michael's journey is one of struggle, resilience, and triumph in the face of adversity. Michael's story not only peels back the layers of his own coming out journey, but also addresses the emotional challenges that often linger beneath the surface of the LGBTQ+ community in a city known for its progressiveness, New York City. Michael is also director of brand marketing and communications for Archer, a new dating app committed to fostering genuine relationships within the gay community. Find out more about Archer here Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Remember that gut-punch moment when everything you thought you knew about yourself was turned on its head? That's where Kirsty Loehr found herself at 16, blindsided by the realisation that her sexuality wasn't what she'd always assumed... In this episode, meet Kirsty, author of "A Short History of Queer Women," and hear her journey of self-discovery against the backdrop of a Manchester council estate. This episode peels back the layers of what it means to come to terms with one's queer identity, pre-social media whirlwind and without a blueprint for what lies ahead. With humor and heart, Kirsty recounts the early clues of her attraction to women—yes, including that trademark lumberjack shirt—and the role her incredible mother played in fostering a space where being gay was never an issue. From the rough-and-tumble of adolescence to the profound impact of a supportive family, our conversation is a testament to the courage it takes to embrace who you are. As we explore the vibrant tapestry of queer women's experiences, and perhaps you'll see a bit of your own story reflected in Kirsty’s. Buy Kirsty's book here, or wherever you get your books. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Moe Ari Brown, was born into a working-class, religious family and raised on the South side of Chicago amid the Black church's rich traditions. Moe felt invisible during their youth but at college, they had an epiphany – that gender identity and sexuality are not fixed points but vibrant spectrums. As a relationship therapist and guide, Moe's insights are not only personal milestones but also lighthouses for others on similar journeys, from their bisexual awakening to the discovery of a transgender community that felt like home. Moe also discusses the tribulations that bisexual daters encounter! Find Moe on instagram here and check out their NFAQ page on Hinge here. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Growing up in Peterborough, in the centre of England, Arthur's story tells of the intimate struggles of growing up with a gender identity that defies societal norms. With insights into the complexity of coming out to loved ones when you're trans, the battles fought within gender clinics, and the ongoing need for visibility and support for trans youth, this episode is a celebration of the trans community as they face very difficult times. This episode also celebrates TRUK United FC—the safe haven Arthur helped create for trans men to unite through the love of football. The team stands as a beacon of hope, not just for its members but for the wider community, providing a space where acceptance and understanding are the rules of the game. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Imagine discovering your true self at a time where even the word "transgender" was seldom whispered, then fast-forward to seeing that reality reflected on national TV! Annie Wallace, a pioneering trans soap actress, takes us through her life, from her earliest memories of gender identity struggles, to life in Aberdeen's first gay bar, and the bullying endured by those who dared to be different, through her influential role behind the scenes of beloved TV characters like "Coronation Street's" Hayley Cropper to her own starring role as Sally St. Claire in the Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks. Annie's story is a testament to resilience. She takes us on her emotional rollercoaster of transitioning, the heartwarming tale of her family's reactions, and the ripple effect her brave choices had on breaking barriers in the media industry. This is an episode that celebrates the victories, acknowledges the struggles, and honors the ongoing quest for equality, with Annie's story reminding us all of the transformative power of living authentically. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Gary's story is proof that life does indeed begin at 40! Gary's journey through marriage, heartbreaks, and eventual joy in finding deep love will bring a real smile to your face. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

