Rachel

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