Still Here! Still Queer! Now What?

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt reflects on the journey of creating the podcast and the accompanying book, discussing the importance of maintaining a creative flow while balancing the demands of busyness and the need for relaxation. He shares personal insights on the fear of pausing and the significance of the podcast's first season finale, episode 49, as a moment of transition and anticipation for future changes. It's the small pause before the big bang.

In this conversation, Jonathan Barbe, an LGBTQ career coach, shares his journey of self-acceptance and the challenges he faced growing up in a conservative environment. He discusses the impact of location on acceptance, navigating queerness in religious spaces, and the importance of unconditional love in Christianity. Jonathan emphasizes the need for authenticity in social media and reflects on personal growth and the courage to be open about his identity. The conversation highlights the intersection of faith and sexuality, community belonging, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.

SummaryIn this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt discusses the journey of his podcast and the accompanying book, 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?'. He reflects on the emotional impact of his writing, the challenges faced throughout the year, and the evolution of podcasting. Dr. Taylor-Pitt contemplates pausing the podcast to explore new directions and invites listeners to engage with him as he navigates this transitional phase.What do you think listeners??

In this conversation, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt and Adam R. Brown explore themes of personal growth, trauma, resilience, and identity within the LGBTQ+ community. They discuss the challenges of navigating change and uncertainty, the impact of social norms on personal freedom, and the importance of empathy and boundaries in relationships. The dialogue emphasizes the continuous nature of transformation and the need to create meaning from experiences, particularly in the context of trauma. Adam shares their personal journey and insights on resilience, while Dr. Paul reflects on the broader implications for society and the LGBTQ+ community.

In this episode of 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?', Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt shares updates on his journey in publishing, community engagement through storytelling, and reflections on celebrity encounters. He discusses the importance of sharing stories within the LGBTQ+ community, the awkwardness of meeting famous personalities, and the impact of community spaces like Sunday Sanctuary. It's heart opening (and toe curling).

Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt and Garvin Taylor explore themes of identity, belonging, and the journey of coming out later in life. Garvin shares his experiences of joy and challenges since coming out, reflecting on the importance of living authentically and embracing new experiences. They discuss the emotional complexities of aging, the impact of loss, and the significance of kindness and connection in building community. The conversation also touches on the influence of queer icons and the importance of storytelling in personal growth. Thank you Garvin for lighting up the room.

The rain is torrential and the internet has broken...is it the start of the end of days or just Paul being dramatic on this minisode update voice blog type ramble. All of the above probably.SOSstillherestillqueernowwhat.com/SOS

Neil Hudson-Basing is sunshine in human form. In this conversation we explore themes of self-acceptance, the journey of coming out, and the impact of societal standards on attractiveness. Neil shares his experiences of navigating relationships within the LGBTQ+ community, the importance of love and acceptance, and his reflections on aging. The conversation highlights the significance of finding one's voice and the desire for a world led by kindness and compassion. Neil's journey is marked by resilience, empowerment, and a commitment to embracing his authentic self. He's a badass.

It's the evening before Publication Day for Still Here! Still Queer! Now What? ...except it isn't.Find out more in this episode, along with...Celebrity Traitors is back and I am flabbergasted!Celebrities all over the place at the launch of Martin Sherman's amazing memoir.Celebrating Nick Coveney's new novel Everything Not Saved.Complete joy at the release of It's Okay by CatBear, inspired by conversations with Mid-Life Queers.It's a lot, but you can take it. I've read the grafitti.

Paul Taylor-Pitt and his straight friend Martin explore the complexities of identity, allyship, and masculinity. They discuss the challenges faced by straight men in expressing themselves, the intersection of homophobia and misogyny, and the importance of open dialogue in fostering understanding. The conversation emphasises the need for sensitivity and awareness in discussions about gender and sexuality, ultimately celebrating the differences and commonalities that exist within these identities. And we find out about the flying dildo drinking game. Lads lads lads!

A super quick update because it's MOVING WEEK but tere's still time to talk about the challenges of the publishing process, likening it to a return to the closet due to the secrecy involved. Look out for My Straight Friend Martin on the next episode, giving a straight perspective on queer topics.

Happy Straight Pride Fortnight!To celebrate the demise of civilisation, my straight friend Andrea is here to tell us everything is going to be ok. This conversation reflects on our 35-year friendship, exploring themes of allyship, societal changes, and personal growth (or not). We discuss the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights, the importance of allyship, and the challenges of parenting in a changing world. Thank you to all of our straight allies, especially Andrea.

A slow things down, work it out on the hoof, pondering episode where Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt discusses the current socio-political climate, focusing on the recent Unite the Kingdom rally and the toxic narrative surrounding migration. He reflects on the impact of social media and technology on public discourse, the importance of allyship, and the need for unity among marginalised communities. The episode emphasises the necessity for allies to step up and support those who are feeling threatened in today's society. Justice for Medusa's Hair!

