Well, Well, Well

Mob+ – Support for First Nations communities living with HIV

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 04:37:14 +0000

We’re joined by Bruce Fitzgerald, a proud member of Mob+, a unique group for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with HIV, supported through the Thorne Harbour Positive Living Centre.

With World AIDS Day just behind us and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander HIV Awareness Week underway, it’s the perfect time to talk about the group.

Bruce is here to help us understand why Mob+ exists, what makes it so important, and what’s happening in the space for First Nations people living with HIV.

To keep up with the group, check out the Positive Living Centre Facebook page.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Unseen Abuse, Coercive Control, and more

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:16:14 +0000

Continuing our 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence series, we’re discussing Unseen Abuse.

Joel is joined again by Vincent and Gus from Thorne Harbour Health to learn more about what Unseen Abuse is, how it might look, and how to seek help.

If this episode has raised any issues for you, help is available.

1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service at 1800 737 732
QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia at 1800 184 527 or via their webchat
Rainbow Door is a free helpline and specialist support service for LGBTIQA+ Victorians, their friends and families at 1800 729 367

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

What is Family of Origin Violence?

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:24:56 +0000

What is Family of Origin Violence and how does it affect our LGBTQIA+ communities?

Joel speaks with Gus and Vincent from Thorne Harbour Health about this issue in light of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

If this episode has raised any issues for you, help is available.

1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service at 1800 737 732
QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia at 1800 184 527 or via their webchat
Rainbow Door is a free helpline and specialist support service for LGBTIQA+ Victorians, their friends and families at 1800 729 367

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Crossing Lines: LGBTQ+ Sexual Violence Research

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 03:21:07 +0000

A growing body of research shows that lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and other sexuality and gender-diverse (LGBTQ+) people experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence.

However, there is limited understanding of the characteristics and contexts of those who use sexual violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Crossing Lines from the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health, and Society (or ARCSHS) will investigate unwanted sexual behaviours against LGBTQ+ people, aiming to generate actionable knowledge to improve responses to such violence.

It focuses on the social forces, risk factors, and characteristics of those who use sexual violence.

ARCSHS will conduct interviews with victim-survivors, those who use violence, and service providers to develop resources that better support victim-survivors and enhance interventions for those who use violence.

Learn more about Crossing Lines here, and if you have used violence in the past and are comfortable sharing your story, contact ARCSHS at 03 9479 8700 or arcshs@latrobe.edu.au

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Better Together Conference 2025

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:00:08 +0000

We discuss the LGBTIQA+ Health, Wellbeing, and Inclusion conference in Adelaide, Better Together and hear from presenters at the show including:

Connor McLeod about Ohanga Rearea, a queer inclusion framework based on Maori storytelling,
Leigh Andrew Hill from outinperth.com about the future of LGBTIQA+ media, and
Polly Parker from TheyConnect about their Pride Tolerance Compass for brands and marketers looking to meaningfully increase their connection with LGBTIQA+ communities.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

20 Years of Well Well Well: 2010 Revisited

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 10:00:13 +0000

In the final episode of our series reflecting on 20 years and 1000 episodes of Well Well Well, we speak with Jason Asselin previously of the Victorian AIDS Council about the show circa 2010.

Jason walks us through a time before PrEP where social media was in its early days and the innovative work VAC (now Thorne Harbour Health) did in this space.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

20 Years of Well Well Well: 2015 Revisited

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:00:13 +0000

Show alum Renee Thompson joins us as guest co-host on a walk down memory lane circa 2015, discussing the Marriage Equality debate and Thorne Harbour’s shift from HIV and gay men’s health to the broader LGBTIQA+ communities.

We also hear from outgoing Thorne Harbour Health CEO Simon Ruth about his 12 years at the organisation and the issues affecting our communities during that time.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

20 Years of Well Well Well: 2020’s Sex, COVID, Lockdowns, and Sextech

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:00:41 +0000

Continuing our celebration of 20 years of Well Well Well, we’re revisiting a bit closer to home this episode: 2020.

Michael Whelan joins Jack and Cal as guest cohost to discuss sex and intimacy during the COVID lockdown periods, as well as Sextech.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

20 Years of Well Well Well: 2005 Revisited on Episode 1000!

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:00:06 +0000

Well Well Well has been broadcasting for over 20 years and now 1000 episodes!

Jack and Cal are joined by Tex McKenzie and Martin Holt to speak about the health and wellbeing of our communities back in 2005 when the show first began.

We also discuss the impact of another long running project, the GBQ+ (previously just Gay) Community Periodic Survey, which has been running for 30 years.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

International Lesbian Day with Dykes on Bikes

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:00:49 +0000

Rachel is joined by Reah Saunders, the acting President of Dykes on Bikes to talk about the future of Dykes on Bikes, and what International Lesbian Day means to her personally, and to the community she rides with.

Learn more about Dykes on Bikes at their website: https://dykesonbikesmelbourne.org.au/

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

ASHM Conference 2025 Part 2

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 11:00:38 +0000

We continue our coverage from the Australasian Society of HIV Medicines (ASHM) Conference with conversations.

Joel speaks with Brooke and Rodrigo from the Burnett Foundation about the criminalisation of HIV in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Leigh Boucher talks about a project from Macquarie University exploring the impact of the first years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in its Australian epicentre, Darlinghurst in Sydney’s inner east.

We also hear about a study into sexual health education for young LGBTIQA+ people and their parents from Alex from La Trobe University and one of the study’s participants, Ruby.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

ASHM Conference 2025 Part 1

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:00:54 +0000

We head to Adelaide for the HIV and sexual health conference from the Australasian Society of HIV Medicine or ASHM.

Ella from the Kirby Institute discusses the intersection of HIV with culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

We also hear from Larisa and Carla from UNSW about the Stigma Indicators Monitoring Project for people living with HIV.

Lastly, Dr Rona Carroll from the University Of Otago Wellington speaks about gender affirming care in general practice in New Zealand.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Celebrate Bisexuality Day with Big Bi+ Questions

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:00:48 +0000

Each episode, Big Bi+ Questions on JOY tackles topics for the Bi+ community like “Am I still bisexual if I have a preference in gender,” “do I have to come out as bi+,” or “Why can’t we sit on chairs properly,” and answers them over the course of an hour.

Rachel and Jordan are joined in the studio by Tamzyn and Jase to blast through a bunch of Big Bi+ Questions in the limited time they have with these bicons.

Listen to Big Bi+ Questions at joy.org.au/bigbiquestions or wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Tech-Facilitated Violence Support

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:33 +0000

We’ve recently seen a wave of targeted attacks where perpetrators used fake profiles to lure people before ambushing them with robbery, assault, and homophobic abuse.

In response, Switchboard Victoria has launched a new dedicated helpline via the Rainbow Door service (details below) to support LGBTIQA+ people who’ve experienced violence linked to dating and meet-up apps.

It’s a serious issue, and in this episode Jack and Cal speak about the helpline and the support it offers with Switchboard CEO, Jenna Tuke.

Mentioned in this episode:

Our previous episode with Starlady discussing the Transfemme resource
Rainbow Door, the Free Victorian LGBTIQA+ Service available 10AM – 5PM, 7 days per week at 1800 729 367
- Choose option 1 if you want to discuss an experience relating to Tech-Facilitated Violence
QLife, the Free Australia wide LGBTIQ+ service available 3PM – 12AM, 7 days per week at 1800 184 527

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Sexologist Kendall Buckley on sex, relationships and pleasure

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:09:39 +0000

Jordan and Rachel speak with queer sexologist Kendall Buckley about how to navigate sex and relationships. As this is Women’s Health Week, we also look at some of the issues that affect LGBTIQ+ women in particular and how we can better advocate for our pleasure. We dive into the myths about polyamory, non-monogamy, or kink in LGBTIQ+ circles, and how Kendall’s work challenges heteronormative models of relationships and intimacy.

