Virgin Radio Pridecast: Recent Episodes

Virgin Radio

Join Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave for a weekly look back through the Virgin Radio Pride archives - with the help of some exciting guests, jaw-dropping stories, and laugh out loud moments, we’ll be attempting to continue the important conversations which Virgin Radio Pride started…

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How can we be HIV free by 2030?

Virgin Radio presenter Graeme Smith hosts this groupchat with Hollyoaks actor David McPherson, his husband David Allwood and the HIV expert and broadcaster Susan Cole.

In this at times deeply emotional group chat we hear about how Peter found out he was HIV positive and how over a decade later his husband David is still negative, all thanks to HIV medication keeping him undetectable, meaning the virus is untransmittable (U=U). We also hear about how prep has changed the game for HIV.

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In homage to all the mums and dads out there who have created a safe space for their queer kids to play and explore at home.

The brilliant Rob Madge drops in to chat with Steve Denyer about his new show "My Son's a queer (but what can you do?)"

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Ahead of football’s European Championships that start this week, Steve Denyer chatted to former England player, LIANNE SANDERSON for her My Pride Playlist…

Here she talks through her life and musings exclusively with Virgin Radio Pride's Steve Denyer and tells us the tracks that are the most important to her.

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Emma Goswell is here with a brand new show to Virgin Radio Pride, bringing you the best in new and established LGBTQ+ literature.

This week, Emma was joined by DANIEL HARDING, the author of Gay Man Talking: All the Conversations We Never Had ...plus the team at Queer Lit in Manchester’s Northern Quarter are here with their picks of the best reads that week.

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TRIGGER WARNING: SOME PEOPLE MAY FIND SOME PARTS OF THIS PROGRAMME UPSETTING

Social media is a place that can be gender and sexuality affirming for many, in fact most LGBTQ+ young people now come out online first. But as well as being a place where many young people feel empowered, it can also expose them to abusive, distressing or harmful content.

Esther Ghey is the mother of trans teenager Brianna Ghey who was murdered in a park by two young people who had been exposed to extreme content online and were using social media to plan their murder.

In this world exclusive for Virgin Radio Pride, the inspirational Esther Ghey opens up to her friend, the trans activist and reality TV star Jaxon Feeley about keeping young people safe online, in particular young LGBTQ+ people.

We hear from OFCOM, Snapchat, TikTok, online safety charities and the headteacher of a school in South Wales about how to protect more young people from being exposed to extreme material at such a young age and how to prevent more cases like the tragic murder of Brianna Ghey.

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Her stand up comedy is still the stuff of legend. Suzy Izzard has been out since 1985.

She is one of the UK's funniest stand-up comics of her generation and more recently an actor and activist.

Here she talks through her life and musings exclusively with Virgin Radio Pride's Steve Denyer and tells us the tracks that are the most important to her.

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Virgin Radio Pride is back for 2024 and we have some huge names lined up for you between now and September.

Check out some of the launch show with Steve Denyer live from the top of the News Tower at London Bridge on Saturday June 1st

Live interviews with LGBTQ+ legends in the studio:

Adele Roberts and her partner Kate Holderness
Heartstopper and Celebrity Big Brother star Bradley Riches
Trans reality TV icon Jaxon Feley talks about his special programme "reclaiming influence" with his friend Esther Ghey.

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Emma is joined by author Luma Mufleh and travel expert Rob Staines.

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Emma is joined by Dr Ronx and the hosts of the Bisexual Brunch podcast, Lewis Oakley and Ashley Byrne

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Join DAMIAN KERLIN and his guests SHIVANI DAVE, JUDE GUAITAMACCHI & INDIA WILLOUGHBY for a celebration of the history and joy of what it is to be trans and non-binary today!.

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Join Vicki Blight, Lotte Jeffs & Lewis Oakley for a discussion on all things LGBTQ+ parenthood

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to award-winning journalist and author Tufayel Ahmed!

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to author and everyone's favourite TV doctor, Dr Ranj!

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ADHD is a trending disability, and anyone can easily get a diagnosis. At least, that’s what the media would have you believe lately – but this statement couldn’t be further from the truth.

This 60-minute documentary follows the eye-opening journey of TV presenter, AIDY SMITH, as he embarks on the journey of his own diagnosis. Along the way, he will speak to a variety of notable people who have looked their own demons face on to offer a glimpse into the reality of living with this condition. What society believes hyperactive children throwing chairs across a classroom is so much more.

Get a first-hand account ofwhat it’s really like to live with this condition, while witnessing what a pathway to diagnosis is really like.

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Join AIDY SMITH for the first of two documentaries for Virgin Radio Pride. This week Aidy looks at those members of our community living with tourettes and reflects on his own experiences the condition.

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Writer and journalist PAUL BURSTON steps up to the My Pride Playlist microphone on Monday to pick his top Pride tracks.

Paul chats through his varied career including writing for Attitude, The Guardian, The Sunday Times and Time Out, his role as curator and host of the award-winning LGBTQ+ literary salon Polari and founder of The Polari Prize book awards for LGBTQ+ writers and featuring in the British Council’s Global List of ‘33 visionary people promoting freedom, equality and LGBT rights around the world’ in 2016.

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Is there more pressure to look good in the gay community? And could it be contributing to a rise in gay men suffering from body dysmorphia? In this programme for Virgin Radio Pride ALEX MILSOM investigates the pressure on Queer men to look perfect, and the extreme lengths they go to get there.

Alex meets reality TV star CHARLIE KING to hear how his traumatic experience in the public eye triggered his body dysmorphia, driving him to get plastic surgery. We hear from the gay personal trainer MATT BOYLES trying to help his clients have a healthy relationship with their body, chat to clubbers in Soho about body dissatisfaction and the brutal realities of dating, and find out when to seek help and how with the BDD FOUNDATION.

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Author and broadcaster Matt Cain takes a look at the legacy of Section 28, the ruling that saw any mention of LGTBQ+ banned from the classroom.

To mark twenty years since the act was repealed Matt gathers 3 queer young people to hear tales from writer Juno Dawson, musician Dan Gillespie Sells, headteacher John Naples-Campell and former teacher Catherline Lee MBE to reflect on how being queer in the classroom has changed.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families, and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Jessica Fostekew.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families, and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Patrick Mcpherson.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Director D. Smith.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families, and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Kenny Ethan Jones & Charlie Craggs.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Emmett de Monterey.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families, and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Francis Haugen & Stuart Armfield.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families, and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Paul David Gould.

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The Only Gay in the Village is a touching documentary that tells the stories of LGBTQ+ individuals who have lived as the sole gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans or queer person in their towns or villages.

The hour-long heartwarming documentary is narrated by Ian H Watkins from the pop group Steps. Ian who grew up in the beautiful serene town Cwm-parc in Wales, describes his experience of growing up as “tough” due to the lack of representation around him and would often feel like the “only gay in the village”, which the documentary goes onto explore with a variety of contributors from the LGBTQ+ community.

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Singer, model, presenter and all round 80s icon Sam Fox joins Steve to pick her Pride Playlist.

Over the course of the hour expect to hear Sam’s remarkable journey from Page 3 model to proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Sam talks about the struggle of coming to terms with her sexuality, her career in music and shares many a celebrity encounter in the 1980s.

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Dan Gillespie Sells is perhaps best known as the lead vocalist and frontman for the rock group The Feeling. Outside of the band Dan has been very busy, composing the score for the hit west end musicial Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and, more recently, Brokeback Mountain.

Dan chats to Steve about his coming out journey, the beginnings of The Feeling, working on West End musicals and some exciting projects still in the works.

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Lotte Jeffs and Stu Oakley step up to the My Pride Playlist microphone for our first ever double headed MPP.

Lotte and Stu are the hosts of ‘From Gay to Ze’ podcast and authors of ‘The Queer Parent’.

Lotte is an award-winning journalist and a contributing editor for Grazia Magazine, Stu is a publicist that has worked on some of the biggest film franchises in history including Star Wars, Jurassic World, Avengers, Harry Potter and most recently, Barbie.

Over the course of the hour Lotte and Stu share their frank and honest experiences as LGBTQ+ parents, this is a fantastic listen and one definitely not to be missed!

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Bisi Alimi is the founder and the Executive Director of the Bisi Alimi Foundation, an organisation working to accelerate social acceptance of LGBTQ+ people in Nigeria.

The charity’s aim is work towards a Nigeria where everyone is equal irrespective of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity.

This is a fascinating chat where Bisi talks through his troubled childhood growing up in Nigeria, the state of LGBTQ+ rights in Africa and the incredibly important work of his charity.

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Benjy and Rod are back on Virgin Radio Pride delving into some top LGBTQ+ telly moments!

In this episode they are joined by the actor Charlie Condou.

Charlie chats through his career, from Gimme Gimme Gimme to Coronation Street, and picks his favourite telly moments.

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Emma Goswell is back on Virgin Radio Pride with her Weekend Outing every Sunday from 6pm - 9pm!

