Coming Out in Public at 47: Mark Foster | CHAPS OUT

In this powerful episode of Chaps Out, host Grant Philpott is joined by six-time world champion and former world record-breaking swimmer Mark Foster to discuss his new book, “My Double Life” (Bloomsbury- out July 2nd 2026) and talk about the story behind the medals. Growing up in Essex, becoming one of Britain's greatest swimmers and spending decades in the public eye, Mark reveals why he didn't come out publicly until the age of 47, the loneliness that came with success, and the freedom he found in finally being himself. From inventing a girlfriend to hiding a long-term relationship, Mark speaks candidly about the pressures of elite sport, the fear of being seen, and the moving support he received from his mother. He shares the extraordinary words from a psychologist who told him, "You didn't win Olympic gold because you didn't want to be seen", and explains why, in his own words, "The longer you hold onto a secret, the bigger and bigger it becomes." This is a conversation about identity, masculinity, growing up in Britain in the 1970s and 80s, and why it's never too late to live authentically. Whether you know Mark Foster from the swimming pool, Strictly Come Dancing or his broadcasting career, this is the most personal side of one of Britain's most recognisable sportsmen. 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. #MarkFoster #Swimming #Olympics #ComingOut #ChapsOut #LGBTQ #WorldRecord #MentalHealth #BritishSwimming #MyDoubleLife #autobiography