The LGBT Sport Podcast

It's a title that dates back to 1905 -- and is one of the most prestigious belts in the world of professional wrestling. But remarkably, it took more than 100 years for an openly gay man to challenge for NWA World Heavyweight Championship. That happened last month, when Norfolk grappler Brad Slayer wrestled for the belt in front of a hometown crowd at Carrow Road.So what's it like to be a gay man in this unique form of sports entertainment? Brad's been speaking to us about how he got into the business; why it's such an inclusive place for LGBTQ+ wrestlers and fans; the difference having an understanding partner can make; and who his dream opponent would be.We always love having wrestlers on the podcast - and it was great to chat all things grappling with Brad.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @BradSlayerWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

We've never interviewed a couple on the podcast before - so for our first time doing that, we decided to aim big.We mean, really big.Fiona Pocock is a Premiership winner and England rugby star, and Susannah Townsend is a hockey player who was part of the legendary Team GB side that won gold at the Olympics in Rio in 2016. Elite athletes on the field, they're incredible guests off it - talking passionately about the highs and lows that come with carving out a career at the highest levels of world sport.Also on the agenda - whether they consider themselves to be LGBTQ+ role models; spreading their message to a new generation; and who is REALLY the most competitive of the two of them.We loved having them on the podcast - and honestly, this is one of our favourite episodes yet.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Susannah: @stownsend7 Fiona: @Fiona_PocockWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

This time last year, English football fans were on a high after Gareth Southgate's side's unexpected run to the semi-finals of the World Cup in Russia. It was the national team's best performance since Italia '90, but off the pitch, something else was taking place. An group of fans called 3 Lions Pride began displaying an England flag in the colours of the rainbow at games, to help highlight the support the team was getting from LGBTQ+ fans. But in a country with a poor record on LGBTQ rights where 'gay propoganda' is banned, just unveiling that banner was a brave move in itself. Di Cunningham was one of the group's co-founders - as well as the person behind Proud Canaries AND the current chair of Pride in Football. She's an absolutely brilliant guest - articulate, funny and passionate about making the beautiful game open to absolutely everyone.Plus, she told us what Delia's cooking was really like!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @di_ceee WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

If you've ever flicked through the back-pages of Britain's newspapers, you've probably read Alex Kay-Jelski's work. After a stint as the Sports Editor at the Daily Mail, he moved to The Times to do the same job - and now, he's got an exciting new venture on the horizon. So what's it like to be the person in charge of some of Britain's biggest sporting newsrooms - and how did he end up taking a trip to a warzone with a Dutch footballing legend?!We've wanted to have Alex on the show for a while - and he didn't disappoint when it came to giving us a real insight into life on Fleet Street, and his experiences at two top newspapers. And as a fellow Spurs fan, he's welcome back any time he wants! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @AlexKayJelskiWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

Richard Morris has a CV that sounds like it's straight from the pages of an Ian Fleming novel.He has a doctorate in history from the University of Cambridge; he's represented Britain on the international stage as a fencer; and now, Richard Morris makes his living as a racing driver for Spire Sports Cars. He's also the co-founder of Racing Pride - a new organisation that's working to promote inclusion in the motorsport world. He's been speaking to us for our 50th episode - about how he got into driving; what it feels like to get it just right while racing; and becoming the role model he feels he needed when he was growing up.In fact, he's the closest thing we've had on the show to a real-life James Bond - and we really think you're going to like him. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Richard Morris: @RichardMRacing/ hwww.richardmorrisracing.com Racing Pride:@racingprideuk/ www.racingpride.com

For Kellie Maloney, boxing seemed to be in the blood.In fact, it was a passion that took her from an amateur club as a schoolchild to managing Lennox Lewis and a whole stable of other world champions - but away from the ring, Kellie was struggling with her true self. You see, she was born as Frank - and on this episode of the podcast, we talk about the journey that has taken Kellie to where she is now. It's not always an easy listen, as Kellie speaks frankly about how long it took her to accept herself - and for others to accept her as well. But we promise, we think it's one you'll want to stick with - and that you'll remember for a long time. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @kelliefmaloneyWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