Kendall Buckley is a sexologist and clinical nurse consultant who works exclusively with LGBTQIA+/FLINTA communities. Drawing on relational therapy and feminist theory, her evidence based person-centred practice specialises in queer sex, identity, relationships, neurodiversity and PMDD. To find out more, visit kendallbuckley.com or @kendall.buckley.sexologist.

Wear It Purple with Minus 18

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:00:24 +0000

Wear It Purple Day is celebrating 15 years of action and support for young LGBTIQA+ people.

Founded in 2010 in response to stories of bullying and harassment, it’s a chance for us to show up for our young people, affirming that they are seen, supported, and valued.

Rachel and Jordan spoke to Reb Mery, Brand Marketing Manager from Minus 18 about the significance of this day for our diverse communities.

They discussed their personal experiences as young LGBTIQA+ people in highschool, and the generational differences and similarities that remain.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Celebrating 10 Years of SAMESH

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:00:15 +0000

SAMESH, the South Australian Mobilisation and Empowerment for Sexual Health is an HIV/STI Prevention and Health Promotion program which recently celebrated ten years since its foundation.

This partnership between Thorne Harbour Health and SHINE SA came about in 2015 after the AIDS Council of South Australia (ACSA) closed a few years prior.

Jack spoke with two people who were instrumental in its formation and ongoing operation:

Colin Batrouney, Director of Health Promotion and Community Engagement at Thorne Harbour Health
Holley Skene, Chief Executive Officer of SHINE SA

They discuss how SAMESH was designed to address gaps in sexual health education for our diverse communities in SA in 2015, some of the significant health promotion campaigns, and the lessons to come from overseeing this work over the past ten years.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

TGD Inclusion in AOD Residential Services

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 02:10:31 +0000

Trans and gender diverse (TGD) people face significant barriers when accessing alcohol and other drug (AOD) residential services—barriers that are too often overlooked. In this episode, we explore new research unpacking those challenges, and ask: what does inclusive care actually look like?

We’re joined by Nic Robinson Griffith from Thorne Harbour Health, and Annette Peart and Blair Hill from Turning Point. Together, they delve into inconsistent practices across services, gaps in staff training, and the real-world consequences of exclusion—through both professional insights and lived experience.

This is a call to action for policy makers, services, and workers alike. Read the full report.

Doxy-PEP, Queer Housing, Private Health Insurance and more with Emen8

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 11:00:54 +0000

Emen8.com.au is an Australian sexual health and wellbeing platform for gay, bisexual, and queer men.

The site is vital in the HIV prevention space, providing clear information about health, sex, relationships and community.

As the HIV and sexual health landscape evolves, so does Emen8, with a renewed focus on multicultural inclusion and newer prevention tools like Doxy-PEP.

Joining us this episode are Project Lead Chris Williams and Content Writer Oli McAuslan to discuss a wide range of topics including:

the rise of Doxy-PEP,
queer housing,
private health insurance and why navigating the system can be uniquely complicated for queer men, especially those who are overseas-born,
HIV self-testing,
building trust with audiences who may not have grown up with Australian healthcare norms, and more.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

A Week of Leather

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 01:06:53 +0000

We’re diving into two iconic events in Melbourne’s queer community: A Week of Leather (AWOL) and the long-awaited return of Northside Bizarre.

AWOL and Northside Bizarre have long been cornerstones of Melbourne’s queer scene, creating vital spaces for connection, expression, and celebration within leather, fetish, and kink cultures.

We’re joined by Dean Arcuri and Brett Lasham from The Laird Hotel, who run A Week of Leather, and Craig Bascand from Down and Dirty.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Blood Donation

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:00:08 +0000

This week on Well Well Well, we’re joined by Josh Smith from Lifeblood and Professor John Kaldor from the Kirby Institute to unpack the recent changes to plasma donation rules, now allowing thousands more—including gay, bi+ and trans Australians—to donate without a wait period.

We also look ahead to 2026, when gender-neutral rules for blood and platelet donation are set to be introduced.

HIV Futures 11

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:00:34 +0000

HIV Futures is the largest and longest-running study of people living with HIV in Australia. Running since 1997, the study undertakes periodic surveys of Australians living with HIV.

Dr Thomas Norman joins us to discuss the study, what it aims to accomplish, some of the findings in previous years, and why people living with HIV should consider taking the survey themselves.

Learn more about HIV Futures 11 at hivfutures.org.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Birthing Belonging

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:00:40 +0000

We speak with Becky about Birthing Belonging, which offers inclusive and accessible childbirth and early parenting education for LGBTQIA+ families through their Rainbow Kin sessions.

These sessions explore Inclusive Childbirth Education covering labour preparation, birth options, navigating the healthcare system, and creating affirming birth plans that reflect your values, as well as Early Parenting, newborn care, feeding, sleep, bonding, and building confidence as new parents.

Learn more about Birthing Belonging at their website or on Instagram.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Adelaide Pride Gala and Poslink

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:00:11 +0000

In this special episode of Well Well Well, we’re coming to you from two corners of queer community celebration and connection. First, we head to the Adelaide Pride Gala to hear from this year’s award winners—recognising trailblazers, community champions, and unsung heroes making a difference across South Australia.

Then we sit down with Tom Herbert from Living Positive Victoria for a crossover conversation about their podcast Poslink+, exploring the power of peer voices, creative partnerships like HIV Unwrapped, and Bi+ inclusion in HIV services.

50 Years of Gay Decriminalisation in South Australia

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 11:00:23 +0000

South Australia this year is celebrating 50 years of gay decriminalisation with a bevy of events from street parties to sport events and nature walks.

The flagship Adelaide Pride Gala is also taking place on Friday June 27th to honour the state’s history, celebrate the community and recognise those making a positive impact across South Australia.

In this episode of WWW we’ll hear from South Australians who were there when homosexuality was decriminalised including:

South Australian Legislative Council Member, the Honorable Ian Hunter
Gay Liberationist and Historian William Sergeant OAM, and
CEO of the History Trust of South Australia, Greg Mackie OAM

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Somewhere Sober

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:00:33 +0000

The City of Yarra is partnering with VicHealth to kick off Dry July with Somewhere Sober – a place for connection and conversation around the relationship between queer social spaces and alcohol.

This is a relaxed, welcoming event for LGBTQIA+ folks and allies who are sober, sober-curious, or simply keen to explore social spaces that don’t revolve around drinking.

For a primo showcase of sober (and sober-curious) LGBTQIA+ comedians and artists, check out the event on the City of Yarra website here.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Pelvic Health for Every Body

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 23:00:31 +0000

This week on Well Well Well, we’re joined by Alex Lopez and Derryn Pert from Pelvic Health Melbourne to talk about all things pelvic health — what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up differently for different people.

We’ll explore the unique concerns across our LGBTIQA+ communities, including for gay and bi men, lesbian and bi women, and trans and gender diverse people.

Queer Inclusive Gaming & Naloxone

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 23:00:30 +0000

This week on Well Well Well, we explore the power of play and life-saving health interventions.

Dr Phoebe Toups Dugas from Monash University joins us to discuss how games can be more than just entertainment—they can be spaces for identity exploration, community building, and inclusion for trans and queer players. We dive into what makes a game truly inclusive, how queer and trans gamers are shaping the future of game design, and why representation behind the scenes matters.

