Coming Out Stories

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

Kit: I never understood why all my friends were obsessed with boys.  Then I came out, fell in love with women and lost my mind!

In this, the final episode of season four, meet Kit from London.

It took Kit a little while to realise she was a lesbian and she didn't come out until she was 30.

Follow Kit on twitter for news on where to catch her show 30 and Out.

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

Valentino: My family simply didn't know how to raise a gay child

Valentino grew up as a gay man and now identifies as being gender fluid, and whilst they are currently living in Manchester, England they were born and raised in Bermuda.

They have quite the life story and this episode only really begins to scratch the surface.

Please be aware:  This story contains descriptions of sexual activity and is centered around the subject of being groomed. You may find some of the content uncomfortable or triggering.

For more onformation about Valentino's work, visit djvalentinocartier.com

And for more information on Bermuda Pride, visit their website. 

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