On paper, the odds were stacked against John Dickinson-Lilley becoming an elite para-athlete.From a non-sporty family and told he needed to lose a significant amount of weight to make it to the very top, John put in the hard work to become the UK's leading blind skier, winning British and European titles along the way.But as the only gay person on the circuit, life as an elite athlete was often lonely - and it's something John talks about eloquently and openly in this powerful episode.Also on the agenda - how taking a chance got him into sport; how he coped with retirement; and whether he sees himself as a role model.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @JDLskier facebook.com/blindskiracingWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

He's an England Touch international who makes his living commentating on rugby matches around the world.And when Nick Heath isn't doing the commentating himself, he's learning about it from the very best as the host of the brilliant 'Cue Commentator' podcast that sees him interview some of the most familiar names to ever sit behind a microphone.He's just got back from Dublin where he was working at the Union Cup - which is Europe's largest inclusive rugby tournament - and made time in his busy schedule to talk to us about all aspects of his work.On the agenda: backing himself to make it in the commentary game; what makes a *great* commentator: and who is on his bucket-list of folk to chat to for the upcoming series of 'Cue Commentator'.So, if you want to hear two fellas geek out about what it takes to really make it behind the mic in the world of sport, this is the episode for you! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @nickheathsport or @cuecommentator on TwitterWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? [email protected] @jack_murley

How would you fancy running out for a team called the Pride-o-saurus Rexes?That was *almost* the name that Edmund Connolly gave to the world's first inclusive lacrosse team - but ultimately, he decided to go for the Rainbow Rexes instead. The team had humble beginnings - with players learning the names of team-mates on their way to their first tournament - but has grown significantly, and offer a home to folks in the lacrosse world who fancy playing for a team that really values inclusivity. He's a great chap - even if he does manage to *nearly* offend non-Welsh rugby fans within the first 10 seconds of the podcast! - and we really loved having someone so eloquent and engaging on the show. WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR GUESTS? Instagram: rainbowrexlaxWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? [email protected] @jack_murley

Lindsay Peat is the sort of amazing athlete who hasn't just excelled in one sport - but in a whole bucketload of them. She represented Ireland as a youngster in football; she did the same in basketball as a full international; then played three All-Ireland Finals as a Gaelic football star. Then, she decided to take up rugby - debuting against England in only her eighth game, and taking part in a World Cup and three Women's Six Nations since then. She's also an ambassador for this year's Union Cup in Dublin - as Europe's largest inclusive rugby tournament heads to the Emerald Isle.We're delighted to have such an eloquent, articulate guest on the pod - and her last answer in particular is one of the most poignant we've had since we started. We love her, and we think you will as well.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @lilypeat11@unioncuprugby/ https://unioncupdublin.ie#TryWithPrideWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

There's not a lot to cheer about at the moment if you're a Huddersfield Town fan - but maybe the side's inclusive supporters group will put a smile on your face.It was founded by Ryan Mather - and is all about the philosophy that football is for everybody. So why did Ryan decide to start this LGBTQ+ supporters club - and what difference has it made in his life?He's been talking to us about that; about his experiences of homophobia in the game; and what Huddersfield Town need to do to bounce back from a season that's been tricky ... to put it mildly!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? www.proudterriers.com @ProudTerriersWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

She's a six-time winner on the European Tour, a three-time Solheim Cup player - and a woman who has fought doggedly for equality in the sport of golf.And at the end of last year, Britain's Mel Reid decided to open up for the first time about her sexuality when she came out publicly as gay. So, why did she do it - and what has life been like since? We're delighted that Mel took time out from a well-earned day off to chat to the podcast - as we discuss how she got into golf, why she didn't think her article with Athlete Ally would be such a big deal, why it's important to give back to the game, and the boxset she's binged on recently ... which probably isn't what you'd expect!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @melreidgolfWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