Then, we turn our focus to harm reduction with Linda Cowan from Thorne Harbour Health, who breaks down everything you need to know about Naloxone—how it works, how to access it, and how this simple intervention can save lives in the face of Australia’s ongoing overdose crisis.

TGD Gaming Resources:

Published Papers:

Games Discussed:

Celeste
One night; hot springs
Cyberpunk 2077
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action

Easy, Free Development Platforms:

Twine
Godot

Naloxone Resources:

Sesh.ed (Instagram)
Follow @sesh.ed for down-to-earth, non-stigmatising drug education and harm reduction info.

Overdose Day
Learn how to administer naloxone and access overdose prevention resources: overdoseday.com

TripSit Drug Combinations Chart
Check drug interactions and potentially dangerous combinations with this easy-to-use chart: combo.tripsit.me

Drug Alerts (Victoria)
Stay informed with alerts from VicHealth and Sesh.ed. You can also get SMS alerts direct to your phone via Barwon Health: mhdas.barwonhealth.org.au

Free Naloxone at Pharmacies
Access naloxone for free through Victoria’s Take Home Naloxone program—no prescription needed: health.vic.gov.au – Naloxone Program

Positive Action Community Grants

Thu, 29 May 2025 23:00:20 +0000

In this episode of Well Well Well, we shine a spotlight on the power of community-led solutions in HIV prevention, care, and support.

We’re joined by representatives from ViiV Healthcare, WAAC, Watipa, NAPWHA, Thorne Harbour Health, and the HIV/AIDS Legal Centre to discuss the 2024 Positive Action Community Grants. Together, we explore how these grants are funding innovative projects that make a real difference—whether that’s supporting peer-led initiatives, improving access to care, or addressing the unique challenges faced by people living with HIV across Australia.

Tune in to hear how grassroots organisations are driving positive change and what’s next in the fight for health equity.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

National Volunteer Week 2025

Thu, 22 May 2025 11:00:29 +0000

We speak with volunteers about their experiences with Thorne Harbour Health in Melbourne and SAMESH in South Australia in light of National Volunteer Week.

Since the founding of Thorne Harbour Health in 1983, volunteers have been at the heart of the organisation’s work delivering vital health services.

National Volunteer Week, as well as the LGBTIQ+ Organisations Volunteer Event (LOVE) at the Victorian Pride Centre, are great opportunities to give back and celebrate the incredible work that volunteers do.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Sexperts Trivia for JOY Radiothon

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:51:23 +0000

The team indulge in some LGBTIQA+ sexual health trivia in light of JOY Radiothon.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

HIV Cure: The Science and Community

Thu, 08 May 2025 23:00:37 +0000

In this episode of Well Well Well, we sit down with Dr Jillian Lau from the Doherty Institute to unpack the science—and the hope—behind HIV cure research.

From breakthrough findings in the FRESH and RIO studies to local trials right here in Melbourne, we explore what a cure could look like, why community input is crucial, and how people living with HIV can get involved.

Whether you’re cure-curious or closely connected to the work, this episode offers a grounded, optimistic look at where the science is heading and the role community plays in getting us there.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Silver Rainbow Training

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:00:34 +0000

Silver Rainbow Training helps aged care sector staff and management understand that diversity brings strength to their organisation.

The training in South Australia provides guidance on how aged care practices can be more inclusive, incorporating aspects of person centred and trauma informed care.

Jack speaks with Monty Khizam, Thorne Harbour SA’s Silver Rainbow Training Officer about how the training is delivered, and how it aims to deliver better outcomes for older LGBTIQ+ people in aged care settings.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

The Abortion Project

Thu, 01 May 2025 11:00:30 +0000

The Abortion Project is a peer support network for people of all genders and sexualities who have had abortions.

It aims to create a safe space where people with lived experiences of abortion can sit down, have a chat, and not feel constrained by pigeonholing their experiences into any binary. In their own words “We are here for the grey area, the uncomfortable and the diverse”.

While abortion is often assumed to be a straight women’s issue, it’s something that plenty of people in the queer community have experienced. In fact, research suggests that queer people with uteruses are as likely or more likely to have had an abortion than cis-heterosexual women.

Jordan speaks with co-founder Lily and lead facilitator Hannah about The Abortion Project, queerness, abortion and peer support.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Lesbian Day of Visibility

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:26:30 +0000

This episode we’re celebrating Lesbian Visibility Day by speaking with two iconic lesbian women about how things have changed for our communities over the decades. First up, we’ll hear from curator, photographic artist, and Vice President of the Australian Queer Archives, Angela Bailey. For those who don’t know, the Australian Queer Archives house the world’s largest and most significant archives of historical Australian LGBTIQ+ material. Ange’s artistic practice centres on community and queer cultural heritage, and we’re excited to hear her insider perspective on lesbian histories and futures on this continent. We’ll also have a chat with Auntie Annette Xibirras, a Wurundjeri elder and Wemba Wemba woman, speaking to her experiences as a mother, a proud lesbian and Aboriginal person. Auntie Annette has been active in First Nations cultural heritage preservation for decades and has an incredible wealth of knowledge on this topic.

https://queerarchives.org.au/

https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/whats-on/library-up-late-midsumma

Emen8 Quarterly Update

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 23:00:40 +0000

In this episode of Well Well Well, we’re joined by Chris Williams and Oli McAuslan from Emen8—the national digital platform supporting the sexual health and wellbeing of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.

Chris, the Project Lead, and Oli, a content writer, take us behind the scenes of some of their recent articles exploring sexual health, pleasure, trans inclusivity, and queer lifestyle. From long-acting injectable PrEP and navigating sex with trans men, to prostate orgasms and summer fashion essentials—this conversation dives into how Emen8 is informing, affirming, and celebrating our communities through bold, sex-positive content.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:31 — 50.8MB) | Embed

Changing the Landscape and DonateLife

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:00:32 +0000

Jack is in studio this week with new host Jordan from Thorne Harbour Health’s LGBTIQ+ Women’s Project.

We speak with Jerome from DonateLife about organ and tissue donation for our LGBTIQ+ communities and people living with HIV.

Chris and Maya from Switchboard also join us to discuss the Changing the Landscape campaign which aims to centre LGBTQIA+ lived experience stories and change the narrative around LGBTIQA+ suicide from one of identity-based deficit to one that celebrates resilience, mutual aid, peer support, community and acknowledges structural discrimination.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au.

Anal Cancer Screening and PLHIV: What You Need to Know

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 22:00:50 +0000

Australia has new guidelines for anal cancer screening in people living with HIV—but what does that actually mean right now?

We’re joined by Professor Andrew Grulich from the Kirby Institute to unpack who should be screened, what’s available today (like DARE exams), and why swab-based screening is still a few years away. We also explore the latest in treatment and where to find accurate, community-friendly info.

This episode’s for anyone who has anal sex, but particularly for people living with HIV.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Trans Day of Visibility

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 22:00:31 +0000

In this Trans Day of Visibility special, we hear from two heroes of the trans and gender diverse community. Joe Ball, Victorian LGBTIQA+ Commissioner, and Son Vivienne, CEO of Transgender Victoria, discuss the double-edged sword of visibility, anti-trans rhetoric from the US, and how trans people can be effective leaders.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

LGBTIQA+ Abortion Doulaing

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 22:00:21 +0000

Jack speaks with Bonney Corbin about LGBTIQA+ Abortion Doulaing.

Bonney is the Director of External Relations and Advocacy at MSI Reproductive Choices, an organisation which provides access to contraception and safe abortion services in 37 countries around the world.

