Episodios

  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - Terry Madeley
    Jul 4 2025

    Terence ‘Terry’ Madeley, a London-born actor, received a positive HIV diagnosis in 1985 after long grappling with a decline in his health. Despite the inevitable challenges, Terry remained steadfast in his magnanimous relationship with his long-term partner, Peter, and vowed to outlive the AIDS virus.

    In February 1987, during ‘AIDS Week’ on UK television, Terry made a brave decision to disclose his condition publicly, with his mother Lil’ standing by his side. A documentary, produced in collaboration with the BBC and presenter Pattie Coldwell, was underway to tell his story. Tragically, Terry passed away before filming was completed, but the captured footage enabled the BBC and Pattie to release Remember Terry in December 1987. The documentary proved instrumental in raising awareness and fostering tolerance towards HIV/AIDS during a crucial period.

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - TERRY MADELEY

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

    • British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
    • 'Remember Terry' 1987 Pattie Coldwell ©BBC - Watch on YouTube
    • Terry Madeley personal account 'ABC of AIDS' by British Medical Journal 1987
    Más Menos
    1 h y 10 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - Special Announcement
    Jun 27 2025

    WITHOUT PREJUDICE

    As the host and producer of AIDS: The Lost Voices, I share episodes that highlight the discrimination, stigma, isolation, and vilification faced by many people living with HIV/AIDS over the decades. Despite keeping my professional life separate from my podcast, I never anticipated experiencing similar prejudice while working for the well-known pub company Fuller’s, trading as Griffin Catering Services Ltd. Unfortunately, during my employment, I was subjected to seven months of HIV/AIDS-related discrimination that violated the Equality Act 2010. Faced with no other recourse, I had no choice but to lodge a legal claim with the HM Courts and Tribunals to challenge this injustice.

    However, it did not end there, and I was subjected to a barrage of harassment, victimisation, and bullying, which must be presented before the court. The matter has also involved the Metropolitan Police as a hate crime. When I exercised my right to raise concerns, I was not only perceived as a biological threat but also branded a troublemaker. Subsequently, I faced some of the wildest, unfounded, and baseless allegations, all seemingly orchestrated to justify my removal and dismissal.

    The Judge has now ordered the hearing to be scheduled for three days in December 2026, ensuring that the matter will receive the thorough attention it warrants. It cannot be said that I am unable to share my experience and journey through such discrimination on this podcast, especially given that I have seemingly become the subject of the news rather than just a reader of it. This platform offers a crucial space to voice the realities faced, shedding light on the injustices endured and allowing a broader audience to understand the personal impact behind HIV/AIDS discrimination in the workplace.

    NB: Employment Tribunals are open to the public, including listings of the claimant and respondent. There is a significant public interest in this case and further is shared on channels have been established for several years to cover HIV/AIDS discrimination and is a professional account and not a personal one. This should not be deemed malicious nor vexatious, just an exercise of my right to share and impart public information within the public interest as part of my basic, legal and human right.

    Más Menos
    11 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - Leigh Bowery
    Jun 21 2025

    As an artist, performer, model, TV personality, club promoter, fashion designer, and musician, Leigh Bowery defied conventional boundaries at every turn. Emerging from the vibrant nightlife of 1980s London, Bowery cultivated a provocative and unapologetically bold presence that spanned underground clubs, galleries, theatres, and the urban streetscape.

    His radical approach transformed clothing and makeup into living art forms—akin to painting and sculpture in motion—challenging and expanding traditional perceptions of aesthetics, sexuality, and gender. In a bid to solidify his legacy, Bowery devoted himself to his band Minty, which quickly became notorious for its shocking headlines and uncompromising style.

    However, this chapter was tragically cut short when Leigh Bowery passed away in 1994 from AIDS-related complications at London’s Middlesex Hospital, leaving behind an indelible impact on contemporary art and culture.