No messing about here - this episode with Keegan Hirst is one of the most hard-hitting we've done since we started this podcast.The rugby league star become the first openly gay English player back in 2016 - and in this edition of the show, we talk about how it happened. The lack of role models; the environment he was brought up in; the impact it had on his own two children; the contemplation of taking his own life - it all comes up in this show.But there are also lighter moments - like how he had no interest in rugby as a kid; how Antony Cotton from Coronation Street fame has helped him with his 'gay education'; and why there's a video floating around of Keegan as The Rock.So, stop reading this, and go and listen - and we think you'll find Keegan as compelling a guest as we do. What's more, he's a top bloke as well, and we're really grateful he took the time to join us. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @KeeganHirstWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

We'll be honest - some episodes just click, and this is one of them.We've wanted to have the Northampton Outlaws on for a little while - and we decided the perfect time to do it was now, fresh off their triumph in the IGR Southern League.So, we got Simon Chapman and Simon Law from the inclusive club into the studio for a really fun conversation about a whole load of things. On the agenda - how they both got involved with the team; plans for the Union Cup; training with the awesome James Haskell; and how much they ACTUALLY remember of the weekend they claimed the league championship.They're both terrific chaps - and we loved having them on.WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR GUESTS? @OutlawsFC@SimanChapmanhttps://www.pitchero.com/clubs/northamptonoutlawsrfcWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW @[email protected]

What would you do if you wanted to play football - but couldn't find a club.Most of us would sigh, shrug our shoulders and find another sport to try - but Laura Montgomery isn't most people. When she decided she wanted to play the game at a higher, more organised level, she decided to co-found Glasgow City - which has gone onto become one of the most successful teams in Scotland. Started in 1998, it has become a dominant force, winning multiple titles and cups - becoming the first Scottish team to reach the quarter-finals of the Women's Champions League in the process. And as if that wasn't enough to keep Laura busy, she's also the Head of Sales and Sponsorship at Hibernian.We loved having Laura on - she's a fascinating, eloquent individual with so much drive and determination. A fitting guest for the 40th episode of the podcast!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @LauraMonty4 @GlasgowCityFC @HibsOfficialFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? [email protected] @jack_murley

She wowed viewers across the UK as she made her way to the final of Masterchef - but before that, Jilly McCord excelled in a very different way. The Scottish schoolteacher represented her country on the rugby field - playing at the 2006 World Cup and eventually captaining the national side - and combined it with life as a school-teacher. And all of that was BEFORE the whirlwind of Masterchef, which took her right around the world. So, we had plenty to talk with her about - and we really, really enjoyed having her on, talking about everything from LGBT role models to finding out you're going to skipper your country while in the Tesco carpark. And Jilly, you can make us a pasty anytime! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @jillymccordcook WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected] VOTING FOR US AT THE BRITISH PODCAST AWARDS? https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/vote

What's it like to be the person in charge of a football club - and not just any club, but one with the history of Leeds United?It's a position very few people have held - but David Haigh is one of them. During his time as a managing director at Elland Road, he championed initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion - which is something he continues to do in his current role with the FA in Cornwall, and as a key player with the local side in Penzance. There's also another side to David, who is a prominent lawyer and human rights activist who was imprisoned in a UAE jail for 22 months - and he'll tell his own story of that time in a way that some of you may find uncomfortable to listen to. However, given the current situation in Brunei, it seemed strange not to get into that side of David's life.Also on the agenda: the so-called 'gay day' at Leeds United; his friendship with Robbie Rogers; and how football fans can help make the game more ethical.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @haighdavid Website:http://www.davidhaigh.co.uk/WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

He's the former Exeter University student who is also the European Age Group Triathlon Champion. But Jack Bristow has also made headlines away from the sport - after successfully helping persuade its governing body to reverse a ban it introduced on LGBT athletes flying the Pride flag.And, still in his mid-20s, Jack is determined to make sure gay sportspeople get the representation they deserve. He's a terrific guest to have on the podcast - as we discuss being inspired by the Brownlees at the London Olympics; the financial costs of making it in the triathlon world; and exactly WHAT you may find on his Twitter feed.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @JackWJB94WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

