Jack Murley takes you inside the lives of some of the most fascinating LGBTQ+ sportspeople in the world today, as they open up about their lives inside sport and their journeys away from it.
It's a celebration of Icons, Allies and Game-Changers as we mark the Best of 2025 (Part 1) on The Jack Murley Sports Show It's been a landmark year on The Jack Murley Sports Show — our busiest, boldest and most inspiring year yet. Across 2025, we've spoken to Olympians, Paralympians, world champions, grassroots heroes and groundbreaking LGBTQ+ trailblazers who are reshaping sport from the inside out. In this special two-part end-of-year celebration, we look back at some of the most unforgettable moments and powerful conversations from the past twelve months. For Part 1, we dip into the highlights from the first part of the year, including: National League referee Josh Eyre sharing his story publicly for the first time Olympic boxing star Cindy Ngamba on winning bronze in Paris Two-time Olympian Dan Jervis on stepping away from swimming Ruaridh Donaldson on allyship in football Australian gymnastics icon Heath Thorpe on inspiring others through authenticity Our live shows at Football Pride in Leicester with Josh Cavallo, Hugo Scheckter, Elle Finneran and Dr Beth Burgess Every conversation this year has centred LGBTQ+ voices, celebrated inclusion, and highlighted the people pushing sport forward — and none of it would have been possible without our listeners. Join us as we celebrate a year of pride, passion and powerful storytelling in sport. WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #JackMurleySportsShow #LGBTQInSport #QueerAthletes #InclusiveSport #SportsPodcast #LGBTQStories #RepresentationMatters #PrideInSport #VisibilityMatters #LGBTQCommunity #SportsForAll #JoshCavallo #HeathThorpe #DanJervis #FootballPride #LGBTQNews
It's been a landmark year on The Jack Murley Sports Show — our busiest, boldest and most inspiring year yet. Across 2025, we've spoken to Olympians, Paralympians, world champions, grassroots heroes and groundbreaking LGBTQ+ trailblazers who are reshaping sport from the inside out. In this special two-part end-of-year celebration, we look back at some of the most unforgettable moments and powerful conversations from the past twelve months, including: Julie Charlton on navigating elite sport as a non-binary athlete, and making their first Commonwealth Games Jackson Harrison on their lived experience in the sporting world as a non-binary individual Olympic figure skater Jason Brown on life at the top, and making it to the elite level of figure skating AFL pioneer Mitch Brown, the league's first openly bisexual male player Paralympic superstar Katie-George Dunleavy on her extraordinary medal haul Our special live episode at St George's Park for GFSN Quarter Finals Day Every conversation this year has centred LGBTQ+ voices, celebrated inclusion, and highlighted the people pushing sport forward — and none of it would have been possible without our listeners. Join us as we celebrate a year of pride, passion and powerful storytelling in sport. WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #JackMurleySportsShow #LGBTQInSport #QueerAthletes #InclusiveSport #SportsPodcast #LGBTQStories #RepresentationMatters #PrideInSport #VisibilityMatters #LGBTQCommunity #SportsForAll #MitchBrown #JasonBrown #Olympics #Paralympics
Markus Thormeyer is a double Olympic swimmer, Commonwealth Games medallist, Pan-Am medallist — and one of Canada's most inspirational LGBTQ+ athletes. After watching the London 2012 Games and wondering “why can't that be me?”, Markus turned that dream into reality, competing at both Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. Before qualifying for his first Olympics, Markus came out to his teammates — a moment that he says unlocked his ability to reach the highest levels of elite sport. In this powerful and open conversation, Markus shares how authenticity, allyship and team support shaped his journey from young hopeful to international swimming star. In this episode, we dive into:
Sam Timms lives and breathes football — and his passion for the beautiful game goes far beyond his life as an Aston Villa super-fan. As a co-founder of the landmark Football Pride event and a dedicated player for London Falcons, Sam has become a leading grassroots voice for LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality in football. After chatting to us at St George's Park during the GFSN Cup Quarter Finals, Sam returns to the podcast for a powerful, thoughtful conversation about what it really takes to make football a place where everyone belongs. In this episode, we explore: Sam's work driving LGBTQ+ inclusion across football His personal journey as a gay man in the sport he loves What allyship actually looks like in football His most meaningful and memorable moments in the game If you care about inclusive sport, grassroots change or the future of football culture, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Sam is passionate, honest and full of insight — and we're thrilled to have him back on the show. Listen now to our award-winning LGBTQ+ sports podcast, heard in more than 40 countries every week. Follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @timmzyboi3 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #InclusiveFootball #LGBTQInSport #FootballForAll #QueerAthletes #FootballPride #GrassrootsFootball #AllyshipInSport #AstonVilla #LondonFalcons #JackMurleySportsShow #RepresentationMatters #EqualityInSport EN ESPANOL: EN ESPANOL: Samuel Timms vive y respira fútbol — y su pasión por el deporte rey va mucho más allá de apoyar al Aston Villa. Como cofundador del histórico evento Football Pride y jugador dedicado de London Falcons, Sam se ha convertido en una de las voces más influyentes