The LGBT Sport Podcast

We’re heading back to the grassroots on the podcast today, as we talk about everything to do with the beautiful game with three members of the Leicester Wildecats LGBTQ+ football team. It was chair Steve who tipped us off about the club – and its near-thirty year history! –so it was only right that we got him on to have a chat, alongside manager Mike and current player Walid.We talk to all three of them about their experiences, both on and off the pitch, in what we think is really valuable and interesting conversation. Walid discusses what it’s like to grow up un a country where it’s illegal to be gay; Steve talks about how he found the club more than a decade ago, and the challenges of being a chair; Mike talks about management and his role with the GFSN – and they all talk about the impact that inclusive football has had on them.It’s a frank, funny and important conversation that we think you’ll love – and we’re really grateful to all three men for joining us.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @LeicWildecatsFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

They’re two of our favourite people, so it’s great to have former international swimmer Michael Gunning and double Paralympic wheelchair basketball star Robyn Love back to the podcast.They’ve both been on more than once in our long history – but today is our first chance to chat with them about their new roles with the British Elite Athletes Association.Michael is the organisation’s new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador; and Robyn becomes LGBTQ+ Ambassador – and together, they’ve both got a remit to try and make elite sport a place where everyone feels welcome.We sat down with them both to hear about the work they’re doing; how they got the roles and what they hope to do with them; how inclusivity has helped each of them in their own careers and so much more.Plus Robyn talks about life as a mum, Michael talks about what Pride Month means to him – and if you’re old enough to remember Bebo, there’s a little Easter Egg in here for you as well!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @GBEliteAthletes @Robyn_Love13 @MichaelGunning1WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s a special bonus episode today, as we celebrate a little bit of history that’s happening in the world of cricket this Sunday.It’s the UK’s first-ever LGBTQ+ cricket tournament, and it’s happening at Sutton Coldfield Cricket Club.It’s an 11 o’clock start and will feature teams from Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Middlesex and Northamptonshire – and since it’s Warwickshire who have been instrumental in making this happen, it was only right for us to take a trip to Edgbaston to find out more. We pulled together a great panel – and by ‘we’, I mean Brigg Ford from Warwickshire who has been a huge help to the podcast over the years for a chat about inclusivity, allyship, coming out, cricket, Harry Potter and so much more.You’re going to from Warwickshire bowler Liam Norwell; Central Sparks, Birmingham Phoenix and Worcester Rapids player Emily Arlott; and Lachlan Smith from Birmingham Unicorns, who has been instrumental in pulling it altogether.It’s a cracking episode, and we think you’ll love it!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @EmArlott @BhamUnicorns @WarwickshireCCCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley @[email protected]

An Olympic silver medallist, a multiple time world medallist at events around the globe, an elite freestyle skier, a social media sensation – and with more than a million followers on social media, Gus Kenworthy’s profile is almost unrivalled in the world of sport. He’s also one of the most high-profile gay sportspeople in the world – and, after his retirement following the Winter Olympics in 2022, is still committed to sharing his story in a way that will help people the most. We’re delighted to have Gus onto the podcast to talk about his life and his journey – and it’s an absolute cracker of a conversation that you can’t miss. We talk about how Gus got into skiing; his journey in the sport; his experiences with his own sexuality; his iconic coming out; inspiring others – and so, so much more.It’s funny, it’s real, it’s genuine – and it’s everything you could hope for with a man like Gus.And then after that, we’ll hear how I got on at this weekend’s FA Cup Final at Wembley when we lit up the stadium in the Pride colours and caught up with the Rainbow Devils and Canal Street Blues.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @GusKenworthyWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

On September 25th, 2018, we published the very first episode of the BBC's LGBT Sport Podcast.Five years later, we make a little bit of history with our landmark 300th episode - and are taking a moment to mark the occasion by reminding ourselves of just a handful of the amazing guests who have joined us to make this show what it is. On this bumper trip down memory lane, we'll hear from Olympians; World Cup winners; national treasures; wrestling champions and many, many more guests who have sat down to share their story with us.And more importantly, we'll say thank you to YOU - the people who've come on to talk about your journey; who've subscribed; who've listened; and who've helped in any other way, big or small, to make this podcast what it is today.Honestly, we couldn't have done it without you.WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST?: @jack_murley [email protected]

Flamboyant, fierce and never less than full-on when it comes to competition in the ring, Mitchell Starr – the drag queen alter ego of Lee Mitchell - has been competing on the UK wrestling scene for more than a decade, and shows no signs of slowing down.The grappler has danced, dropped and strutted his way to victories against big names in big bouts under his Starr persona – and, in the process, has tried to make the UK scene a more inclusive scene for the LGBTQ+ community, including last year when he helped put on WAW’s first-ever Pride show.We’ve wanted to have Lee on the podcast for a long time – and this is a cracking conversation about his life, inside and outside of the ring. We talk about what it was that inspired him to get into professional wrestling; training and overcoming his own anxiety to fulfil his dream; developing the ‘Mitchell Starr’ persona, and how that challenged stereotypes on what it ‘meant’ to be a wrestler; his own journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and lots, lots more!We make no bones about loving wrestling on this podcast – and if you do as well, we think you’ll love this episode. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @MitchellStarr93WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? [email protected] @jack_murley

