LIVERPOOL-BASED LGBTQ+ video podcast Proudly Said has marked its first birthday, reaching the milestone with 53 episodes released, a content pipeline scheduled through to August.
Launched in June 2025 by activist and advocate John Hyland, Proudly Said set out to give everyday LGBTQ+ people a platform to share their stories, alongside occasional recognisable faces drawn to the show’s conversational format. In its first year, the platform accumulated more than two million views across Instagram and TikTok, with guests both seeking out the show and being approached by John.
The show’s first year has not gone unnoticed, with Proudly Said picking up a nomination for LGBTQ+ Podcast of the Year at the 2026 Gaydio Awards. The recognition has extended to John personally too, named Diversity Champion at the 2025 LGBTQ+ Flowers Awards and nominated for a BBC Radio Merseyside Make a Difference Award 2026, with finalists to be announced later this summer.
Founder and host John said: “Back when I made the decision to pursue a new podcast, I wasn’t sure how it would go, as it had been ten years since I dipped my toe in that world. But I’ve been so appreciative of the interest, both from audiences and guests alike. Which absolutely demonstrates why queer storytelling is incredibly important in this day and age, when the world feels so dark and bleak for the LGBTQ+ community. This is my passion, and no story will go untold if I have anything to say about it.”
Proudly Said releases new episodes weekly at proudlysaid.co.uk and across all major podcast platforms, and is always looking out for new guests to tell their story.