a nivel local en la inclusión y la igualdad LGBTQ+ dentro del fútbol. Después de unirse a nosotros por primera vez en St George's Park durante los cuartos de final de la GFSN Cup, Sam regresa al podcast para una conversación poderosa y reflexiva sobre lo que realmente se necesita para que el fútbol sea un lugar donde todas las personas se sientan bienvenidas. En este episodio, hablamos sobre: El trabajo de Sam impulsando la inclusión LGBTQ+ en el fútbol Su viaje personal como hombre gay dentro del deporte que ama Qué significa realmente ser un buen aliado en el fútbol Sus momentos más significativos y memorables en el deporte Si te interesan el deporte inclusivo, el cambio desde la base o el futuro de la cultura futbolística, este episodio es imprescindible. Sam es apasionado, honesto y lleno de ideas — y estamos encantados de tenerlo de vuelta en el programa. COMPLETE THE FRIENDS OF DOROTHY SURVEY: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=kCXJRcbM-UaA_5_I2e3eObQigA4ZXe5Hsc7K6_8jWMRUN0syUlhVNVJDUUlOR1FLN1JXWURLNjBWNC4u&route=shorturl
Mitch Brown spent years living the ultimate Aussie footy stereotype — a tough, reliable defender running out nearly 100 times in the AFL for the West Coast Eagles. A Rising Star nominee and a much-loved teammate, Mitch's career looked every inch the image of the “straight” Australian sportsman. But behind the scenes, Mitch was carrying a secret: he was bisexual. And in a league where no male player had ever spoken publicly about being part of the LGBTQ+ community, the pressure to keep quiet was immense. That changed earlier this year, when Mitch Brown made history by coming out publicly — becoming the first male AFL player to do so. His story sparked global headlines, inspired countless others, and became a landmark moment for representation in Australian sport. In this powerful, honest conversation, Mitch joins us to talk about: His journey with his sexuality and the challenges of keeping his secret in elite sport What it was like to come out publicly as bisexual — and the worldwide reaction Inspiring others across Australia and beyond with his bravery and visibility His proudest and most unforgettable memories from his AFL career Authentic, thoughtful and deeply inspiring, this is a landmark episode with a trailblazing athlete who changed the face of the AFL forever. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @mitchbrownie WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #MitchBrown #AFL #AFLCommunity #AFLPodcast #BisexualAthlete #LGBTQInSport #LGBTQSports #BisexualVisibility #QueerAthletes #AustralianSport #InclusiveSports #ComingOutStory #LGBTQRepresentation #VisibilityMatters #PrideInSport #JackMurleySportsShow #Pride #ComingOut
With a career that's taken him from representing Great Britain at the World Championships to competing at the legendary Burghley Horse Trials, Simon Grieve is one of British eventing's brightest stars
It's the home of English football — and for the first time ever, St George's Park threw open its doors to host an unforgettable day of inclusive football and LGBTQ+ pride.
When it comes to Manchester City, there's one name fans trust as much as anyone in the industry — and that's David Mooney. Reporter, broadcaster and host of the hit podcasts Blue Moon and Let Me Talk, David has spent years telling the stories behind one of the world's biggest football clubs. But beyond the press box, he's also a passionate player, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an advocate for inclusion in sport. This week on The Jack Murley Sports Show, David joins us for a brilliant conversation about football, authenticity, and finding your voice — both on and off the pitch. In this episode, David opens up about: ✨ His journey as an LGBTQ+ person in football media ✨ The importance of allyship and representation in sport ✨ Bringing Manchester City to a new generation of fans ✨ Building a career as a broadcaster and podcast creator Honest, insightful and full of heart, this episode is a celebration of football, identity, and the power of visibility.
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From the pitch to prime-time TV, Mikey Connor is breaking barriers in football and beyond. ⚽
From fearing sport to becoming one of Australia's most decorated para-athletes, Julie Charlton's journey is nothing short of extraordinary
From the gym floor to global conversations about equality, Sam Phillips is a gymnast, activist, and leader who's breaking barriers in sport.
From Olympic podiums to powerful personal truths — Jason Brown has become one of the most inspiring figures in the world of figure skating. ⛸️
From Paralympic podiums to NFL sidelines, this summer on The Jack Murley Sports Show has been filled with inspiring LGBTQ+ sporting stories worth celebrating. In this special episode, we pause, reflect, and shine a spotlight on some of the incredible guests who've joined us over the past few weeks — voices breaking barriers and championing authenticity in sport. In this bumper podcast, you'll hear from: ✨ Kev Maxen – the trailblazing NFL coach who came out as gay in America's Game ✨ Katie-George Dunleavy – the Irish Paralympic legend on making her mark on the global stage ✨ Davis Atkin – the Australian hockey star on allyship, courage, and inspiring others ✨ Caz Simone – the coach and content-creator embracing their gender identity in the British game ✨ Thomas Beattie – the inspirational pro footballer on coming to terms with his sexuality and bringing visibility to the beautiful game ✨ Kirsty Gilmour – the triple Olympian bringing LGBTQ+ visibility to badminton worldwide It's a globe-trotting journey through some of sport's most powerful, emotional, and uplifting stories — and a reminder that representation matters just as much as medals and match wins.