Paul Poirier started skating when he was just a nipper – but while his brothers would chase an ice hockey puck, he would spin and be more creative.One he discovered figure skating – and particularly ice dance - he’d found his love, and his career in sport has been remarkable. It includes three Olympic Games, world championship bronze on two separate occasions and, in general, more medals and accolades than you can shake a stick at. Paul’s also gay and has spoken about his desire to be a role model to LGBTQ+ athletes, which is why we’re so delighted to get him onto the show to talk about his career and his journey, on and off the ice.This is a cracking conversation with a thoughtful, intelligent and passionate athlete that takes in all sorts of different things – from COVID to competing to coming out, and it’s an absolute gem of an episode that we think you’ll love. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @PaulDPoirier on Twitter / @pauldpoirier on Instagram WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Gary Ginnaw always loved football. It was, bizarrely, a nil-nil draw with Plymouth that made him fall in love with Charlton Athletic – and from that point onwards, he’d happily spend his time on the terraces, cheering for the Addicks as they made their way to the Premier League.But Gary's growing understanding of his sexuality meant he ended up stepping away from the game – and it wasn’t until he discovered an inclusive team on his doorstep that he found his way back. Since then, he hasn’t looked back – and Charlton Invicta has become Gary’s life, along with the GFSN and opening football up to everyone, which is why we're so delighted to have him onto the podcast to talk about his journey, on and off the pitch.We talk about how much he loves football – and honestly, there are few people more passionate about it than him! – coming to terms with his sexuality; getting back into the game and encouraging others to do the same; Charlton Invicta and GFSN; getting people into the sport and so, so much more.It’s an absolute belter of a conversation, and we think you’re going to love it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @GRGin1983 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It feels like a different age where Sarah Jones made her debut for Wales – and since then, the hockey player has barely looked back on the international stage.She’s competed in three separate Commonwealth Games for Wales, winning more than 100 caps – and in 2021, she helped Team GB take bronze at the Tokyo Olympics.She was appointed to the Team Wales Athletes Commission for the Victoria Commonwealth Games in three years – and despite having all of that going on, she’s still found time to join us for a cracking conversation about her journey in the sport and with her sexuality.We chat about all sorts today – including just how sporty Sarah was growing up; making her way in Welsh hockey and the way that’s evolved; being called up for GB and that medal-winning campaign in Tokyo; sharing her story with her sexuality; and we even manage to fit in a bit of gardening chat as well!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @sarahjones8888 on Twitter / @sarahjones8 on Instagram WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Sophie McKinna has her mum to thank for getting her into the shotput.After all, it was a decision by her to enter Sophie into the throwing event as a child that set Sophie on the road to a remarkable athletics career that has included any number of elite-level events – including world, European and Commonwealth finals, along with an appearance at the Olympics in Tokyo.Sophie’s currently targeting the Olympics in Paris next year – but before that, she decided she wanted to speak publicly for the first time about her sexuality; and when she messaged, asking if she could do it here on the podcast, we were delighted to have her on.As we always say, this isn’t a massive ‘coming out’ moment for Sophie – as the people who need to know in her personal and professional life have been aware of the fact she’s gay for a little while now.But she’s decided she wants to speak out to be a role-model – and we’re delighted she’s chosen our show to do it.And it’s an absolute cracker of a conversation as well, as we chat about Sophie’s sporting family; her love of Norfolk (and of animals); the highs and lows of life as an athlete; her work as a custody officer; deciding to speak about her sexuality and loads, loads more.It’s a pleasure to be having this conversation, and we really think you’re going to love hearing it as much as we loved doing it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @sophiemac10WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Brock McGillis is a history-maker.A goaltender who played in his native Canada and the Netherlands, he came out as gay in 2016 – and, since then, has used his platform to try and make ice-hockey a place where everyone feels welcome.Through speaking out to forming the Alphabet Sports Collective, Brock has a passion for inclusion, which is why we’re so delighted to have him on the podcast to talk about his story, both on and away from the ice.We talk all about Brock’s journey – from getting into hockey to some of his most memorable moments on the ice; the journey he went on with his sexuality and sharing it with the world; using his platform to support others and his advocacy work; and so, so much more.It’s not always an easy listen, as Brock talks about his own struggles with his sexuality – but it’s open, honest, powerful and – at points – you can’t stop listening.Oh, and if you’re a Drag Race fan, there are some Easter Eggs in here for you as well!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @brock_mcgillis on Twitter @brockmcgillis33 on Instagram WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