In this episode Emma chats to Keith from the LGBTQ+ charity Mermaids and Kate O'Donnell.

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Emma Goswell is back on Virgin Radio Pride with her Weekend Outing every Sunday from 6pm - 9pm!

In this episode Emma chats to Eric Marcus from the podcast Making Gay History.

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Emma Goswell is back on Virgin Radio Pride with her Weekend Outing every Sunday from 6pm - 9pm!

In this episode Emma chats to the Queer I Am podcast and the world's first openly trans referee Lucy Clark.

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Emma Goswell is back on Virgin Radio Pride with her Weekend Outing every Sunday from 6pm - 9pm!

In this episode Emma chats to Proud 2 B Parents, an inclusive organisation for all routes to parenthood, and 3 Queers and a Song Contest, a fabulous podcast for anyone interested in Eurovision!

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to trans icon, campaigner and bestselling author, Juno Roche.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to Elaine Chambers, an Army nurse who was thrown out of the military for being a lesbian.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to authors and LGBTQ+ parents Lotte Jeffs and Stu Oakley about their book From Gay To Ze.

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For a while, MPOX (previously named monkeypox) looked set to be the next covid. Fortunately, the outbreak in the UK was largely controlled - but one year on, it's still blighting the lives of gay, bisexual and queer men who have sex with men. So where are we at? How has our understanding of the science changed? And what do people who've had the virus have to say about their painful experiences?

We've got a special look at all of this on Wednesday at 7 pm as comedian and What The Pox? podcast host MARTIN JOSEPH explores in MPOX: One Year On - a QueerAF production for Virgin Radio Pride.

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Writer, radio presenter, Church of England clergyman and multi-instrumentalist Richard Coles joins Steve to pick his Pride Playlist.

Richard shares stories from his time in The Communards with Jimmy Somerville, coming to terms with his sexuality, his work as a Vicar and life as an author.

Richard’s Pride Playlist includes tracks from Bronski Beat, Prince, Soul II Soul, Noel Coward & The Smiths.

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Broadcasting legend and the latest member of the Virgin Radio family NICK GRIMSHAW joins Steve for My Pride Playlist.

Nick shares the song that always makes him want to dance, his coming out journey, his experiences at Pride and stories from his illustrious career in broadcasting.

Nick’s Pride Playlist includes tracks from Ru Paul, Grace Jones, George Michael, Sylvester, Bronski Beat and Diana Ross!

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Join comedian and author ROSIE WILBY, co-founder of UK Black Pride LADY PHYLL and founder of Lesbian Visibility Week LINDA RILEY for a discussion on queer community.

Are we still the ‘logical family’ that Armistead Maupin once wrote about? Or now that we are more conscious of the complex intersectional identities represented within the LGBTQ+ community, is it more difficult to represent everyone all of the time? As LGBTQ+ venues close down, is it a sign of progress or a concern that our safe spaces, not to mention our history, are disappearing?

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1 Sunday Times best-selling novelist, screenwriter, journalist, columnist for Attitude Magazine, JUNO DAWSON joins Steve for My Pride Playlist.

Juno chats partying in Gran Canaria, SKIN as an inspiration, her love for Placebo and her take on life for the trans community in this country.

Juno’s Pride Playlist includes tracks from Kylie, Spice Girls, Madonna, Little Mix, Skunk Anansie and Placebo!

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A brand new season of My Pride Playlist begins with S’Express’ very own Mark Moore who joins Steve Denyer to pick his top Pride tracks!!

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We chat to Marlena, a sexual health advisor from the incredible LGBTQ+ Sexual Heath clinic 56 Dean Street.

Marlena answers those difficult to ask questions and busts some myths around LGBTQ+ sexual health. From PREP to MPOX, chem Sex to testing, a whole host of issues affecting LGBTQ+ Sexual Health are covered in this fascinating chat with one of the country’s leading Sexual Health Clinics.

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Join comedian and author Rosie Wilby joined by her guests Dr Qazi Rahman (one of the leading scientists in the area of sexual orientation) and Dr Alfredo Carpineti (a queer Italian astrophysicist that works as a senior science journalist for IFLScience) for a discussion on all things queer science.

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Join comedian and author ROSIE WILBY as she hosts ‘Outed in 2023’ on Virgin Radio Pride.

Rosie will be joined by LGBTQ+ activist PETER TATCHELL and author PAUL BURSTON to discuss outing.

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Welcome to Matt & Harry!

A brand new show from bestselling author Matt Cain and life coach Harry Glasstone.

Together, they're talking about all things relationships! From partners, friends, families and everything in-between, Matt and Harry want to explore what makes relationships in the queer community so special.

So, they're putting their heads together to solve your dilemmas, put their own relationship under the microscope in a game of Mr & Mr, and chat to a very special guest each week.

This week, Matt chats to bestselling author Laura Kay about her new novel Wild things, looking at unrequited love between two best friends.

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In this hour long documentary, Debbie Ryan delves into the life of George Michael and his influence on LGBTQ+ culture. Telling his life story from his start in East Finchley born into a Greek-Cypriot family, to the rise of Wham! we’ll hear how he broke down music barriers and despite being forced to reveal his sexuality, he became a proud gay superstar.

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Steve Denyer is joined by HIV activist and one of the first people diagnosed with HIV in the UK, Jonathan Blake.

Jonathan shares the heart-breaking story of when he was diagnosed with HIV at a time when the virus was labelled a death sentence and what it was like to live with the virus throughout the height of the pandemic.

He explains how he became the inspiration for a character in the hit movie Pride.

He also discusses how far we’ve come in the treatment of HIV and what’s still left to achieve.

Steve Denyer is joined by trailblazing trans journalist, author and presenter Paris Lees as she picks herPride Playlist.

Paris shares stories from her youth and the struggles she faced growing up trans, her take on the issues facing the trans community today and the climate emergency.

Her Pride Playlist picks range from 90s rave to Kelly Rowland to Sugababes!

Join Christian Hewgill on Virgin Radio Pride for 'A World Cup For Us? Qatar 2022', an in-depth LGBTQ+ panel preview of this year’s men’s football World Cup and what it means for the community of LGBTQ+ football fans.

Christian will be joined on the hour-long special byChris Paouros from the LGBT+ Football Fan Group of Tottenham Hotspur ‘Proud Lillywhites’, football writer and journalist at The Athletic- Adam Crafton and chair of Sports Media LGBT+- Jon Holmes.

Virgin Radio presenter Vicki Blight sits down for Quite A Queer Conversation with actress Rachel Shelley, best know for playing Helena Peabody in the TV series ‘The L Word’.

If you didn’t know; ‘The L Word’ follows the lives of a group of lesbian and bisexual women who live in West Hollywood, California. It ran from 2004 to 2008.

They chat about rolemodels, dating disasters, having children in a homosexual relationship and the future of the LGBTQ+ scene.

News from Westminster is never far from the headlines, with political conversation part of the national discourse every day. Government policy, especially for those passionate about LGBT rights, is an important talking point for many people across the UK.

Now, Calum Macdonald tells the story of LGBT men and women in the front and back benches. From the story of Maureen Colquhoun the first out lesbian in Parliament to Chris Smith, the first openly gay MP, the programme will explore how Pride In Politics has never been more important.

This Summer was 50 years since the first London Pride event, these events are a chance to hit the streets, celebrate freedom and be a visible part of the LGBTQ+ community. But what’s it like when you want to be a part of Pride, but you can’t go outside, you’re far from free and often forgotten about by society?

In a special programme on Virgin Radio Pride, Emma Goswell hears about the experiences of people who have lived and worked in prisons to explore how the principles of the first event are honoured in prisons in England and Wales in 2022. They’ll share what it’s like to hold and take part in Pride events, and how you can still celebrate being part of the LGBTQ+ community whilst doing time.

Poet’s Dean Atta and Nikita Gill sit down for a Quite A Queer Conversation. They chat about secret first kisses in school cupboards, the importance of queer literature, Whitney Houston and coming out stories.

Dean is a British poet of Greek Cypriot and Caribbean descent. He has been listed by The Independent newspaper as one of the 100 most influential LGBT people in the United Kingdom.

Nikita is a British-Indian poet, playwright, writer and illustrator based in the south England. She has written and curated seven volumes of poetry. Her new book ‘These Are the Words’ was released on the 18th August.

The sun is shining, brightly coloured bunting flutters from London’s streets, traffic has been stopped - it’s the 50th Anniversary of Pride. Thousands of the LGTBQ+ community and their allies will march through the streets in celebration. Joining the party is a group representing the Armed Forces.

But there is a dark legacy of criminalising and ostracizing the LGBTQ people who served the British Armed Forces. Until the year 2000 being LGBTQ+ in the armed forces was an offence which could lead to dishonourable discharge, harassment or even a jail sentence.

Join Rosie Wilby alongside her guests Jane Chance Czyzselska - psychotherapist and former editor of Diva magazine, Professor Jacqui Gabb - Professor of Sociology and Intimacy, and Psychotherapist - Pretish Raja-Helm for an in depth discussion into all things queer love and dating.