From historic stages to history-making voices — this is the biggest episode we've ever done of The Jack Murley Sports Show.
From smashing personal bests to stepping onto the global stage — Seamus Derbyshire is one of the brightest rising stars in British athletics. In 2025 alone, the 25-year-old has: Clocked 48.47s in the 400m hurdles — the sixth-fastest time ever by a UK runner Won bronze at the British Championships Represented Team GB in the 4x400m relay at the European Indoors Hitting the qualification time for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo
From grassroots pitches to international tournaments — the London Titans have become one of the UK's most inspiring and inclusive football clubs, breaking down barriers and proving the beautiful game is for everyone. ⚽
From Olympic ice to inspiring change — Paul Poirier returns to The Jack Murley Sports Show for an honest, joyful, and deeply inspiring conversation about life on and off the rink. ❄️
In a way, Thomas Beattie's story feels like it's from another era. Just five short years ago, the former Hull City academy player opened up to the world about the fact that he happens to be gay – and, in doing so, became an inspiration for many other LGBTQ+ footballers who weren't yet out in the beautiful game. Josh Cavallo, Jake Daniels, Zander Murray – they've all cited Thomas as someone they've looked up to when it came to their decision to share their sexuality with the world, so it's high-time that the man himself came back to the podcast to join us for a chat. And this is an astonishing chat with a genuine trailblazer in the game – about why he never fit the archetype of life as a traditional footballer, about finding his truth and sharing it, about his desire to help others, and why he's proud of the difference he's made. It's a cracking chat with a man who has made an astonishing difference in the beautiful game, and we're so glad you're with us for it today. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @iamthomasbeattie WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #ThomasBeattie #LGBTQInFootball #GayFootballer #RepresentationMatters #PrideInSport #Trailblazer #ComingOutStory #QueerInSport #InclusionInFootball #BeautifulGame #FootballForAll #HullCity #LGBTQHistory #AuthenticAthlete #LGBTQNews
It's hard to find the words to sum up just how successful an athlete Katie-George Dunlevy is. The numbers, in many ways, tell one part of the cyclist's journey – four Paralympic gold medals for Ireland across three separate Games (having gone to four in total!) with a clutch more Paralympic silver medals, multiple world championships and so much more besides to go with it. It's no exaggeration to say that Katie-George is one of Ireland's greatest-ever athletes – and it's not just on the bike that she's determined to represent either. Just a few weeks ago, Katie-George was announced as the first-ever LGBTQ+ champion for the town of Crawley in the UK – something she says she was ‘honoured' to accept! – and it's amazing to have her on the podcast today. This is a cracking conversation where we chat about all sorts of different elements of her sporting career and personal journey – from becoming comfortable with her own sexuality to achieving her sporting dreams, to winning back-to-back-to-back golds on the grandest stage in sport. We love this chat, and we think you will as well! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @katiegdunlevy WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #KatieGeorgeDunlevy #Paralympics #LGBTQInSport #QueerAthlete #PrideInSport #Paralympian #IrelandSport #RepresentationMatters #WomenInSport #InclusiveSport #LGBTQChampion #CrawleyPride #AuthenticAthlete #DisabilitySport #Cycling
To call Kirsty Gilmour a legend of badminton would be an understatement of gross proportions! A three-time Olympian for Team GB, a medallist at multiple Commonwealth Games and European tournaments, the proud Scot is now adding another string to her bow – or should that be racquet?! – as one of the founding members of the Women's Badminton Collective. The group is bringing together female players from across the world to increase visibility for women in the sport – and increasing visibility is something Kirsty is all about, especially as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. We talk about all sorts of things on this cracking episode of the podcast, including the differences in her Olympics experiences, the importance of being her authentic self, creating opportunities for those who follow her, making a legacy in the game, and not giving in to the trolls or the haters! It's a superb episode, and we think you're going to love it – as we always do when it comes to our chats with Kirsty. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @kirstygilmourr WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #KirstyGilmour #BadmintonLegend #Olympian #LGBTQIA #QueerInSport #WomensBadmintonCollective #PrideInSport #RepresentationMatters #InclusiveSport #AuthenticAthlete #VisibilityMatters #CommonwealthGames #Olympics #WomenInSport
Davis Atkin is a history-maker – and someone who defies definition in the traditional sense of what it means to be an elite-level man in international sport. The first out man to every represent Australia on the global stage in hockey, Davis is also a beauty blogger and make-up expert – and, since sharing his story a couple of years back, has become an inspiration for queer people across the world. He's just been playing for the Kookaburras in the FIH Pro League in Belgium – but before he came to Europe, we arranged time to get Davis on the show for the first time. And honestly, it's a superb episode – and we're so glad you're here with us for it. We talk about allyship, understanding your identity, challenging perceptions of what it means to be an elite level male athlete, representing your country and so much more in a cracking conversation that we think you'll love! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @davis.atkin WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
