Coming Out at 46: Garry | CHAPS OUT

In this episode of Chaps Out, host Grant Philpott is joined by guest, Garry who shares his story of coming out at 46 after spending more than 30 years hiding his sexuality. Growing up during Section 28, he believed he had to suppress who he really was, leading him to marry, raise a family and struggle with his mental health for decades. Garry reflects on the difficult consequences of finally telling the truth, taking full responsibility for the hurt his decisions caused while explaining why he felt unable to live authentically for so long. He speaks candidly about losing friends, rebuilding relationships, finding love, and discovering that life can begin again later in life. His powerful message is one of hope: "I've lost friends. I've lost family. But I've gained friends who've become family." If you're navigating your own coming out journey, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in a moving story of courage, accountability and self-acceptance, this conversation is not to be missed. Chaps Out is a UK-based podcast giving voice to perspectives you don’t often hear. We provide relatable, uplifting, and positive conversations that offer encouragement, affirmation, and support for anyone on the journey of coming out, while celebrating and supporting bisexual and gay men. Subscribe to Chaps Out for new episodes and join us having these important conversations. Please rate & review, it helps the podcast reach those who may need to hear it. If you’d like to support Chaps Out and help with running costs and keep the conversations flowing, amplifying voices and inspiring others, you can contribute at https://Ko-Fi.com/chapsoutpod & https://chapsoutpod.substack.com/ And don’t miss our companion podcast, CHAPS OUT CULTURE, where guests return to recommend their favourite LGBTQ+ inspired art, music, literature, film, theatre, and TV.