He's a columnist, a podcaster - and one of the very few male footballers who came out as gay while still actively playing the game.In fact, Adam McCabe still runs out for the Georgia Revolution in the National Premier Soccer League in the United States and is one of the most articulate, eloquent guests we've had on yet on what it's like to be closeted in sport - and his own coming out story.Also on the agenda; how straight, cis-gendered players can be allies to LGBT team-mates; how Robbie Rogers inspired him; his childhood love for Steven Gerrard; and making the switch to asking the questions, rather than answering them!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? The Gay Footballer's Podcast: @tgfpodWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

The Six Nations is coming to an end - so we thought it was worth taking a dip into our archives to revisit some of our top guests from the world of rugby. So, in this episode, we're going to hear again from ...- The iconic rugby referee Nigel Owens on how he got into officiating in the first place, and the pressure of social media.- Verity Smith talks about life as a transgender rugby player - and some of the challenges that have come with playing the game he loves.- Andy Smith is the co-founder of the Westcountry Wasps - so what makes a cisgendered, heterosexual man want to help start an inclusive club? They're three fantastic guests we were delighted to have on - and a great demonstration of why rugby can be such an inclusive sport for the LGBTQ+ community.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Nigel Owens:@Nigelrefowens Verity Smith: @VeritySmith19 Westcountry Wasps: @WestWaspsRFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

Coming out to anyone is never easy - so imagine doing it to your Sunday league football team in front of a national television audience!It's not something your average person goes through - but Richie Anderson isn't your AVERAGE guest. He's part of the Radio 2 Breakfast Show who, along with Zoe Ball, wakes up the nation on the UK's most-listened to radio programme. He's also the Proud Baggies patron, a football nut - and a genuinely fantastic person.This is one of our favourite episodes yet - with topics on the agenda including raising tens of thousands of pounds for Sport Relief; BBC Radio 2's '500 Words' contest - and whether it's the Spice Girls or West Brom that can claim to be his true love! WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR GUEST? Twitter: @Richie_andersonWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

Sting vs Hollywood Hogan, Starrcade 1997.That's when professional wrestling first got into the veins of Anthony Bowens - and, ever since, the American athlete has been captivated by this unique form of sports-entertainment. He's also one of a growing number of LGBTQ+ individuals plying their trade inside the squared circle - something that hasn't always been easy to do.In fact, if it weren't for being a wrestler, Anthony feels he may even have come out sooner.He's our guest on this brand-new episode of the podcast, talking about his favourite matches; being a role model for the community; the abuse he received after coming out as bisexual, then as gay; and why WWE is the ultimate goal for him.Anthony battled through traffic to make the interview - and we're delighted he did, as it was fantastic to have him onto the show. WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR GUEST? Twitter: @Bowens_Official.WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

David Hill's Paralympic career began in the pool at the Games in Athens when he was just fifteen years old. It ended more than a decade later - after twelve years of medals at both a World and European level. We're really grateful he's taken the time to join us for a brand new episode of the podcast - and spoken so honestly about why hiding his sexuality had such an impact on his performance in the pool, and how he got past that. Also on the agenda - the growth of para-sport; his work as a mentor and coach; and how he relaxes by making furniture! Even as a proud Cornishman, this is one Devonian we were happy to have on the show - and we think you'll really like him. WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR GUEST? Twitter: @DavidHill_GB Website: https://www.davidhillgb.com/WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Website: [email protected]

By day, she works as an engineer in offshore drilling.But Kristen Fraser is also one of Scotland's leading boxers - the first professional female from the country, and the first to ever win a Commonwealth title. So, not a bad record for someone who first started getting into the sport at a time when it was illegal for women to step into the ring! She's now targeting a bid for a world championship - and, alongside her wife, is preparing to become a parent - and we're delighted she took some time to join us on the podcast.On the agenda - her memories of her first fight; being a role model to the LGBTQ+ community; getting a work-life balance right; and why Katie Taylor is such an inspiration.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @KristenTFEWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Twitter: jack_murley Email: [email protected]

