Tilly has been a trailblazer throughout their career, from being the inaugural captain and Best & Fairest winner at Hawthorn to their recent move to the GWS Giants. Beyond their on-field achievements, Tilly is a vital voice for the LGBTQIA+ community.

The post Episode 2 – Season 4 – AFLW Star Tilly Lucas-Rodd appeared first on The Open Table.

Joe Ball is leading systemic reform to advance the rights, safety and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people across Victoria.

The post Episode 1 – Season 4 – Joe Ball, Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities appeared first on The Open Table.

Listen now now to celebrate the end of an amazing year with The Open Table!

The post Episode 19- Season 3- Joanna Jones – Year Finale appeared first on The Open Table.

But that’s not all! Azzad gives us an exclusive look into his current project, the short film he’s writing and directing, @beforeitgoesdown. Get the inside scoop on the inspiration, process, and vision behind his work.

Host @craigmbrown and Azzad Azman go head-to-head on the year’s best and worst in film, capping it off with a passionate discussion about their all-time queer film favourites.

It’s loud, it’s live, and it’s essential viewing (or listening)! Don’t miss this one.

And dont forget to subscribe to The Open Table IG page

The post Episode 18- Season 3- Azzad Asman appeared first on The Open Table.

Dr. Wilson joins us to share his personal journey through faith, his experiences with Christianity, and the deeply challenging world of conversion therapy. This conversation goes beyond the headlines, offering a raw and intelligent look at how these complex dynamics have shaped his life and his incredible work.

Dr. Lucas Wilson is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Toronto, and a leading voice in the critical examination of practices intended to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. He is the editor of the important and timely book, ‘Shame-Sex Attraction.’

In this episode, Lucas doesn’t just discuss his research; he opens up about his own story.

The post Episode 17- Season 3- Lucas Wilson appeared first on The Open Table.

He joins us fresh off the release of his powerful debut memoir, How to Dodge Flying Sandals, which hit shelves in May this year. This is a must-listen episode, as Daniel dives deep into the intersection of queer and migrant experiences—a perfect fit for the conversations we champion here on The Open Table.

In this deeply personal conversation, we go beyond the standard narrative of “coming out.” Daniel shares his nuanced and moving “letting in / coming out experience in a migrant family.”

We discuss the challenges, humor, and heart involved in reconciling culture and sexuality, and how he navigated this intimate journey with his family. Daniel offers valuable insights into the concept of “letting in”—fostering acceptance and understanding by opening a door to your world, rather than simply bursting through one.

The post Episode 16- Season 3- Daniel Nour appeared first on The Open Table.

In this must-listen episode, Tom joins host Craig Brown to share the intimate story behind the music, diving into his creative process and the personal and professional journey that shaped the EP. He’ll also discuss how the music bravely explores life’s contradictions, including themes of love & disappointment, hope & grief, queer romance & religion, and the push-and-pull of family.

Get ready for an insightful, vulnerable, and moving conversation that offers the perfect complement to the EP.

The post Episode 15- Season 3- Tom Nethersole appeared first on The Open Table.

Before he was making magic behind the scenes, Daniel lived a life under the spotlight as a former circus performer and professional actor. Tune in as he shares thrilling stories from the Big Top, discusses his journey into theatrical life, his personal religious experiences, and how those unique experiences shape his work today.

The post Episode 14- Season 3- Daniel McBurnie appeared first on The Open Table.

Steff’s work is dedicated to flipping the man-made script on gender and sexuality to reveal God’s truth about LGBTIQA+ people—a message of celebration, not condemnation. If you or a loved one have ever questioned the compatibility of faith and gender identity, this episode is essential listening.

In this conversation, we explore how Steff’s personal journey as a transgender pastor has informed a groundbreaking theological perspective. We discuss the mission of Gender Expansive Faith: to equip Christians with the understanding and tools they need to truly welcome and celebrate their transgender loved ones, and to help queer and trans siblings discover the beauty they bring to the world and to their spiritual lives.

Listen in to discover a wider, more loving experience of faith that sees gender diversity as a gift, affirming that God celebrates and 100% affirms us, as we are.

