Chaps Out

This time on Chaps Out Culture, host Grant Philpott is joined again by Chaps Out guest, Mark. Growing up in Zimbabwe, Mark listened to British pop music on a shortwave radio, with George Michael becoming a particular favourite. His admiration for Michael's song-writing has stayed with him, and since coming out, Mark has discovered a creative streak of his own. He's written over 40 songs, drawing on his childhood, relationships and experiences of coming out. He talks about finding his voice, while using AI to help turn his lyrics into music, the therapeutic side of song-writing and his ambition to one day perform his own material.If you enjoyed this episode of Chaps Out Culture please subscribe or follow wherever you listen, give us a 5-star rating and Share to help the podcast reach anyone who may need to hear it. And if you missed it, don’t forget to check out the full interview on the main episode of Chaps Out. Thanks again for listening and take care. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod & https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ #LGBTQ #QueerCulture #Podcast #ChapsOut #LGBTQPodcast #QueerVoices #RepresentationMatters #GeorgeMichael #GayCulture #LGBTQStories #LGBTQHistory #PodcastRecommendations #ListenNow #QueerMedia #LGBTQCommunity #InclusiveVoices Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Chaps Out, host Grant Philpott talks with Mark. Originally from Zimbabwe, Mark has lived in the UK for over 24 years. After 32 years with his wife and raising two daughters together, his world was turned upside down when she died suddenly in 2023. After her death, Mark reflected on his own life and feelings he'd kept buried since his teenage years. In his late 50s, he came out as gay and began exploring a side of himself he'd never felt able to before. Mark talks about his childhood in Zimbabwe, the heartbreak of losing his wife, telling his family, and a chance encounter on holiday in Sitges that led to an unexpected relationship. It's a moving story about grief, love and finding the courage to start a new chapter, while never forgetting the life that came before.Chaps Out is a UK-based podcast giving voice to perspectives you don’t often hear. We provide relatable, uplifting, and positive conversations that offer encouragement, affirmation, and support for anyone on the journey of coming out, while celebrating and supporting bisexual and gay men. Subscribe to Chaps Out for new episodes and join us having these important conversations. Please rate & review, it really helps the podcast reach the people who may need to hear it. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod & https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ Don’t miss our companion podcast, CHAPS OUT CULTURE, where guests recommend their favourite LGBTQ+ inspired art, music, literature, film, theatre, and TV. #comingoutstory #lgbtq #Gay #comingout #authenticity #personalgrowth #mentalhealth #lgbtqstories #ChapsOut #mentalhealthawareness #mentalwellness Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

This time on Chaps Out Culture, host Grant Philpott is joined again by Chaps Out guest, Paul Dadds who recommends the two-part drama ‘Man in an Orange Shirt’, reflecting on its portrayal of gay relationships across two generations and its personal connection to his own experience of coming out later in life.If you enjoyed this episode of Chaps Out Culture please subscribe or follow wherever you listen, give us a 5-star rating and Share to help the podcast reach anyone who may need to hear it. And if you missed it, don’t forget to check out the full interview on the main episode of Chaps Out. Thanks again for listening and take care. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod & https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ #LGBTQ #QueerCulture #Podcast #ChapsOut #LGBTQPodcast #QueerVoices #RepresentationMatters #ManInAnOrangeShirt #GayCulture #LGBTQStories #LGBTQHistory #PodcastRecommendations #ListenNow #QueerMedia #LGBTQCommunity #InclusiveVoices Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Chaps Out, host Grant Philpott talks to Paul Dadds, who had been married for decades when he finally began to explore what it meant to be gay. He was 56 when he came out, telling his wife just a few days after his first kiss with a man- an experience which he describes as feeling like fireworks going off in his head. Paul found himself ex-communicated from his Church, but coming out didn't mean walking away from his marriage. Paul talks honestly about the effect on his wife, the religious beliefs he'd lived with for much of his life, and how the two of them have found a way forward together. He also shares what he wishes he'd understood earlier, and why there's no single right way to come out.Chaps Out is a UK-based podcast giving voice to perspectives you don’t often hear. We provide relatable, uplifting, and positive conversations that offer encouragement, affirmation, and support for anyone on the journey of coming out, while celebrating and supporting bisexual and gay men. Subscribe to Chaps Out for new episodes and join us having these important conversations. Please rate & review, it really helps the podcast reach the people who may need to hear it. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod & https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ Don’t miss our companion podcast, CHAPS OUT CULTURE, where guests recommend their favourite LGBTQ+ inspired art, music, literature, film, theatre, and TV. #comingoutstory #lgbtq #Gay #comingout #authenticity #personalgrowth #mentalhealth #lgbtqstories #ChapsOut #mentalhealthawareness #mentalwellness Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

This time on Chaps Out Culture, host Grant Philpott is joined again by Chaps Out guest Chris who returns to talk about a couple of his cultural obsessions. A TV show that he loves so much he bought the T-shirt, and a Pop icon he calls his Queen. From LGBTQI representation in sport to the enduring power of a pop legend, Chris explains why these two have made such an impact on him.If you enjoyed this episode of Chaps Out Culture please subscribe or follow wherever you listen, give us a 5-star rating and Share to help the podcast reach anyone who may need to hear it. And if you missed it, don’t forget to check out the full interview on the main episode of Chaps Out. Thanks again for listening and take care.If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod& https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/#LGBTQ #QueerCulture #Podcast #ChapsOut #LGBTQPodcast #QueerVoices #RepresentationMatters #HeatedRivalry #Madonna #GayCulture #LGBTQStories #LGBTQHistory #PodcastRecommendations #ListenNow #QueerMedia #LGBTQCommunity #InclusiveVoices Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Chaps Out, host Grant Philpott talks to Chris Ebbs, who came out at 39 after years of questioning his sexuality while married to a woman. Chris shares how the support of his parents, friends and colleagues helped him find the confidence to come out in his own time, the challenges and acceptance he experienced at work, and how coming out ultimately gave him the strength to be his true self. Chris also opens up about being badly bullied at school, the impact that had on him, and his decision years later to confront one of the people who bullied him and finally find closure. Chris offers honest and encouraging advice for anyone considering coming out later in life. Most of all, his story is one of resilience, acceptance and the freedom that comes from finally being yourself.Chaps Out is a UK-based podcast giving voice to perspectives you don’t often hear. We provide relatable, uplifting, and positive conversations that offer encouragement, affirmation, and support for anyone on the journey of coming out, while celebrating and supporting bisexual and gay men. Subscribe to Chaps Out for new episodes and join us having these important conversations. Please rate & review, it helps the podcast reach the people who may need to hear it. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod& https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ Don’t miss our companion podcast, CHAPS OUT CULTURE, where guests recommend their favourite LGBTQ+ inspired art, music, literature, film, theatre, and TV. #ComingOut #LGBTQ #Bisexual #ComingOutStory #Fatherhood #Authenticity #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealth #LGBTQStories #ChapsOut Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Chaps Out Culture, host Grant Philpott is joined again by Chaps Out guest Alan Hill who shares the LGBTQ+ films and TV shows that have stayed with him over the years. From the impact of TV shows such as Heartstopper to memorable films like The Birdcage and Torch Song Trilogy. Alan also discovers some of the other titles recommended by previous guests. If you’re looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with plenty of heartfelt recommendations.If you enjoyed this episode of Chaps Out Culture please subscribe or follow wherever you listen, give us a 5-star rating and Share to help the podcast reach anyone who may need to hear it. Your feedback helps me make the best podcast I can.And if you missed it, don’t forget to check out the full interview on the main episode of Chaps Out. Thanks again for listening and take care.If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod& https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/#LGBTQ #QueerCulture #Podcast #ChapsOut #LGBTQPodcast #QueerVoices #RepresentationMatters #Pride #TorchSongTrilogy #Heartstopper #Skins #WillandGrace #Birdcage #GayCulture #LGBTQStories #LGBTQHistory #PodcastRecommendations #ListenNow #QueerMedia #LGBTQCommunity #InclusiveVoices Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of #ChapsOut, host Grant Philpott is joined by Alan Hill who shares his journey of realising he was gay at the age of 30 and how the family life he had always wanted was turned upside down. Alan talks about the struggles of his early childhood and his confusion when he discovered himself. He reflects on the reactions of friends and family, and the challenges of coming out to his wife and children. This is a moving story about courage, understanding and the impact that honesty can have on the people we care about most. If you've ever struggled with being yourself or wondered whether authenticity is worth the risk, this conversation contains essential advice and lived experience.Chaps Out is a UK-based podcast giving voice to perspectives you don’t often hear. We provide relatable, uplifting, and positive conversations that offer encouragement, affirmation, and support for anyone on the journey of coming out, while celebrating and supporting bisexual and gay men. Subscribe to Chaps Out for new episodes and join us having these important conversations. Please rate & review, it helps the podcast reach the people who may need to hear it. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod& https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ Don’t miss our companion podcast, CHAPS OUT CULTURE, where guests recommend their favourite LGBTQ+ inspired art, music, literature, film, theatre, and TV. #ComingOut #LaterInLife #LGBTQ #ComingOutStory #Fatherhood #Authenticity #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealth #LGBTQStories #ChapsOut Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Chaps Out Culture, host Grant Philpott is joined again by guest Graham who reflects on LGBTQ+ culture that helped him understand himself and his place in the world. From the first glimpses of LGBTQ+ representation on screen in the early 80s to landmark dramas and films that challenged perceptions and offered hope, he shares the cultural touchstones that resonated with him at different stages of his life. It's a thoughtful conversation about visibility, identity and the enduring importance of seeing authentic LGBTQ+ stories told on screen and beyond.If you enjoyed this episode of Chaps Out Culture please subscribe or follow wherever you listen, give us a 5 star rating and Share to help the podcast reach anyone who may need to hear it. And if you missed it, don’t forget to check out the full interview with Graham on the main episode of Chaps Out. Thanks again for listening and take care.If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod& https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/#LGBTQ #QueerCulture #Podcast #ChapsOut #LGBTQPodcast #QueerVoices #RepresentationMatters #Pride #GayCulture #LGBTQStories #LGBTQHistory #BridesheadRevisited #Maurice #Wilde #RedWhiteAndRoyalBlue Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Chaps Out, host Grant Philpott meets Graham who shares what it was like to come out at the age of 47 after years of hiding who he was. Married with two children, he spent decades wrestling with fear, shame and the worry that telling the truth would cost him the people he loved most. Then, on one day in July 2000, everything changed.Graham talks candidly about the moment he realised he could no longer live a lie, the surprising reactions from family and friends, the relief that followed, and why he believes "the most difficult person I had to come out to was myself." He also reflects on catastrophising, the fear of rejection, finding love later in life, and why he says, "You are the same person as you were yesterday before you came out."If you've ever questioned whether it's too late to live authentically, Graham's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to be yourself.If this conversation resonated with you, remember: you are not alone.If you'd like to hear more from Graham, make sure you listen to the companion episode, Chaps Out Culture.If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, review and share the podcast, because it really helps more people find these conversations. And please subscribe or follow Chaps Out wherever you tune in.And if you grew up in the UK or Ireland and would like to share your coming out later in life story on the podcast, you can email me at [email protected] again for listening to Chaps Out. And as always, take care.If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod& https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/#ComingOut #ComingOutStory #LGBTQ #Gay #LaterInLife #Authenticity #MentalHealth #ChapsOut #Podcast #personalstory Get full access to ChapsOutPod's Substack at chapsoutpod.substack.com/subscribe