Clare Balding.If you've watched or listened to ANY sport over the past 25 years, you'll know all about her work. And if you've been living under a rock, the CV tells its own story - Olympic Games, Paralympics, Winter Olympics, Crufts, Trooping the Colour; and all of that in addition to be a best-selling author and campaigner for better coverage of women's sport.We're absolutely chuffed to welcome Clare to the podcast - as she talks about how she got her start in broadcasting; how she reflects on her 'coming out' story; and whether she'd have done anything differently. Also on the agenda - Bert Le Clos; the event she's proudest of covering; and what's next for her.This is one of our favourite episodes yet - and we're so grateful Clare could take the time to join us.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @clarebalding Website: http://www.clarebalding.co.uk/WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

She was inspired to get into bodybuilding by Arnold Schwarzenegger - and now, Amazin LeThi uses her platform to promote messages of inclusion, both through her own foundation and her work as an ambassador for Athlete Ally.She's our guest on a brand-new episode of the podcast - as we talk about why bodybuilding was the sport she was drawn to in the first place; some of the discrimination she originally encountered in it; how perceptions of women in sport are changing; and who the role models are that she admires now.She's a really perceptive, considered guest - and we're grateful she could find some time to chat with us. Not only that, but she's the first power-lifter we've had on the programme!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Twitter: @amazinlethi Website:http://www.amazinlethifoundation.org/WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

There are plenty of special things about being part of a sport club.The friendships you make, the competitions you win, the experiences you get - they're all part and parcel of it. But for people from the LGBT community who have experienced homophobic or transphobic abuse in sport, finding a club where you actually fit in is extra special.It's why the London Royals Hockey Club are all about inclusivity - and Tom Simpson, Beth Bennett and Sarah Nottle all have first-hand experience of the difference the club has made in their lives.They're three brilliant guests - and on the agenda is everything from the Gay Games to the best way to deal with a honking keeper's kit!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Twitter: @LondonRoyalsHC Website: www.londonroyals.co.uk WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

She's someone who has travelled the world, reporting on some of the biggest events in sport for the BBC. From the Tour De France to the Hockey World Cup, Jo Currie is usually on the scene when the big sporting stories are happening - and, if that wasn't enough, she's also one of the nicest people in broadcasting. She joins us to talk about how she got started in sports journalism; about LGBT representation in the media; who she looks up to in broadcasting; and a cringeworthy encounter at Sports Personality of the Year.She's absolutely fab - and we hope you love her as much as we do. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @JoCurrieWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST/ [email protected] @jack_murley

On this episode, we're swapping coming out for getting out and about!OutdoorLads runs activities for gay, bi and trans men across the UK - with activities that range from hiking to sailing! Liam Russell from the group joins us to talk more about that; the importance of staying active when it comes to mental health; and pushing himself further than he realised he could.He's a really engaging chap - and we're grateful he's taken the time to join us!WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Internet: www.outdoorlads.com Twitter: :OutdoorLadsWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? [email protected] @jack_murley

For Hudson Taylor, it all started with a sticker on a headgear.The decision to wear a Pride symbol on his wrestling uniform drove the straight amateur wrestler from the United States to set up one of the world's largest organisations supporting LGBT individuals in sport - Athlete Ally.He joins us to talk about the difference that Athlete Ally is making; how straight sportspeople can be allies - and how he manages to relax in his down-time. Hudson is a really interesting, thought-provoking guest - and we're really grateful to have him on the show.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ATHLETE ALLY? Twitter: @AthleteAlly Website: www.athleteally.orgWANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SHOW, OR GET IN TOUCH? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

If you're a fan of AFC Bournemouth, you've probably seen Sophie Cook's work.She spent years snapping photos of Eddie Howe's side as the Cherries' official club photographer - but she has also had a story of her own to tell, as the first transgender person to ever work in the Premier League.We're delighted to have Sophie on the podcast - talking about her love of photography; the bizarre place she had what she calls her 'epiphany about being trans'; and the reaction of the AFC Bournemouth squad to her news.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @sophiecooktalksWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