Legend Alert! In this episode, Paul and Damian Barr explore the complexities of queer identity, the journey of writing, and the importance of vulnerability in storytelling. They discuss personal growth through therapy, the significance of chosen family, and the impact of grief and loss on their lives. They talk about the intersection of personal and collective histories, near death experiences and the importance of making space with both tragedy with joy.Damian's latest novel "The Two Roberts" is out now!

In this episode of 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?', Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt reflects on his childhood writing experiences, sharing some beautiful and, well frankly dark stories from his past. He discusses upcoming guest Damian Barr, and the themes of imagination and creativity that emerge from his early writings. Buckle up for this one. You might need someone to talk to afterwards.

Eva Echo is a force of nature. In this episode we explore the complexities of activism, personal journeys, and the importance of empathy and compassion in the LGBTQ+ community. We talk about the frustratingly non-linear nature of progress, the role of consumerism and marketing in shaping gender norms, and the significance of recent victories in activism. Sit back, buckle up and enjoy this fantastic chat!

I finally made one that takes less than 10 minutes! Here I am, pondering the significance of September as a time of change and emotional reflection. Thinking about preparing for a house move, the importance of archiving memories, and the excitement of new beginnings as I see my 52nd birthday appear on the horizon.

Let's strip off and get real as we dive into a conversation with Wild Man Jon, exploring themes of confidence, vulnerability, and the dynamics of intimacy in professional settings. We discuss the impact of age on personal growth, the emotional energy involved in massage therapy, and the importance of boundaries. Jon shares his journey of settling down while maintaining a nomadic lifestyle, his aspirations for the future, and the legacy he wishes to leave behind. The conversation culminates in a manifesto for living authentically and being visible as oneself. Now get your clothes off and get on the table.

It feels like the end of summer, but it's full of queer joy. This week Paul talks about Damian Barr's new book The Two Roberts and the fabulous RVT Gay Sports Day. Just a quickie. We all need one of those occasionally.

Gordon is one of the Sauna Sages at my gym and he's brilliant. In this conversation we explore themes of self-acceptance, body image, and the complexities of queer identity. We talk about the challenges of ageing, and the importance of humour in navigating life. We get deep! The discussion delves into the significance of coming out, societal expectations, and the journey towards self-love and acceptance. It's hot! It's here! Enjoy!

In this episode of Still Here! Still Queer! Now What? Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt shares personal reflections on recent challenges and new beginnings, discusses community updates, and shares all the excitement about his upcoming book tour. It's a little one, but you can still have plenty of fun with it.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt interviews Anthony Kavanagh, a pop star turned author, who candidly discusses his journey through fame, addiction, and self-discovery. Kav shares insights from his memoir 'Pop Scars', reflecting on his experiences with sobriety, the challenges of coming out, and the impact of his past on his present life. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, creativity, and the complexities of identity, offering listeners a raw and honest look at Kav's life and the lessons he's learned along the way. It can make you feel good!

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt discusses the themes of queerness, aging, and community, reflecting on his journey as an author and the upcoming release of his book. He shares insights on the importance of support within the LGBTQ+ community, celebrates events like UK Black Pride, and navigates the complexities of inclusion and representation. The conversation also touches on recent controversies surrounding The Polari Prize and emphasises the need for evolving definitions of belonging and support. Spoiler: Transphobes are not welcome.

In this conversation, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt and Raga D'Silva explore themes of identity, ageing, relationships, and the importance of authenticity. Raga shares her journey as a queer woman navigating personal and societal challenges, reflecting on the impact of illness on relationships and the significance of open conversations about death and legacy. The discussion emphasises the value of intergenerational learning, mental health awareness, and living with intention, ultimately celebrating the richness of life experiences and the connections we forge with others. It's a keeper!

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt shares personal updates, including the completion of his book, reflections on his 25-year relationship, and the upcoming challenges of moving home. He discusses the importance of queer relationships and the narratives surrounding them. And our next guest is revealed....

What a joy to have Alexis Gregory on the podcast. We explore queer identity, the evolution of queer theatre, and the challenges faced by artists as they navigate aging and societal changes. We talk about the impact of the '90s on queer culture, the role of drugs in the community, and the importance of survival and activism in the face of adversity. Alexis shares insights from his journey as a playwright and performer, reflecting on the complexities of intimacy and relationships within the queer experience. And there's plenty of Madonna chat too. Which is always welcome.

A post-viral perspective on the week as I reflect on the importance of self-care in the form of Severance and Mario Kart. I hate myself for spending time talking about the cultural implications of a Coldplay concert and the revealing societal reactions to the incident, particularly in relation to queer culture and the judgments faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. But here we are.

