What if your identity is a tapestry of diverse threads, each contributing to a complex, vibrant whole? This episode invites you to uncover the intricate intersections of queerness and autism with our insightful guest, Danny, an autistic and queer existential coach. Danny's journey of self-discovery as a queer person with a late autism diagnosis sheds light on the unique experiences of feeling like an outsider while embracing the strengths and challenges of neurodivergence. Through personal stories and reflections, we explore the nuanced overlap of queer and autistic identities, emphasizing the richness and authenticity they bring to life.
Our conversation delves into the intertwining nature of gender and sexual identities, examining concepts like "autigender" and the impact of societal pressures. With poignant narratives from the restrictive era of Section 28 in the UK, we discuss the complexities of navigating identity amidst homophobic bullying and varying societal acceptance. Danny shares their experiences in academia and coaching, highlighting the importance of visibility and representation for marginalized communities. By critically examining traditional perspectives and incorporating subjective experiences, we consider how educational programs can evolve to embrace inclusivity and diversity.

We also tackle broader societal issues, such as internalized stigma and the responsibilities we all share in fostering understanding and safety for marginalized groups. Danny guides us through the political landscape, exploring the potential for progressive change and the crucial role empathy plays in bridging divides. This episode challenges us to engage with diverse viewpoints and advocate for inclusive, meaningful dialogues. With a focus on promoting social change through empathy, we aim to inspire listeners to embrace a more inclusive and authentic approach to understanding identity.

CW: Suicide, trauma, abandonment, sexual abuse, alcoholism, rape, slavery, self-harm.

What happens when privilege, trauma, and leadership intersect within the walls of a boarding school? We invite you to join our compelling conversation with Tom Greaves, Piers Cross, and Jonny Lovett, as they unravel their personal journeys through the labyrinthine world of boarding education. This episode challenges the notion of resilience, questioning whether the experiences of isolation, bullying, and the emotional voids left by early separation can be classified as trauma. We explore the ways these experiences shape leaders, with figures like Boris Johnson and Donald Trump as potential case studies shaped by their past.

The emotional landscape of boarding school life is vast and complex, leaving indelible marks on personal relationships and emotional development. Our guests recount stories of betrayal, isolation, and the struggle to express emotions while reconciling privilege with vulnerability. These narratives illuminate a cycle of trauma that transcends generations, with familial bonds often strained by the experiences of being sent away. As we discuss the broader societal implications, we examine how ingrained behaviors from such privileged backgrounds can hinder authenticity and connection in adulthood.

Throughout our discussion, we address the psychological impacts of boarding school, including the strategic survival personalities cultivated within these institutions. The conversation delves into class disdain and the societal disconnects perpetuated by such education systems. With anecdotes from public figures like Richard Branson and Bear Grylls, we shed light on the long-lasting effects of these formative years. As our guests share their paths to healing, we emphasize the importance of addressing these deeply rooted issues for both personal and societal transformation, highlighting ongoing projects aimed at fostering understanding and change.

One of our panelists touches on themes of homophobia. Whilst this was not explicitly explored or condemned, the TaSC network and all those involved in the podcast do not support homophobic views or beliefs of any kind.

You can find out more about our chair and panelists here:

Esther’s page at The Centre for Complementary Medicine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-wheeler-458a55167?originalSubdomain=uk

Jonny Lovett’s Psychology Today page: https://springtidescotland.com/

The trailer for Piers’ upcoming documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stMvUcsZzlM

Follow Tom to keep up to date with his upcoming show about male friendships: https://www.instagram.com/tdrgreaves/?hl=en

Resources mentioned in the episode (books unless otherwise stated):

Judith Herman, Trauma and Recovery – mentioned by Piers

Nick Duffell, The Making of Them & Boarding School Survivor Workshops

Suzanne Zeedyk - The Connected Baby (documentary)

Richard beard, Sad Little Men

If… – 1968 Film

Jennifer Freyd, Betrayal Trauma: Logic of Forgetting Childhood Abuse: The Logic of Forgetting Childhood Abuse

Joy Schaverien, Boarding school: the trauma of the ‘privileged’ child

Richard Branson, Losing My Virginity

Bear Grylls, Mud, Sweat and Tears

John Peel, Margrave of the Marshes

David Niven, The Moon’s A Balloon

Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know

Ranulph Fiennes, Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know

Fight Club – 1999 Film

David Cameron, For the Record

This Podcast is sponsored by Onlinevents

What happens when a conservative evangelical embarks on a transformative journey toward progressive Christianity? Join us in an interesting conversation with Simon J. Cross as he unpacks his remarkable shift in faith and ideology. Simon reflects on his evangelical upbringing and the limitations he encountered within traditional evangelical frameworks. He explores how he balances his deep-rooted Christian identity with progressive values, offering profound insights into the importance of change as a cornerstone of his theology and worldview. Through his work at the intersection of mental health, spirituality, and social science, Simon delves into relational theology and mental well-being.

In our exploration of evolving Christian theological perspectives, Simon challenges traditional notions of a distant, omnipotent deity. Instead, he presents a compelling case for a relational understanding of God, one that is deeply affected by human suffering and social injustice. This chapter ties together themes from post-Holocaust theological developments and liberation theology, and addresses the dual role Christianity plays in Western society - both as a force for liberation and oppression. Simon's experiences in mentoring and his reflections on the diversity within Christianity offer listeners a nuanced perspective on faith's role in contemporary issues.

We move on to discussing interfaith and intra-faith dialogue, the preservation of community spaces and rituals, and the concept of Christian Anarchism, exploring how tradition may be rethought to maintain relevance in modern society and consider the mental health benefits of communal activities. We also dive into the concept of challenging imaginary borders, especially in the context of national boundaries and migration. Finally, Simon discusses his work as Chair of the Progressive Christianity Network, and talks about the diversity of its current membership and how people can get involved.

'In the episode, Robbie regrets not always using the most inclusive language - for example 'brother or sister' rather than 'sibling', and apologises to all affected by this.'

The 'Mill Hill' mentioned is the unitarian Mill Hill Chapel, in Leeds:

https://www.millhillchapel.org/

https://www.unitarian.org.uk/congregation/leeds-2/

This Podcast is sponsored by Onlinevents