Fred Rosser is a professional wrestler who made history when he became the first openly gay active member of the WWE roster. Wrestling is still his passion - but equal to it is his desire to tackle hatred and bigotry in all forms through his #blockthehate movement. He joins us to talk about when he first started to love wrestling; the reaction of the WWE roster when he came out; the difference of having positive LGBTQ+ role models; his passion for social activism - and some of his favourite matches.Plus, he tells us why he's keen to come to Britain to get involved with any Pride events happening in the UK. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Twitter: @realfredrosser Email: [email protected] TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

Caroline Matthews loved playing basketball - so when she was told she had to stop for health reasons, you'd think that would be the end of her journey in sport. Instead, Caroline went on to become one of the biggest names in British wheelchair basketball and a two-time Paralympian - who has also been recognised in the New Year's Honours.She's a fantastic guest - and says her wife is her rock who helped to make it all possible. WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Caroline Matthew: @cazza_15 Wales Wheelchair Basketball:@Wales_WBWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

We're taking a Christmas break on the podcast - so, to tide us over into 2019, here's a special extended edition with some of the most memorable guests we've had on this year.It features people from around the world, in all sports and from all walks of life - and don't forget, these are just a few of our edited highlights, with loads more sitting in the archive for you to listen to whenever you'd like. From us, a MASSIVE thank you to all of you for the support you've given us in 2018 - as we know we wouldn't even exist without it. We couldn't do it without you!WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? [email protected] @jack_murley

She's a world champion and Olympic medallist - who had the honour of carrying the British flag at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Athens in 2004.It's fair to say not much phases judo star Kate Howey - but last month, she did something she'd never done before by writing publicly about her sexuality for the first time. It's something she says took her thirty years to do - and we're delighted she's agreed to speak with us for her first broadcast interview since then. Also on the agenda - how she got into the sport; avoiding bad food over Christmas; and how to avoid tripping when you're carrying your country's flag. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Kate Howey: @khoweymbe British Judo: @britishjudo OR www.britishjudo.org.ukWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

How does a young man from Scotland go on to become one of the most respected names in European baseball?That's exactly the journey that Thomas Haywood has been on over the past few years - and it's something that's taken him to all sorts of places as one of the top umpires on the European circuit. He's our guest on this episode of the podcast - as we look at how he got his start in the game; his experiences of being LGBT in baseball; and the work he does with the charity OutdoorLads.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Baseball Softball UK - baseballsoftballuk.com/ @bsuk OutdoorLads - outdoorlads.com/ @outdoorladsWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley [email protected]

At the end of November, Stonewall FC stepped out at Wembley to play Wilberforce Wanderers as part of this year's #RainbowLaces campaign. It's something that Stonewall FC founder member Aslie Pitter would have struggled to imagine when he started playing football as a youngster. In this episode, he tells us about some of the racism and homophobia that he received starting out in the sport - and how he managed to overcome it.Also on the agenda - the emotions he felt attending the match at Wembley, and why he doesn't put 'Pitter MBE' on the back of his shirt!WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Aslie Pitter MBE: @bendelmage Stonewall FC:@StonewallFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW? @jack_murley [email protected]

Our guest today is an award-winning author, a journalist, an advocate - undoubtedly one of the smartest men we've ever spoken to - and the first trans man to ever box at Madison Square Garden.Thomas Page McBee stepped into the ring at the most hallowed venue in combat sports for charity - and used his own experiences learning the art of boxing to examine stereotypes and perceptions about gender and masculinity. His new book Amateur looks at those issues, as Thomas details his own his journey - and we do the same in this podcast.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THOMAS? Twitter: @ThomasPageMcBee Website: www.thomaspagemcbee.com WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST, OR SUGGEST A STORY? Twitter: @jack_murley Email: [email protected]