They discuss what an abortion doula is, how to support an LGBTIQA+ person having an abortion and recent changes under the Trump administration impacting international access to reproductive healthcare.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Bendigo Pride

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:00:55 +0000

We speak with Glambassador and committee member for Bendigo Pride, Polly Filla, about the upcoming festival and why it’s important for diverse communities in the country.

Learn more at https://bendigopridefestival.com.au/

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Mardi Gras 2025

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 10:00:19 +0000

Jack speaks with community groups at the 2025 Mardi Gras Parade about their floats and the issues affecting their communities including:

Gay Diabetes
Building Pride
Cosplays Out Of The Closet
Harbour City Bears
Sydney Stingers

Jake Neville from the Melbourne Wranglers also joins us to discuss his experience at the event.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

International Women’s Day 2025 with Conscious Combat Club and Hana Assafiri

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:05:56 +0000

In the lead up to International Women’s Day we chat with the founders of Conscious Combat Club, Georgia Verry and Penny McKay. This brilliant initiative facilitates trauma-informed kickboxing classes for women and gender-diverse people impacted by violence and other trauma. We also chat about the upcoming Conscious Combat Club workshop which Thorne Harbour Health is running Saturday 15 March. So, if you’re interested in joining us, tune in for how you can get involved!

In the second half of the show, we speak with entrepreneur, activist and owner of the Moroccan Soup Bar, Hana Assafiri. Hana takes us on a fascinating journey on her life and what drives her to champion women from marginalised communities. We also speak about her memoir, Hana Assafiri – The Audacity to be Free.

More on the Conscious Combat Club …

Their programs were designed in response to gender-based violence and have two streams: women’s classes and classes for trans and gender diverse people. The waitlists for both are open and there is a scholarship program available thanks to the Victorian Women’s Trust.

Women’s classes: https://www.consciouscombat.club/naarm

Trans and gender-diverse classes: https://www.consciouscombat.club/trans-and-gender-diverse-trauma-informed-kickboxing

To learn more about our advocacy and fundraising work, visit: https://rounds4respect.org/

To find out where to get a copy of Hana Assafiri’s book go to:

https://melbournebooks.com.au/products/hana-the-audacity-to-be-free-1

Sexual Health 101 Part Two

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 23:54:54 +0000

In the second part of our Sexual Health 101 series we chat with Mark Thompson, Nurse Practitioner at Thorne Harbour Health.

Listen in for a refresher on sexual health basics, including common STIs, symptoms, and testing.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Sexual Health 101 Part One

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:13:18 +0000

In the first of this sexual health 101 series, we chat with Rhian Graco-Ilves, Peer Educator at Thorne Harbour Health.

Rhian talks us through Appreach and Outreach, Thorne Harbour’s program that places sexual health experts on apps and in sex-on-premises venues.

These ‘sexperts’ give practical sexual health tips to other community members.

Listen in and learn how to put pleasure first when you’re planning safe sex.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Inclusive Rainbow Voices

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 22:00:53 +0000

Inclusive Rainbow Voices is a community led, intersectional Disabled People’s Organisation, by and for LGBTIQA+ people with disability.

The organisation works at the forefront of local, national and international movements towards equity and justice for LGBTIQA+ people with disability.

Cal Hawk speaks with CEO Katherine Marshall about:

How IRV defines disability justice and how this informs the organisation’s approach
Some of the strong themes to come from community consultation in the past year
The barriers to data collection specifically relating to LGBTIQA+ people with disability, and more.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Trans and Gender Diverse in Community Health (TGDiCH) Training Project

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:00:25 +0000

The Trans and Gender Diverse in Community Health (TGDiCH) Training Project equips health professionals with the skills to deliver inclusive and affirmative care while addressing stigma and discrimination.

Joel Parker speaks with the program’s team leader Alex Sturman about:

Why a program like this is needed, and common challenges TGD people face when seeking care,
Who the program is designed for and its main topics
Shifts in attitudes or behaviours among participants of the program, and more.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Living legend, author and activist Joan Nestle on her life and work and Wise Words – A Night of Intergenerational Storytelling

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 10:58:32 +0000

Joan Nestle is a living icon. At 84 years of age her contributions to LGBTIQ+ communities have been numerous and immensely significant. She co-founded both the Gay Academic Union and the Lesbian Herstory Archives in New York, wrote seminal works such as A Restricted Country and A Persistent Desire and to this day, continues her work as an advocate and activist. Joan is part of the extraordinary line-up at this year’s Midsumma writers’ event, Wise Words – A Night of Intergenerational Storytelling, which features a line-up of some of Australia’s most prominent and talented LGBTIQ+ women (trans and non-binary inclusive). 2025 line-up includes MC Sarah Ward, Joan Nestle, Mama Alto, Sez, Hana Assafiri, and Isobel Morphy-Walsh.

For more information and to get tickets go to the Midsumma page here

Please note, this episode of Well Well Well contains sensitive content.

Midsumma Carnival 2025

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 10:00:56 +0000

We speak with community groups and organisations at Midsumma Carnival 2025:

Meredith from Chillout Festival
Juan from ACON discussing cervical screening campaign Own It
Dale from Equality Australia
Vera from The Lab, a mentoring program for Autistic young people
Vic from Transcend Australia
Malcolm from Melbourne Frontrunners
Zahir from Melbourne Wranglers

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

What is pill testing, and what is Victoria’s pill testing trial?

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 22:00:06 +0000

Victoria’s mobile pill testing services is off to a successful start with preliminary data and insights from the Beyond the Valley music festival confirming young people are eager for information that could help keep them safe.

To discuss what pill testing itself is, Victoria’s pill testing trial, and more, we speak with Sarah Hiley, who is the Drug Checking Director at The Loop.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Rewired and Rewired 2.0

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:00:04 +0000

Joseph and James from Thorne Harbour Health join us to discuss Rewired which is a therapeutic group for Gay, Bi+ and Queer men who want to change their relationship with meth, in addition to Rewired 2.0 which is an ongoing peer support group.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Midsumma 2025 and the GBQ+ Periodic Survey

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 23:30:54 +0000

Melbourne’s pride festival, Midsumma, is just around the corner!

Jack and Cal hear about the Gay, Bisexual, Queer + Community Periodic Survey from its coordinator, Tex McKenzie.

Conference and Events Coordinator Chiron Hooson also joins us to discuss Thorne Harbour’s presence at the festival this year.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

CADET Trials

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:00:41 +0000

The CADET Trials are investigating whether a commonly prescribed blood pressure medication could provide a much-needed treatment alternative for adults with severe depression.

Candesartan is a well-tolerated group of medications widely used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure and could help people with depression in both major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder.

Researchers are looking for people in Queensland and Victoria to take part in the 16-week trial to see if a daily dose of candesartan, in addition to usual treatment, reduces symptoms of depression and improves general quality of life.

To discuss the potential impacts of this study, we speak with Professor Michael Berk, Director of Deakin’s Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT) and Research Assistant Paul Cortissos.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

2024 Year End Review with Emen8

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 10:00:22 +0000

Chris Williams from Emen8 joins us to discuss some of the biggest stories in LGBTIQA+ sexual health of 2024.

He speaks with Jack and Cal about the return of Mpox, the PrEP supply disruption, injectable PrEP, Doxy-PEP, and HIV self-testing.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

2024 Reflections Extravaganza

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 10:00:13 +0000

With 2025 just around the corner, the team are in studio together for their 2024 reflections.

Jack, Cal, Rachel, and Joel pick some choice moments from the year to discuss.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Holiday Health with Thorne Harbour SA

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 10:00:21 +0000

Sharna and Matt from Thorne Harbour Health SA join us to speak about how our diverse LGBTIQ+ communities can take care of themselves during the holiday break.

