Pause. And Rewind...
I’m Neil (he/him) - host of my podcast, Pause. And Rewind… I’ll be chatting to change makers, thought leaders & role models who all share a common goal. They’re striving to make the world a more inclusive place. And let’s face, we need it!
Each guest has a unique story when it comes to doing their thing. We often know who people are in the now. But how much do we really know about them?
Pause. And Rewind… takes a moment to explore the experiences in my guests’ lives that led them to where & who they are now. Cos’ everyone loves an origin story!
We’ll dive into tales, anecdotes and what makes our guests tick. So, are you ready to Pause. And Rewind… ?
Pause. And Rewind...
Pause. And Rewind... with Terry Eastham | Unremarkable. Standard. Bedazzled.
I credit this week’s guest on ‘Pause. And Rewind…’ with getting me involved with our LGBTQ+ staff network when we were colleagues which essentially kickstarted what I am doing now.
Terry Eastham (he/him) is a proud & loud LGBT+ activist. He’s the driving force behind much of London South Bank University’s Pride activities as well as being heavily involved in UNISON’s LGBT+ group where, as well as being Co-Chair of the Greater London Region LGBT+ group, he was also a member of the UNISON National LGBT+ Committee.
Whilst he can often be seen during Pride donning rainbow trainers, caps & tees, this hasn’t always been the case. In his own words, Terry “spent a long-time swimming down the river Denial” when it came to his sexuality - something which spurred his decision to join the armed forces back in the mid 80s. It was a time he reflects on with pride & joy & shares his proudest moment so far being his passing out parade. And even though the training was hell & despite the suspicions & invasive investigations for being gay, he fondly recalls the spirit of togetherness through the suffering. - “everyone is going through it with you”.
Terry finally stepped out of the closet at the age of 45 - a moment of pure relief. He shares an anecdote about coming out at a family dinner which references Cliff Richard & a game of Trivial Pursuit.
We chat about Terry’s love of London - the freedom & friendliness of the city, along with the magic that theatre brings him as a theatre reviewer. Terry & I share a passion for volunteering too having been some of the original volunteers for Queer Britain, the UK’s first & only dedicated LGBTQ+ museum. We explore his love of rules & willingness to break them on his terms, giving speeches & emotions. Terry describes himself as someone who just “goes through life” & doesn’t see him as remarkable - I beg to differ & I’m sure you will too. Enjoy!
Take care of yourself whilst listening as always as we cover some challenging topics.