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This week Benjy and Rod are joined by singer songwriter and former X Factor star, Lucy Spraggan as she picks her top LGBTQ+ telly moments.

Lucy discusses life on the X Factor and where her musical career has taken her since the show. She also discusses lesbian representation in TV and the struggles facing the trans community today.

Lucy talks about the impact of Coronation Street’s groundbreaking trans storyline with Hayley Cropper and explains why the animated series Arthur made it onto her list of LGBTQ+ telly picks!

The Eurovision Song Contest has always held a special place in the hearts of many LGBTQ+ fans. From the music, to the performers, to the spectacle, it's always been a place where people can be themselves.

For Virgin Radio Pride, Steve Holden takes a look at why it's felt like such a safe space for the queer community. He's also the host of the Official Eurovision Song Contest podcast and has been speaking to LBGTQ+ contestants, employees and fans about why it's so well loved. He also explores some of the artists who've been out and proud on the world's biggest live music stage.

Join Steve Denyer as he hosts this Madonna special celebrating her new album - Madonna Finally Enough Love to commemorate Madonna’s 50 number ones on the American Billboard Dance Chart.

Over the course of the documentary the likes of Chris Evans, Darren Hayes, and Graham Norton all share their top Madonna stories, from meeting her backstage at the Brits, starring in her music videos to even sharing a stage with her at London’s O2!

And of course this is all soundtracked by Madonna’s excellent musical catalogue. Expect to hear hits such as Vogue, Like A Prayer and Holiday as we chart the career of this once in a generation artist.

Radio and TV presenter Stephanie Hirst takes a candid look into the unspoken issues surrounding transgender people.

Featuring: Paris Munro, Cleo Madeleine and several figures from the trans and non-binary community, we bust some of the myths and misconceptions about trans people and ask the difficult questions that need to be heard. Plus, we join Lee Lester from the Mermaids, as he holds a discussion with members of the public.

Julia Hardy is a non-binary gaming presenter (recently came out as non-binary). They are best known for presenting ‘The Gaming Show’ and ‘The Top Gear Gaming Show’. They are everywhere in the world of gaming.

Aoife Wilson (she/her) is the head of video at EuroGamer. She is best known for hosting BAFTA Gaming and streaming on Twitch.

They chat about soundtracks to their lives, the importance of gaming within the community, and if there is still a large prejudice towards non-binary people.

Steve Denyer is joined by the fabulous LAYTON WILLIAMS as he picks his Pride Playlist.

Layton talks through his time starring in lead roles in the West End smash hits Billy Elliot and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie as well as venturing into TV with roles in Bad Education and ITV’s brand new drag competition Queens For The Night.

Layton’s picks range from TATU to Beyonce to Spice Girls.

Matt Cain Meets: Jake Graf

In this week Matt Cain chats to actor and filmmaker Jake Graf about his life; from growing up knowing he was trans to starting a family with his trans wife Hannah.

Comedian & Author Rosie Wilby is joined by fellow comedian Jen Ives and author Dean Atta as they discuss all things Queer Arts.

They discuss whether we still need dedicated queer arts spaces, festivals and platforms to showcase the work of LGBTQ+ filmmakers, musicians, authors, comedians and artists and whether specialist curation provides a safe space for authentic expression or whether it’s a form of segregation which limits audiences and the potential for mainstream crossover.

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This week Matt Cain meets Welsh actress and star of Channel 4’s hit show It’s A Sin, JILL NALDER.

Jill discusses what it was like starring in It’s A Sin and also how her own life has been affected by HIV/Aids and why these experiences have inspired her to become a prominent voice in HIV activism today.

Long term friends and LGBTQ+ icons Duncan James and Gok Wan sit down for Quite A Queer Conversation. They chat first kisses, things they like about eachother, coming out stories and which song would soundtrack their life.

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Australian singer / songwriter and former frontman of pop duo Savage Garden, Darren Hayes joins Steve Denyer to pick his Pride Playlist.

Hear stories from his Savage Garden days, meeting Madonna and how he came to terms with his own sexuality as well as some stellar music!

This week Matt Cain meets Welsh journalist and author Paul Burston.

Paul shares stories from his incredible career in activism alongside being a founding editor of Attitude magazine, he has written for many publications including the Guardian, Time Out, The Times and The Sunday Times as well as being the founder of the Polari Prize for new and established LGBTQ+ writing.

This week, Virgin Radio Pride Presenter and writer Matt Cain sits down for Quite A Queer Conversation with his fiance Harry Glasstone.

They chat about their first impressions of eachother, open vs closed relationships, the most romantic things they have ever done and so much more.

Steve Denyer is joined by DAVID CARLYLE as he picks his Pride Playlist tracks.

David shares all the behind the scenes stories from It’s A Sin, talks about his recent marriage and shares his coming out story as well as his obsession with Celine Dion!

Benjy and Rod are joined by the creator of hit TV show ‘This Is Going To Hurt’, ADAM KAY as he picks his top LGBTQ+ telly moments.

Adam discusses his coming out journey, life on the frontline of the NHS, the process of creating ‘This Is Going To Hurt’ and, of course, picks some stellar TV moments!

This week Matt Cain meets Britian’s first out Muslim Drag Queen, ASIFA LAHORE.

Discover more about Asifa’s fascinating LGBTQ+ journey and how they push the boundaries of what it means to be LGBT, South Asian and Muslim.

Singer - songwriter, frequent Drag Race guest judge and all round icon Todrick Hall chats to his friend and fellow singer Anthony Gargiula for this weeks Quite A Queer Conversation.

They talk advice, coming out, gay icons and so much more!

Steve Denyer is joined by Glyn Fussell, creator of the legendary LGBTQ+ club night Sink The Pink and the fabulous Mighty Hoopla festival.

Hear all the stories from the early days of Sink The Pink, why Glynn made the move from Bristol to Australia to find his queer family, touring with Mel C and his Mighty Hoopla headliner wish list!

Shivani chats to Dr Sam from the incredible 56 Dean Street, a sexual health clinic in central London.

Dr Sam chats about busts the myths around Monkeypox, shares his top sexual health tips and some important information on HIV.

Queer Britain is a new museum in Kings Cross celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, and this week Matt Cain Meets Joseph Galliano to talk about why teaching our history needs to be inclusive and his experience setting up the museum and its exhibitions.

Actor, writer and star receptionist from ‘Celebs Go Dating’, Tom Read Wilson sits down for Quite a Queer Conversation with legendary actor Harriet Thorpe, best known from her time as Fleur in ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ and from the West End in Wicked, Mamma Mia, Cabaretand so many more.

They chat about proudest moments, worst celebrity encounters, LGBTQ+ role models, first kisses and so much more.

Steve Denyer talks to drag royalty the Dame Edna Experience as they pick their top Pride Playlist tracks!

The D E E chats through their experiences on the UK drag circuit, the importance of London’s legendary LGBTQ+ venue The Royal Vauxhall Tavern and how they toured with Bronski Beat singing the anthemic ‘Smalltown Boy’ to over 40,000 people in San Diego.

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This week on Matt Cain Meets, trans actress Rebecca Root joins Matt in the studio for a chat about self-acceptance and the progression for trans people in the TV and film industry.

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Christian Hewgill has the Rise of LGBT+ Football Fan groups. Find out why they're popping up all over the country, just how important they are - and why for some, they've even been life saving.

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Benjy and Rod are joined by former X Factor winner Joe McElderry as he picks his top LGBTQ+ telly moments. Joe discusses what it was really like to be a contestant on one of the world’s most watched reality TV series, his love for George Michael and the importance of LGBTQ+ representation on primetime soap operas.

His picks range from Coronation Street, Big Brother to Pop Idol!

Actors Fra Fee (Marvel's ‘Hawkeye’) and Omar Baroud (Disney's ‘Wedding Season’) take a break from rehearsing ‘Cabaret’ at the KitKat Theatre to sit down for this week’s Quite A Queer Conversation.

They chat about life changing moments, representation on TV and if they are each other's types…

Steve Denyer talks to former politician and social activist Carl Austin Behan OBE as he picks the tracks that mean the most to his LGBTQ+ journey.

Carl was discharged from the RAF in 1997 at a time when it was illegal to be openly gay in the military. He has since gone on to forge a career in politics and became Manchester’s first openly gay Lord Mayor in 2016. He now is the LGBT advisor to Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester. Hear Carl's incredible story tonight from 6pm!

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Editor of the book This Queer Is Arab, Elias Jahshan, joins Matt to chat about growing up gay in Australia and as part of the Arab community, as well as the experiences of contributors from his book. As a gay and deaf man he explores how we can shine a light on the under-represented areas of the queer community.

It’s a really great chat between Matt and Elias confronting typical stereotypes towards the Arab community, especially the queer Arab community.