They speak with Joel and Jack about how seeing biological families can be problematic for LGBTIQ+ folk, strategies we can employ to look after ourselves, the warning signs to keep an eye out for when turning to alcohol and other drugs, and more.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Fairfield Reflections – Part 2

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:00:13 +0000

In light of World AIDS Day on December 1, we’re talking about Fairfield Hospital 40 years on from the first patient with HIV/AIDS being admitted there.

The hospital closed in 1996 but it played a central role in the response to HIV/AIDS in Victoria.

In our second of two episodes discussing Fairfield’s impact, we’re joined by Edwina Wright and David Menadue.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Melanated in Melbourne

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:00:41 +0000

Melanated in Melbourne chronicles the lives of co-hosts Nicole and Ri’chard, two Black Americans living in Australia, as they navigate what it means to be a person of colour in the great Down Unda.

Melanated in Melbourne intentionally amplifies the voices of historically disenfranchised individuals by primarily having LGBTIQA+ people of colour, both local and international, come on the show to share their unique stories, with guests ranging from psychologists to drag queens.

Nicole and Ri’chard join Jack to discuss why they started the show, some highlights from the first two seasons, and what themes they intend to explore in Season 3 next year.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Health Podcasts

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 10:00:17 +0000

Podcasts have fast become a part of our everyday media consumption. In fact, the average person spends more than five hours a week listening to them. But could listening to podcasts lead to healthier habits?

In the first study of its kind, University of South Australia researchers have explored just this, finding that podcasts can significantly improve health knowledge, increase exercise levels, and boost healthy eating.

UniSA researcher Beth Robins joins Jack to discuss the findings, highlighting the potential of podcasts to promote positive health behaviours.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Reflecting on Fairfield Hospital

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 10:00:14 +0000

In light of World AIDS Day on December 1, we’re talking about Fairfield Hospital 40 years on from the first patient with HIV/AIDS being admitted there.

The hospital closed in 1996 but it played a central role in the response to HIV/AIDS in Victoria.

In our first of two episodes discussing Fairfield’s impact, we’re joined by Liz Crock and Bill O’Loughlin.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Indie Porn – Revolution, Regulation, and Resistance

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 12:00:52 +0000

Jack and Rachel speak to Dr Zarha Stardust about her latest book, Indie Porn – Revolution, Regulation, and Resistance, which takes readers behind the scenes. Stardust finds politicians who watch porn in parliament, protesters leading face-sitting demonstrations, sex workers making COVID-safe pornography, and artists reverse-engineering porn detection software.

https://www.dukeupress.edu/indie-porn

https://pridecentre.org.au/event/indie-porn-launch/

Style and Spirit Opening Night & Picnic in the Park

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:00:06 +0000

In early November, the Style and Spirit Exhibition was opened at the David Roche Gallery to explore the life and design ethos of an important but forgotten style icon while highlighting how HIV stigma contributed to his erasure.

Chester Weinberg was the first fashion designer to die of AIDS related illness in 1985. Despite his importance and the prominence of his work, HIV stigma saw Chester literally written out of history books.

In this episode of WWW, we’ll head to the exhibition’s opening and hear from co-curators Skye Bartlett and Timothy Roberts. We’ll also hear from Ian Hunter MLC, who helped found the South Australian AIDS Action Committee in the mid 1980s.

Ann Maccarrone, Community Engagement and Partnerships Manager at ViiV Healthcare was there and speaks with Jack about the evening.

We also hear from community groups at Picnic in the Park, which is part of Feast Festival, Adelaide’s LGBTIQA+ Arts and Cultural Festival.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Flourish After 50 and World AIDS Day

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 03:48:06 +0000

Rachel and Joel chat with Sue West from Flourish After 50 about her upcoming workshops for LGBTIQ women and Cal Hawk and Chiron Hooson from Thorne Harbour Health join the panel to talk all things World AIDS Day and introduce the inaugural Red Ribbon Run.

PrEP as a Memory Pill

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 05:17:26 +0000

Cal and Joel chat to Benjamin Riley from ASHM about his Master’s thesis: ‘PrEP as a Memory Pill, Gay Men and Generational Imaginaries.’

Ben’s research focused on how PrEP created sexual freedom for a generation of men who had been living under the threat of HIV.

Ben explores the unique perspectives of this group and discusses the differences between gay men who lived pre and post HIV.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Intersex Awareness Day and Mental Health Locals

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 10:00:49 +0000

Intersex Community Advocate and host of The I In Us on JOY, Paul Byrne-Moroney joins us to speak about his personal experience living with an intersex variation, the advocacy work he does for the community, and more.

Toyah from Thorne Harbour Health and Michelle from Mind Australia also join us to speak about the Mental Health Locals in Victoria that aim to address barriers that our LGBTIQ+ communities face when accessing mental health support.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Val’s LGBTI Ageing and Aged Care and Sexual Healthcare for Young LGBTIQ Aboriginal People

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:00:45 +0000

October is time for the Victorian Seniors Festival. Rachel Cook and Peter Waples-Crowe chat to Pauline Crameri from Val’s LGBTI Ageing and Aged Care about what events they have coming up for the festival and the servcies they provide.

We also chat with Dr Heather McCormack about a new study which shines a light on the barriers to sexual healthcare for young LGBTIQ+ Aboriginal people and how they can ‘re-imagine’ their future.

For more information on Val’s click here and here

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Logo provided by Val’s Ageing and Aged Care

Bear Underwear Auction and Rainbow Connection

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 10:00:54 +0000

This week Michael chats to Joenas, Mr Vicbears 2024 about the Underwear Charity Auction happening at the Laird Hotel to raise money for Pride Foundation Australia. Supported by Thorne Harbour, the event will see local bear-lebrities strip down to their jocks and auction their garments off to the crowd!

Rainbow Connection Coordinator David Kavanagh also tells us about this program that connects older LGBTIQ+ people with younger volunteers for social connection.

Resources

Check out the event information for the auction here https://vicbears.org.au/event-5847709

Check out the silent auction ahead of the event https://airauctioneer.com/underwear-auction-hosted-by-mr-vicbears-2024

This week’s podcast image supplied by Mr Vicbears 2024, Joenas

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Yalukut Weelam clan of the Boon Wurrung peoples. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging, and acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded.

This episode originally aired Thursday, September 12 2024 on JOY.
Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing.
If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions to wellwellwell@joy.org.au
Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH

World Mental Health Day

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 11:00:06 +0000

In light of World Mental Health Day on October 10, we’re talking all about mental health for our diverse communities.

Bron Lawman tells us about the importance of integrating mental health support into other health services, such as HIV and sexual health care.

As Thorne Harbour Health’s Director of Therapeutic Services in Victoria, Bron has a wealth of experience as a mental health nurse, having worked across several services in both Queensland and Victoria.

We also hear from Sharna Ciotti about the positive impact to come from the introduction of Thorne Harbour SA’s Specialist LGBTIQA+ Mental Health Service, and the unique challenges our diverse communities face in South Australia.

Sharna is the Manager of Therapeutic Services at Thorne Harbour SA and shares advice on other mental health professionals who are looking to work with LGBTIQA+ communities.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

HIV and Menopause with Dr Nneka Nwokolo

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 11:00:01 +0000

Dr Nneka Nwokolo is an expert in HIV and menopause, women’s sexual and reproductive health, contraception, and more.

She is the Global Head of Patient Affairs at ViiV Healthcare and is committed to being at the forefront of raising awareness and understanding of little-discussed but important issues, helping people to live their healthiest lives.

