Episodes

  • Episode 33: Greer McGearey

    Episode 33: Greer McGearey
    Jan 30 2026
    In this episode, Triana speaks with Greer McGeary, a long-standing community leader, advocate and life member of Seahorse Victoria, the longest continuously operating trans social support group in Australia. A parent, grandparent and great-grandparent, Greer brings a lifetime of experience across public service, small business, community organisations and peer-led spaces. She is also widely respected for her public speaking, including many years of involvement with Toastmasters.

    Greer reflects on growing up knowing she was different, long before she had the language to understand why, and on building a full family and working life before later finding peer support through Seahorse Victoria. The conversation is thoughtful and wide-ranging, touching on the importance of community, kindness, dignity and how we treat one another. Greer offers gentle and reassuring advice, drawing on her own experience to speak honestly about fear, acceptance, and the importance of giving yourself time and permission to live openly. This episode references the Victorian Government’s The Unsaid Says a Lot campaign, which focuses on the everyday comments, assumptions and behaviours that can undermine the dignity of trans and gender-diverse people. The campaign encourages greater awareness of how small moments of respect, or lack of it, can have a real impact on people’s sense of safety, belonging and wellbeing. More information can be found here. https://www.vic.gov.au/theunsaid

    The episode also references Seahorse Victoria, a peer-led support and social group for trans people that has been operating in Victoria since 1975 and is the longest continuously running organisation of its type in Australia. Founded to provide connection, mutual support and community for trans people across diverse life paths, Seahorse Victoria offers regular meet-ups and social activities that help people build relationships and share lived experience in a welcoming environment. More information can be found here. https://seahorsevic.com.au/

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 33: Greer McGearey appeared first on The Latest.
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    35 mins
  • Episode 32: Jain Moralee

    Episode 32: Jain Moralee
    Dec 18 2025

    In this episode, we speak with Jain Moralee, CEO of Twenty10, about the impacts of the social media ban on young LGBTIQ+ people. Drawing on Twenty10’s frontline work, Jain reflects on what young people are saying in the wake of the ban, particularly the loss of connection, affirmation and access to trusted information at a critical time in their lives.

    Jain shares a question raised by a young person that cuts to the heart of the issue: why are young people being punished for the actions of a minority who bully online, while the enormous social media organisations themselves are not being required to take responsibility for the safety of their users? The conversation explores how this sense of unfairness is compounding feelings of exclusion and powerlessness, and why policy responses must better balance protection with participation, accountability and care.

    The episode also looks at what meaningful alternatives can look like, including the importance of safe, well-moderated spaces designed with young people, rather than imposed on them. Jain outlines how Twenty10 is responding, and what young people need right now from governments, platforms and the broader community.

    Twenty10 proudly runs a series of free, accessible events across in-person and online formats for young people aged 12 to 25. These programs create safe, affirming spaces for connection, support and shared learning.

    For more information about Twenty10’s youth services, groups and programs, visit: https://twenty10.org.au/youth-services-groups-and-programs-in-person/

    Twenty10 also uses Padlet to share information, updates and resources with young people. From there you can also access Twenty10’s new online space for LGBTIQA+ folks aged 16 & under: https://padlet.com/twenty10

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 32: Jain Moralee appeared first on The Latest.
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    28 mins
  • Episode 31: Vaping and LGBTIQ+ Communities

    Episode 31: Vaping and LGBTIQ+ Communities
    Aug 29 2025

    In this episode of The Latest in LGBTIQ+ Health and Policy, host Triana Butler explores the rise of vaping in LGBTIQ+ communities.

    Dr Ruby Grant (La Trobe University), Rachel Anderson (QUIT), and Terence Humphreys (LGBTIQ+ Health Australia) share insights into the latest research, health impacts, and the social factors driving higher vaping rates among our communities.

    The discussion covers:

    • National data showing LGB people are twice as likely to vape as heterosexual people, with increasing use among trans, gender diverse and younger community members.
    • The short- and long-term health impacts of vaping
    • The role of stigma and social connection in shaping vaping practices.
    • Recent changes to federal vaping laws, and how new restrictions affect accessibility and cost.

    Guests also highlight the role of community care, Quitline, and digital tools like My Quit Buddy in supporting people to reduce or quit vaping, and a targeted digital campaign by LHA and Thorne Harbour Health providing resources, awareness, and tailored support for LGBTIQ+ people looking to quit.

    Thinking About Quitting?

    Whether you’re ready now or just thinking about it, there are tools to help. Support is available.

