It's our first episode - and boy can't you tell.You'll have to forgive us, we're amateurs - but what we lack in skills we make up for in enthusiasm and an amazing guest.Join us as we discuss all things Swarla, those photos, bringing up baby and the upcoming nuptials.Plus we hear from Samenda, a Swarla fan with a big story to tell.

Lara's Story

The PodcastBeyond Swarla is inspired by the Coronation Street pairing of Carla Connor and Lisa Swain (Swarla to its fans). Yes, it's television - and yes, it absolutely is soap - but the dynamics it portrays are very real and so are the experiences of the people watching.We want this to feel meaningful rather than just about the fandom, so the podcast explores the real-life relationship themes that the show brings to the screen - by using the fictional experiences seen on the show as a springboard to talk to real people about their own lived experiences.It's about acknowledging the behaviours and the stories that many people see on the soap, that reflects their own lives - and creating a safe space to talk about them openly.Your HostsCarianne hails from deepest darkest Middle England, although she was born and bred in London. She worked in Human Resources for 3 decades before deciding to jack it all in and become a dog walker. Prone to emotional outbursts and too much swearing, she is a total fangirl with nothing on her mind but outrageously beautiful and talented queer women. Hailing from the front line rather than Middle England, Elle is a Police Sergeant with nearly 20 years experience keeping the peace - though nothing could prepare them for the emotional chaos of Swarla. A little bit random, with a big heart and a habit of getting slightly too invested, they bring sharp observations, unexpected tangents, dry humour, and a uniquely wired perspective that keeps things interesting.