Jack and Joel speak with Nneka about:

What menopause is, the symptoms, and when it happens
Treatment options for menopause, and why some are over- or under-prescribed
How HIV and menopause change in the presence of the other
Some common experiences that women living with HIV face when seeking a diagnosis and treatment for menopause, and more

Ann Maccarrone, ViiV Healthcare’s Community Engagement & Partnerships Manager also joins us as we discuss the recent ASHM and IUSTI Conferences.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Financial Literacy

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:00:33 +0000

Senior Financial counsellor and David Williams Fund coordinator, Lynda Horn joins us to discuss financial literacy and financial counselling for our diverse communities.

Joel and Cal speak with Lynda about:

What the David Williams Fund actually is
What exactly a financial counsellor does
How financial counselling fits into the broader health of PLHIV and LGBTIQ+ communities, and more

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

PrEP Shortage

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 19:17:11 +0000

This week Michael and Rachel speak to Cal about the PrEP shortage, how we can access PrEP online, the and what strategies we can use to keep ourselves protected like using PrEP on Demand – and everything in the HIV toolkit.

Resources

You can find out more about PrEP and HIV by heading to Emen8 , PAN (PrEP access now) and What Works

Read Emen8’s article ‘How to get PrEP in Australia during a supply issue’

Check out PAN’s map of pharmacy availability, or check out PAN’s guide on how to buy PrEP quickly and easily online if your pharmacy is out of stock.

This year marks a decade of PrEP in Australia! Read more about PrEP’s history in the article ‘10 Years of PrEP in Australia’

This week’s podcast image supplied by Canva Premium

Proud 2 Play – Sport and Suicide Prevention

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:31:36 +0000

This week Michael and Rachel speak with Kade Matthews from Proud 2 Play about the benefits of playing sport and mental health. We find out who and what Proud 2 Play is and how our LGBTIQ+ communities can find a a sports club, no matter our skill set, and find a safe place to play sport.

For more information head to Proud 2 Play

This week’s podcast image owned by JOY 94.9.

Prostate Cancer

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 17:35:23 +0000

Michael and Rachel speak with Ada Cheung, Principal Research Fellow in Endocrinology Medicine at Austin Health about how hormones impact, and form part of prostate cancer treatment.

We spoke with John and Bryan earlier this year about Prostate Pride – listen here

You can connect with Prostate Pride here

This week’s podcast image supplied by Canva Premium

This episode originally aired Thursday, September 5 2024 on JOY.
Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing.
If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions to wellwellwell@joy.org.au
Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH

All The Drugs – Touchbase Updates

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 17:22:29 +0000

Manager of Health Promotion at Thorne Harbour, Adam Hynes shares the latest from Touchbase, and providing education to LGBTIQA+ people about harm reduction and safety when it comes to drugs and partying.

Find Touchbase here

We caught up with James from VAADA earlier this year to talk about drug checking and pill testing, listen here

This week’s podcast image supplied by Thorne Harbour Health

App Safety and Grindr Violence

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 11:59:40 +0000

Michael speaks to LGBTIQA+ Communities Portfolio Manager at Victoria Police, Jeremy Oliver about recent cases of violence against men using dating and hookup apps, like Grindr and social media platforms like Snapchat.

Following a series of violent assaults targeting gay men, Thorne Harbour Health is calling on communities to exercise caution when using apps and social media. A growing number of incidents have recently been reported where offenders pose as legitimate users on online platforms like Grindr, Scruff, and Snapchat to lure gay and bisexual men to public spaces where they are vulnerable to assault and robbery.

We discuss tips for keeping safe online, how to report incidents of violent behaviour, and what Victoria Police is doing to keep our community safe.

Resources

Check out Thorne Harbour Health’s 10 Tips for Keeping Safe on Hookup Apps

Community members are encouraged to make a report via the Police Assistance Line and Online Reporting website or, if they prefer, they can ask to speak to a LGBTIQA+ Liaison Officer. In case of an emergency, they should always call Triple Zero (000) in the first instance.

Thorne Harbour Health has also published a list of strategies and steps individuals can take to look after themselves when using dating apps and hook-up platforms at: thorneharbour.org/appsafety

Experiencing assault, threatening behaviour or homophobic violence can impact our mental health. Thorne Harbour Health also offers a range of services, including counselling and support groups. If you’ve been a victim of any online or in-person crime, it might help to speak to someone about how it’s affecting you. Call our friendly intake team on (03) 9865 6700 to find a service.

Media

Check out the media release: Thorne Harbour Urges Communities to Exercise Caution on Gay Apps Following Attacks

This episode originally aired Thursday, August 29 2024 on JOY.
Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing.
If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions to wellwellwell@joy.org.au
Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH

Women’s Health Week

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 17:30:26 +0000

Michael and Rachel speak with Jean Hailes CEO Sarah White about Women’s Health Week, and the importance of striking up Courageous Conversations. We discuss elements of women’s health such as the inquiry into women’s pain, menstruation, and menopause.

To find out more about Jean Hailes check out their website

and find out more about Women’s Health Week for information and activities happening across the weerk

Check out Women’s Health at Thorne Harbour for more information

Overdose Awareness Day 2024

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:00:08 +0000

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) – held on August 31 every year – is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.

In light of the day we speak with Senior Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician Bianca from Thorne Harbour SA about how to respond to an overdose, why substance use is so stigmatised, and how to get support if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Everyday People

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 17:25:57 +0000

We are sharing everyday stories by Everyday People. This past year, Thorne Harbour has been connecting with our community to showcase the diversity of our multicultural LGBTIQA+ and PLHIV communities, and take a look at the personal narratives of people’s experience with mental health. As people who come from non English speaking backgrounds, we connected to share the impact of migration stress, identity, and their connection to culture as a protective factor when thinking about good mental health – and how they have responded to periods of mental ill health.

This project, Everyday People, has centred the voices of our community first and foremost – sharing their stories in their chosen language, and made available in English also. We’re going to chat to three incredible community members who share their stories of mental health with us. If you’d like to hear their stories in full, head to everyday-people.au – and if you’re looking for ways to improve your own mental health or combat social isolation, check out the resource page for places you can get support that are affirming for you.

Michael spoke with Sasja, Boudie and Emil about their experience sharing their stories.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Yalukut Weelam clan of the Boon Wurrung peoples, Wurundjeri land, and Noongar Whadjuk land. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging, and acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded.

This episode originally aired Thursday, August15 2024 on JOY.
Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing.
If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions to wellwellwell@joy.org.au
Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH

HIV Science as Art

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 01:29:54 +0000

The HIV Science as Art exhibition brought twelve artists with HIV together with scientists to create original work that reflects the concepts of their scientific work at the International AIDS Conference 2024 in Munich, Germany.

These works represented a diverse spectrum of artistic expression – from fashion design and painting to photography, sculpture and video.

All originals were then auctioned off with the proceeds being used to support programs and services for people living with HIV.

In this episode we’ll hear from scientists, artists and curators about their work and their experiences.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at thorneharbour.org and in South Australia at samesh.org.au.

Tasty Nightclub Raid 30 Years On & the Chester Weinberg Exhibition

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:00:12 +0000

As this episode went to air on JOY 94.9, we’d just passed 3 decades since the Tasty nightclub raid on August 7th 1994, which saw LGBTIQ+ patrons detained by Victoria Police for up to 7 hours, and strip and cavity searched.

Following this event, we saw successful legal action from patrons against Victoria Police resulting in about 6 million dollars in payouts, a formal apology in 2014, and the creation of the LGBTIQA+ Liason Officer program which aims to create mutual trust between our diverse communities and police.

We speak with Stephen and Gerry who were at Tasty that night about their experience and the lasting impacts the event has had.

