Episode 97: History, Hope, and “F***ing Vote”: Bill Robertson Unfiltered

In this powerful conversation, Bill Robertson shares his journey of courage and community from the heart of LGBTQ+ history during the AIDS crisis in 1984. His story is a master class in love and activism as he remembers Boston’s early Pride movement, the bar closures, ACT UP’s organizing, and the painful losses that defined a generation. Bill opens up about his deeply personal experiences: caring for a partner with AIDS, facing stigma from his own family, and the journey towards reconciliation.With 28 years of sobriety under his belt, he reflects on the crucial turning point that transformed his life. Bill emphasizes the importance of understanding our LGBTQ+ history and leaves the next generation with a powerful two-word message: 'Fucking vote.'Beyond survival, Bill is a creator and do-gooder, known for the sketch-comedy cult favorite Heavily Medicated Fairy Tales, the indie film Paradise: A Town of Sinners & Saints, and his uplifting book Uncle Bill’s Animal Tales: Life Lessons for Adults. He highlights service pathways like Gays for Good and the embracing nature of Unitarian communities. This episode is raw, funny, and ultimately hopeful—proof that chosen family, activism, and art can change everything.Uncle Bill's Animal Tales: Life Lessons for Adults: https://a.co/d/abIX0vPBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Bill-Robertson-Author-100091283553670/Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.