Verity Smith has always loved rugby - in fact, he can thank his grandparents for that!But as a transgender man, he's also had to deal with his share of abuse since coming out - and today, he's telling us about the journey he's been on. It's one of bravery and courage - and one he hopes will inspire other trans individuals to give sport a chance.We really like him, and we think you will as well. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Verity: @VeritySmith19 Mesmac: @MesmacTotal/ www.mesmac.co.ukWANT TO SUGGEST A STORY FOR THE PODCAST, OR SIMPLY TO GET IN TOUCH? @jack_murley [email protected]

Imagine starting your own LGBT+ supporters group, and then using THAT as a way to help combat isolation in older people.Pretty incredible, right - but that's exactly what Piero Zizzi has done with Proud Baggies, and why we're so delighted to have him on the podcast. We talk about why he stayed in the closet around football for a long time; how Robbie Rogers inspired him to come out; and about the Proud Baggies' new 1968 Club. Plus, as a bonus this week, we'll take a look back into the archives of the show (when it was called 'The Other Side') - and hear from Joanie Evans, as she discusses her role as the Co-President of the Federation of Gay Games and how she got into football.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Proud Baggies: @WBALGBT / www.proudbaggies.comWANT TO SUGGEST A STORY FOR THE PODCAST, OR SIMPLY GET IN TOUCH? @jack_murley [email protected]

'I hope sharing my coming out story may have some resonance, and help even one person that may be battling the same as I did'.That was the email we got, out of the blue, from Greg McLean - the founder of St Margaret's Old Boys FC and a referee with the Liverpool County FA - and when someone says that to you, you know you just HAVE to get them on the podcast.We're so glad we did - because we think Greg says things a lot of you will be able to relate to, from the fear of coming out to team-mates, to the isolation that can come with being LGBT in sport at a grass-roots level, to what it meant to be accepted by his team-mates.And as for his predictions about Liverpool's title chances - well, we'll let you be the judge on that!WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR GUESTS ON TWITTER? Greg: @gregmclean92 St Margaret's Old Boys: StMargaretsOBFC Liverpool County FA: @Liverpool_CFAWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST, OR HAVE A STORY WE SHOULD BE TELLING? @jack_murley [email protected]

Clubs and organisations across the UK will wear rainbow-coloured laces this weekend to show their support for combating homophobia and transphobia in sport.It’s the fifth year that Rainbow Laces has been run - and who better to tell us about it than Kirsty Clarke, the Director of Sport at Stonewall. She's brilliant at talking about the relevance of the campaign; about some of the issues the initiative is hoping to address; and about some of her sporting heroes, as she discusses her own personal journey.We're really grateful she could take the time to speak with us - and we hope you like her as much as we do! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Stonewall:@stonewalluk ***OR*** http://www.stonewall.org.uk/ Kirsty Clarke:@kirstyc81WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

As guests go, you can't get much better than a coach who has won the World Cup - and picked up the FIFA World Coach of the Year Award in the process.But that's exactly what Jill Ellis has accomplished as the coach of the US Women's National Team - as part of a career that has also included plenty of success as a coach in the collegiate system.Not bad for someone who was told football wasn't for her when she was growing up as a youngster in the UK!We're really grateful that Jill took time out from the US Women's team's tour of Europe to talk with us about everything from that amazing World Cup win to her own personal journey to coming out in the sport - and we think you'll like this as well. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? US Women: @ussoccer_wntWANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

If you've read a story over the past couple of years about LGBTQ+ individuals or teams in sport, there's a fairly good chance that Jon Holmes has been the one to bring it to you.The Sky Sports Home Page Editor is one of the most prominent voices in promoting sporting stories from the LGBTQ+ community - and also helped bring the Sports Media LGBT+ group to life.Basically, he's does what we do - but better, and for a longer time! - so we thought it was about time we got him on the show. He's a fascinating chap t chat with, and talks about how he got his start in the industry, what an 'average' day is like in the Sky Sports newsroom - and how the media does when it comes to representing the LGBTQ+ community in sport.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Jon Holmes:@jonboy79 Sports Media LGBT+: @SportsMediaLGBTWANT TO GET IN TOUCH, OR SUGGEST A STORY FOR THE PODCAST? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