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Author Jodie Lancet-Grant (‘The Pirate Mums') and her friend Max (a consultant nurse) sit down for Quite a Queer Conversation.

As parents of twins in homosexual marriages, they speak about if there is still a stigma around people in the community having children, celebrities who assisted their gay awakening and so much more.

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Ruth Davidson joins Steve Denyer to pick and play their Pride Playlist songs!

Steve Denyer sits down with broadcaster and politician Ruth Davidson as she takes us through the songs that have sound tracked her life. Ruth discusses her career in politics and the transition she’s made into broadcasting, her experience becoming a mother for the first time and coming to terms with her own sexuality. Ruth’s picks range from Pulp to Guns N Roses to P!NK to Coolio…it’s definitely not one to be missed!

Mr G-A-Y himself Jeremy Joseph joins Steve Denyer to pick and play their Pride Playlist songs!

Jeremy talks us through the very beginnings of the G-A-Y brand to the many iconic guest appearances he’s had in the club over the years from Kylie, to Madonna, to Adele.

Dr David Bull joins Steve Denyer to pick and play their Pride Playlist songs!

Broadcaster, doctor and politician Dr David Bull picks the tracks that have sound tracked his life. He discusses being on the frontline of the Aids epidemic, the influence of artists like Sylvester and stories from his varied life from presenting Newsround to becoming a politician.

Skin from Skunk Anansie joins Steve Denyer to pick and play her Pride Playlist songs that defined moments throughout her life. Expect tracks from Elton John, King Princess, Culture Club and so many more!

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Drag superstar Courtney Act joins Stephen Sullivan to talk all things pride!

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Matt Cain meets author and psychotherapist Owen O’Kane, who has just released his new book How To Be Your Own Therapist.

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Matt Cain chats to all-star ally Arlene Phillips about her work in the dance industry and the LGBTQ+ family she created.

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On the 4th July 1982, a man called Terry Higgins died. Terry’s death - an inexplicable, terrifying death - led to something extraordinary. His friends and loved ones created a charity - the Terrence Higgins Trust - that would care for the sick, counsel them, fundraise, and relentlessly lobby the government.

For Virgin Radio Pride, actor, writer and HIV activist, Nathaniel J Hall tells the story of Terry Higgins, his life, his death and his legacy. He hears from people who have their own HIV diagnosis stories to tell, and hears how far we’ve come in treating HIV in the 4 decades since Terry’s death.

Collabro's Jamie Lambert and West End and TV actor Jack Holden sit down for Quite A Queer Conversation.

They chat first kisses, Pride pet peeves, if they are each other's types and so much more...

Dancing On Ice star Matt Evers joins Benjy and Rod to talk about the TV shows that helped shape their lives.

Matt discusses his coming out journey and search for acceptance in rural America, his love for ice skating and of course all the behind the scenes gossip from Dancing On Ice. His telly picks range from Ellen to Will & Grace.

Join Danny Brett as he explores how the idea of love is developing for the LGBTQ+ community, how certain apps are shaping the experience of meeting people but also exploring the avenues people take which aren’t on apps.

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TV fanatic Benjy Potter and The Sun's TV Editor Rod McPhee are joined by the legendary DJ Fat Tony as he dives into his top LGBTQ+ telly picks.

Tony discusses his long time friendship with Boy George, his struggles with addiction and of course the many stories he has from partying with some of the world’s biggest names including DJing at Brooklyn Beckham’s wedding! His top telly picks range from John Hurt’s ‘The Naked Civil Servant’ to Schitt’s Creek.

Scottish singer-writer Horse McDonald joins Matt Cain for a chat about their lives!

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The man who put together one of the world's biggest boy bands, Take That, chats to Steve Denyer and picks his Pride Playlist.

Nigel Martin Smith discusses the early days of Take That, what it was like running Manchester's gay super club Essential and the state of the music industry today. His Pride Playlist picks range from, of course, Take That to Ed Sheeran to The Jackson 5!

North East singer songwriter L Devine and her dad, Nigel, sit down for Quite a Queer Conversation.

They chat first kisses, romance, role models and…masturbation!

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25 years since they burst onto the music scene with their fantastic single ‘5,6,7,8’, Ian ‘H’ Watkins and Faye Tozer from Steps sit down to have Quite a Queer Conversation on Virgin Radio Pride.

They chat about how their music impacted the LGBTQ+ scene, what they think the LGBTQ+ scene will be like in 5 years time and which song would soundtrack their lives.

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Tom Allen kicks off 2022's queer conversations and chats to fellow comedian and podcaster Suzi Ruffell.

They discuss their friendship, career highlights, dating horror stories and their coming out stories. It's definitely not to be missed!

TV fanatic Benjy Potter and The Sun's TV Editor Rod McPhee are joined by Jamaican competitive swimmer Michael Gunning as he dives into his top LGBTQ+ telly picks.

Michael discusses coming out on reality TV on E!'s 'The Bi Life', LGBTQ+ representation in sports including the importance of his friendship with Tom Daley and the impact of this year's LGBTQ+ TV smash hit, Heartstopper.

With the return of Virgin Radio Pride right around the corner, this week is the final Virgin Radio Pridecast! But fear not - Alex and Shivani will be hearing from some of Virgin Radio Pride’s most special guests on perhaps one of the most important questions of all: what does Pride actually mean?!

You’ll hear from Kate Holderness and Adele Roberts, Virgin Radio’s very own Graham Norton, and more - plus some of our brand-new and returning presenters will be here with all the info about the return of our incredible pop-up radio station for the LGBTQ+ community next week!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

With the return of Virgin Radio Pride, and Pride season itself fast approaching, this week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave are looking at Pride events; how they started, their purpose, and how they are evolving. They’ll hear from activist Tony Openshaw on attending one of the first Pride marches, and singers Conleth Kane and Dan Gillespie Sells on Pride being both a protest and a celebration.

They’ll also hear from student and journalist Mishti Ali on ‘pinkwashing’ at Pride, as well as Carl Austin Behan OBE, who is currently the LGBT advisor to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, on the importance of smaller, local Pride events. All that, plus Daryl Jackson is here as always with your Virgin Radio Pride Weekly Update!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave are exploring the many different identities which are found inside the LGBTQ+ community. They’ll hear from comedian Stephen K. Amos on how these different identities give us different perspectives and experiences, and from Skin from Skunk Anansie on the changes that are needed if we want to make the community more equal.

They’ll also be talking about the way that cultural appropriation occurs both inside and outside of the community, hearing from Tik Tok inclusivity educator Benjy Kusi and Britains’s first out muslim drag queen Asifa Lahore, as well as journalist and student Mishti Ali.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave are taking a look at the benefits that LGBTQ+ people can take from being part of a community, hearing from our very own Matt Cain and author Lo Shearing on the shared set of experiences the community has, as well as historian Dan Vo on having a sense of outsider perspective.

They’ll also be discussing the more negative aspects of community, including some of the in-fighting which takes place, hearing from Tik Tok educator Benjy Kusi and author Laura Kay. Plus, Daryl Jackson will be back as usual with his Virgin Radio Pride Weekly Update!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex and Shivani are talking about something which nearly all of us use every single day - social media. But - is living life online really that positive, or are there downsides? And what effect does social media have on the LGBTQ+ community in particular?

You’ll hear from broadcaster Riyadh Khalaf on his experiences of getting trolled online, poet Sophia Blackwell on the pressure to share opinions on social media, YouTuber Calum McSwiggan on posting images of his body on Instagram, and more. Plus, Daryl Jackson is here as usual with your Virgin Radio Pride Weekly Update!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, with so much discussion about the new ban on conversion therapy for sexuality but not gender, Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave are going to be talking all about conversion therapy and the harm that it causes.

You’ll hear from evangelical gay Christian Jayne Ozanne, who resigned as a Government Equality Advisor over what she termed a ‘hostile environment’ for LGBT people, as well as Matt Mahmood Ogston, whose fiancé Naz tragically took his own life after coming out to his family and being offered conversion practices for his sexuality. You’ll also hear from singer Conleth Kane on the terrifying impact of hearing conversion therapy discussed on the radio whilst he was growing up.

Plus, Alex and Shivani will be chatting to presenter and ex-solicitor Alex Woolhouse all about the proposals for the new ban on conversion therapy, and how these proposals exclude those in the trans community.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Mermaids is a charity providing support for gender-diverse young people and their families. You can find more information at mermaidsuk.org.uk or you can call 08088010400.

Gendered Intelligence is a charity that works to increase understanding of gender diversity and improve the lives of trans people. Their website is found at genderedintelligence.co.uk or you can call their support line on 0330 3559 678.

Stonewall is an LGBTQ+ charity with plenty of information about conversion therapy and the proposed conversion therapy ban. You can find more information at stonewall.org.uk.

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Alex Milsom is back for this week’s episode of the Virgin Radio Pridecast, joined as always by Shivani Dave, and this week we’re getting a little bit linguistic, talking about the different ways we can describe our diverse community, and of course ourselves.