    • Reach out to Quitline or at 13 QUIT (7847)
    • Download the My QuitBuddy app
    • Talk to a trusted health professional

    For more information visit the Touchbase website.

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 31: Vaping and LGBTIQ+ Communities appeared first on The Latest.
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    29 mins
  • Episode 30: Professor Nadine Ezard

    Episode 30: Professor Nadine Ezard
    Jul 25 2025
    In this episode of The Latest, we’re joined by Professor Nadine Ezard, one of Australia’s leading voices in harm reduction and public health. With more than 30 years’ experience, Professor Ezard is the inaugural Director of the National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs (NCRED) at UNSW and Clinical Director of the Alcohol and Drug Service at St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney. We explore how stigma and structural barriers continue to shape drug and alcohol services – particularly for LGBTIQ+ people. Professor Ezard speaks candidly about the persistent gaps in data, treatment models, and the visibility of specific communities – including trans, bisexual and intersex people – in both research and care. From the “double stigma” of being LGBTIQ+ and having a substance use disorder, to the role of community-led responses, she calls for smarter, more compassionate approaches to drug education, and for a shift away from criminalisation toward evidence-based public health. We also unpack methamphetamine, GHB, and ketamine use in queer communities – and how understanding the difference between use and disorder is critical to reducing harm. Professor Ezard highlights the power of peer-led models, outlines key policy changes that could have the biggest impact, and shares a sneak peek into upcoming trials – including a world-first clinical treatment for methamphetamine withdrawal. This is an episode full of practical insights, compassionate care, and a call to centre lived experience in our health responses. It’s a must-listen for anyone working in LGBTIQ+ health, harm reduction, or community care. Take home naloxone: saving lives through free access This episode contains reference to the Australian Government’s Take Home Naloxone (THN) program – a national initiative providing free access to naloxone for people at risk of opioid overdose and those likely to witness one. What is naloxone? Naloxone is a life-saving medication that temporarily reverses the effects of opioid overdoses, including those involving prescription opioids like oxycodone and morphine, as well as illicit opioids such as heroin. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, helping restore normal breathing until emergency medical assistance arrives. Naloxone can be administered via nasal spray or injection and is safe to use even if an opioid overdose is not confirmed. About the take home naloxone program Launched nationally in 2022, the THN program aims to reduce opioid-related harm by removing cost and access barriers. Under the program, naloxone is available free of charge and without a prescription at participating pharmacies and other approved sites across Australia. Who should carry naloxone? Anyone who uses opioids – whether prescribed or illicit – or who may witness an overdose should consider carrying naloxone. This includes family members, friends, carers, and frontline workers. With the increasing presence of potent synthetic opioids in various substances, broader access to naloxone is more important than ever. Where to get naloxone Naloxone is available at participating pharmacies, alcohol and other drug treatment centres, needle and syringe programs, and custodial release programs. To find your nearest provider, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care’s website: (health.gov.au). How to use naloxone Naloxone is user-friendly, with clear instructions provided with each product. Training resources, including videos and modules, are available through the Australasian College of Pharmacy and other organisations. Remember, after administering naloxone, it’s crucial to call emergency services (000) immediately, as the medication’s effects are temporary. Further information For more details on the THN program, including resources and training materials, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care’s official page: (health.gov.au). This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services The post Episode 30: Professor Nadine Ezard appeared first on The Latest.
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    36 mins
  • Episode 29: Dr Ryan Storr

    Episode 29: Dr Ryan Storr
    Jul 3 2025

    In this episode of The Latest, we’re joined by Dr Ryan Storr, Research Fellow at Swinburne University and co-founder of Proud 2 Play a group that advocates for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in sport.

    Dr Storr walks us through the key findings of his landmark Free to Exist report, the first national study to examine both participation rates and experiences of discrimination among LGBTIQA+ youth in sport. The report paints a sobering picture: young LGBTIQA+ people participate in sport at almost half the rate of their heterosexual and cisgender peers, with many dropping out entirely as they grow older.

    We also discuss how toxic masculinity, peer culture, and lack of consistent anti-discrimination policies are driving this disengagement, while highlighting successful community-driven programs and inclusive sporting spaces that are making a real difference.

    Whether you’re in the sports sector, an advocate, or just someone who cares about inclusion, this conversation offers essential insights into how we can ensure all people feel free to exist — and thrive — in sport.

    Find out more about Proud 2 Play.

    QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships.

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 29: Dr Ryan Storr appeared first on The Latest.
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    24 mins
  • Episode 28: Dr Chris Davis

    Episode 28: Dr Chris Davis
    May 18 2025

    The Latest in LGBTIQ+ Health and Policy is a podcast that brings you the health and well-being hot topic discussions that matter to LGBTIQ+ people.