If it feels like we’ve been here before, it’s because we have... sort of. It was in 2020 that Alistair Burford and David ‘FiFi’ Cumpston first joined us to talk about the Union Cup in Birmingham – which, at the time, was set for the following year.But COVID and travelling restrictions meant the tournament – which is Europe’s largest inclusive rugby competition – had to be postponed for two whole years.It was an agonising wait - but this month, it’s finally here, and Alistair and David are back on the podcast to tell us all about it!We talk about all sorts of things on this episode – including that decision to postpone; the bidding Process; David and Fifi’s own journey in rugby; how Birmingham has got behind the Cup – and loads, loads more! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @unioncuprugby @BrumBullsRFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s fair to say that Jacob Leeks has always had a passion for playing sport, and for writing about it as well.When he’s not running out for Birmingham Blaze, he’s reporting on football and so much more for the Daily Mirror – and at the end of February, his work was recognised as he picked up the Football Media Award at this year’s Football v Homophobia Awards. So, it’s high-time that we got Jacob on the podcast for a chat about him, his work and his love of all things sport!We chat about where Jacob’s love of the beautiful game came from (and why it made his dad so happy!); how he got into journalism, along with the highs and lows that come with being in the industry; the journey he went on when it came to dealing with his own sexuality; winning that prestigious FvH Award; telling LGBTQ+ stories and so, so much more.It’s a cracking chat with a brilliant young journalist, and we think you’ll love hearing it!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @Jacob_LeeksWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

On October 26th, 2021, only devoted followers of Australian soccer would have known who Josh Cavallo was.Twenty-four hours later, the Adelaide United footballer was the name on the lips of almost everyone in world football after he became the first top-flight male professional to come out while still playing.Since then, life has been a bit of a whirlwind for Josh – and we’re delighted we finally have the chance to sit down with him for a cracking episode of the podcast.We talk about his love of the game and where it came from; deciding to share his story and the support he received from former podcast guest Thomas Beattie; telling his teammates about his sexuality, and then the world; the abuse he still gets and how he deals with it; and the goals for the rest of his career – honestly, this is one you have to hear.We’re so grateful that Josh took the time to join us for it, and we know you’ll love it as much as we do.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @JoshuaCavalloWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

To have one Olympic medallist on the podcast is a treat.To have two on at the same time – well, that’s incredibly special, and that’s why we’re so excited to bring you this episode.Lauren Price and Karriss Artingstall both came away from the Olympics in Tokyo with medals – for Lauren, it was a gold in the middleweight division, and for Karriss, it was featherweight bronze.Honestly, the couple are absolutely laden with accolades – world and commonwealth and European gold for Lauren, world bronze and European silver for Karriss – and that’s why this is such a cracking episode with two leading lights in British boxing. We talk about their careers, how they met, their relationship, their goals going forward and so, so much more!It’s an open, genuine and honest conversation that we absolutely love, and we hope you will as well – and we can’t thank both Lauren and Karriss enough for coming on to chat.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @LLPrice94 @karriss_imogen WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Gisele Shaw has her family – and especially her grandmother – to thank for her love of professional wrestling.Together, they’d watch and talk about the likes of Chyna and Lita in the WWF – but it wasn’t until a chance encounter at a professional wrestling show that Gisele even thought about stepping into the ring herself.Now, she’s one of the best in the business – part of IMPACT Wrestling’s Knockout division alongside some of the stars she grew up idolising, and a challenger for the promotion’s Knockout World Championship.Last year at Toronto Pride, Gisele chose to open up about the fact she happens to be trans – which is something she admits she’d never, ever thought about doing for a long time – and today, she joins us as a brilliant guest on the podcast.You know we love wrestling on this podcast, and Gisele is an amazing guest – and we chat about her career; her idols; her training; being a visible member of the LGBTQ+ community and loads more.We loved chatting with the self-proclaimed ‘Quintessential Diva’, and we think you’ll love this chat as well. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @GiseleShaw08 @impactwrestling WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

In a way, this is a story that was made for us!Richard Pallot and Rachel Williams are from Cornwall FA, and were thinking of ways to make the game in Cornwall more inclusive. Little did they know that Jess Sharville was also thinking the same thing – so when their paths crossed on social media, they got talking, and Stargazy FC was born.The club has its first training session at the end of the month – and all three of them are brilliant and passionate advocates for inclusivity in the game, as we talk about the idea behind the club; doing it in a place like Cornwall; why it’s personal for all of them to get involved with; and why they’ll soon be open for business for other teams that may want to have a match this summer!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @StargazyFC @CornwallFAWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s a common enough story.A club, on the brink of extinction, saved by people who had a passion for keeping it alive.But what makes the history of Keighley Cougars a little bit different is that they were rescued by Ryan O’Neill and his husband Kaue Garcia – who became the first out LGBTQ+ owners of a professional sports club outside of the USA, and put LGBTQ+ rights at the heart of what the Cougars are all about. So, when they dropped us a message about the podcast, we were only too happy to have them on for a chat, and it’s an absolute cracker. We chat with them both about their journeys in sport – which for Ryan was baked into his DNA, and was completely new for Kaue; buying the club; the challenge that presented; the first Pride game; the reaction to it; the plans for the future and lots, lots more.It’s a cracking conversation, and we’re really glad that Kaue and Ryan were able to join us for this podcast, and we think you’ll really like it.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @CougarmaniaWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s been less than a month since Campbell Johnstone made a little bit of history.The former New Zealand international opened up about his sexuality in an interview with TVNZ, becoming the first All Black to come out as gay.It was a decision that brought worldwide attention to the ex-Canterbury and Crusaders player – and now, he’s joining us on the podcast to tell us more about that decision, and what life has been like since. We chat about getting into rugby; applying himself to reach the top-level; getting that All Blacks call-up; understanding his sexuality and trusting people in rugby with his story – and loads, loads more.It’s a brilliant conversation that we were privileged to have, and we think you’ll love it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @campbelljohnstone.nz on Instagram WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

