Episode 12: Martin Perry

In this powerful episode of Identity First, Stephanie Fleet is joined by Paralympic table tennis player Martin Perry for an honest and deeply human conversation about resilience, ambition and identity beyond sport. Born with congenital limb loss affecting three limbs, Martin grew up as the youngest of four brothers in a lively, competitive household that helped shape his determination and humour. From early experiences of difference and schoolyard challenges to discovering table tennis as a teenager, Martin shares how sport became both an outlet and a calling. He reflects on the long road to competing at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games — the near-misses, self-doubt and sacrifices required to reach the world stage. With remarkable candour, Martin speaks about losing out on a medal by just two points, the emotional aftermath, and the powerful sportsmanship shown by French supporters in that moment. But this episode goes beyond medals and rankings. Martin explores how becoming a father reshaped his perspective, challenging the idea that we are defined solely by our achievements. While table tennis has been central to his identity, he now sees himself first as a husband and dad — roles that anchor him far more deeply. A moving conversation about drive, vulnerability and redefining success, this episode asks: if the role you play disappeared tomorrow, who would you be?