In this conversation, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt and Paula Harrowing explore the evolution of LGBTQ representation, the impact of social media on community, and the legacy of the HIV/AIDS crisis. They reflect on personal identities, the importance of connection, and the role of nightlife in shaping queer culture. The discussion also touches on generational gaps, the influence of family and loss, and the future of activism and community engagement. It's a wild ride. Strap in!

Paul has a cold and is feeling very sorry for himself so this is a quick, deep, hello episode. Unplanned, unwell, unclear. Raw dogging it.

In this episode of the pod, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt and Queer Royalty Paul Burston explore themes of activism, personal growth, and the impact of HIV/AIDS on their lives and the LGBTQ+ community. Burston shares his journey as an author and activist, reflecting on the challenges of coming out, navigating grief, and the evolution of relationships in later life. We talk about the importance of resilience, community support, and the need for vigilance in the face of rising homophobia. Burston's memoir serves as a backdrop for deeper reflections on identity, bravery, and the lessons learned from past experiences. It's a GOOD ONE!

An introspective little minisode now Pride Month is officially over. Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt reflects on his recent experiences at two writing retreats, the significance of community in the LGBTQ+ space, and the celebration of Pride. He discusses the transformative power of these retreats, the importance of diversity, and the ongoing journey of queer identity beyond Pride Month.

Abi Fellows is a super cool human and I'm not just saying that because she's my agent, but that's also true.In this episode Abi talks about the state of publishing at the moment, especially for LGBTQ+ authors, as well as bigger themes of bi-erasure, parenting as a queer person and cultural shifts we're all navigating. And who knew thumb rings are queer code? I didn't!Find Abi on Instagram instagram.com/abirfellows and through DHH Literary Agency.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt reflects on the love he's received from the past few episodes - thank you! Paul shares his personal journey of writing and publishing his upcoming book. He discusses the challenges faced in the publishing industry, particularly for queer authors, and emphasizes the importance of representation and community support. The episode climaxes in a celebration of our LGBTQ+ voices and the significance of sharing personal stories.

Salim Stephenson is on the pod! He's a lawyer, a dad, a proud queer and yet still carries the weight of Imposter Syndrome. We talk about the visibility of queerness in society, and the anxiety stemming from the current political climate. We remind each other about the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and the importance of celebrating our queerness. It's a good one!Follow Salim on Instagram

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt shares insights about finishing his upcoming book, reflections on his experiences working in HIV/AIDS organisations, and the emotional impact of visiting the AIDS Memorial Quilt.

I'm very excited to share this interview with Lior Locker, exploring themes of identity, personal growth, and the complexities of the LGBTQ+ community. Lior shares insights from their multifaceted career, the importance of fearlessness, and the challenges of navigating emotional labor in activism. The discussion delves into the significance of allies, the work required for democracy, and the desire for community connection. Lior's journey of self-discovery and their aspirations for the future highlight the intersection of art and identity, culminating in a powerful message of resilience and authenticity.

In this episode of 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?', Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt reflects on various aspects of LGBTQ culture, including reality TV shows like 'I Kissed a Boy' and 'Drag Race', while critiquing the current state of Pride Month and the corporate responses to it. He discusses the concept of 'retractivism'—the retreat from visible support for LGBTQ rights by corporations—and emphasises the importance of personal visibility and authenticity in the face of societal challenges. The episode culminates in a piece written in response to the rage people have about Pride Month. Buckle up!

I'm fangirling hard as I speak with author Seth Insua. We explore themes of vulnerability, identity, and the journey of becoming a successful novelist. Seth shares his experiences with self-acceptance, the impact of media representation, and the importance of relationships in personal growth. We talk about the significance of queer representation in literature, and the ongoing adventure of finding life's meaning. All in under an hour.Follow Seth on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sethinsua/ and buy Human, Animal RIGHT NOW!

A little solo-sode where I reflect on the complexities of Pride Month, including the commercialisation of LGBTQ+ culture, the challenges of representation in media and the importance of reclaiming power within the community. Highlights!Pride Month brings mixed feelings and reflections.Organisations need to support LGBTQ+ rights year-round.Leaving platforms like Twitter creates a void in representation.Plus more "I Kissed A Boy" chat, a celebration of Liza and next episode's special guest is revealed!

What a treat! I got to interview the brilliant Layla McCay, an accomplished author and storyteller, about her journey in writing and the impact of LGBTQ+ identity on career and personal growth. We talked about the importance of storytelling, the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace, and the significance of visibility and representation. Layla shares insights from her book, 'Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling,' and reflects on her experiences as a visible gay woman. The conversation highlights the power of stories to connect people and inspire change, as well as the ongoing journey of self-discovery and achievement.It's a good one!Follow Layla on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laylamccay/and check out her books

In this episode of 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?', Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt shares insights from his journey as an author and reflections on recent events. He discusses the concept of revolution, particularly in the context of LGBTQ+ communities, and explores the challenges of initiating change. The episode also highlights upcoming projects, including writing retreats and interviews with notable guests.