We also hear from Skye Bartlett from SAMESH in Adelaide about a world first exhibition – Style and Spirit: The Fashion of Chester Weinberg.

Chester Weinberg was the first fashion designer to die of AIDS-related illness in 1985 and HIV stigma saw Chester written out of history books.

Skye is curating the exhibition, and tells us about Weinberg’s life, death, legacy, and relevance in the fight against HIV stigma today.

Here on Well Well Well, we delve into the issues impacting and surrounding the health and wellbeing of our gender, sex, and sexuality diverse communities, and people living with HIV.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

AIDS Global Village 2024

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 07:50:44 +0000

From the 2024 International AIDS Conference in Munich, Germany, Cal brings us stories from the AIDS Global Village including:

Louisa from northern Germany speaking about their work in reaching vulnerable populations offering counselling and testing via their mobile testing van
Yianny from Tackle HIV which educates young people on HIV, and sexual health and reproductive rights using football as a point of connection
Kai and Chi-Wei from Taiwan speaking about HIVStory
Professor David Gere from the University of California speaking about his work as Co-Director of Through Positive Eyes
Maggie Czarnogorski, the Head of Digital Innovation and Implementation Science at ViiV Healthcare speaks about a virtual reality experience aiming to better educate people on the stigma and discrimination that people living with HIV face

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

International AIDS Conference 2024

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:29:59 +0000

Jack and Cal discuss the International AIDS Conference 2024 in Munich, Germany, and hear from:

IAS President Dr Sharon Lewin giving an overview of the landscape HIV exists within today
Executive Director of UN AIDS Winnie Byanyima speaking to the progress around the global respond to HIV, including a significant increase from 47% of PLHIV in treatment 9 years ago, to 77% on treatment today
Andriy Klepikov, AIDS 2024 Regional Co-Chair & Ukranian Advocate discussing the hybrid war being waged in the region including on the LGBTIQ+ people, drug users, TGD communities and science more broadly
Jay Mulucha, Fem Alliance Uganda Executive Director discussing the harsh realities of people a trans man living with HIV in Uganda in the shadow of their recent Anti-Homosexuality Laws enacted earlier this year as the first trans man to speak at the opening ceremonies of an International AIDS Conference
Dr Christian Gaebler giving a summary about the 7th person effectively cured of HIV
Dr Troy Grennan from the British Colombia Center for Disease Control looking at the efficacy of 100mg daily for the prevention of STIs, and
‘Maria’ Groot Bruinderink from Public Health Service Amsterdam on PrEP for HIV Prevention with less frequent monitoring to help reduce the burden of frequency of doctors visits from every 3 months to every 6 months

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Mpox Update 2024

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:00:15 +0000

Jack, Cal, and Joel bring you the latest on Mpox (AKA Monkeypox) with:

Joe Mabuti, Practice Nurse at Thorne Harbour Health’s Centre Clinic
Dr Tom Morley, Doctor at PRONTO!
a community member’s recent experience having mpox

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Hookup Apps with Emen8

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 11:00:03 +0000

Chris from Emen8 joins us to discuss popular “Gay Chat and Dating” Hookup Apps like Grindr, Scruff, and more.

Find more on sex, dating, health, and more at emen8.com.au.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Rainbow Migrants

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 11:00:08 +0000

Lucasz Krzyzowski joins us to speak about his recent presentation, Rainbow Migrants: Empowering Voices & Shaping Services for CALD LGBTIQA+ Migrants.

Lucasz is a Vice-Chancellor’s Research Fellow at Edith Cowan University, and gave the presentation at the Better Together 2024 Conference.

Jack and Cal speak with him about some common barriers and challenges faced by LGBTIQA+ migrants when coming to Australia.

We also discuss the Social Art Intervention, Karaoke with an Accent, Hackathon, and range of other initiatives that have come from Rainbow Migrants.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Addressing HIV Stigma: Sticks and Stones Documentary

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 23:00:07 +0000

Clint and Jess speak with Jack about the upcoming Sticks and Stones documentary.

The documentary aims to illustrate the damage that stigma does on the wellbeing millions of people around the world.

The team behind the documentary will examine the misinformation and lack of education fuelling stigma in the greater community by debunking myths and stereotypes.

Find out more and support the production of the documentary at sticksandstones.au.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Quit with Pride

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:56:21 +0000

While smoking affects the health of everyone, the rate of smoking is higher among LGBTIQ+ communities.

Smoking and vaping have numerous negative health impacts but there have never been more tools available to help our diverse communities quit.

To learn more about this, Jack spoke with Sabine from Quit and Matilda Mercury from the recently launched Quit with Pride campaign.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Thrive Together – LGBTIQ Refugees and Forcibly Displaced People

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 11:00:01 +0000

We talk with the Forcibly Displaced People Network about their Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP) ‘Thrive Together’ providing an opportunity to support the rights and empowerment of displaced individuals.

* This episode originally aired Thursday, June 20 2024 on JOY *

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Ballarat Pride Month and Thorne Harbour Country Regional Update

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 11:00:32 +0000

Damien from Thorne Harbour Country joins us to discuss the issues that our communities face in the regions along with how THC address these issues through health promotion work and community connection.

We also hear from the City of Ballarat’s LGBTIQA+ Community Inclusion Officer Sez all about Ballarat Pride Month.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Sexperts Trivia for JOY Radiothon

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 03:30:30 +0000

Our live show for JOY Radiothon has the team putting their sexual health knowledge and more to the test in Sexperts Trivia!

Jack, Rachel, Cal, and Joel answer Rhian’s questions in four rounds, and put a few questions to listeners too.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Rainbow Mob Health – Reconciliation Week

Thu, 30 May 2024 12:01:50 +0000

Walkern Katatdjin (Rainbow Knowledge) is a national research project that aims to understand and promote the mental health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQA+ young people, and to work with services to develop appropriate interventions.

Shakara Liddelow-Hunt and Tahlia Blow join us to discuss the report and the themes of health, pride, joy, and culture. Peter (Ngaya Ngarigu) is Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Educator at Thorne Harbour Health, and joins Michael as guest co-host this episode.

The Walkern Katatdjin project was run by Telethon Kids Institute, Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre (Murdoch University), Edith Cowan University, and the University of Western Australia and is funded by the NHMRC.

This podcast contains information about mental ill health, suicide, and bad experiences young people have had in their life. It’s important to seek help if you’re feeling distressed.

For immediate assistance, please call 000 or go to your closest Emergency Department.

Michael spoke with Natalie Amos from ARCSHS about Rainbow Realities exploring fresh analyses from surveys such as Private Lives, Writing Themselves – which also included Walkern Katatdjin.

This episode originally aired Thursday, May 30 2024 on JOY.
Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing.
If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions to wellwellwell@joy.org.au
Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

National Volunteer Week and LOVE

Thu, 23 May 2024 11:00:28 +0000

In light of National Volunteer Week, we speak with Volunteer Coordinators Daniel and Boudie about the LGBTIQ+ Organisation Volunteer Event (LOVE).

We also hear from James in Melbourne and Kellie and Edgar in Adelaide about their experience volunteering for Thorne Harbour Health and SAMESH.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Transfemme

Sat, 18 May 2024 23:00:53 +0000

Starlady joins us to discuss Transfemme’s updated resources to support healthier relationships between trans women and men.

The new resources can be found on the Zoe Belle Gender Collective and Transfemme websites.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

2024 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial

Thu, 16 May 2024 11:00:52 +0000

Living Positive Victoria’s AIDS Candlelight Memorial aims to raise HIV awareness and provides space to remember friends and family lost to AIDS, along with people today living with HIV.