I think it's fair to say there's a certain image of rugby lads, right? Confident, sure of themselves - and not averse to a little bit of public nudity! But that's not always the case.Cisgendered and transgendered rugby players from inclusive clubs across the UK have been taking part in something called the Naked Rugby Players project. It's a calendar that draws attention to some of the body image issues that men face - and encourages them to check themselves for signs of cancer at the same time. Not only that, but it's also raising money for the inclusive teams themselves. Simon Chapman from the Northampton Outlaws is one of the players taking part, while Monty McKinnen is the man who took the photos. They're both cracking chaps with lots of interesting things to say about sport, inclusivity, and the calendar itself.WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? Naked Rugby Players: @NakedRugby OR https://www.thenakedrugbyplayers.com/ Northampton Outlaws:@OutlawsRFCWANT TO GET IN TOUCH, OR SUGGEST A STORY FOR THE PODCAST? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

The clocks are going back - the weather is getting chillier - it really ISN'T cricketing weather, is it?But if you are missing the sound of leather on willow, this episode of the BBC's LGBT Sport Podcast is for you.Jonathan Hardisty is from Graces - the world's first (to their knowledge) and only gay cricket club. He's been talking to us about how it started; about why cricket is a more accepting sport than some others; about the courage it takes to come out in sport; and about his favourite players of all-time.He's a super chap - and a really great guest - so we hope you enjoy this one. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GRACES: Twitter: @Graces_Cricket Website: www.gracescricket.org.ukHAVE AN IDEA FOR THE LGBT SPORT PODCAST FROM THE BBC, OR JUST WANT TO GET IN TOUCH? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

It was a film that generated an awful lot of buzz this summer - the story of two young football professionals who fall in love, and the tale of what happens next.To mark the DVD release of 'Mario', actor Aaron Altaras - who plays Leon in the movie - joins the show to talk about why he took the part; why it's so relevant now - and what on Earth happened to Germany at this year's World Cup?!Plus, we look back at one of the best bits from 'The Other Side' and keep the football theme going, as we revisit our chat with Jim Hearson from the London Titans.HAVE AN IDEA FOR THE LGBT SPORT PODCAST FROM THE BBC? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

He's competed the world over - and made history in the process - and now, pro wrestler Mike Parrow joins the BBC LGBT Sport Podcast. He talks about his experiences of coming out in the world of pro wrestling, the reception he received, and the surprising response he had from some members of the LGBT community. And - as a disclaimer - Jack Murley loves wrestling ... so there's also talk of in-ring psychology, what makes a great match and more. FOLLOW PARROW ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Twitter: https://twitter.com/Parrow_ HAVE AN IDEA FOR THE LGBT SPORT PODCAST FROM THE BBC? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

If you've been on social media today, you may have noticed a certain topic is trending. #ComeOutForTransEquality has been all over posts throughout the day - which makes the guest on this episode particularly appropriate.Rowena Purdy is a championship-winning rally driver who helped fly Vulcans in the RAF, and has been writing about motorsports for more than a quarter of a century. She also transitioned later in life and, now in her mid-70s, has got an awful lot to talk about - from developing a love of rallying in Kenya to travelling around the world, to how she decided when the time was right to transition.She's a great guest - and we really think you'll like her.HAVE AN IDEA FOR THE LGBT SPORT PODCAST FROM THE BBC? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murley

This week's LGBT Sport Podcast from the BBC shines a spotlight on a brand-new club - as Andy Smith from the Westcountry Wasps rugby team joins us.Andy talks about why he helped co-found the club; his experiences of inclusive rugby; and why he, as a straight man, decided to get involved in the first place.Then, there's a best bit from our old show 'The Other Side' - as we take a trip through the archives with Ben Smith to talk about why he decided to complete 401 marathons in 401 days.HAVE AN IDEA FOR THE LGBT SPORT PODCAST FROM THE BBC? Email: [email protected] Twitter: @jack_murleyFIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS: Westcountry Wasps: https://www.facebook.com/westwaspsrfc/Ben Smith and the 401 Challenge: https://www.the401challenge.co.uk/