Andrew Flewitt is a podcaster, creative and author of "Do You Believe In Life After Loss" which comes out TODAY! So I'm especially delighted to share our conversation. Andrew reflects on his journey into his 40s, discussing the importance of embracing change, nurturing his queerness, and the significance of personal growth. He shares insights on relationships, legacy, and the desire to live authentically while pursuing creativity. We explore themes of personal growth, resilience, and the complexities of queer identity. We discuss the impact of sobriety on Andrew's life and the importance of creativity as a healing tool. We highlight the importance of community and the journey of self-discovery, ultimately emphasising that embracing change is essential for growth. Follow Andrew on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fleweyactually/ and order Do You Believe In Life After Loss today!Follow Paul on all the socials @ShowingWhole Visit www.stillherestillqueernowwhat.com for more!

An in-betweeny minisode where I chat about....Pansy StudiosI Kissed A BoySix Conversations We're Scared To HaveThe end of Andor 😭And then you get to hear the full text of a piece I wrote and performed on IDAHOBIT25 at The Common Press.You lucky people.Next episide: Andrew Flewitt talks about loss!

Finally, the first interview! Thank you for your patience. We are off with a bang here. In this conversation, Xander Lo Lo Noble, a multidisciplinary artist, discusses their journey through art, fashion, and activism. We explore themes of identity, consciousness, and the impact of technology on society, particularly in relation to trans rights and the implications of AI. Not satisfied with stopping there, we get into the duality of progress and dystopia with the challenge of navigating creativity outside societal norms. It's a lot, but you can take it! We believe in you.Follow Xander on Instagram and https://www.instagram.com/lo_lo_no_studio/ and check out all these amazing links https://linktr.ee/Lolono?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae1SjHM5urcq82WBvjmmu1iltOK6kz9oaCWmN1a7BORip65Va6GslqQelQRzw_aem_OJinLblsy0SPqcWoxI0TSw for more of their work.Get all things book related at www.stillherestillqueernowwhat.com and follow Paul https://www.instagram.com/showingwhole/

A little pipe-cleaner episode, a brain dump as they say. In this episode of 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?', Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt explores the LGBTQ+ experience through aging, cultural reflections on popular media like Star Wars, current events affecting LGBTQ+ rights, and exciting new projects within the community. Visit the website stillherestillqueernowwhat.com and follow Paul on all the socials @showingwhole

In this episode, Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt discusses the LGBTQ experience through aging, sharing insights from his upcoming book 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?'. He reflects on a recent pre-launch event, the state of LGBTQ publishing, body positivity, community inclusivity, and activism surrounding trans rights. The conversation also touches on a powerful concert by Self Esteem, emphasising the importance of self-expression and the ongoing fight for equality.Insights and takeaways!The pre-launch event for the book was a success with strong community support.There is a positive outlook for LGBTQ publishing despite challenges.Body positivity is crucial for self-acceptance in the queer community.Community inclusivity can sometimes border on conformity.Activism is essential in the fight for trans rights.Self Esteem's concert was a transformative experience.The importance of expressing one's identity and feelings.Hope and rage can coexist in the fight for equality.Visit stillherestillqueernowwhat.com for more and follow Paul on all the socials @showingwhole Pre-order the book today!

Welcome to the first 'proper' episode! Or is it improper?Today, Paul goes free-range and talks about perfectionism before launching into some joys and rants, ending with a reading of a new piece about endings.Links!V&A LGBTQ TourMascular Living MagazinePre-Coming Out PartyWe Create Space LGBTQ+ Writing RetreatThe Somatic School LGBTQ+ CohortPre-order Still Here! Still Queer! Now What?Follow Paul, showing whole on all the socials especially Instagram.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Dr. Paul Taylor-Pitt's book, 'Still Here, Still Queer, Now What?'. The discussion highlights the unique challenges faced by this demographic, including the impact of societal changes, the importance of storytelling, and the journey towards self-acceptance and wholeness. It emphasises the ongoing struggles within the community, the significance of intimacy and belonging, and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. We discuss how:The LGBTQ+ middle-aged demographic has a unique experience shaped by societal changes.Storytelling is a powerful tool for self-understanding and acceptance.Heteronormification reflects a paradox of progress and conformity.Aging LGBTQ+ individuals often face fears of returning to the closet.Negative stereotypes can deeply affect self-perception and behaviour.Queer wholeness involves accepting all parts of oneself.Resilience and community connections are vital for navigating midlife challenges.But...who are we?All will be revealed.Visit stillherestillqueernowwhat.com for more!#LGBTQ+ #middle-aged #queer #identity #storytelling #wholeness #intimacy #community #truecrime

The sound of queer middle-age, coming in your ears soon.