Kevin Maxen has always wanted to be ‘just Kev', and to march unapologetically to the beat of his own drum. A lover of baseball who rose to the elite level of American football as a strength and conditioning coach with the Jacksonville Jaguars; and a lover of literature who helped some of the top athletes in the USA to excel in the NFL, Kevin has defied stereotypes throughout his life – and nowhere was that more true than in this month two years ago, when the then-Jags NFL coach opened up about the fact he happens to be gay. Kev's decision to share his story was the first time that a male coach in a major US sports league had spoken publicly about their sexuality – and it caused a huge reaction around the world, as you probably remember. So, it's a delight to have Kev on the podcast today, two years on from that momentous decision, to talk about his life and his journey, inside and outside of sport. It's a cracking conversation about all sorts of topics – from helping athletes fulfil their potential, to some of the NFL's most glamorous moments, to why speaking his truth about his sexuality was such a watershed moment for both American and international sport. This conversation with Kev is a real treat – thought-provoking, considered and humble from a man who, simply by being himself, has helped countless people across the world! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @kmax3823 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #KevinMaxen #NFLCoach #LGBTQInSport #GayCoach #RepresentationMatters #PrideInSport #ComingOutStory #InclusiveSport #QueerInSports #StrengthAndConditioning #JacksonvilleJaguars #SportsHistory #LiveYourTruth #Pride2025 #NFL
With the French Open in the rear-view mirror and Wimbledon underway in London, it's no wonder that tennis is high up the sporting agenda right now. But for Wesley Rennison – the founder of the Dundee Deuces inclusive tennis and pickleball team – it's the Serve It Summer Cup that took centre-stage at the weekend, as four of Scotland's top inclusive tennis clubs came together for a day of serves, allyship and friendship. With EuroGames Lyon on the horizon, it's a busy time for the club – and the perfect chance to get Wesley onto the podcast to talk about how it all came about. We talk to Wes about his love of tennis, establishing an inclusive club, the joy of getting others into the sport, representing Team Scotland on the international stage – and why baking is such a key part of what makes the Deuces special! It's a fabulous trip to the grassroots with a really special club, and we hope you enjoy listening! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @dundeedeuces WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #DundeeDeuces #InclusiveSport #LGBTQIA #QueerInSport #ServeItSummerCup #PickleballLove #TeamScotland #EuroGames2025 #TennisForAll #LGBTQInTennis #PrideInSport #CommunitySport #ScottishSport
Michael Gunning has done so much in his life after retirement that it's almost easy to forget what an incredible athlete he was during his competitive swimming career. A Team GB athlete who switched to represent Jamaica, Michael went on to become one of the country's greatest-ever swimmers – and made history as the Caribbean's first out gay male athlete. Since then, Michael has made it his mission to help other people in sport feel comfortable as their authentic self, inspiring the likes of Daniel Jervis to open up about their sexuality and working with former Blackpool striker Jake Daniels to tell his ‘coming out' story. Combine that with Michael's hosting work at events like Cardiff Pride and the British LGBT Awards, and you can see how committed Michael is to living his mantra of leaving every room brighter than it was when he entered it. Not bad, when you think about it, for a man who was told that ‘black people can't swim' when he was growing up. Michael is a brilliant guest to have with us today – as we chat about life after swimming, being a role model to folks in the queer and Black community, transitioning to life after swimming, the pressure that comes with using his platform and so much more! And as always, a chat with Michael is an utterly authentic experience – funny, real, and nothing other than genuine – and we think you're going to love it. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @michaelgunning1 GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #MichaelGunning #QueerInSport #BlackExcellence #LGBTQIA #GayAthlete #RepresentationMatters #PrideInSport #TeamJamaica #TeamGB #AuthenticityWins #InclusionMatters #SwimmingChampion #Swimming
When Jordan Burrow donned the kit of former Blackpool striker Jake Daniels on this year's series of I Kissed A Boy, he was looking to prove a point. As a kid growing up in rural Cumbria surrounded by football fans, he knew that seeing queer representation in the game would have made his life easier – and by going on the hit BBC reality show, he's blazing a trail himself. So what role did sport play in Jordan's life growing up, and as a PT now, what does it mean to him now – and how did he end up on the iconic BBC Three show in the first place? Jordan is a great guest on the podcast today, talking about everything from body image to using this moment and his platform to amplify the position of the queer community in sport. Plus we get the gossip on his reality TV stint – and celebrate his dad being just an awesome, awesome ally. It's a cracking episode with a brilliant lad, and we think you're going to love it – and we're massively grateful that Jordan joined us today! FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @jordanburrow GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST: @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #JordanBurrow #IKissedABoy #QueerInSport #LGBTQIA #GayRepresentation #BBCThree #QueerAthlete #BodyPositivity #InclusionMatters #FootballForAll #LGBTQFitness #PrideInSport #LGBTNews
For Caz Simone, football has always been part of their life. The Huddersfield Town Women player uses their platform not only to talk about the beautiful game but their journey as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community – including as a proud gender non-conforming person and advocate. It's not bad for someone who was afraid of even joining a team at all when they were twelve years old – and in the years since then, Caz has gone on to do loads in the game, winning the LGBTQIA+ Award from the Football Black List and testing themselves against some of the biggest names in the sport. So, what does football mean for Caz – and how are they using their position right now? They join us for a cracking conversation that ranges from everything from discovering their identity to their finest moments in the game – to a little bit of breaking news on the podcast as well. It's a conversation that is honest, that's raw, that's often very funny, as Caz talks about using their platform to inspire others and open football up to everyone! It's a fantastic chat, and we can't thank Caz enough for it! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @_cazsimone WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #LGBTQIA #GenderNonConforming #FootballForAll #QueerVoices #LGBTQInSport #CazSimone #PrideInSport #InclusionMatters #LoveIsLove #QueerAthlete #HuddersfieldTownWomen