You’ll hear from sociolinguist Sophie Holmes-Elliott on whether words which have previously been used against us can be reclaimed, actor Jake Graf and author Juno Dawson on why they like using the term ‘Queer’ to describe their identities, plus author and activist Jack Monroe will be giving their advice to someone who is struggling to define themselves… All that, and Daryl Jackson will be here as always with his Virgin Radio Pride Weekly Update!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, we’re continuing our celebration of Trans Day of VIsibility, which took place at the end of March. Last week we examined the rise in anti-trans discourse and debate in the UK, and this week we are going to be looking at the experiences of trans people in their day to day lives and careers. Alex is away for this one, so Shivani will be joined by super-sub producer Felix for one week only!

Shivani and Felix will be hearing again from actor Jake Graf on the impact which anti-trans discourse and debate has on the lives of the trans community, as well as their families and loved ones, author Juno Dawson on her experiences of dating as a trans woman, and even footballer Natalie Washington on the process which she had to go through in order to be able to play.

Plus, they’ll also be chatting to presenter Stephanie Hirst about her own coming out journey, her career, and her ‘Believe Achieve’ mindset!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Trans Day of Visibility 2022 was yesterday (Thursday 31st March), and to celebrate, the next two episodes of the Virgin Radio Pridecast are dedicated to trans rights and the experience of trans people here in the UK.

This week, Alex and Shivani will be looking at the recent rise in anti-trans discourse, and examining some of the possible reasons why this has taken place. They’ll be hearing from actress Annie Wallace on whether increased representation can lead to increased abuse, actor and activist Jake Graf on the difference in the way that trans men and trans women are treated, and presenter Alex Woolhouse on the debate over whether trans rights are compatible with feminism.

Plus, Shivani will also be chatting to Stephanie Fuller, General Manager of LGBT+ helpline Switchboard, on what can be done to combat the rise in anti-trans discourse, and how the constant debate over trans rights is affecting service users.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

With Mothers’ Day coming up on Sunday, it’s all about parenting this week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast! Alex and Shivani will be looking into all the ways in which members of the LGBTQ+ community can have children, as well as the stigma that some parents face, and the fear from many in the community that they’ll never be able to have kids.

You’ll hear from Paul and Robin, a couple who had a child via surrogacy, influencer Jamie Beaglehole on why LGBTQ+ people make especially good candidates for adoption, journalist Paul Brand on the burden that is placed on mothers, and author Jodie Lancet-Grant on why we need increased representation of families with LGBTQ+ parents. Plus, Daryl Jackson will be here as usual with your Virgin Radio Pride Weekly News Update!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex and Shivani are continuing their exploration into bisexuality, looking at whether ‘bisexuality’ is still a valid term, and also investigating bisexual representation in the media and beyond…

You’ll hear from Dominic Arnall on what he thinks bisexuality is, author Lo Shearing on why they use the term ‘bisexual’, and activist Ramses Oliva on the differences and crossover between bisexuality and pansexuality. You’ll also hear again from author Jen Winston on how bisexual people are portrayed in the media, and from activist Libby Baxter-Williams on creating the first Bi float at London Pride.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

For the next couple of weeks on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex and Shivani are looking into bisexuality, exploring what it’s like to live as a bisexual today, as well as whether the very term ‘bisexual’ is still relevant. This week, they’ll be looking at what it’s like to come out as bisexual, as well as some of the stereotypes about bisexuality which are still applied today.

You’ll hear from Miss Great Britain Jen Atkin on her own coming out journey, politician Mandu Reid on the damaging effect of stereotypes, and author Jen Winston on the incorrect assumption that ‘everyone’s bisexual’... Plus, Alex and Shivani will be chatting to activist Lewis Oakley about the effect of bisexual stereotypes on his own coming out journey, as well as how the perception of his bisexuality changed when he dated women as opposed to men.

You can find out more about Lewis and his work here.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex and Shivani will be delving into the world of religion, looking at the relationship between religious organisations and the LGBTQ+ community, and examining whether religious freedoms and LGBTQ+ rights can co-exist.

You’ll hear from evangelical gay Christian Jayne Ozanne on the harm that religion can cause, journalist Paul Brand on the trade-off between religious freedom and LGBTQ+ rights, and Tik Tok star Benjy Kusi on the link between religion and culture. You’ll also hear from Matt Mahmood-Ogston, who founded the Naz and Matt Foundation after his fiance Naz tragically took his own life when dealing with rejection from his religious family.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

You can find out more information about The Naz and Matt Foundation here.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave are delving into the world of comedy, looking at how LGBTQ+ comedians bring their identities to their work, and whether jokes about sexuality/gender identity are ever acceptable.

You’ll hear from Suzi Ruffell on the need for gay comedians to mention their sexuality at the start of each gig, as well as Rosie Wilby on whether stereotypes still have a role in comedy. You’ll also hear from Stephen K Amos on whether the intent of a joke can alter its meaning, and Alex and Shivani will also be exploring whether comedy can be used as a tool for activism, with the help of Stephen Bailey. Finally, you’ll hear from Tom Allen on someone who changed the scene for LGBTQ+ comedians forever - Virgin Radio’s very own Graham Norton…

You can vote for Shivani in the British LGBT Awards here: https://britishlgbtawards.com/vote-now/.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It’s LGBTQ+ History Month 2022 and Alex Milsom and Shivani Dave are exploring all things queer history in this episode of the Virgin Radio Pridecast.

The show looks back through the archives of three-month pop-up radio station Virgin Radio Pride, highlighting some of the best moments, as well as attempting to continue the important conversations started over the summer. It has already featured topics including Coming Out, HIV/AIDS, and even the relationship which the LGBTQ+ community has with education…

In this LGBTQ+ History special, you’ll hear from Michael Bronski, the author of 'A Queer History of the United States' and Fleur MacInnes, a PhD student researching trans women & women’s liberation through oral history. They discuss if museums have a responsibility to teach about LGBTQ+ history and the importance of teaching ourselves about our own past.

You’ll also hear from self proclaimed 'LGBTQ+ history dude' Sacha Coward on how the Pride Flag came to be, as well as Philip Harper Deakin who told Virgin Radio Pride about when he was prosecuted for gay sexual activity, and the harsh punishments he received.

Plus, Daryl Jackson has your weekly update!

Finally, you’ll hear from Irish club promoter Buzz O’Neill about the origins of Pride in Ireland, and the murder of Declan Flynn. Buzz’s story is incredible as he not only remembers our history, he was a part of it.

Expect all that, and so much more on this week's Virgin Radio Pridecast!

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In this Valentine’s Day special, you’ll hear from actress Kate Holderness and her girlfriend, Radio 1 DJ Adele Roberts on the rise of dating apps in the queer community, as well as Kate’s rather interesting use of online forums to date before the apps existed! You’ll also hear from trans activist and author Juno Dawson on how shame from childhood affects dating, as well as writer Lewis Oakley on whether there are differences in dating between heterosexual and queer couples, as well as the dreaded question of who pays at the end of the date!

Plus, Shivani and Alex will be sharing their own experiences of dating as members of the LGBTQ+ community with Celebs Go Dating’s very own Tom Read Wilson who will be popping by for a chat…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

For more information about National HIV Testing Week, please visit www.tht.org.uk.

This week, the Virgin Radio Pridecast is back with another episode looking at the LGBTQ+ community’s relationship with the music industry… Alex and Shivani will be hearing from legends LP and Adam Lambert on what it means to them to make music for the community, singer Conleth Kane on the reception to his song ‘Proud’, and Justin Vivian Bond and Bright Light Bright Light are back, this time talking about the influence of the one and only Sir Elton John…

You’ll also hear from Alex and Shivani about some of their own musical icons, plus they’ll be asking the question of whether non-LGBTQ+ artists can make music which resonates with the community… Finally - you’ll hear from Virgin Radio’s very own Graham Norton speaking to Steve Denyer about seeing Holly Johnson perform at Pride in Clapham in 1997 - one of the most moving pieces of audio from Virgin Radio Pride…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, with the BRIT Awards rapidly approaching, Alex and Shivani are delving into the world of music - asking why so many of our favourite music icons are from the LGBTQ+ community, as well as looking at the struggles which many queer artists have to make it in the industry.

You’ll hear from the legendary Skin from Skunk Anansie on her experiences of being black and gay in the music industry, as well as YouTuber, dancer and singer-songwriter Todrick Hall on his struggle to make his voice heard. There are also clips from singer Justin Vivian Bond on the drive that many LGBTQ+ people have to succeed, as well as Drag Race UK Royalty Bimini Bon Boulash on one of their absolute musical icons; Pete Burns. Finally, you’ll also hear from country singer Brooke Eden, who was told she had to hide her sexuality in order to progress in her career…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, Alex and Shivani are continuing their exploration into education and the relationship which the LGBTQ+ community has with it.

