Episode 126 - Leading with Pride – LGBT+ Inclusion in the Armed Forces with Commander Roly Woods

In this powerful episode of Battling with Business, we sit down with Commander Roly Woods, a retired Royal Navy officer with over 46 years of service, to explore the personal and institutional journey of LGBTQ+ inclusion in the British Armed Forces. Now the LGBT Armed Forces Community Memorial Officer for the charity Fighting with Pride, Roly reflects on his early motivations to join the Navy, leadership experiences, and the dramatic transformation of military culture since the lifting of the ban on LGBT personnel in 2000.

Together, we delve into the challenges LGBTQ+ service members faced under institutional discrimination — from living in secrecy, to emotional isolation, to dishonourable discharges and loss of medals. Roly shares deeply moving personal stories and historic insights into how courageous individuals and strong leadership drove systemic change across the Royal Navy, leading to today’s more inclusive and emotionally intelligent environment.

We also discuss the ongoing efforts of Fighting with Pride, including:

• Raising awareness of the Veterans’ Financial Recognition Scheme

• Supporting LGBTQ+ veterans in restoring medals and service records

• Building community through initiatives like the Snowdonia retreat

• Leading the creation of the LGBT Armed Forces Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum

Whether you’re interested in military leadership, organizational change, or the evolving rights of LGBTQ+ veterans, this episode provides an essential perspective on how empathy, courage, and advocacy can reshape even the most traditional institutions.

Listen now to hear about the untold stories behind the UK military’s transformation — and how leaders like Commander Woods continue to inspire change today.