Positive Speakers Bureau Coordinator David O’Keeffe from Living Positive Victoria joins us to discuss.

Jack and Cal also talk about Thorne Harbour Health’s exit from Twitter/X in light of IDAHOBIT.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Winter Wellness – Flu, COVID, and Mpox

Thu, 09 May 2024 12:01:13 +0000

Flu season is here and we’re keeping you well this winter. Michael is joined by PRONTO and Equinox Practice Nurse Arlo MacDonald about keeping well during the cooler months. Whether it’s time for a COVID booster update, getting your regular seasonal flu vaccine, or preventing Mpox – we’ve got you covered. Arlo shares what vaccines are available, recent Mpox cases in our community, and some tips for harm reduction tools when mingling this flu season.

Helpful links

Immunisation for the flu on the Better Health Channel

Stay Well This Winter hub, with cold, flu and COVID information

The Australian Immunisation Handbook providing clinical guidelines for healthcare professionals and others about using vaccines safely and effectively.

Down an’ Dirty – with guides in sex and pleasure, and adventurous or kinky practices (NSFW) with info on sex and Mpox and COVID

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on the Better Health Channel

* This episode originally aired Thursday, May 9 2024 on JOY *

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

This week’s podcast photo is by CDC on Unsplash

Positive Peers – Culture Language and HIV (Part 2)

Sun, 05 May 2024 17:01:32 +0000

HIV impacts people regardless of race, sexuality, or gender. With ¼ of people in Australia with at least one parent born overseas, or from other countries themselves – our communities are diverse. In Victoria, HIV impacts the lives of people from all cultures, and so providing information and services tailored to individual cultural and linguistic needs is vital.

Michael talks to Jimmy Yu-Hsiang Chen, Networks Project Officer at NAPWHA – the national association for PLHIV. Jimmy previously led ‘Community Conversations’ aimed to better understand the experiences and needs of Asian men living with HIV who were born overseas in East or South-East Asia Jimmy joins us now to discuss PANA—The Positive Asian Network Australia for all people with an Asian background who are living with HIV in Australia.

HIV Resources

Positive Asian Network Australia (PANA)

Positive Latinx Australian Network (PLAN)

Free HIV medication for people without Medicare

Free HIV self test kits

Mpox

Recently, Victoria has seen a couple of new cases of Mpox appear in community. Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) is a viral infection. It can result in symptoms like fever, headache, muscle aches, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes (similar to COVID or the flu) before progressing to a skin rash or lesions. A vaccination program began in 2022, with many in our community at risk for Mpox taking up vaccination to get protected. If you have have only had one shot, are looking to get your first, or want to learn more about Mpox – head to thorneharbour.org/mpox

* This episode originally aired Thursday, May 2 2024 on JOY *

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

Translating the Facts – Culture Language and HIV (Part 1)

Thu, 02 May 2024 23:58:07 +0000

Michael talks to Jen Johnson, Program Manager at Living Positive Victoria about supporting our communities living with HIV who speak a language other than English through various multilingual resources and projects.

Thank you so much to Beau Newham, the project lead on Translating the Facts for bringing these resources to life for our community.

Resources

Translating the Facts available in Arabic, Burmese, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai, and Vietnamese

Planet Positive GOES NORTH for Winter, LPV’s social event at the Thornbury Bowls Club for people living with HIV, their families, and friends

2024 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, May 19 at the Library at the Dock

* This episode originally aired Thursday, May 2 2024 on JOY *

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

The Power of Peers – Lesbian Visibility Week

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 17:01:55 +0000

Continuing our Lesbian Visibility Week celebration – Rachel connects with Thorne Harbour Health’s Peer Education and Outreach Health Educator, Rhian Graco-Ilves about supporting community and the long history of the Outreach program. Rachel and Rhian reflect on a panel Thorne Harbour Health ran during Lesbian Visibility Week, and how we can raise the profile of and meaningful engagement for lesbians and same-sex attracted women.

Lesbian Visibility Week culminates with Lesbian Visibility Day, which is held on April 26.

Scope and Sphere are peer workshops at Thorne Harbour Health for lesbian, bi, queer and sexually-diverse women (including trans participants)

Find out more about Women’s Health at Thorne Harbour at thorneharbour.org/services/womens-health

Check out Thorne Harbour Health and ACON’s joint LGBTIQ+ Women’s Health Conference

Thorne Harbour Health offers services for LGBTIQ+ women who are looking for affordable counselling in a safe environment where they can be open about their gender, sex, sexuality and a whole range of issues impacting them.

Drink Limits is a free eight week therapeutic group looking at alcohol and anxiety for lesbian, bisexual and queer women (cis and trans) and anyone female identifying.

ReThink The Drink is a project that seeks to inspire alcohol culture change among LGBTIQ women

Additionally, mark your calendars for an exciting event! Thorne Harbour Health presents the Countdown to Eurovision Trivia Night on Friday, May 3rd, at the Collingwood Town Hall. Kick off the Eurovision 2024 festivities with us!

For more information and to reserve your table, visit thorneharbour.org/events.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

* This episode originally aired Thursday, April 18 2024 on JOY *

Dykes on Bikes – Lesbian Visibility Week

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:01:15 +0000

To celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week – Rachel catches up with President of Dykes on Bikes Melbourne, T-Rex, to chat about this protective and supportive staple in our community. T-Rex shares some of the history of the club, what it means to support the visibility and identity of lesbian and of all same-sex attracted women.

Lesbian Visibility Week culminates with Lesbian Visibility Day, which is held on April 26.

Check out what Dykes on Bikes Melbourne will be up to including their upcoming regional Horsham and Maryborough rides on their website dykesonbikesmelbourne.org.au and find them on Facebook and Instagram

Find out more about Women’s Health at Thorne Harbour at thorneharbour.org/services/womens-health

Scope and Sphere are peer workshops at Thorne Harbour Health for lesbian, bi, queer and sexually-diverse women (including trans participants)

Check out Thorne Harbour Health and ACON’s joint LGBTIQ+ Women’s Health Conference

Drink Limits is a free eight week therapeutic group looking at alcohol and anxiety for lesbian, bisexual and queer women (cis and trans) and anyone female identifying.

ReThink The Drink, a project that seeks to inspire alcohol culture change among LGBTIQ women

For more information and to reserve your table, visit thorneharbour.org/events.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

* This episode originally aired Thursday, April 25 2024 on JOY *

Dismissed Denied and Demeaned – Religious Discrimination

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 23:45:30 +0000

LGBTQ+ people and the people who love, support and affirm us are discriminated against by religious educational institutions and faith-based service providers across the country, every day. Ghassan Kassisieh, Legal Director at Equality Australia joins us to discuss the new report Dismissed, Denied and Demeaned: A national report on LGBTQ+ discrimination in faith-based schools and organisations.

We explore religious carveouts that enable faith based institutions to discriminate against LGBTIQ+ people, instances of affirming practices, and how we protect our community from harm.

You can read the full report here: https://equalityaustralia.org.au/resources/dismissed-denied-and-demeaned-a-national-report-on-lgbtq-discrimination-in-faith-based-schools-and-organisations/

Find our more about Equality Australia at equalityaustralia.org.au

Want to hear more from Ghassan?

We last spoke about the Religious Discrimination Bill during it’s formation in 2020, and later for an update in 2021 as well as discussing our priorities for the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people during the Victorian State Elections

For more information and to reserve your table, visit thorneharbour.org/events.

Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health & wellbeing.

If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at wellwellwell@joy.org.au

Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria at Thorne Harbour Health and in South Australia at SAMESH.

* This episode originally aired Thursday, April 18 2024 on JOY *