You’ll hear from Tik Tok inclusivity educator Benjy Kusi on whether we have a responsibility to educate those outside of the community on LGBTQ+ issues, Peter Tatchell on the link between direct action and education, former teacher Elly Barnes on her experience coming out to her pupils, and so much more.

Plus - Alex and Shivani are joined by Dominic Arnall, CEO of charity Just Like Us, for a chat about their incredible work to empower young people to champion LGBTQ+ equality. You can find out more information, as well as how you can get involved, at https://www.justlikeus.org/

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Educate and Celebrate is a charity which works to make schools more LGBTQ+ friendly. You can find out more information at https://www.educateandcelebrate.org/.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It’s back to school for Alex and Shivani on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, because for the next couple of weeks, we’re going to be exploring the relationship which the LGBTQ+ community has with education.

This week, we’re going to be looking back to the late 1980s, when a piece of legislation was introduced which banned any form of LGBTQ+ education from taking place in schools. You’ll hear from comedian Tom Allen and journalist Paul Brand on what it was like to live and learn under the now infamous Section 28, author Jodie Lancet-Grant on some of the hangovers that still remain today, ‘It’s A Sin’ star Nathaniel Hall on being diagnosed with HIV at the time, and much more…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Educate and Celebrate is a charity which works to make schools more LGBTQ+ friendly. You can find out more information at https://www.educateandcelebrate.org/.

It’s the first week of January, the Christmas tree needles have (hopefully) been hoovered up, and thoughts for many of us turn to New Year’s Resolutions - lots of which involve physical activity! So - for the first Pridecast of 2022, Alex and Shivani are discussing the relationship which the LGBTQ+ community has with sport…

You’ll hear from Poet Sophia Blackwell on how gender conditioning takes place in schools from an early age, Ryan Atkin (the only out gay man in UK professional football) on toxic masculinity, Olympian Chelsea Wolfe on the accepting environment of freestyle BMX, and many more.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Pride Sports UK is an organisation working to challenge LGBTQ+ phobia in sport and improve access to sport for all LGBTQ+ people across the world. You can find more information at: https://pridesports.org.uk/.

It’s Christmas Eve, and that means it’s the final Virgin Radio Pridecast of the year! Christmas is all about family - and this week Shivani and Alex are continuing their family special - looking at all of the diverse and wonderful families which lie under the LGBTQ+ rainbow…

You’ll hear from couple Amir and Aamir on moving away from home to live as their true, authentic selves, from Mary from Families Together London on how they are helping parents accept their LGBTQ+ children, from Ben Carpenter who has adopted five children, all with additional complex needs, and loads more!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

For more information on Families Together London, you can visit https://www.familiestogetherlondon.com/.

Have a very merry Christmas, and a happy New Year!

This week, with Christmas fast approaching, Alex and Shivani are delving into a topic which is on everyone's minds at the moment: family. With some families still rejecting their children because of their sexuality or gender identity, and the LGBTQ+ community experiencing disproportionately high rates of homelessness, Christmas can be a tough time for many...

They'll hear from activist Matt Mahmood-Ogston about having to leave home to live in London with his fiancee Naz, DJ and drag queen Jodie Harsh on her relationship with her father, Tim Sigsworth, chief executive of AKT, on the incredible work that they do, and finally from journalist Mishti Ali, and frontman of The Feeling Dan Gillespie-Sells on the idea of chosen family...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

AKT also provide specialist help for young LGBTQ+ people aged 16-25 living in the UK who are experiencing homelessness or living in a hostile or abusive environment. You can find more information and make an online referral at akt.org.uk. Remember, if you are in immediate danger, always call 999.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, with Christmas Parties around the country being cancelled because of covid restrictions, Alex and Shivani are hosting their very own virtual party… And if there’s one thing the LGBTQ+ community know how to do - it's celebrate!

Join them to examine everything to do with the LGBTQ+ scene, from what we love about queer spaces, to the things that need improving.

But they won’t be alone - you’ll also hear from LGBTQ+ icons such as Jake Shears, Jodie Harsh, Roisin Murray and Simon Le Vans on what the queer scene means to them…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, in the second of two special episodes to mark World AIDS Day on the 1st December, Shivani and Alex are looking forward, to the medical advancements which have been made since the early stages of the HIV crisis, and to the activists who have fought for decades, and who continue to fight, to make a difference.

They’ll hear from ACT UP activist Tony Openshaw about a rather unconventional method of improving sexual health in Strangeways Prison, It’s A Sin star Nathaniel Hall on the stigma still faced by many when coming out as HIV positive, and Alex from the charity YouthStopAIDS about the medical advances which have been made since the early 1980s.

Plus - they’ll be joined by Marc Thompson, one of the original founders of PrEPster - an organisation which is dedicated to educating and agitating for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) access in the UK. You can find more information about the organisation, and about their ‘Ask Me About PrEP’ initiative at www.prepster.info.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

The Terrence Higgins Trust are the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, providing support to those living with HIV, and helping people to achieve good sexual health. You can call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221, or visit info@tht.org.uk.

The National AIDS Trust is a UK HIV rights charity which stands alongside and defends the rights of everyone living with, affected by, or at risk of HIV. You can find more information at www.nat.org.uk.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

World AIDS Day is taking place this Wednesday (1st December), and Alex and Shivani are marking the occasion with two very special episodes of the Virgin Radio Pridecast.

This week, they’re looking back to the start of the epidemic, hearing from Lord Michael Cashman on what living through the period was like, and Ruth Coker Burks, also known as the ‘Cemetery Angel’, who helped to look after AIDS patients when it seemed like no one else would.

We’ll also hear from unlikely friends Gareth Thomas and H from Steps on what turned out to be a turning point in the history of the epidemic, and from Virgin Radio’s very own Graham Norton on witnessing a very special performance by Holly Johnson in 1994.

Plus - the pair will chat to George Hodson, an incredible man who has lived with HIV since the early 1980s. They’ll hear his remarkable story of love, loss, and hope during a truly extraordinary time.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

The Terrence Higgins Trust are the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, providing support to those living with HIV, and helping people to achieve good sexual health. You can call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221, or visit info@tht.org.uk.

The National AIDS Trust is a UK HIV rights charity which stands alongside and defends the rights of everyone living with, affected by, or at risk of HIV. You can find more information at www.nat.org.uk.

PrEPster is a charity which is dedicated to educating and agitating for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) access in the UK. You can find more information at www.prepster.info.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

With the final of Season Three of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK fast approaching, this week on the Virgin Radio Pridecast, the category is: Drag!

Alex and Shivani will be chatting all things drag, including hearing from icons Bimini Bon Boulash and Jodie Harsh about how they first got started with the art form, and US drag queen Latrice Royale on how RuPaul has changed the drag scene forever.

We’ll also be hearing from Vinegar Strokes and The Sun’s assistant editor Clemmie Moodie, who debate whether drag can sometimes stray into misogyny…

Plus, Drag Race Season UK Three’s very own Victoria Scone, the first cis-gendered woman to compete on the show, pops by for a chat, looking to the future of drag to discuss what needs to be done to make drag more inclusive…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Alex and Shivani are getting a little bit meta, talking all about LGBTQ+ representation in telly, films, books and more - and asking the question of why it’s so important for LGBTQ+ people to see themselves reflected in the media...

But they’re not alone! We’ll hear from Lord Michael Cashman on having the first gay kiss in Eastenders in 1987, screenwriting legend Russell T. Davies on the importance of integrating LGBTQ+ stories into subplots, Paul Burston on representation in the publishing world, and Dr Ranj Singh and psychotherapist Zayna Ratty, answering the age old question of ‘why don’t we have a Straight Pride too?’

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

It's something that almost every LGBTQ+ person will go through in their lives, so our first episode is all about coming out! Join Alex and Shivani to hear their own coming out stories, as well as hearing from guests including Tom Allen, Kate Holderness and Adele Roberts, and The Feeling's Dan Gillespie Sells. Plus - Virgin Radio Pride's very own Emma Goswell tells us all about her book 'Coming Out Stories', as well as discussing how we can make the coming out process easier for those who are yet to do it...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123. For help with coming out and homelessness in particular, you might also find AKT useful, at https://www.akt.org.uk

On the final episode of My Pride Playlist, we have a real party with Steve Denyer chatting to DJ and broadcasting legend Simon Le Vans. Simon has been DJing across the LGBTQ+ scene for over two decades including his Sunday night residency at the iconic Vauxhall Tavern in London. With an abundance of brilliant stories and massive dance floor fillers, My Pride Playlist is sure to go out with a real bang!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

For Emma's final Weekend Outing, she'll be finding out all about Pride Sports and how we can make all our favourite sports more LGBTQ+ inclusive. She'll also be hearing from out gay parent Jamie about how he and his husband Tom adopted two boys to make their family complete. And finally, she's in conversation with HIV activist, theatre maker and star of It's A Sin: Nathaniel Hall.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

