🎙️ What’s This Episode About?

Dr Rory McGill is the Director of Public Health for Sefton Council, as well as a lifelong horror nerd who grew up in Derry idolising Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Resident Evil’s Jill Valentine, and Kitana from Mortal Kombat.

Rory joins John to talk about the journey from small-city childhood (an actual Derry Girl) to senior leadership in public health, and how queerness, resilience, and a love of powerful women shaped the man he became. They chat about navigating identity in Northern Ireland, finding your tribe (or his own Scooby gang!), and building a career dedicated to improving people’s lives, very often behind the scenes.

Rory reflects on the path that led to him being recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 LGBTQ+ FLOWERS Awards, and what it means to lead with empathy in a world that doesn’t always make that easy.

It’s thoughtful, funny, and occasionally geeky; a reminder that the kids who grew up obsessed with slaying monsters sometimes end up tackling the real ones.

🗣️ Why Listen?

If you’re seeking genuine conversations that reflect the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community, Proudly Said offers a platform for those narratives.

📣 Connect with Us – ProudlySaid.co.uk

Subscribe: Stay updated with new episodes.

Share: If this resonates with you, share it with others who might find it meaningful.

Feedback: We value your thoughts. Reach out with comments or suggestions.

Support: Join The Front Row for less than £3 a month, supporting a local queer creator, or buy us a bespoke coffee or three! 🙂