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