️Don’t miss this crucial episode!

Host: @craigmbrown
Guest: @steff_fenton

You can also find The Open Table Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms shortly after the broadcast.

Find Out More
The Podcast (Instagram)

Guest’s Official Site: https://www.steffenton.co/

The Book: Learn more about and purchase Gender Expansive Faith.

The Radio Station: https://joy.org.au/

The post Episode 13- Season 3- A Return to Roots and Expansive Faith with Author Steff Fenton appeared first on The Open Table.

The amazing and articulate Associate Professor, Lauren Rosewarne, joins us on @theopentable on @joy949!

This week, we dive deep into a year of evolving US and global politics, exploring what it all means for the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. Lauren discusses the complex landscape of “Trump 2.0” with amateur political enthusiast, @craigmbrown, offering her expert analysis and unpacking the chaos, power dynamics, and queer political implications.

We want to hear from you! send us a message DM your questions to us or directly .

Listen Now: Find the full episode with Associate Professor Lauren Rosewarne wherever you get your The Open Table podcasts, or tune in on JOY 94.9!

#LGBTQIA #QueerPolitics #LaurenRosewarne #JOY949 #TheOpenTable #Podcast #Trump2020 #FreeSpeech #EpsteinFiles #Politics #MediaAnalysis

The post Episode 12- Season 3- Professor, Lauren Rosewarne appeared first on The Open Table.

In this must-listen episode, we dive deep into faith, expansive love, and the countless ways we all live and love. Brian shares his unique perspective on non-monogamy and spirituality, moving beyond stigma to explore how different forms of relationship can be a source of profound spiritual and relational growth for everyone, whether you’re monogamous or non-monogamous.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Share this episode with anyone interested in faith, relationships, and building a life of authentic, expansive love.

The post Episode 11- Season 3- Brian G Murphy appeared first on The Open Table.

We’re thrilled to welcome back @jonyberryofficial to @theopentable this episode on @joy949!

It’s been 12 months since Jony won Mr Universe, and he joins us to share what life has looked like since then. From the challenges to the incredible opportunities, Jony opens up about the importance of authenticity and living true to who you are.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Jony’s powerful coming out story
• Behind the scenes of his DNA Magazine feature shoot
• His unique cultural identity as part Tasmanian Aboriginal (Paola) and Portuguese
• The lessons he’s learned about visibility, identity, and community

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates self-expression, heritage, and the courage to live openly.

Don’t miss this powerful chat with Jony Berry!

The post Episode 8- Season 3- Jony Berry appeared first on The Open Table.

Kristina’s creative career spans stage, screen and music, but her story also weaves through faith and identity. From an early age, she was immersed in religion and witnessed what it really takes for someone in that world to step forward and come out. Those experiences have shaped her art, her voice, and her perspective on community and belonging.

Listeners may also recognise Kristina from her time behind the mic hosting her own program on @joy949. With that background, she’ll feel right at home in the studio — ready to share not only her journey but also her insights on navigating visibility, creativity and resilience.

Join us Wednesday night on The Open Table for a conversation that brings together music, storytelling, identity and courage.

The post Episode 7- Season 3- Kristina Benton appeared first on The Open Table.

We take a closer look at how the AFL is handling homophobia both on and off the field, and we loudly applaud former Eagles player Mitch Brown for coming out as the very first Bisexual in the AFL.

Also, it’s been making headlines, but is the AFL truly committed to real change? And what does Snoop Dog have to do with it? Listen in and find out.

The post Episode 6- Season 3- AFL appeared first on The Open Table.

You won’t want to miss this inspiring, raw, and courageous conversation with the vibrant @mediocrekate_ — the voice behind numerous podcasts (including @toopeaspod) and a true advocate for living authentically.

The post Episode 5- Season 3- Kate Mulholland appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 4- Season 3- Thorne Music appeared first on The Open Table.

Non-binary and vibrant with both masculine and feminine energy, Maddie reflects on navigating queer identity in the Middle East, growing up Muslim and becoming spiritual, and the ongoing path toward family connection and radical self-acceptance. They speak candidly about their pilgrimage to Mecca—praying for good hair along the way—and how hair became a symbol of rebellion, release, and living truthfully.

