Listen as Divina reveals her inspiring journey to achieving her dream of performing on the West End. Her story, marked by perseverance and creativity, takes us through her experiences before and after her rise to fame on Drag Race UK. This story was recorded as part of Proud West End, an audio-visual exhibition created to celebrate people from the West End LGBTQIA+ community. In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Carolin...
Dec 09, 2024•9 min•Season 2Ep. 27
In this Briefly Heard episode Stephen recounts his transformative experience at his first Pride. He reflects on historical legislations like Section 28 and Clause 16 and how they shaped his experience and understanding of his community's struggles. This story was recorded as part of Proud West End, an audio-visual exhibition created to celebrate people from the West End LGBTQIA+ community. Listen to Stephen’s journey of confronting his past, connecting deeply within his community, and rekindling...
Dec 02, 2024•12 min•Season 2Ep. 26
Rachel reflects on her transformative journey to clown school. She explains how the act of clowning brought about vulnerability and healing, likening it to 'Monty Python meets Sigmund Freud' for its mix of comedy and emotional release. In this episode of the Heard Storytelling podcast, we're joined by Rachel, who shares her first public storytelling experience, covering strong themes with humour and vulnerability. We discuss the therapeutic power of laughter and its significant role in Rachel's ...
Nov 25, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 25
This episode was recorded as part of our Proud Campaign in Cardiff, which featured true spoken stories told from two different perspectives. Jia Wei and Sammi delve into how Parkour embodies determination, community, and creativity, and how these elements empower individuals to tackle challenges. Listen to discover the craft behind these stories and the journey that brings them to life. This episode was hosted by Colette Burroughs-Rose and Caroline Dyer. Production was expertly handled by Big Te...
Nov 18, 2024•9 min•Season 2Ep. 24
In this episode of the Heard Storytelling podcast, we dive into Willem's journey of self-discovery from a challenging childhood to newfound acceptance in vibrant cities like NYC. Willem recorded his story as part of our Proud West End Exhibition, and we explore the reasons behind his decision to share it. Willem's story vividly portrays the pain and confusion of growing up feeling like an outsider, a ‘spectator’ in his own life. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, a challenging time for the q...
Nov 11, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 23
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. In this special Diwali edition, recorded live at our Heard Live event, we delve into cultural identity and personal freedom. Devika shares her experiences of navigating her British-Asian heritage alongside her personal independence. Listen to discover the craft behind these stories...
Nov 04, 2024•18 min•Season 2Ep. 22
In this episode of the Heard Storytelling podcast, we're joined by Augustine, who shares his powerful journey of self-acceptance and creating an inclusive space. Augustine's story was initially recorded as part of our Proud Manchester exhibition and revolves around the profound idea of "otherness becoming brotherness" and championing the beauty of humanity. We explore key themes including belonging, the impact of being adopted as an adult and his experiences as a black, gay, Christian individual...
Oct 28, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 21
Alfred shares a deeply personal story from the isolation of Covid lockdown. An online connection brought unexpected colour to his ‘grey scale’ life, only to vanish as mysteriously as it appeared. Through his story, he explores the fleeting, yet profound impact of human relationships and reflects on the lessons and experiences they bring, even when they're short-lived. Join us to explore this universal story of love, loss, and the unpredictable nature of human connections. Listen to discover the ...
Oct 21, 2024•15 min•Season 2Ep. 20
In this episode timed with World Values Day, we hear from Mina, who shares her profound connection with climbing as a source of freedom. Recorded for our Freedom Exhibition in Manchester, Mina discusses how climbing trees during her childhood served as an escape from restrictive thoughts, offering a sense of freedom that cost nothing but effort. She reflects on how this provided not only a physical release, but also shaped her understanding of freedom beyond societal labels. Mina explains how he...
Oct 14, 2024•44 min•Season 2Ep. 19
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. In this impactful episode, timed with Baby Loss Awareness Week, we share Becky's heartfelt story of anticipation and profound loss. Her story was recorded at our Heard Live event in celebration of International Women’s Day earlier this year. From the Scottish Highlands to a life-...
Oct 07, 2024•19 min•Season 2Ep. 18
This episode of the Heard Storytelling podcast was recorded live in Miami for our Goal Click Heard event. Charity shares how her passions for football and spoken word poetry intersect and influence her life. Reflecting on the process of crafting a spoken story for a live audience, she highlights the early impact of losing a football game and how it taught her to handle defeat and shaped her approach to life's challenges. Charity also talks about using football and poetry to cope with the grief o...
Sep 30, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 17
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling library. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. This episode was recorded as part of our Proud Campaign in Cardiff, which featured true spoken stories told from two different perspectives. We hear from two brothers, Richard and Andrew, as they recount the transformative moment when Richard came out by standing on a pub table....
Sep 23, 2024•11 min•Season 2Ep. 16
In this compelling episode, recorded at our Heard Live event on the theme of love, Christopher shares his poignant story, starting with his childhood in a remote Canadian town as a "little gay nerd who still believed in magic." He discusses the impact of growing up without role models and how sharing his story publicly has shaped his understanding of love and identity. Christopher discusses meeting his partner, a moment that profoundly changed his view of love. He also reflects on how themes of ...
Sep 16, 2024•53 min•Season 2Ep. 15
In this special episode, we are joined by Figen Murray, who has channelled her profound grief into advocating for improved public safety measures through Martyn's Law, inspired by a moment of realisation at a Katie Melua concert about the lack of security. Figen shares how, as a mother who has faced unimaginable loss, she has tirelessly worked to create a safer world for other families. She discusses transforming her grief into action. Her work now includes significant education efforts, as she ...