We're changing things up on the podcast today to do something a little bit different.At the end of January, we got a message from Warwickshire County Cricket Club, asking us if we'd like to head to Edgbaston to be part of a special training session being held at the club's indoor cricket centre.It'd bring together players and coaches from Warwickshire with members of the Birmingham Unicorns - the LGBTQ+ cricket team that we've featured on the podcast before.It was an offer we weren't going to turn down, so we took our kit and headed up to Edgbaston - and this is what happened!It features some familiar voices, along with some new names on the podcast - and is a fantastic celebration of inclusivity, allyship and, more than anything, the joy that cricket can bring you. We can't thank the folks at Warwickshire and Unicorns enough for having us along - and hopefully, you enjoy hearing this one as much as we loved making it!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @WarwickshireCC @bhamunicornsWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s LGBT+ History Month, so it’s only appropriate that we speak to another history maker on the podcast – and that’s exactly what Ryan Atkin is. He became the first out gay referee working in the men’s game in the UK when he came out in 2017.And since then, Ryan has used his experiences and platform to help others in the beautiful game, with many crediting him for inspiring their own decision to come out. Ryan’s popped up on the podcast from time to time, but has never had a full episode dedicated to himself - so today, we’re putting that right!We chat about all sorts of things – getting into refereeing; some of his most memorable games as he worked his way up the pyramid; taking the decision to share his story; supporting others in the game; and life for him since. Plus we try and settle a very important question that has been dogging people from Cornwall and Devon for generations!It’s a cracker of a conversation that we think you’re going to love, and we’re really grateful to Ryan for joining us for it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @ryantatkin WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s been two years since James Child made a little bit of history, as the Super League referee opened up for the first time on this podcast about the fact he happened to be gay. A lot has changed since then – as he took charge of the Challenge Cup Final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, officiated at a home World Cup, appeared on Question of Sport, became a dad for the first time, and announced his retirement. So, it was high time to get him back onto the podcast to talk about everything that has been happening in his life over the past couple of years – and it really doesn’t disappoint. We talk about life as a new dad; the reaction to him sharing his story; supporting others who reached out to him; that Challenge Cup Final; moving away from refereeing and so much more!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @jamescchild on Twitter @jimmycc on Instagram WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

When Luke Fisher was a kid, he used to set the video tape running to make sure he was able to record ice-hockey games from the NHL overnight to watch in the morning. Times have moved on since then, but Luke’s love of the game hasn’t changed – and now, it’s not just his sporting love but his work as well, with both the Elite League in the UK and handling social media for the NHL as well.Luke dropped us a message about what he’s doing in the sport – and with the Elite League’s Pride Week almost upon us, it was the perfect time to get him on for a chat.And this one is an absolute cracker – we talk about ice-hockey, obviously; but also about making social media work; about inclusivity being driven from the ground upwards; making this year bigger and better; and also about Luke’s other love of Eurovision!Honestly, it’s a belting chat – and we think you’ll love it!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @eurovision_luke @officialEIHLWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s been more than three years since Michael Gunning made his first appearance on the podcast – and a lot has changed since then. The international swimmer popped back up last year to talk briefly about the formation of the Commonwealth Pride Network, but we haven’t had the chance to properly speak to him since then. So today, he’s having a return visit and a whole episode to himself, as we look at what the past few years have been like for him. And in short, there’s been a lot going on – he retired from swimming, filmed a documentary with Tom Daley, worked with Pride House at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and so much more besides. We always say that Michael is one of the nicest people we get to have on the podcast, and it really is true – so we think you’ll enjoy this one as much as we did.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @MichaelGunning1WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

We’re kicking off 2023 on the podcast with a trip back to the grassroots, and a cracking conversation with someone doing their bit to try and make the beautiful game open for everyone.Zack Leader is Lincolnshire FA’s new LGBTQ+ ambassador – and a man who lives and breathes the beautiful game. He’s also someone who knows a fair bit about adrenaline rushes, having previously been a British gravity bike champion – and as a Spurs fan, we were always going to like him. We talk about the role football played for him growing up; getting back into playing after a long time away; his most memorable moments; his experiences as an LGBTQ+ person in sport, including some of the homophobia he’s encountered; his new role with the Lincolnshire FA and lots, lots more. It’s a great way to kick start our fifth year of the podcast, and we think you’ll love it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @zleader12 @LincolnshireFAWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