If you love figure-skating, you'll almost certainly follow Ryan Dunk on social media. The US collegiate and junior champion has amassed more than half-a-million followers on social media – where his jaw-dropping routines to the likes of ABBA, George Michael and Queen regularly go viral. To say Ryan has a passion for figure-skating would be a massive understatement – and as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, he's a vocal advocate for using his voice to help others who may be struggling with their own sexuality. But his own journey with his sexuality has been one that has brought its share of difficulties to Ryan's life – but now, skating is his way of spreading a world of joy, tolerance and acceptance around the world. We have a cracking conversation with Ryan – about his journey in sport, about his love of skating, about representing Team USA, about his coming out journey, inspiring others, being shared by the likes of Lady GaGa and so, so much more. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @ryan.dunk (Instagram) and ryan_dunk (TikTok) WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #figureskating #sport #gaysport #lgbtathlete #gayathlete# #teamusa #comingout #ryandunk #iceskating #queer #gay #dance
As a two-time ironman competitor, Micheál Costello knows what it's like to maintain an elite level of fitness – and this year, he hit a personal milestone when he was picked to represent Ireland on the international stage for the first time in Spain. And while that event didn't go the way that Micheál wanted, he is determined to represent his country again – and to do so as an authentic member of the LGBTQ+ community. Micheál has been a long-time listener to the podcast as well – so when he dropped us a message saying he'd love to come on for a chat, we were always going to say yes! This is a powerful, personal conversation about Micheál's journey to elite-level sport; his diagnosis with an eating disorder; his journey with his own sexuality; his mental growth and the grit that you need to represent your country on the international stage. It's a cracker of an episode that we love, and we think you'll love as well! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @michael_costello_ WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #comingout #pride #gay #gayathlete #gaysports #pridesports #LGBTNews #olympics #triathlon #ironman #Ireland #gayireland
Javier Raya was just a child when he began skating at a rink near a train station in Madrid. From there, the Spanish figure-skater turned himself into an elite level skater, winning the country's National Championships in 2011 and medalling on countless other occasions – and becoming an Olympian when he represented his country at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. He's not just an elite level athlete in his own right either, but started Compete Proud to give LGBTQ+ athletes at all levels the representation and support that they needed. The organisation has gone from strength-to-strength, with partnerships like Pride House Paris and more in the last twelve months alone. So, it's brilliant that Javier has taken the time to join us from Spain to talk about Compete Proud and his own amazing sporting career. This is a cracker of a conversation – about the obligation that Javier felt to be his authentic self in sport; about the importance of lifting up others; about his highest sporting moments; how he switches off; and so, so much more! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @skaterraya @competeproud WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #comingout #pride #gay #gayathlete #gaysports #pridesports #LGBTNews #competeproud #olympics #gayolympian
We don't know about you, but we don't think there's ever been a more important time to elevate the voices of the trans community in sport. At a time when it feels as if trans athletes across the globe are being talked ABOUT, we decided it was appropriate to use our platform to show what happens when you talk TO trans men and women in sport instead – about their goals; about what sport brings to their lives; and the ups, downs and in-betweens that they've experienced, on and off the pitch. So, that's what we've done on the podcast today. From rugby to wrestling to football at all levels, we've compiled some brilliant stories from the podcast's back-catalogue featuring just a snapshot of the amazing trans individuals who have joined us on the podcast over the years. We hope you enjoy them, that you share them – and that we can help spread some much-needed trans positivity and joy with today's episode! GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST: @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #trans #transsport #transpride #lgbtqsport #pridesports #LGBTNews #LGBTQNews #football #rugby #rugbyleague #soccer #comingout
As a gay stuntman breaking barriers in Hollywood, Nicholas Daines has turned his gymnastics background into an asset that has made him one of the most sought-after individuals for some of the big screen's biggest blockbuster stunts. He's been in films like The Batman, Wicked and Indiana Jones – as Nicholas (a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community) turned his life as an elite-level gymnast and diver into a career in movies that few people can ever have dreamed off. It's been too long since we've last had Nicholas on the show - so it's great to have him back on the podcast today to talk about his life in movies, in sport, and so much more besides. From visibility for the queer community in Hollywood to his journey with his sexuality, it's a cracking conversation with a guest that we think you'll love! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @nicholasdaines WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com #lgbtq+ #lgbtsport #lgbtqnew #lgbtqsport #gymnastics #comingout #lgbtqia #sport #uksport #movies #stuntman #stuntwork
