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Come on into this episode where we’re talking all about coming out as a teenager.   

In the studio with Anna, we have the inspiring LGBTQ+ advocate, author, TV presenter and celebrity-masterchef, Riyadh Khalaf. 

Riyadh’s challenging, but incredibly powerful, story of coming out as a teenager to his then Irish Catholic mother and Iraqi Muslim father, means he has much wisdom to pass on to our listener today. Our dilemma is from a listener struggling to come out to her parents, whilst also dealing with grief over losing the only family member who knew she was gay and who was a great support to her. 

Alongside Riyadh, we have best-selling author and much-loved psychotherapist, Owen O’Kane. Owen not only generously shares his expertise but also has his own coming out story to share, having come to terms with his sexuality while training to be a priest. 

Anna, Riyadh and Owen have a conversation filled with warmth, laughter, pain and joy where they offer concrete advice to our listener on finding connection and acceptance, chosen families, bringing shame out into the light and, throughout it all, finding your courage.   

While this episode is an inspiring listen, it does mention self-harm, suicide and a non-consensual sexual encounter. So please approach the episode with care. 

If you or someone you love has been affected by any of the topics covered in this episode, help is available.