    In this episode of The Latest, we are joined by Dr Chris Davis, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Clean Slate Clinic, a pioneering telehealth service that offers medically supervised alcohol detox from the comfort of home. With a background in general practice and extensive experience supporting people with drug and alcohol challenges, Dr Davis shares his commitment to making alcohol detox more accessible, safer, and free from stigma. He highlights the importance of ensuring that marginalised populations, including LGBTIQ+ people, have access to care that respects and understands their unique experiences.

    Dr Davis also speaks candidly about his personal journey, growing up in Northern England in the 1980s amidst internalised homophobia and his own struggles with alcohol moderation. He sheds light on the confronting reality that it can take, on average, 18 years from the onset of risky drinking to seeking professional help. This powerful conversation offers both insight and hope, demonstrating that it is possible to regain control and rebuild wellbeing at any stage.

    For anyone who wants to seek help for their own or another person’s alcohol or drug use, contact the Alcohol and Drug Information and Support Services (ADIS). These are state and territory-based services that offer telephone counselling, information, referral and support. You can call the Alcohol Drug Information Service (ADIS) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1800 250 015. For local numbers, search ‘ADIS’ and the jurisdiction you’re in.

    QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships.
    Pivot Point is a one-stop-shop for LGBTIQ community members who are looking for support in relation to their alcohol or drug use
    TouchBase is a national website providing information on alcohol and drug use as well as mental health and sexual health for LGBTI communities.

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 28: Dr Chris Davis appeared first on The Latest.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 27: Assistant Minister Ged Kearney

    Episode 27: Assistant Minister Ged Kearney
    Apr 22 2025

    The Latest in LGBTIQ+ Health and Policy is a podcast that brings you the health and well-being hot topic discussions that matter to LGBTIQ+ people.

    In this special episode of The Latest, we’re joined by the Hon Ged Kearney MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, who speaks with heart and humility about her work to champion the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ people. Minister Kearney shares her pride in launching the National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ People 2025–2035, and her commitment to seeing its vision realised. From community-led leadership and cultural change to health literacy, service accessibility, workforce development and data reform – she covers it all with clarity and purpose.

    With her trademark compassion and warmth, the Minister also reflects on her background as a nurse and the personal stories that fuel her drive to change the system. It’s impossible not to be moved as she speaks of the injustices she’s witnessed, and her determination to ensure that LGBTIQ+ people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. This is an inspiring, hopeful conversation with someone who truly understands the power of health to change lives—and who pinches herself every day for the chance to do this work. Don’t miss it.

    If this podcast has raised any issues you can contact QLife which provides Australia-wide anonymous, LGBTI peer support and referral for people wanting to talk about a range of issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings, or relationships. QLife services are free and include both telephone and webchat support, delivered by trained LGBTIQ+ community members across the country. Call 1800 184 527 or visit qlife.org.au to access webchat.

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 27: Assistant Minister Ged Kearney appeared first on The Latest.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 26: Tiger Salmon

    Episode 26: Tiger Salmon
    Apr 16 2025

    The Latest in LGBTIQ+ Health and Policy is a podcast that brings you the health and well-being hot topic discussions that matter to LGBTIQ+ people.

    This episode of The Latest is a nostalgic celebration of lesbian and trans hotness, punk defiance and radical visibility. We’re joined by artist and activist Tiger Salmon, co-founder of Wicked Women, Australia’s first erotic zine by and for lesbians and trans people. First published in 1988, Wicked Women didn’t just disrupt norms, it seduced them, bringing community together, out of the shadows, and improving mental health by creating a powerful sense of connection, self-worth and pride at a time when queer lives were routinely ignored.

    Tiger’s recent project, Wicked Reboot, breathes new life into archival images from the zine, bringing their raw, sexy power into the present and inviting a new generation to see themselves reflected in queer history. Through this conversation, we celebrate the radical joy and political power of lesbian and trans desire, and the lasting legacy of those who dared to show it off.

    If this podcast has raised any issues you can contact QLife which provides Australia-wide anonymous, LGBTI peer support and referral for people wanting to talk about a range of issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings, or relationships. QLife services are free and include both telephone and webchat support, delivered by trained LGBTIQ+ community members across the country. Call 1800 184 527 or visit qlife.org.au to access webchat.

    This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services

    The post Episode 26: Tiger Salmon appeared first on The Latest.
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    Less than 1 minute