So another year comes to an end.And even by our standards on this podcast, it's been a massively busy one - so we wanted to wrap things up with the second part of our 'Best Bits' special with some of the most memorable moments from July-December.So in this episode, we'll remind ourselves of our chats with:- Stephen Fry - Georgia Elwiss, Hen Cowen and Gordon Hollins from our Big Cricket Roundtable in Taunton - Laurie Williams, Hannah Davis, Dan Jervis and Lloyd Wilson from our big Manchester Pride Roundtable in Salford - Zander Murray - Peter Caruth - Aubrey EdwardsHonestly, there have been so many amazing guests in 2022 - more than we could ever fit in! - and we've got more of the same lined up for what's promising to be an amazing 2023!WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

He’s one of the rising stars of the British wrestling scene.Along with partner Jack Tayson, Adam Bolt has performed for promotions across the country.And in 2021, he spoke for the first time publicly about the fact he was bisexual – and was sharing his story to help other LGBTQ+ people in the industry.We love doing professional wrestling on the podcast, and Adam is someone we’ve wanted to have on the show for ages – so it was cracking to get this one done. We talk about what got Adam into wrestling; his favourite wrestlers; his favourite matches; his coming out journey and why he’s been a better wrestler as a result; performing at WAW’s Pride Show – yeah, this one really is a cracker.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST?: Twitter: @AdamBolt_ Instagram: adamboltwrestler WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Snow is falling, the night's have drawn in - and there are only a few days left in 2022.So it seemed like the perfect time to take a look back at the past year on the podcast, and remind ourselves of some of the amazing guests who joined us for a chat over the last twelve months.This episode takes us back through January to June - where we'll remind ourselves of our conversations with:- Scottish badminton star Kirstie Gilmour - Ex-footballer Thomas Beattie - Former NFL star Ryan Russell - Newcastle Thunder's Jordan Robinson - Welsh hammer-thrower Osian Jones - England cricket star Katherine Brunt - Ice-dancer Lewis Gibson - Curling star Bruce MouatSo, all those amazing conversations, just from the first part of 2022 alone - and in an upcoming episode, we'll take remind ourselves of some of the great guests who joined us in the later part of the year!WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

There’s no other way to put it – Abbie Eaton is a very cool person. The British racing driver has travelled around the world, competing in races across the globe – and pitted her driving wits against Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May on The Grand Tour.After some time out of racing due to an injury we talk about in this episode, she’s now back behind the wheel – and is continuing to make change in the sport as an ambassador for Racing Pride. So, we’re absolutely delighted to have Abbie onto the podcast to talk about her journey, both on and off the track.We talk about how motor-racing was always her passion; about breaking in and some of the financial hardships that people don’t talk about; her most memorable drives; those Grand Tour memories; being a role-model for other LGBTQ+ people in motorsports and so much more besides!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @AbbieEaton44 @RacingPride WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Josh Jones has been cycling for the better part of a decade. Road-racing, cycle-cross, a bit of mountain-biking as well – he’s done it all! But it didn’t always feel like the culture in cycling was particularly welcoming to LGBTQ+ racers like Josh, which is why he started ALL IN Racing. The not-for-profit initiative is working to make the sport inclusive of LGBTQ+ folk at all levels of cycling – and this winter, it funded its first-ever race using proceeds from the sale of its Rainbow Socks. So, we couldn’t wait to get Josh onto the podcast to talk all about it – from starting ALL IN to his own experiences in cycling to the success they had in Andover in November with supporting the Supercross UCI event. Whether you're an elite-level cyclist or a fair-weather rider, this is a conversation we think you'll love!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @josh.m.jones (Instagram) @all.in.racing (Instagram)WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

A lot of words were bandied around when England netball star Stacey Francis-Bayman announced her retirement this summer – and one you heard a lot was ‘legend’.After all, the Team Bath star was part of the club’s first-ever Superleague squad, and was part of all five of their Superleague-winning campaigns.She played for England at three Commonwealth Games – including taking bronze in Delhi in 2010 – and has two World Cup bronze medals to her name as well. She was also an ambassador for Pride House in Birmingham at her home Commonwealth Games, which was when we spoke to her last – but we really wanted to dedicate a whole episode to Stacey in her own right. And really, this is an extraordinary conversation – about life in retirement; about your values as a person and an athlete; about her development as a person and moving into a space where she’s more comfortable as an advocate; and so, so much more besides.It’s emotional at points, and never anything less than honest – and it’s one you really need to hear. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @StcyJyneFrancisWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Gymnastics has been in the blood for Heath Thorpe for - well, seemingly forever! The Australian has accumulated multiple titles and international medals, and made his first World Championship earlier this year in Liverpool. Now he’s using his platform to try and make sport a place where everyone belongs – and to do that, he’s bringing his own experiences of discrimination in sport and in life to the table as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.As one of the few out gay gymnasts competing at the international level, we’ve been keen to have him on the podcast for a long time – and this episode is everything you’d hope it would be and more.We talk about Heath’s childhood, representing Australia for the first time, coming to terms with his sexuality, using his experiences to help others, life during COVID – and lots, lots more. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @thorpeheath WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

