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.

The Open Table: In Conversation with Midsumma Festival CEO, Karen Bryant

We’re thrilled to welcome a true leader in the LGBTQ+ community to the Open Table this week! Join your hosts Craig M. Brown and Bepsi.bad as they sit down with the Chief Executive of Midsumma Festival, Karen Bryant.

Karen, also a self-proclaimed serial shutterbug, joins us to chat all things Midsumma. As we look ahead to January and February 2026, this episode couldn’t be more timely. In a world where representation is more crucial than ever, we dive into the incredible programming and events that are designed to celebrate and uplift our diverse queer communities.

She shares a fascinating story about how her mother, a staunch Liberal supporter, started to sense her queerness and mistakenly equated it with her daughter’s future political leanings towards the Labour Party.

And of course, we tackle the question on everyone’s lips: Why are the major Midsumma events, like Carnival and the T Dance, held on a Sunday? Karen provides some insightful answers that might just surprise you.

Don’t miss this engaging and important conversation on JOY 94.9‘s The Open Table. Tune in to hear about what’s coming up in the 2026 festival and gain a deeper understanding of the passion and purpose behind Midsumma.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!

Mentioned in this episode:

• Midsumma Festival
• @midsummafestival on Instagram
• JOY 94.9
• @theopentable on Instagram

The post Episode 10- Season 3- Karen Bryant- Midsumma CEO appeared first on The Open Table.

With @wesleycentre, we are going back to our roots to explore how faith and queerness can connect thoughtfully and with care.

Robyn is a theologian and author whose work bridges Scripture and public life. As a self confessed straight woman and ally, she embraces an affirming posture toward the LGBTQIA+ community, grounded in scholarship, compassion, and lived experience.

The post Episode 9- Season 3- Robin Whitaker 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.

Jocelyn shares a powerful journey through faith, identity, transformation, and the beauty of second chances in both love and life.

In this conversation, we explore what it means to be a demisexual, non-binary, lesbian trans woman — including experiences of coming out later in life, stepping away from religious spaces, navigating family dynamics, and entering into a new marriage grounded in truth and authenticity.

This is a deeply honest and thought-provoking episode that invites reflection on identity, belonging, and the courage it takes to live openly.

Pull up a chair The Open Table.

The post Episode 2- Season 3- Jocelyn Bishop appeared first on The Open Table.

We’re thrilled to kick off the new season with the hilarious and heartfelt Carmelo Costa — comedian, cat lover, and regular at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

In this episode, Carmelo opens up about coming out, life after catholicism, navigating the comedy scene, and everything in between. Expect laughs, honesty, and a few surprises along the way.

The post Episode 1- Season 3- Carmelo Costa appeared first on The Open Table.

This episode, we’re joined by not one but two dazzling Deans.

First up, Dean Arcuri — once the “busy homosexual,” now the “business homosexual” — talks about his new role at the helm of Q News and what it means to take queer media into the future. Oh, and did we mention he just won the Outstanding Contribution to Media at the 11th Victorian Pride Awards?

Then we meet Dean Addams — also known as the fabulous Linh Uendo — who brings us glitz, glamour, and grace as the reigning Mx. Congeniality 2025 from MEDEA. We also get into Disability Pride Month — what it means, why it matters, and how it shows up in queer spaces.

Two icons. One mic. And plenty of camp, courage, and conversation.

Follow us on INSTAGRAM for the glam, the gossip, and all the good gay stuff.

The post Episode 19- Season 2 – Double Deans appeared first on The Open Table.

Sophie Jest is back for her second guest appearance — because once just wasn’t enough. Lawyer by day, lead singer of queer punk band RUB by night, she’s the kind of guest who can give you legal advice and scream into a mic — in the best possible way.

In this episode, Sophie unpacks the realities of navigating the legal system as an LGBTQ+ person in Australia. We talk about:

The concept of minority stress

How to speak to the police.

Where discrimination still exists — in trans healthcare, workplace laws, and the migration system

How to access queer-friendly legal advice and support

She gives us solid legal tips we hope you never need, but if you do — you’ll be glad you listened.

Need legal help or advocacy support? These folks have your back:

Southside Justice

Queerspace

QLaw (Fitzroy Legal Service)

Rainbow Door

Because legal help should come with community, not judgement.

The post Episode 18- Season 2 – Sophie Jest 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.

Hosts @craigmbrown and @bepsi.bad guide us through a joy-filled conversation that’s equal parts fabulous and glitter.

The post Episode 16- Season 2 – Dean Adams aka. Linh Uendo appeared first on The Open Table.

In this follow-up episode, BB opens up about growing up Buddhist and how cultural differences have shaped his worldview. We talk about the transformative power of volunteering, and why it’s become such a vital part of his life and leadership. As Laird Leatherman 2025, BB reflects on what the title means to him, the responsibilities it carries, and his passionate work with Switchboard Victoria (https://www.switchboard.org.au), a key support service for LGBTQIA+ communities across Australia.

It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation about service, self-expression, and showing up for community. Tune in to hear how BB is using his platform to uplift others—and why representation matters more than ever.

Listen now and tap into the spirit of Australia’s queer volunteer and leather scenes.

The post Episode 15- Season 2 – BB Returns to The Open Table appeared first on The Open Table.

We talk about his journey from Sri Lanka to Darwin, and finally to Melbourne, where he found both a home and a community. BB shares how volunteering has shaped his sense of purpose, how he found pride in his leather title, and what it really means to live out loud as your truest self.

This is more than a leather story—it’s a migration story, a queer story, and a human one.

The post Episode 14- Season 2 – BB Mr Laird Leatherman appeared first on The Open Table.

This week’s guests: Demetra Giannakopoulos, film writer and director, shares what she loves about volunteering and Aiv Puglielli MP reflects on what it means to be part of the JOY community and discusses the recent election and the power of queer media.

Listen now on your favourite podcast platform, and consider supporting JOY during Radiothon. Independent voices matter.

The post Episode 13- Season 2 – Radiothon Edition. appeared first on The Open Table.

In this powerful and personal conversation, James shares his story of navigating a life-changing cancer diagnosis, and adapting to life with a disability. We also explore his role in the @pushforbetter campaign, and how he continues to break boundaries in sport, fashion, and advocacy.

Whether you’re here for LGBTQIA+ stories, First Nations voices, or inspiring journeys of resilience, this one’s not to be missed.

Check out https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/

The post Episode 12- Season 2 with James Parr appeared first on The Open Table.

We also reflect on the passing of Pope Francis and the complex legacy he leaves behind.

The post Episode 11- Season 2 with Dr. Lauren Rosewarne 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.

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