For his final helping of Sunday Roast, Matt Cain is joined this week by comedian Rosie Wilby, and actor Tim McArthur to discuss whether the LGBTQ+ community is less affected by class divisions than mainstream society. They’ll also be joined by publisher and owner of Attitude Darren Styles to ponder how LGBTQ+ media outlets can evolve in order to better serve the community, and comedian Stephen Bailey to to chat about the role of humour in bringing about social change.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Journalist Nichi Hodgson explores what it means to be bisexual in the UK today, and the experiences of bisexual people throughout history in the third episode of this three-part documentary made exclusively for Virgin Radio Pride...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Comedian and author Rosie Wilby looks back through the Radio Diva archives, replaying some of the best moments from the iconic radio show on Resonance FM in this exclusive retrospective for Virgin Radio Pride...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Five years on from the horrific shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, this exclusive documentary remembers the forty-nine victims and looks back at one of the most devastating acts of violence in modern American history...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Journalist Nichi Hodgson explores what it means to be bisexual in the UK today, and the experiences of bisexual people throughout history in the second episode of this three-part documentary made exclusively for Virgin Radio Pride...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Legendary LGBTQ+ activist Peter Tatchell chats to Steve Denyer, taking him through the records which have sound-tracked his five-plus decades of activism… Hear about his jaw-dropping encounter with Robert Mugabe in Brussels, his love for electronic dance music, and of course what Pride means to him.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week you'll find out all about the LGBTQ+ wellness festival called Out and Wild - and Emma's in conversation with Tim Sigsworth MBE. He's been campaigning for LGBTQ+ equality for thirty years and now runs AKT - the charity helping LGBTQ+ youth at risk from homelessness. Plus - you'll meet the most incredible father and son: Phil came out as gay in his twenties then a few years later his dad Gary came out as gay in his forties.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Joining Matt Cain for his Sunday Roast this week are The Feeling’s frontman Dan Gillespie Sells, and journalist Mishti Ali, to talk about whether if someone rejects us when we come out to them, we should give them another chance. Also joining the panel are LGBTQ+ activist and ‘Cemetery Angel’ Ruth Coker Burks to chat about allyship, and Carl Austin-Behan OBE (the LGBT Advisor to the Mayor of Greater Manchester), talking about how Pride might be altered in the future…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Journalist Nichi Hodgson explores what it means to be bisexual in the UK today, and the experiences of bisexual people throughout history in the first episode of this three-part documentary made exclusively for Virgin Radio Pride...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Steve Denyer chats to food writer, journalist and activist Jack Monroe, who takes him though her Pride Playlist - the tracks which soundtracked Jack’s life as a member of the LGBTQ+ community…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Freshly back from her holidays, Emma chats to Lisa Power about her incredible activism work, fighting for LGBTQ+ rights since she came out in the 1970s, and Stonewall, which she was instrumental in setting up. She also speaks to the queer couple who run the homeless charity Coffee4Craig, and also the people behind the charity YouthStopAIDS.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Matt is joined by presenter Alex Woolhouse and writer Matthew Todd to discuss whether we can separate the art from the artist, when the artist has made problematic comments towards the LGBTQ+ community... Plus, the panel are also joined by screenwriter Jake Graf to discuss the rise in anti-trans discourse and what can be done to combat it, and activist and former asylum seeker Aderonke Apata to talk about whether when we look down on countries with low levels of LGBTQ+ acceptance, we can be guilty of cultural arrogance...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Actress Kate Holderness takes on the queer question challenge this week, chatting to her girlfriend, Radio 1 presenter and I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here star Adele Roberts. The pair chat about their coming out journeys, their relationship, music that helped them during their early lives, and of course, what Pride means to them.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

On this week’s Sunday Roast, Matt is joined by historian Dan Vo, and activist and author Lois Shearing to discuss whether being queer is the best thing that ever happened to us. The panel are also joined by Michael Bronski and Fleur MacInnes to talk about whether we should remove statues of historical figures who were known homophobes, and also Dominic Arnall and Ramses Oliva from Just Like Us to discuss the differences between bisexuality and pansexuality, and whether there is any crossover between the two terms.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

On this week's My Pride Playlist, Virgin Radio UK's very own Graham Norton takes us through the tracks that have defined his incredible life and career, chatting to Steve Denyer about learning to discover himself as a young waiter in London, meeting Dolly Parton in Dollywood USA, and of course all things Eurovision.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Matt is joined by actress Sophie Ward and journalist Mishti Ali to discuss stereotypes within the LGBTQ+ community, as well as screenwriter Russell T. Davies on LGBTQ+ representation in culture, and Philip Harper-Deakin, who was prosecuted for gay sexual activity, and historian Sacha Coward, discussing pardons for gay people and whether more needs to be done to make reparations.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on My Pride Playlist, Steve Denyer welcomes pop superstar Will Young to talk through some of his favourite tracks. Will talks openly about his career from the early days of Pop Idol to the struggles he has faced up until the present day. The chat is inspired by songs from the likes Bronski Beat, Annie Lennox and Rosie Gains and also features Will chatting about his brand new album and single Crying On The Bathroom Floor.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Rounding off the weekend with her Weekend Outing, this week Emma Goswell speaks to Sandy Bridges, the mother of Emily Bridges, a Team GB cyclist who came out as trans aged just 19. She also speaks to writer and journalist Paul Burston about the struggles that some LGBTQ+ authors have to make their stories heard, and Graham and Kevin, the organisers of Brighton Bear Weekend.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Matt is joined by YouTuber Calum McSwiggan, and podcast host Alex Woolhouse to chat all about body image in the LGBTQ+ community. Also joining the team are TikTok educator Benjy Kusi and actress Asifa Lahore to discuss cultural appropriation within the community, and journalist Paul Burston to debate whether straight, cisgender gay men have it the easiest. Plus, if all that wasn’t enough, they’re also chatting everything Love Island!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Model, presenter and writer Jack Guinness invites contributors from his book The Queer Bible to read excerpts from their essays on the LGBTQ+ heroes that inspired them. Hear snippets from the essays of Russell Tovey, Munroe Bergdorf, Virgin Radio's very own Graham Norton and many more as they celebrate the stories of queer icons.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Taking the Queer Question Challenge this week are comedian Chelsea Hart and Broadway star Mark Mackillop! Join them as they talk about everything from not fully coming out to their families as well delving into what it’s like to be LGBTQ+ in their careers!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Steve Denyer chats to actor and presenter Christopher Biggins, who takes him through his My Pride Playlist, including tracks by Queen and Gloria Gaynor. Expect loads of showbiz gossip from Biggins’ decades-long career, as well as personal stories from some of history’s biggest stars including Freddie Mercury and even Princess Dianna…

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Emma chats to Elly Barnes - the music teacher who quit her job to set up the charity ‘Educate and Celebrate’ to make all schools more LGBTQ+ friendly. Plus how does it feel when your child comes out as gay? You’ll meet a mum who’s now supporting others through ‘Families Together London’. And, you’ll find out all about the world's biggest LGBT film prize.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week for his Sunday Roast, Matt is joined by bisexual activist and writer Lewis Oakley, as well as broadcaster and poet Sophia Blackwell, to talk about their experiences with coming out and what they would do differently if they could come out again. Plus, the panel are also joined by broadcaster Riyadh Khalaf to discuss whether social media has been a driving force for division within the LGBTQ+ community, and author Juno Dawson, to find out whether LGBTQ+ relationships are different from straight, cis ones, and if so, what we can learn from each.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

In the Queer Question Challenge this week, incredible singer-songwriter LP sits down with the amazing Adam Lambert. They chat about Freddie Mercury being a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community, coming out journeys and so much more!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on My Pride Playlist, Matt Horton is joined by singer-songwriter L Devine ahead of the release of her brand new EP Near Life Experience Part 01. Hear L chat about her life, from her coming out experience, why she first got into music and how her brand new song Girls Like Sex (a former TOTW on Virgin Radio Pride) is about reclaiming sex for women who are often seen as just an object in most present day pop songs.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

On her weekend outing this week, Emma will be chatting to an actual Olympian! Chelsea Wolfe made history as the first ever trans person to be selected for Team US, and is about to head out to Tokyo to be an alternate for the BMX team. Plus Emma meets Amir and Aamir, hearing how they suffered family rejection but went on to fall in love and become the first same sex South Asian couple to get married in Bradford!