When Liam Braisdell was young, he had a bedroom decorated top-to-bottom in Arsenal colours, so it’s no surprise that he found a way into football.Only in his mid-20s, he’s currently the manager of St Martin’s FC – so when he dropped us a message, saying he wanted to share his story as a gay man in football, we were only too happy to have him on.And honestly, this episode is an absolute joy – the sort of surprise you get when someone you don’t know gets in touch, offers to share their experiences, and is completely brilliant from the moment they come on.We talk to Liam about battling against adversity as a manager; how Football Manager got him into coaching in the first place; being inspired by Jake Daniels and others; life as a Wrexham fan; and so much more besides. Liam isn’t the biggest name we’ve had on the podcast by a long stretch – but honestly, we loved this one as much as any we've ever done.And if you want absolute honesty, some hilarious coming out stories, and a celebration of grassroots football in the UK, you're going to love it as well.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @BraisdellLiam @StMartinsFC WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

There’s no other way to say it.Nicholas Daines is a very cool guy – and if you don’t believe me, take a listen to this resume.As a gymnast, he represented Britain on the international stage – and he’s also a medallist as a diver on the masters level as a diver.Alongside that, Nicholas is a world-renowned, award-winning stuntman and stunt co-ordinator who has worked on some of the biggest movies in the world – from Mission Impossible to Batman to the latest Harry Styles film, and a whole bucketload of brilliant productions alongside that.In fact, you’re bound to have seen his work, even if you didn’t know it at the time. So, when Nicholas dropped us a message saying that he’d love to come onto the podcast, we were always going to have him – and this episode is a cracker.We talk about the pivotal role that Nicholas’ sister played in getting him into gymnastics; how it felt to pull on that British tracksuit at a world championships; how diving came into his life; his work in stunts, and as a gay man in that industry; why he’s passionate about biodiversity and the world around us… honestly, the list goes on and on. It’s a brilliant conversation with an awesome guest – and we think you’re going to love Nicholas and his story as much as we did.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST?: www.nicholasdaines.com @nicholasdaines on InstagramWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST?: @jack_murley [email protected]

Born into a sporty family, Brandon Gregory was always into football – in fact, it was the ‘Invincibles’ of Arsenal that got him into it. But when he decided to share the fact he’s gay with his local team as a teenager, it felt like the beautiful game no longer had a place for him.Despite that, he found a way back thanks to the Cardiff Dragons - where he now plays, manages and helps others to get into the game as well.So when he dropped us a message saying that he’d love to come onto the podcast to share his story, we were always going to have him on for what’s a cracking conversation.It’s powerful, it’s personal, and it really gets across why making football a place where everyone belongs is such an important thing.For Brandon, it’s literally been life-changing – and when you hear that conversation, you’ll understand why!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @brandonmgregory @cardiffdragons WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s been more than a decade since Swedish footballer Anton Hysén came out.At the time, he was one of the only men in the world of football to be open about his sexuality – and while he was always pretty chilled about the whole thing, he admits that the attention got close to overwhelming at times.More than ten years on from sharing his story, Anton is still an inspiration to so many gay and bisexual men in the beautiful game, so it was high time that we got him onto the show to talk about his journey.It’s all here – from growing up as the son of former Swedish international Glenn Hysén, playing the beautiful game in the USA and Sweden, deciding to share his story… oh, and how it felt to triumph on the Swedish version of Strictly Come Dancing.Honestly, Anton might be one of the most chilled, relaxed that we’ve ever had on the podcast – and this was an absolute treat.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @antoniohysen90 WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Aubrey Edwards is one of the most recognisable figures in All Elite Wrestling.From grudge matches to world title contests, the referee has taken charge of some of the biggest bouts in the promotion’s three-year history.And as if that wasn’t enough, she also co-host’s the company’s podcast and has played a key in developing AEW’s soon-to-be-released video game.So, busy is one way to describe Aubrey’s schedule – but that hasn’t stopped her from taking time out of her day to join us for a cracking episode of the podcast that wrestling fans are going to love!From how she got interested in wrestling to being in the ring with some of the biggest names in the business, it’s a corker of a conversation that touches on everything from bisexuality to helping to build a brand!We loved doing this one, and we hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed chatting with Aubrey.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @RefAubrey @AEW @aew_heelsWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s fair to say that Cristian Colás knows a lot about what it takes to make a football team tick.He’s coached in Helsinki, as well as in his home country of Spain – and is currently in his second spell in charge of Biggleswade United.Cristian also happens to be gay – and while his sexuality is far from a secret, this is the first time he’s ever sat down with a podcast like ours to talk about what it’s like to be an out manager working in the men’s game. As always, there’s loads to talk about with a guest like Cristian, from his journey in football to his experiences away from the pitch – plus his thoughts on the Qatar World Cup and lots, lots more.We’re really grateful to Cristian for taking the time to join us on the podcast, and we hope you enjoy giving this one a listen. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @BiggleswadeUnited @crcolasWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