Maddie reminds us that being authentic is holy.

The post Episode 3- Season 3- Maddie Q appeared first on The Open Table.

Paul joins us for a heartfelt and open conversation, giving JOY listeners a rare chance to connect with the voice behind the leadership. You might know him from those familiar Radiothon mornings — but this time, he’s sharing more of his story.

We talk about identity, navigating life as he/they, and the deeply personal experience of losing a partner — and how to be there for someone going through grief. It’s honest, moving, and full of gentle insights.

The post Episode 17- Season 2 – JOY Media CEO Paul Scott Williams appeared first on The Open Table.

Triana Butler has shared her story with courage, honesty, and heart — now it’s our turn to show up for her. She’s currently fundraising for gender-affirming surgery, a vital step in her transition. If her story moved you, please consider donating or sharing her GoFundMe:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/trianas-surgery-fund

Every contribution — big or small — helps make this next chapter possible.

The post Episode 10- Season 2 with Triana Butler appeared first on The Open Table.

Aiv didn’t set out to be a politician — but when the personal became political, it led him straight into Parliament. In this episode, he shares his coming out story, what it’s like to be gay in politics, and how identity, advocacy, and community continue to shape his path.

Before politics, Aiv was immersed in the independent arts scene as a performer, composer and producer. With classical roots in trumpet and composition, he trained at NIDA and WAAPA, bridging the creative and political worlds with a rare authenticity.

We discuss how to show up in queer identity, creative expression, and activism — and how holding onto it can be both a source of strength and a form of resistance. Oh, and yes — he also explains how he came to be known as “the twink in pink.”

The post Episode 9- Season 2 with Aiv Puglielli MP appeared first on The Open Table.

In this episode, Marc opens up about his HIV journey, sharing his experiences from his diagnosis to where he is today. He talks about coming out, the challenges he faced with addiction and the support he found in family and community. It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation about resilience, identity, and the power of connection.

A must-listen for anyone who values real stories and real talk.

The post Episode 8- Season 2 with Marc Mendoza appeared first on The Open Table.

What’s it like to be a young, queer pop artists in Naarm/Melbourne? This week, we’re joined again by Tom Nethersole, fresh off the release of his new single Ardmona Rd, and Robert Baxter, whose latest single CAMBOY has been making waves. They share their journey as artists, from growing up in country Victoria to gaining unexpected recognition—including being mistaken for an international act!

They reflect on their experiences, connecting through music and art, and navigating the industry as emerging pop artists and role models. Tune in for an open, fun, and lively conversation!

The post Episode 7- Season 2 with Tom Nethersole and Robert Baxter appeared first on The Open Table.

Invisible Boys has been widely praised for its raw and authentic portrayal of queer identity, exploring the lives of gay teenagers in Geraldton, Western Australia, during the 2017 same-sex marriage plebiscite. The series doesn’t shy away from bold storytelling, offering unapologetic representation in Australian television.

Nicholas shares insights into casting, filming intimate scenes, and his personal journey—including the unexpected role his grandfather’s ghost played in his coming out story.

Tune in for a fabulous conversation on the creative process behind one of the most talked-about queer dramas of the year.

The post Episode 6- Season 2 with Nicholas Verso appeared first on The Open Table.

If you’re looking for inspiration, insight, and a reminder that you’re not alone—this episode is for you!

The post Episode 5 – Season 2 With Clint Dowdell. Part 2 appeared first on The Open Table.

If you’re searching for your HIV community, you’ve found it here. Tune in for an episode that’s as eye-opening as it is uplifting!

The post Episode 4 – Season 2 With Clint Dowdell. Part 1 appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 3 – Season 2 With Couple Em and Tika appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 21 – Season 1 finale with Tom Nethersole appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 20 – Sophie Jest appeared first on The Open Table.

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The post Episode 11 – Jony Berry (Part 2) appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 10 – “Lara” appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 9 – Jony Berry (Part 1) appeared first on The Open Table.

The post Episode 8 – Sameer Mane appeared first on The Open Table.

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