For more than a decade, Steve Dean has been part of the professional wrestling scene in the UK. As both a competitor and an official, few people know their way round the ring more – so when Steve dropped us a message to say he was up for sharing the story of his life as a wrestler alongside his journey with his own sexuality, we were always going to say ‘yes' to getting him on for a chat. So, if you love wrestling, you're going to love this chat – as we talk about the ins and outs of the British scene; finding who you are inside the ring; and the hidden ways in which a referee is often the secret sauce that keeps a good match going. And if wrestling isn't your thing, don't worry – you'll love our chat with Steve about how he came to understand his own place in the LGBTQ+ community; the importance of visibility; and how he came to get to where he is in the industry. We're always grateful when someone trusts us to help them share their story for the first time, and that's exactly what Steve has done today! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @stevedeanrefs WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
To say Richard Morris is a trailblazer is no exaggeration – and we're not the only ones who think that either. The motor-racing driver and co-founder and CEO of Racing Pride was named as exactly that by Attitude magazine this year – as he helps smash down stereotypes that exist in the world of motorsport, brick by brick and race by race. It couldn't be a more exciting time either – as at the start of May, Racing Pride are putting on their first-ever Miami Drag Race event ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, featuring none other than Drag Race winner Aquaria. Factor in that and a busy spring and summer schedule that seemingly gets bigger each and every week, and it's amazing that Richard has found time in his schedule to chat with us. But he has – and it's a cracking conversation with someone who is making waves, in and out of sport. We chat about the growth of Racing Pride, getting buy-in from sport, pushing for change, his own racing career, and so, so much more besides – and we think you're going to love it! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @richardmorrisracing @racingpridehq WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
We said last time that Jahmal Howlett-Mundle was on the podcast that the Sevenoaks Town captain was going to do big things in the game when it comes to inclusivity – but we didn't expect him to be doing them quite so quickly. The semi-pro footballer received some brilliant news to start April, when he was named as the winner of the LGBTQIA+ Award on this year's Football Black List – which was thoroughly and richly deserved, and led to appearances on the BBC Sport website and Sky Sports News, to name just a couple. We're delighted to have Jahmal back with us today to talk about that honour and what it means to him; the importance of advocacy for him in the game; using his platform to help others; the season coming to an end for Sevenoaks Town and loads, loads more besides. So, if you want a considered, quality chat with a player who is always thinking of It's always brilliant to have Jahmal on the podcast, and today is no exception – and we think you're going to love this episode! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @jahmalhm GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST: @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
We're no strangers to TRUK United on this podcast – but thanks to a pioneering new documentary, the story of the world's first trans-inclusive football club is making it to the big screen. Cameron Richards and Charlie Tidmas spent two years with their team, documenting the fortunes of the club for the documentary We'll Go Down In History – which is a superb watch about the journey of the team. One of the main subjects is Emily Waldron – a loud and proud Liverpool fan who has flourished at TRUK, even though she didn't think football would necessarily be for her – and her journey is one of the key parts of a brilliant, beautiful story. It's a story of camaraderie, determination and joy – and one that is sorely needed – and we're delighted that Cameron and Emily are with us on the podcast today. We talk about the origins of the film, how it came together, the need to portray trans joy in sport on screen, the way it's been received at screening after screening, including at the BFI Flare London LGBTQ+ Film Festival. It's a cracker of a chat, and we're grateful to them both for joining us on the podcast today. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @trukunitedfilm WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
Heath Thorpe has spent years representing Australia on the world stage in the world of gymnastics, where he's already accumulated more medals than you can shake a stick at! When he's not competing at the very highest level, Heath is representing for the LGBTQ+ community in sport – and building his own brand as an athlete, an advocate, a model, a social media star and so much more. We've been wanting to catch up with Heath for a little while – and since his schedule brought him to Belgium this spring, it was the perfect time to get him back onto the podcast for a catch-up about life over the past few years. This is a cracking chat about Heath's journey over the past few years – from becoming a national champion to changing his discipline within gymnastics, to becoming a broadcaster and discovering a strength of character he hadn't always been certain he'd had. We also talk about queer joy and visibility; becoming a role model and inspiring others; his release and being himself and loads, loads more besides. It's fantastic to get Heath back on the podcast, and we can't wait for you to hear this one. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @heaththorpe WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