The last time that Robyn Love and Laurie Williams were on the podcast together, it was literally days after they got engaged. And now, the British wheelchair basketball stars are back on the show again to talk about the exciting news that the pair of them are expecting their first child in April!When they dropped us a message to say they’d love to come on and say more, we were delighted to say ‘yes’ – and this is just a really lovely conversation with two terrific people, about to embark on the next stage of their journey together.We talk about their decision to start a family, the journey they’ve been on, the less-than-glamorous place they found out that Laurie was pregnant, inspiring others – honestly, this is just a cracking chat with two brilliant people who are clearly just chuffed to bits about being mums-to-be.We loved doing it, and we know you’ll love it as well.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @Robyn_Love13 @lauriewilliams8 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

He’s the player-manager of Thetford Town Football Club – and in many ways, Matt Morton’s influence in football extends beyond what he's managed to achieve on the pitch to the role-model he's become off it.Because when Jake Daniels was considering coming out publicly, it was Matt that the Blackpool player turned to – and Jake wasn’t alone in that.It’s because Matt was, for a number of years, one of the only out gay men in football who was willing to share his story – and it’s a pleasure to finally get Matt onto the show to talk about his journey and so much more besides. We discuss his journey in football, his time as a player and as a manager, his personal journey away from the pitch, being visible and lots, lots more. We think you’ll love this chat with Matt, and we’re really grateful to him for making the time to come on. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @MattMorton16 @ThetfordTownFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

It’s fair to say the last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind for Zander Murray.Less than a fortnight ago, the Scottish striker came out as gay – and since then, he’s been pretty much everywhere, talking about his journey. The Gala Fairydean Rovers player says he’s sharing his story because he wants to help others who may be struggling – and we’re delighted to have him with us today, in his first podcast ever, to talk about his journey.From why he’s decided to inspire others with his story to the process he’s been through, it’s an amazing listen with a great guy that touches on all sorts of things in a really honest, open and genuine way.We know this is one you’ve wanted to hear, and that we’ve wanted to bring you – so we really hope you enjoy it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @ZanderMurrayWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

She’s a double Olympian; a former Commonwealth gold medallist; and one of British judo’s most-established stars, with more medals than you can shake a stick at. But while Natalie Powell was smashing it in her sporting life, it took a long time for the Welsh judoka to feel the same way when it came to her sexuality. For years, she felt uncomfortable with who she was – and called the period where she wasn’t out ‘the hardest thing in her life’. But now, she’s happy and content with who she is, and that is why she’s chosen to be with us on the show today.We’re thrilled to have Natalie on, talking about her career and the journey she’s been on, in sport and in life – plus training, cake, and so much more. It’s a cracking conversation with a bit of a Welsh sporting legend, and we’re delighted that Natalie is on the show with us. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST?: @Nataliep_90WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST?: @jack_murley [email protected]

If you live in Cornwall, you will know who Edward Rowe is.And if you don’t, prepare to be introduced to an absolute gem!The Cornish actor and comedian is a legend in the county – and he's just written, filmed and directed his first-ever short film, all in the Cornish language, looking at a coming out story at a Cornish rugby club. It’s called ‘Mab Hudel’ – and tells the story of a player called Enys Penrose who captains his team to a cup final, while simultaneously struggling with his own sexuality.It’s something that’s right up our street, which is why we had Ed in to chat on our BBC Radio Cornwall show.And we thought you might like to hear it on our podcast as well, which is why we’re bringing it to you here.Ed is a great talker – a really engaging, entertaining guy who we love and think you’ll love as well – and that the film will be right up your street as well.So, enjoy this special bonus episode with Ed, and make sure you try and check out the film as well. WANT TO FIND OUT ABOUT OUR GUEST? @Kernow_King WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

For Hayley Ladd, playing football wasn’t a choice. It was just a given from the off.As soon as she was old enough, she was kicking a ball around with local lads on the cul-de-sac that her family lived on – and when she was nine, she was in Arsenal’s Centre of Excellence.Stints at Coventry City, Bristol Academy and Birmingham City followed – alongside a time playing in Finland! – before Hayley ended up at Manchester United.And alongside that was Hayley’s international career, began when she was just sixteen years old, and still going strong to this day for Wales.It was being part of that Welsh team at such a young age that helped Ladd find the confidence she needed to be her authentic self – and now, she’s looking to help others do the same.This is a cracking conversation about all of that and so much more – from Wales’ recent World Cup match with Slovenia played in front of an electric crowd in Cardiff to Hayley’s footballing journey, plus training in the pandemic, finding time to relax and the pressures that younger players may face now that Hayley didn’t have to deal with as she was breaking into the game.It’s a brilliant chat with a fantastic guest, and we think you’re going to love it!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @HayleyLaddWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

