The Open Table

Don’t miss this powerful chat with Jony Berry!

The post Episode 8- Season 3- Jony Berry appeared first on The Open Table.

On this episode of @theopentable we’re thrilled to welcome actor and composer @kristina.bent.on.destructionto the show.

Kristina’s creative career spans stage, screen and music, but her story also weaves through faith and identity. From an early age, she was immersed in religion and witnessed what it really takes for someone in that world to step forward and come out. Those experiences have shaped her art, her voice, and her perspective on community and belonging.

Listeners may also recognise Kristina from her time behind the mic hosting her own program on @joy949. With that background, she’ll feel right at home in the studio — ready to share not only her journey but also her insights on navigating visibility, creativity and resilience.

Join us Wednesday night on The Open Table for a conversation that brings together music, storytelling, identity and courage.

The post Episode 7- Season 3- Kristina Benton appeared first on The Open Table.

We’re getting sporty on @theopentable as we are joined by Chris and Brendan from @gayfl_aqfp.

We take a closer look at how the AFL is handling homophobia both on and off the field, and we loudly applaud former Eagles player Mitch Brown for coming out as the very first Bisexual in the AFL.

Also, it’s been making headlines, but is the AFL truly committed to real change? And what does Snoop Dog have to do with it? Listen in and find out.

The post Episode 6- Season 3- AFL appeared first on The Open Table.

A self-described lesbian, Kate Mulholland is also a passionate social work student. She opens up about her fascinating journey — from growing up in the Seventh-day Adventist Church to how raising her twin boys led her to fully embrace her sexuality.

You won’t want to miss this inspiring, raw, and courageous conversation with the vibrant @mediocrekate_ — the voice behind numerous podcasts (including @toopeaspod) and a true advocate for living authentically.

The post Episode 5- Season 3- Kate Mulholland appeared first on The Open Table.

We’re excited to welcome @thorne_music to @theopentable this week. In this heartfelt and unapologetic conversation, Thorne shares what it means to identify as a Queer Fag, unpacks the role of a music therapist, and talks about the challenges and joys of life as an independent artist. We also dive into the journey of moving to Australia as a boy, the layered experiences of coming out, and of course, the power of music.

The post Episode 4- Season 3- Thorne Music appeared first on The Open Table.

What does it mean to grow up queer in the Middle East while holding onto your sense of self? Maddie Q shares their beautifully chaotic journey from Saudi Arabia and Jordan to discovering personal freedom and self-expression in Australia.

Non-binary and vibrant with both masculine and feminine energy, Maddie reflects on navigating queer identity in the Middle East, growing up Muslim and becoming spiritual, and the ongoing path toward family connection and radical self-acceptance. They speak candidly about their pilgrimage to Mecca—praying for good hair along the way—and how hair became a symbol of rebellion, release, and living truthfully.

Maddie reminds us that being authentic is holy.

The post Episode 3- Season 3- Maddie Q appeared first on The Open Table.

This week, we welcome the incredible Jocelyn Bishop (@joss.bish), a standout voice in the community and co-host of @joy949’s The Gender Agenda and Monday Brekky.

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

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

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

Pull up a chair The Open Table.

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

Season 3 of The Open Table is here!

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

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

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

Double the Deans, Double the Drama!

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

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

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

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

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

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

And Now for the Fine Print…

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

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

The concept of minority stress

How to speak to the police.

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

How to access queer-friendly legal advice and support

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

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

Southside Justice

Queerspace

QLaw (Fitzroy Legal Service)

Rainbow Door

Because legal help should come with community, not judgement.

The post Episode 18- Season 2 – Sophie Jest appeared first on The Open Table.