Whether it's representing the LGBTQ+ community as an officer with Keighley Cougars or playing himself in any free hour he's got, Johnathan Zemlik is someone who lives and breathes rugby. He's run out for Leeds Hunters, Ossett RUFC, York Barbarians and a whole host of other clubs – and this summer, he'll even be a key part of the world's longest-ever rugby union match for the charities Looseheadz and Wooden Spoon, which both do amazing work in the game. So, when he said he wanted to come onto the podcast to shout about that – and so much more! – we were always going to say ‘yes'. This is a fascinating conversation with someone who lives and breathes rugby, but who didn't actually get into the sport into relatively late – and it feels like he's been making up for lost time ever since! It's a conversation with some exciting announcements, some touching revelations, and a chat with a really genuine man who has discovered his tribe in rugby and is now dedicated to having others do the same. It's just a brilliant chat with someone who embodies what grassroots sport is all about, and we think you'll really love this chat with Johnathan today! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @johnathan.a.zemlik WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
Founded more than a decade ago, the London Otters have gone from strength-to-strength in the decade since it was set up, hosting everything from regattas to taster sessions to drag events – it really is going on there! So, what better time to shine a spotlight on the Otters than now, with co-founder Grant ‘Ralphie' Ralph and committee member Swarnima Sircar, who are our guests on the podcast today. We talk about their own experiences of rowing, including why Ralphie helped to found the club in the first place; their own journeys in sport; getting others into rowing; their personal highs on and off the water and so much more. It's a fantastic chat with two brilliant guests from a great club – and we think you'll love it. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @londonottersrc WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
In the sport of canoe, there simply hasn't ever been a woman like Emma Wiggs. A triple Paralympic gold medallist along with two silver Paralympic medals, plus an incredible twelve World Titles, more European Championships than you can shake a stick at – and a sporting CV that can go toe-to-toe with absolutely anyone in the world. She's also been nominated for the Sports Personality of the Year Award at this year's Diva Awards – and continues to inspire and motivate others with her talks about her journey. And when you hear this conversation with Emma, you're going to understand why – as she's one of the most incredible talkers and one of the nicest people in sport. We chat about all sorts of things – her incredible sporting career, the history she's made, the way she's challenging the mindset that people feel elite athletes need to have, psychology, being herself, the people she's inspired, and loads, loads more besides. Time with Emma Wiggs is always time well spent – and we think you're going to absolutely love this episode! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @emmawiggs WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
To say Zack Leader is committed to diversity and inclusion in the beautiful game would be a gross understatement. A nominee for the British LGBT Awards in 2019, he's been a finalist on multiple occasions at the Football v Homophobia Awards – and he's celebrating nominations again this year as a result of his work. In fact, it's fair to say that if you are involved in football in Lincolnshire – either with Lincolnshire FA, Lincoln United or the area's inclusive football team - you're going to know all about Zack's work in opening the sport up to everyone. A fellow Spurs fan and an athlete in his own right as a gravity bike rider (in fact, he's a two-time British junior champion), Zack is a fascinating guy and a brilliant guest on the podcast today. We chat to Zack about the amazing work he's been doing in Lincolnshire, about why inclusion is so important to him, about pushing through so many fantastic initiatives to do with the LGBTQ+ community, his own experiences as a gay man in football and loads more besides. It's a great conversation, and it's always fantastic to check in with Zack – and we think you're going to love this one! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @zleader23 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
Few footballers are more active allies to the LGBTQ+ community in the men's game than Ruaridh Donaldson. The Chelmsford City midfielder doesn't shy away from his allyship – in fact, it's front and centre on his Instagram page, and something he is proud to be. And while it seems an odd question, asking the Scot why he's so open with his support for the community when relatively few other men in the world of football aren't is a question that's absolutely key – and at the centre of this cracking conversation on the podcast today. It's a chat with a man who is considered, empathetic, sensitive and utterly genuine with his allyship – especially as he has experienced homophobic abuse himself, even as someone who isn't a member of the LGBTQ+ community himself. We also talk about Ruaridh's journey in football, his experiences in the beautiful game, what the sport has given him, the reality of playing in National League South and so much more besides. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @ruaridhd on Instagram WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
If you're interested in the sort of stories that we tell on this podcast, then you almost certainly already follow Jon Holmes. And if you don't, you need to – as it's no exaggeration to say that he's one of the most influential LGBTQ+ sports journalists working in the world today. From his work with Sky Sports to his current role at Outsports, alongside his work with the Sports Media LGBT+ group, there really is no aspect of LGBTQ+ sporting life in the UK and further afield that Jon hasn't covered. So, it's great to get him on the show to talk about all sorts of things – and especially the work he's been doing as part of Football v Homophobia during February, including today's ‘Wear it Black and Pink' Day to support the campaign. It's no exaggeration to say that Jon is an absolute pioneer who so many of us in the industry look up to, and it's amazing to have him on the podcast with us today. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS? @jonhholmes on Instagram WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
