Representation Reflected

In the final episode of series one, the roles are reversed as Jess steps into the interviewer’s seat and invites me to reflect on my own experiences of representation. This conversation focuses on my journey as a queer person — from growing up with a near-complete absence of representation, to gradually recognising, embracing and finding meaning in the representation that didexist, often in subtle...

In this special episode, we’re exploring the powerful ways books can serve as mirrors, anchors and companions throughout our lives. Instead of focusing on a single theme — such as identity or values — this conversation looks at how representation naturally emerges in reading. I’m joined by Cema and Mel, who share their journeys with reading and the moments when books made them feel recognised and...

This time I chat with Amy to explore what representation looks like when you’re navigating education and early career choices as a creative professional. Amy reflects on growing up with a strong creative identity, yet receiving mixed signals about what a “realistic” or “acceptable” future should look like. Together, we talk about the subtle ways these early messages shape confidence, self-worth, a...

I chat with Adam about the deep, often quiet workings of self-worth - what shapes it and the ways early environments can leave long shadows on how we see ourselves. Adam shares a thoughtful and generous reflection on growing up in a space where value was often tied to expectations. We talk about how those messages can stay with us well into adulthood, influencing confidence,relationships and the b...

In this episode of Representation Reflected , I’m joined onceagain by Jess - this time exploring the kinds of representation that sit outside our lived experience and still shape who we become. Together, we look at the role models, stories, and figures who have inspired us not because they share our identities, but because they reflect our values, the way we want to live our lives, or the aspirati...

This time on Representation Reflected , I chat with Sophie to explore a journey of queer self-discovery shaped by years of limited representation. We talk about what happens when the stories around us never reflect the relationships and how found family can change your perspectives. Sophie shares reflections on realising queerness later in life, the early assumptions that formed in the absence of...

For this episode of Representation Reflected , I reconnect with Jess, who first appeared earlier in the series to share her experiences of living with a chronic illness and navigating visibility in spaces that weren’t built with that in mind. Together, we reflect on how representation of chronic illness has evolved since that first conversation - in media, workplaces, and everyday life - and where...

This episode of Representation Reflected explores Cema and Heidi’s experiences with ethnicity as they've moved between cultures. Cema and Heidi share great personal examples of entertainment, media and personal situations that highlight important representation can be in a 'home from home'. Give this ep a listen to learn about how perceptions of home can change and be redefined as you move around...

This episode of Representation Reflected explores Mel’s experiences with body image, specifically depictions of diverse bodies and how that has played a part in shaping her own self-perceptions. Mel shares really pertinent examples of entertainment, media and personal situations that highlight negative representation growing up and highlights great instances that show how far body positivity has c...

For this episode, I’m joined by Saleena as we explore her journey with intersectional representation in themes of gender, ethnicity and religion. As a Muslim woman, Saleena highlights how a lack of intersectional representation growing up shaped her as a person. She is a strong advocate for change in many causes and shares her opinions here on the need for small actions to make a difference and ed...

This podcast shines a light on the unifying power of representation through lived experiences and personal stories. In series one episode two, I’m joined by Jess as we talk representation in STEM/science, focusing on the challenges faced by women and those with chronic illnesses. In her career, Jess has worked in the development of analytical methods to test new drugs in the pharmaceutical industr...

This podcast delves into representation and its unique power to affirm and shape our aspirations and life purpose. In series one episode one , I introduce myself and share the story behind the podcast. I talk about why representation matters so deeply to me, how my own lived experiences have shaped this perspective and why I believe that stories of being seen can be life-changing. I also give you...

Welcome to Representation Reflected — the podcast about the power of seeing yourself in the world. I’m Zac Terry and each week, we explore identity, culture, and media, from the stories we grew up with to the ones we still need. You’ll hear honest reflections, bold conversations and practical insights from people across different backgrounds. _ Music by  Breakz Studios  from  Pixabay Sound Effect...