As the curtain closes on our 2023 series, we bring you the incredible story of Ann! Beginning in Liverpool in the late 50s and early 60s – a time when innocence mingled with confusion in the absence of visible LGBTQ+ role models, Ann's tale then takes us through the swinging 60s of London, the rigid discipline of army life, and into the heart of personal discovery and selfless, passionate activism. Anne's story reveals not just her struggles and triumphs but also the landscape of a society grappling with change and the evolution of our community. This is an episode that not only honors the past but also inspires hope for the future. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Verity Smith is a trans gay man who is passionate about playing wheelchair rugby. After first coming out as a lesbian in the 90s, Verity played women's rugby and was too afraid to come out as trans, as there were no policies in place for trans players in the game and he would have had to give up the sport he loved. He did eventually come out and was faced with a barrage of transphobia and discrimination. After a devastating injury incurred on the pitch, Verity ended up in a wheelchair, but found an incredible community in wheelchair rugby. Verity's story is ultimately one of acceptance, self-discovery, and love. As well as a celebration of the resilience and strength embodied by the LGBTQ+ community. Verity is Chief Diversity Officer for the World Barbarians and Trans Sport Inclusion Manager for the brilliant charity Mermaids Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Born into strict Muslim traditions in Syria and raised in Jordan, Luma is a beacon of hope and courage for all of us in the LGBTQ+ community. Her personal coming out story is complex; spanning cultures, religions, and generations. As a young adult in a country where being gay was considered a crime, Luma came out to her parents and was disowned, it took many years until her own daughter played a pivotal role in reconciling their family. Luma is also testament to the importance of chosen families within the LGBTQ+ community. Luma is also the founder of Fugees Family, a non-profit that aids child survivors of war and Luma shares how her personal coming out experience positively impacts her work. Check out her inspiring TED talk here. Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

From Nigeria to the UK, Reverend Jide's Macaulay, otherwise known as the 'happy, holy homosexual,' reveals his life's story. From braving patriarchy and toxic masculinity in Nigeria to enduring conversion therapy in London, Jide's testimony is nothing short of inspiring. His deep-seated faith in God and in himself, and his relentless pursuit of acceptance, not only for himself but for the entire LGBTQ+ community, shine through his story. Jide outlines his journey into Christian ministry and challenges the often-misinterpreted biblical verses referring to same-sex relationships. We also delve into the harsh realities faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria, highlighting the need for a shift in societal perception. Finally, Jide shares his strong commitment to positive change through his organisation, House of Rainbow. We discuss the damaging effects of conversion therapy and his own father's involvement in creating anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Nigeria. Despite these obstacles, Jide's unwavering resilience and determination to spread positivity and acceptance make this an episode you simply cannot miss! Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

What does it take to live authentically in the face of adversity and societal norms? Juno Roche is an iconic figure in the transgender community and a notable author. With a life composed of resilience, identity, and transformation, Juno has a wealth of experiences - from growing up in a tough family to navigating the world of LGBTQ+ culture during the 70s-80s, and discovering her true self amidst personal challenges. In this conversation you'll hear about Juno's childhood experiences, her battle for identity, and the challenges she faced as a transgender person in a prejudiced society. Her story moves from being a functioning drug addict during her younger adulthood, to her diagnosis with HIV that led to a turning point in her life and identity. Her fight is tangible, her spirit unbroken, and her journey profound. Find out more about Juno and their work here Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production

Get ready for a heart-stirring journey as we welcome you back to a brand-new season of Coming Out Stories. After a (rather long) pause, we're returning with a line-up of extraordinary stories that transcend across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, painting a picture of resilience, hope, and love. Be captivated by the story of a brave gay priest standing against all odds, including his own father, to fight for LGBT rights in Nigeria. Meet Juno Roche, a transgender woman whose life journey is as awe-inspiring as the script of a Hollywood blockbuster. Join us on the emotional rollercoaster as we share the experiences of Verity, a trans man and rugby player, and Luma, a Syrian lesbian. Verity's life took a dramatic turn, leading him from the rugby field to a wheelchair. He now works tirelessly with the trans charity Mermaids, striving to challenge the detrimental atmosphere surrounding trans community in sports and beyond. Luma's story showcases her resilience and determination as she sought asylum in the US due to her sexuality, finding a new community in an alien land. Each story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, filled with threads of love, hope, and positivity. Don't forget to check out our book, Coming Out Stories, which now also comes in a Welsh edition. We're excited to bring you an unforgettable season of inspiring stories! Presented by Emma Goswell Produced by Sam Walker We'd love to hear YOUR story. Please get in touch www.comingoutstoriespodcast.com or find us on twitter @ComeOutStories and on Instagram @ComingOutStoriesPod We have a book! Coming Out Stories is available at all major shops now! JKP.com | Queerlit | Waterstones | Amazon Coming Out Stories is a What Goes On Media Production