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - LEIGH BOWERY

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

    Background Quick Fire Questions - 'Escape' by Aries Beat LISTEN

    ----------------------------------------------------

    LEIGH BOWERY LINKS -

    BBC The Clothes Show 1986 WATCH HERE

    'South of Watford' LWT/ITV Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3

    'Useless Man' by Minty [LIVE] clip YOU TUBE

    Leigh Bowery at TATE Modern VIDEO & Exhibition [Ends 31 August 2025]

    Book: Leigh Bowery Life and Times of an Icon by Sue Tilley in all good bookshops & AMAZON

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast.

    Más Menos
    1 h y 16 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - Holly Johnson
    Jun 8 2025

    Holly Johnson, the charismatic lead singer of the 1980s phenomenon Frankie Goes to Hollywood, rose to fame with three consecutive number ones: "Relax," "Two Tribes," and "The Power of Love." However, the band's split in 1989 marked the beginning of a tumultuous journey for Johnson, particularly after his HIV/AIDS diagnosis in 1991.

    The press coverage surrounding his condition often overshadowed his remarkable musical talent, prompting Johnson to reflect on his experiences in his autobiography, ‘A Bone in my Flute.’ As he navigated his health crisis, he also embraced his roles as a songwriter, author, and artist, showcasing his work in a London gallery. With advancements in HIV treatment, Johnson has reclaimed his place in the music scene, embarking on a successful tour in 2024/25, proving that his enduring artistry continues to resonate with audiences and that you can live successfully with HIV.

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - HOLLY JOHNSON

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Holly Johnson LINKS:

    Holly Johnson Website HollyJohnson.com

    Holly Johnson Instagram

    'Relax' - Frankie Goes to Hollywood Spotify

    'Love Train' - Holly Johnson Spotify

    'Americanos' - Holly Johnson Spotify

    'Power of Love' - Frankie Goes to Hollywood Spotify

    'Legendary Children' & 'Disco Heaven' - Holly Johnson Spotify

    Podcast Intro - Holly on Heart Radio Watch Here

    Live at the Lighthouse, Holly 'Power of Love' Watch Here

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

    • British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
    Más Menos
    1 h y 14 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - Gaétan Dugas Patient Hero & Zero Patience
    May 31 2025

    Gaétan Dugas was an effervescent gay French Canadian flight attendant renowned among his colleagues for his bold declarations that he would one day become a 'star.' At the age of 32, his life was tragically cut short due to AIDS-related complications. Despite his light-hearted claims, Gaétan became posthumously infamous when, in 1987, he was exposed by author and journlaist Randy Shilts as being the individual responsible for introducing AIDS to North America, earning him the label of "patient zero."

    This unwarranted infamy inflicted profound pain on his family and friends, as he was denounced as a "monster" by the very media that sensationalised the story. It was not until nearly thirty years later, following significant advancements in scientific research, that studies of Gaétan's blood samples showed unequivocally that his HIV footprint was not that old, meaning other HIV strains had been in North American cities long before Gaétan had even visited them. In 2019, the film Killing Patient Zero spoke to those who knew Gaétan best, shifting the narrative from Zero to hero. Prior to that, Zero Patience, a musical film released in 1993, took a satirical approach to Randy Shilt’s claims, challenging the misconceptions surrounding Gaétan’s role in the epidemic.

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - Gaétan Dugas Patient Hero & Zero Patience

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Killing Patient Zero

    Written & Directed by Laurie Lynd - Fadoo Productions

    WATCH FILM HERE (Subscription/Fee's may apply)

    Amazon Prime Film

    Apple TV

    Sky Store

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Zero Patience - Musical Movie

    Written & Directed by John Greyson

    WATCH FILM HERE (Subscription/Fee's may apply)

    Archive.org (Free on a laptop/device)

    Amazon.com

    ----------------------------------------------------

    BOOK:

    Patient Zero and the Making of the AIDS Epidemic

    by Richard A. McKay

    Buy on Amazon.co.uk

    ----------------------------------------------------

    BOOK:

    AND THE BAND PLAYED ON - Politics, People and the AIDS Epidemic

    by Randy Shilts

    Buy on Amazon.co.uk

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research of HIV/AIDS. No copyright infringement intended.