Paul Greetham has always loved cricket.He grew up playing it at an age-group level for Warwickshire and, for the past eight years, has been helping to bring the best out of the players coming through the ranks at Edgbaston as the High Performance Manager at Warwickshire County Cricket Club.He’s someone who knows everything there is to know about coaching, having done it since he was a teenager – and he’s a terrific person to have on the podcast this week.We talk about all sorts of things, from where his love of the game came from to coming out as gay in the sport – to why he would like more men to feel like they can do the same. Plus marathon running, the joy of coaching – and why he for one will be looking forward to the new series of Bake Off!It’s a cracking chat with Paul, who is speaking openly about his story for the first time – and we’re delighted to have him on the show.WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected] WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/paul-greetham

Sometimes, it’s good to take a moment to stop and reflect on things.And as the summer begins to draw to a close, we thought it was worth pausing to remind ourselves of some of the amazing guests who have joined us on the podcast so far in 2022.So, we’re taking a trip into the archive to remember conversations with the Olympians, World Cup winners and history-makers who have been on the show since January this year.From reaction to Jake Daniels' coming out story to athletes who shared their journey with us for the first time, this is like a buffet of podcast goodness from 2022 – and we think you’ll love it.WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

More than 150 thousand people are expected in Manchester today for the city’s Pride parade - and obviously, we wanted to be part of it!So we decided to take the show to the heart of the city to record a special episode with four brilliant guests who happened to be in Manchester ahead of today’s march.Olympic swimmer Dan Jervis, British wheelchair basketball star Laurie Williams, Scottish football referee Lloyd Wilson and rugby player Hannah Davis all join us for a cracking conversation about Pride, visibility, and being their authentic selves. It's honest and open and funny - and touches on everything from wedding planning to coming out to a first trip to Canal Street!It was brilliant to get so many folks around the table for a chat on such a special weekend, and we hope you love hearing this one. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUT GUESTS? @reflloydwilson @laurie_williams8 @davis_physio @danieljervis1 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

There is so much we could tell you about Peter Caruth - who has justifiably earned his reputation as a bit of a legend in the world of Irish hockey.There’s the silverware he’s won at club level, as well as the bronze he took with the Irish national side at the 2015 Eurohockey Nations Championship – plus the small matter of the Rio Olympics in 2016, and the fact he’s amassed more than 140 caps for Ireland.Or we could tell you about that moment, exactly two months ago in June, where he told the world about the fact he’s gay – and became the first Ireland men’s hockey international to ever come out.But honestly, we’d rather you just listened to this episode, which might be one of the best we’ve ever done. Because if this podcast is just meant to be a chat, then that’s exactly what this one with Peter is – a wide-ranging conversation that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you literally hold your breath.It’s something that weaves between the sporting and the deeply, deeply personal – and we think you should just make some time in your day to listen to it in full, because you won’t regret it.From concocting a scheme to nab Usain Bolt’s autograph to the pain he felt inside while concealing his sexuality, Peter is honest about it all to the absolute core – and we can’t thank him enough for this gift of a conversation.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @peteostrich1 on InstagramWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

In a career that spanned the best part of two decades, there was very little that Alex Blackwell didn't manage to accomplish. The former Australia captain led her side to World Cup and Ashes victories on her way to becoming, at one point, Australia’s most capped female cricketer ever - and now she writes about and commentates on the game that she still loves so much. Alex also made history as the first female international cricketer to come out as gay, and uses her platform as a patron for Pride in Sport in Australia, with whom she works to make sport a place where everyone feels welcome.So we were absolutely delighted to have Alex join us for a cracking episode of the podcast, where we talk about her amazing career and so much more besides.From the influence her family had in making her feel like she could do anything she wanted to some of the discrimination she experienced in cricket, as well as those top sporting memories that still haven’t faded – it’s all in this conversation, and in her book ‘Fair Game’, which is absolutely worth a read as well. We’re really grateful Alex joined us for this chat, and we think you’ll love hearing it as much as we loved doing it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @AlexBlackwellWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

If you're anything like me, you probably loved watching the Commonwealth Games over the past couple of weeks.And if you were lucky enough to be in Birmingham for the event, you may well have paid a visit to Pride House Birmingham - which has been putting on events, talks and seminars throughout the entirety of the Games.We wanted to reflect on what the space meant to the people behind it, as well as to those who visited – and we’ve found two terrific guests to have a conversation about that and so much more.Neil Basterfield is the co-founder of Pride House Birmingham, and England netball legend Stacey Francis-Bayman was a Pride House Ambassador for the Games – and this conversation brings them both together to talk visibility, the importance of LGBTQ+ venues at sporting events, allyship and so much more.It’s a fitting tribute to the work done by everyone who made Pride House a success, and we’re massively grateful to Neil and Stacey for making the time to join us for it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @StcyJyneFrancis @neilbast @PrideHouseBham WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]