Matthew Mitcham "Two options: a slow suicide...or swallow what little pride I had left and reach out for help"

Nigel's guest today is Matthew Mitcham, a true champion in the LGBTQIA world. Australian Matthew became the first openly gay athlete to win an Olympic Gold medal when he competed as a diver in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. But as he smiled with pride on the podium and became a role model to many Matthew had to also face the self-doubt and depression that had plagued him since childhood. His life has been one full of personal demons that he has had to deal with, including addiction and spells in rehab. Today Matthew, retired from sport, is a keen speaker, advocate and shining light in the worlds of diversity and inclusivity. He is also making a splash away from diving in the world of performance and theatre. His life may not be perfect 10s just yet, but he’s getting there…This series is a celebration of a beautiful queer community; people of all ages, people who have had to tread their own path to live their real truth, who have fought with their emotions and emerged victorious, who inspire, who aspire and always entertain. Hosted by Nigel May. Every week, Nigel speaks to a person from the LGBTQ+ rainbow to hear their story; one person, one life, one conversation. And guaranteed, a Gay Old Time!Follow us on instagram @agayoldtimepodcast Produced by Pineapple Audio Production Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.