    Más Menos
    1 h y 19 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - David Carr 2/2
    May 16 2025

    When David Carr died in 1959, medical professionals recorded an unusual immune condition on his death certificate, which was largely forgotten until 1990 when the world learned that he had supposedly been the first AIDS patient.

    This claim was swiftly shattered in 1995 when a team of HIV specialists in America examined Carr's tissue samples, revealing that the HIV found did not originate from him. Instead, they discovered two different strands of DNA, the isolated HIV sample aligning more closely with strains prevalent in the late 1980s and early 1990s, not 1959 when David died. As the implications of this revelation unfolded, questions emerged regarding the integrity of the original medical claims and the scientific paper submitted to The Lancet.

    With significant pressure mounting for transparency, the scientific community now faces a critical juncture: will the researchers acknowledge their error, retract their previous assertions, and address the consequences of misattributing Carr's legacy, or will denial pave the way for continued misinformation?

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - DAVID CARR

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

    • British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
    Más Menos
    50 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - David Carr 1/2
    May 9 2025

    In April 1959, David Carr, a 25-year-old man from Manchester, was admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary with an undiagnosed illness that baffled a team of three doctors and several specialists. Over the course of his twenty-week stay, his condition deteriorated alarmingly, culminating in his death at the end of August 1959.

    Writing for The Lancet in October 1960, the medical team postulated that Carr's immune system had been compromised, displaying symptoms indicative of an AIDS-related illness—though this was unrecognised at the time. A post-mortem examination later revealed pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, a well-known AIDS-related complication. It wasn't until the late 1980s, with advancements in testing, that samples from Carr's case were confirmed to contain HIV, retroactively designating him as the world’s first AIDS patient.

    However, despite the symptoms he displayed, the tests seemed not to be all that they were claimed to be, raising suspicions among medical professionals. It took a professor and his team in the United States to raise the alarm, ultimately determining that there was no clinical evidence to support the assertion that David Carr was or had been infected with HIV/AIDS.

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - DAVID CARR

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

    • British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
    Más Menos
    44 m
  • AIDS: The Lost Voices - Employment Claims
    May 2 2025

    Those affected or infected with HIV/AIDS have often faced ostracism from friends, family, and workplaces, casting a shadow over their already challenging circumstances. The experiences of four men—Andrew Peters, Michael Buck, Andrew Fay, and David Morgan—highlight the grim realities of discrimination during the height of the AIDS crisis.

    Peters was dismissed from his position as a restaurant manager simply for allowing a television crew to film a segment in his establishment, aiming to raise awareness about the pandemic. Buck, a cinema projectionist with 17 years of service, was let go solely due to his sexual orientation, as his colleagues and employer unfoundedly feared he might be HIV positive.

    Fay, employed by London Lighthouse, faced similar repercussions as he was fired for struggling to meet work demands after his AIDS diagnosis. Lastly, Morgan was dismissed for being “overtly” gay, with his employer even disclosing his HIV status. In the face of adversity, all four men took courageous steps to challenge their employers legally, confronting the pervasive fear and prejudice surrounding HIV/AIDS.

    All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

    XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - EMPLOYMENT CLAIMS

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

    ----------------------------------------------------

    Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

    • British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
    • Audio Clip: Soho Brasserie on AIDS ©Thames Television 'AIDS The Last Chance'
    • Audio Clip: 1987 UK Government AIDS Monolith TV Advert
    • Audio Clip: The London Lighthouse AIDS Hospice © Thames Television News
    • Audio Clip: 1986 Gay Rights Protest Haringey Council © Thames Television News
    Más Menos
    1 h y 7 m