And finally, she'll also hear from Tony Openshaw;a gay man who's spent the last 40 years fighting for the rights of LGBT people, asylum seekers and those with HIV. In the 80s, he knocked tennis balls filled with condoms into the grounds of Strangeways Prison!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Matt is joined for his Sunday Roast this week by Drag Race UK superstar Vinegar Strokes, as well as Clemmie Moodie, Assistant Editor at The Sun. They’ll be talking about cancel culture and whether it is used as a tool to diminish the opinions of those in the community, and finally whether drag can sometimes stray into misogyny.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Taking the Queer Question Challenge this week we have the multitalented maestros behind some of your favourite pride anthems; David Seaman and Steve Anderson. Join them as they chat about how working with Kylie Minogue changed their careers, and the time The Pet Shop Boys asked to work with them on one of their most iconic tracks!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on My Pride Playlist, Steve Denyer chats to Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears all the way from New York City. Jake talks about his incredible career, including working with the likes of Kylie and Cher, his iconic Glastonbury performance, and why he created The Scissor Sisters in the first place. With a range of incredible dance and pop songs both old and new, tonight's episode will be one big Pride party!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week on Emma Goswell's Weekend Outing, hear the incredible story of Matt Mahmood Ogston. After the love of his life Naz ended his life when his strict religious parents reacted badly to his coming out, Matt set up an organisation to help otreligious parents accept their LGBT children. Plus, the Euros might have finished, but you'll find out all about a campaign called Football Vs. Transphobia, headed up by Natalie Washington. And Monty Moncrief MBE is in to talk about the wonderful work that London Friends do to help LGBTQ+ people improve their well-being.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Matt is joined for his Sunday Roast by author Laura Kay, and TikTok star and inclusivity educator Benjy Kusi to discuss whether some people within the LGBTQ+ community are too quick to criticise others, and to criticise people outside of the community. Plus, he chats to gay evangelical Christian Jayne Ozanne about whether religious freedoms can and should be used as a ‘get out of jail free card’ for homophobia and transphobia, and campaigner and activist Peter Tatchell joins to give his views on whether the LGBTQ+ community have a responsibility to educate those outside of the community. And if all that’s not enough, Matt also chats to his panellists about what they’re most looking forward to when the restrictions ease onMonday.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Country singer songwriter Brooke Eden sits down with her fiancé Hilary Hoover for Quite A Queer Conversation! No topic is off limits for the adorable couple as they speak about coming out as a country musician, and the incredibly romantic way that Brooke proposed to Hilary!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Superstar DJ and producer Jodie Harsh takes Matt Horton through their Pride Playlist - the tracks which mean the most to them. Expect laughs, inspirational stories, and of course to find out what Pride means to Jodie...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week in her Weekend Outing, Emma meets 15 year-old Noah who lives in the Welsh Valleys and his mum Donna. Noah came out as a trans man at the age of 13. You'll also hear from Peter, who grew up in Poland and suffered so much homophobic bullying he decided to move to the UK, and you'll meet his fiancé Dave and hear their beautiful love story.

We'll also hear from Kerri - a non-binary hairdresser from London who's launched the 'hair has no gender' campaign.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Matt is joined by brilliant panellists Shivani Dave and Jake Graf to discuss whether queer people have responded differently to Covid, plus Lord Michael Cashman gives his opinion on whether we have the right to impose our liberal values onto other countries. Matt is also joined by sociolinguist Sophie Holmes-Elliott to discuss how we should refer to ourselves as a diverse community, and whether the word queer is the best term to use...

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Singer-songwriter extraordinaire Bright Light Bright Light sits down with actor and songwriter Justin Vivian Bond to take on Virgin Radio Pride's Queer Question Challenge! No topic is off-limits as the two chat about their personal soundtracks to coming out and the time Bright Light Bright Light went for dinner with none other than Kate Bush and Elton John!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, comedian, writer and actress Suzi Ruffell takes Steve Denyer through her Pride Playlist; the songs which have soundtracked her experience as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Expect laughs, discussion of Madonna and, of course, what Pride means to Suzi.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Emma chats to singer Conleth Kane about how music can be both a form of protest and of celebration, to Paul and Robin Morgan-Bentley about their journey using surrogacy to start a family, and to Debbie Lane, founder of the LGBT Cymru Helpline and Counselling Service.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week Matt is joined by panelists Paul Brand (the UK editor of ITV News) and author Jodie Lancet-Grant, who’s just published a new book; The Pirate Mums, which features a family with two mums. Expect discussion of representation of LGBTQ+ people in media, whether Pride events need streamlining, visibility and inclusivity at Pride, and even Love Island!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Taking the queer question challenge this week are drag legends Gareth Joyner, better known as Myra Dubois, and Latrice Royale. The duo will be taking a breather from their hit West-End show, Death Drop (showing at the Garrick Theatre until the 11th July) to answer various questions on a wide-range of topics from coming out to RuPaul! It could get vicious, but will definitely be interesting.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Steve Denyer chats to award-winning comedian, author and presenter Tom Allen, who takes us through his favourite songs alongside talking everything from life to love, and of course, laughter.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Matt Cain is back with his Sunday Roast, joined this week by award-winning comedians Stephen K. Amos, Rosie Wilby. All the awards! Plus, trailblazing BAFTA-nominated actress Annie Wallace - better known as Sally St. Claire in Hollyoaks - and queer historian, Sacha Coward - will also be challenging our panel with their expert knowledge and opinions. Join Matt and his guests as they discuss everything from sensitivity in comedy, to the redesign of the Pride flag, to gardening!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

This week, Emma speaks to single dad Ben Carpenter, who has adopted 6 children, all of whom have complicated needs. This past 18 months he has faced more challenges than most, but his love for his kids knows no bounds and he will do whatever it takes to keep them safe, happy and healthy. His story is one of determination, resilience and triumph, and you can find out more here. Plus, Emma has an in-depth chat to prominent British evangelical Anglican, Jayne Ozanne, who campaigns for gay equality within the Church of England and the wider evangelical community, and she shines her Pride spotlight on the Gay Farmers' Helpline and speaks to the organisation's Keith Ineson.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Taking the queer question challenge this week are The Feeling's frontman and Everybody's Talking About Jamie creator, Dan Gillespie-Sells and his mum, the pioneering LGBTQ+, women's and disability rights activist, Katherine Gillespie-Sells MBE. Listen as they talk about everything from self-acceptance to what Pride means to them - no topic is off limits!

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Join Broadway and West End star, Drag Race judge, rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, director, choreographer, YouTuber and international queer icon Todrick Hall as he takes Steve Denyer through his My Pride Playlist, revealing which songs mean the most to him.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Join Emma as she chats to FreedomToDonate campaigner Ethan Spibey about changes to the blood donation rules, and couple Amanda and Thea about their inspirational journey of love and self-discovery. Plus, find out more about Silver Pride: now in its second year, it is a unique online event designed to forge connections between older LGBTQ+ people and encourage inter-generational communication in the gay communities.

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This week, Matt Cain is joined by actor Charlie Condou and author/poet Sophia Blackwell to discuss respectability and conformity within marriage, the relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and football, and whether 'passing privilege' is really such a privilege. Plus, Matt and his guests are joined by Ryan Atkin, the only out gay man in professional football, and beauty educator and broadcaster Sam Marshall.

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Kevin Stea and Carlton Wilborn both shot to fame as the dancers on Madonna's landmark 1990 Blond Ambition tour and chronicled in the documentary, In Bed With Madonna; for a generation; this was the first time gay men had ever been seen in mainstream cinema.

Hear them talk about their lives since then, their work with Madonna, and the moments that changed their lives.

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This week on My Pride Playlist, it's Drag Race UK superstar Bimini Bon Boulash chatting about their top picks!

Listen as they chat to Matt Horton about their career as a DJ and Drag Queen, making their way through RuPaul's Drag Race UK and a host of memories that come attached to the tracks in their Pride Playlist.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering for some listeners. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

Emma chats to trailblazing gay and women's right campaigner, Luchia Fitzgerald; now in her 70s she is not slowing down. A truly inspirational woman, an unbelievably powerful interview, you will need hankies.

AND keep those hankies out as Emma also chats to Alfie and Roo whose relationship has withstood a series of challenges and is a shining example of love winning.

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Matt Cain is joined by Strictly star Dr. Ranj Singh and LGBTQIA+ Polyamory, Race & Ethnicity Hypno-Psychotherapist, Zayna Ratty, plus gay travel guru Darren Burn and Manchester gay scene tsar, Roisin Murray.

Should we holiday in countries where it is illegal to be gay? Do we even need a gay scene post-pandemic? And is there even a need for Virgin Radio Pride? Matt Cain and the panel certainly put up a good argument!

In Comfortable In Her Own Skin, Virgin Radio Pride's very own Emma Goswell chats to the legendary Skin of Skunk Anansie, talking through coming to terms with her identity, becoming comfortable with her sexuality, growing up in Brixton and taking on the music industry as a black, queer woman.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering for some listeners. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.

It's the show that does exactly what it says on the tin, no topic is off-limits with these two as they talk about everything from the stigma around HIV to their gay icons and coming out experiences all while playing tunes from the likes of Frankie Goes To Hollywood and Years & Years with Elton John.

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Actor, author, British politician and long time LGBTQ+ activist Michael Cashman joined Steve Denyer to talk through his personal Pride Playlist and what his song choices mean to him.

Please note, some of the topics discussed in this episode might be sensitive and/or triggering for some listeners. For help and support with any LGBTQ+ issues you might be facing, you can contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630. Alternatively, the Samaritans are available twenty-four hours a day on 116 123.