We're proud to call Daniel Jervis a friend on this podcast. The double-Olympian and multiple-time Commonwealth medallist came into the life of this show back in 2022 when the swimmer chose to open up about his sexual orientation for the first time on our podcast. In the time since then, there've been some downs and a load of ups for Dan – including the mammoth achievement of a second Olympics for the Welshman in Paris – and so it only seems right that Dan joins us to talk about his announcement today that he's retired as a professional athlete. And really, more than ever, this is a chat with one of the many guests we're privileged to have become friends with on this podcast – a reflection on his career, his legacy, the significance of his coming out, what comes next and his highlights from his time inside and outside of the pool. It's funny, it's emotional, it's real – basically, it's an episode with a man we love to bits, and we think you're going to love it. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS: @danieljervis1 GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST: @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
If you didn't know Jason Joshua before this weekend, there's a chance you do now after he went viral for – well, there's no other way to say it, for being bodyslammed onto a sex aid. But even before that, ‘Big Daddy Unicorn' was capturing the eyes of the British and international wrestling community with his unique mix of power and personality, along with a personal journey that is every bit as compelling as his in-ring persona. Anxiety and mental health issues have played a huge part in this larger-than-life grappler's life, as has his own journey with his sexuality – and he's on the show to talk about it all today. It is a fascinating chat – about imposter syndrome, about pushing yourself, about overcoming the obstacles that we all put in front of ourselves, and so much more. Belts, being yourself, the works – it's all in this conversation. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST: @jasonjoshuapro WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST?: @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
It's always special to have an Olympian on the podcast. When that Olympian is also a medallist, that makes things even better – and when they made history in the process… well, it doesn't get any better than that. But that's exactly what Cindy Ngamba did at the Paris Olympics, when she became the first person from the Refugee Olympic team to ever win an Olympic medal, as she picked up bronze in the boxing in the middleweight division. Cindy is also a multiple time British Amateur Champion, and has competed for the European Refugee Team as well – and by anyone's measure, she has an extraordinary story to tell. This is a conversation you just need to hear – it's inspiring, it's raw, it's real, it's genuine – with someone who is incredibly modest about what she's achieved, yet in no doubt about how hard she worked to get there. From coming out to winning bronze to being her authentic self, this is an episode you just can't miss! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @cindyngamba WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
It was back in 2021 that professional football referee James Adcock shared his story with us on the show, and opened up to the world for the first time about the fact that he just so happens to be gay. It was something that made headlines right around the world, with James becoming one of the highest-profile male officials to open up about their sexuality A lot has changed for James in the time between then and now – he's left officiating behind, got even more into his fitness, and there's the small matter of an engagement to talk about as well. So, it's great to have James back on the podcast for a cracking chat about all of that and so much more. From visibility to staying in shape to the role that football still plays for him, to whether he sees himself as a role-model, it's all in this cracking conversation that we think you'll love. James is so down-to-Earth and a brilliant talker - especially around the impact that his decision to share his story had - and it's a delight to have him back on the show! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @jamesadcock2021 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
We're biased about today's guest – and not just because he is also a proud Cornishman! Josh Eyre is one of the top officials in the Cornish game, and has been recognised as such by his county organisation. He's also working his way up the footballing pyramid, a rising star in refereeing who is already officiating in matches at a National League North and South Level – and with getting into the Football League pyramid itself just one step away, that's something that is firmly in his sights. Josh reached out to us at the start of the year, saying he'd love the chance to share his story on the podcast – and that's exactly what we're doing here today. We talk about Josh's footballing story, the joys and challenges of refereeing, the sacrifices it takes to do it well, his own journey with his sexual orientation, the importance of representing and loads, loads more. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @josheyre2003 WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
If you were watching last week's historic PDC World Championship Final between Luke Littler and Michael Van Gerwen, you may have noticed a familiar face on-stage. Huw Ware took charge of his first televised match when he was just 17, making him the youngest official to ever do so. Since then, his career has gone from strength to strength, with multiple appearances at some of the sport's top events – and just a few days ago, Huw made history as the first out gay man to referee the sport's showpiece final as he took charge of the historic match between Luke Littler and Michael Van Gerwen. Since then, life has been a whirlwind for Huw – and things show no sign of slowing down anytime soon! So, it's an absolute thrill to have Huw back on the podcast to talk about that final, his journey, representation in darts and loads more. At its most basic level, it's a chat with an absolute diamond of a bloke – and we know you're going to love it! WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? @huwware WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack@jackmurley.com
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