May 07, 2024•50 min
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. All roads seem to be leading to success for comedian Josh, but back in 2022 when we recorded this story, that particular road was the Mancunian Way, a busy ring road in Manchester. Listen to discover the craft behind these stories and the journey that brings them to life. This epis...
Apr 12, 2024•7 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In our latest podcast episode, Ayisatu shares a personal story and ode to her mother's resilience during her childhood, which was marked by her parents' separation. She reflects on the values instilled by her mother and the integral role of music in connecting with her Yoruba roots, expressing the joy it brought to her family life and its importance in maintaining cultural traditions with her own children. Listen to this beautiful and poignant story about the important caregivers in our lives an...
Apr 08, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. Nikki's story is one of healing from deep loss through football. A significant phone call marks a turning point, highlighting her resilience and the importance of pursuing your passions. Listen to discover the craft behind these stories and the journey that brings them to life. Thi...
Apr 05, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In this episode, we explore Ilona's personal story of personal overwhelm and disconnection, which resonated with the Heard Storytelling Team and the audience when shared at our Heard Live event. Ilona, known for her support of women, talks about the societal challenges women face and shares her thoughts on what can be done to foster a more supportive environment. She speaks to the concept of being a 'work in progress' and how she has learned to ease the pressure on herself by promising to create...
Apr 01, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. Alisha and Raven share their journey of blending traditions and perspectives to redefine family values on their own terms. A story of unity and the creation of new family legacies. Listen to discover the craft behind these stories and the journey that brings them to life. This epis...
Mar 29, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode, we are joined by Colette, who shares her compelling journey of overcoming adversity and towards recovery. Colette describes a pivotal moment when the gift of a birthday cake from a compassionate couple affirmed her self-worth. She opens up about the effects of being seen through the lens of her trauma and how acknowledging her value changed that perception. We discuss her path to recovery, highlighting the critical support from organisations like Manchester Action on Street Heal...
Mar 25, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 9
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. Julia has many roles or ‘hats’, including that of a devoted Scout leader. A visit to a GP with severe and unexpected pain starts a journey that leads to the edge of uncertainty and disconnection from her busy life. A story of courage and the beauty of finding solace in the little m...
Mar 22, 2024•10 min•Season 1Ep. 8
In this episode, we're joined by Zoe, known for her brilliant contributions to our Heard Live events. She delves into a story chosen for its deep personal connection and relevance to the theme of 'What If…' Zoe's story is rich with childhood wonder and the powerful bonds of friendship. She invites us to understand the importance of shared stories in bringing comfort during adversity. Zoe opens up about her friend, Andrew, and how sharing his journey was not only therapeutic but also an homage to...
Mar 18, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 7
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. A random meeting on New Year's Eve for Dave, a committed police officer, brings up issues about the complexities of homelessness, media exposure, and its repercussions. Dave’s story was originally recorded for 'Random Objects of Kindness', an exhibition created by Heard Storytellin...
Mar 15, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Content warning: This episode contains discussion around conversion therapy. In this episode, we talk with John, whose story of finding and accepting his true self resonated deeply with visitors to our Freedom Exhibition. John shares the profound sense of liberation he felt by embracing his truth and the positive effect it has had on his life. John delves into the struggle of reconciling his role in the church community with his sexuality, and how this conflict influenced his identity and sense ...
Mar 11, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 5
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. We’re celebrating #InternationalWomensDay by sharing Pau’s story of inner strength, resilience, allyship, and (quite literally) flying the flag for Latina women and girls in the male dominated world of football. The story was recorded live in Miami for Goal Click Heard - a partners...
Mar 08, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Content warning: This episode contains discussion around suicide. In this heartfelt episode of the Heard Storytelling podcast, we talk with Emma, who recounts her experience of losing her mother to suicide. During this challenging period, Emma found comfort in the support provided by the charity, Missing People. Emma explains why she chose to tell her story and its impact. She describes her journey, including her involvement with the Missing People Choir and their incredible appearance on Britai...
Mar 04, 2024•27 min•Season 1Ep. 3
In this Briefly Heard episode, we offer you a glimpse into the stories housed within the Heard Storytelling bank. Caroline and Colette provide insight into the story’s creation and the collaborative process behind it. Seb takes us on a journey from the world of high fashion to a dog groomer's salon. Along the way, we witness the discovery of true purpose, the embrace of passion, and the joy that comes with finding your authentic calling. Listen to discover the craft behind these stories and the ...
Feb 27, 2024•8 min•Season 1Ep. 2
In this episode of the Heard Storytelling podcast, we delve into Karl's transformative journey towards sobriety, a path that began with a life-altering wake-up call. Karl shares his candid experiences and explores the themes of disconnection, hope and the power of embracing our own journey. Karl's story was recorded as part of our project celebrating LGBTQIA+ individuals on the theme of ‘Proud’. He chose to make his experiences public for the first time, and we journey back with him to the momen...
Feb 27, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Welcome to the Heard Storytelling podcast, where we celebrate the transformative power of spoken storytelling. Join us for intimate conversations with storytellers from all walks of life, as we delve into the personal journeys that led them to share their stories and the impact that sharing had on their lives. We also examine how these stories affect the listener, fostering empathy and connection, and inspiring positive change. Episodes will drop on Mondays and Fridays. Each Monday, a storytelle...
Jan 29, 2024•1 min
