Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

On today’s show, we are joined by Noah Secomb, a rising star in Australian political journalism and the current Federal Politics Reporter for the Community Radio Network.
Based in Canberra’s Parliament House, Noah has quickly established himself as a trusted voice in community broadcasting, breaking down complex political issues and making them accessible to everyday Australians.
Noah brings a fresh perspective to political reporting, championing the importance of community-focused newsrooms.

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Noah Secomb appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

On today’s show, we have Tamzyn Bielecka, a dynamic force in Melbourne’s LGBTQIA+ community and the world of data innovation.
A self-described “data dynamo” and “coding chameleon”, Tamzyn has led impactful projects and mentored aspiring professionals, while advocating for diversity and inclusion through her work at JOY 94.9. Beyond her professional achievements, Tamzyn has been a foster carer and is a proud adopter of a rescue French Bulldog

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Tamzyn Bielecka appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

Today, we are thrilled to welcome back to the JOY airwaves Dean Beck, a multi-award-winning journalist, broadcaster, and tireless advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and HIV awareness.
From his early days in Bendigo to becoming a prominent voice in Melbourne’s gay community, Dean’s journey is a testament to resilience and dedication.
With a career spanning decade, Dean has been at the forefront of LGBTQIA+ activism, using his platform to challenge stigma, promote sexual health, and foster open dialogue about HIV.
Get ready to be inspired by Dean Beck’s unwavering commitment to equality, education, and empowerment!

This episode originally aired 6th April, 2025.

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Dean Beck appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

On today’s show we have Anny Salerni, a vibrant force in Melbourne’s LGBTQIA+ community and the world of dance.

With a career spanning decades, Anny has not only captivated audiences with her passion for dance but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of same-sex ballroom dancing in Australia.
From her early days as a young dancer, to her current role as a respected leader in the dance community, Anny’s journey is a testament to her dedication, creativity, and perseverance. Her story is woven with threads of personal growth, love, and a deep commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can express themselves through dance.

Join us as we explore Anny’s captivating journey, from her childhood experiences to her groundbreaking work in same-sex ballroom dancing.

Originally aired 30th March, 2025.

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Anny Salerni appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

Today we are excited to have Campbell Harrison, the trailblazing Australian sport climber who’s reaching new heights!

From his humble beginnings in Melbourne to representing his country on the world stage, Campbell’s journey is an inspiration.

With a passion for climbing and a commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion, Campbell is a true champion in every sense.

Join us as we follow his remarkable story, from early years climbing the walls of his local climbing gym to the Olympic podium and discover what drives this talented athlete to push beyond limits and defy gravity.

Get ready to be inspired by Campbell Harrison’s remarkable climb to success!

Photo credit: Kyra Condie

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Campbell Harrison appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

Today, we’re honoured to welcome an extraordinary individual who has dedicated her life to advancing transgender rights and gender diversity.

Katherine Wolfgramme, a multi-award-winning and internationally recognised Trans Advocate and Gender Diversity Consultant has been a pioneering force for change.

With a lifetime of experience navigating gender identity, she has lived as a trans child, youth, adult, and now, a revered trans elder, role model, and community leader.

Katherine embodies the qualities of a true trailblazer, change maker, and fashion icon, but most notably, she radiates love, compassion, and generosity.

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Katherine Wolfgramme appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

On this episode we have Chris Furneaux, a valuable member of Melbourne’s LGBTQIA+ community.

From his early days growing up in rural South Australia to his current role as a JOY Melbourne legend, Chris has lived a life full of purpose, creativity, and joy.

Join us as we explore Chris’s fascinating story, from his experiences as a gay man in the 1960s and 70s to his tireless work preserving the history of JOY Melbourne.

With his quick wit, sharp tongue, and infectious laugh, Chris will regale us with stories of his adventures in the gay scene, his travels around the world, and his passion for music, literature, and life.

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Chris Furneaux appeared first on Word for Word.

Every week Word for Word explores the stories, experiences, and perspectives of extraordinary LGBTQIA+ individuals. From artists to advocates, quiet heroes to loud trailblazers, we’re shining a light on the lives and lessons of those who are making a difference in our community.

Join host Jason Heath each week as he delves into the triumphs, struggles, and achievements of our guests, and discover the beauty of their authentic selves. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired – because on Word for Word, every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

With a career spanning over two decades, Mama Alto has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, collaborated with legendary artists, and been recognised with numerous awards and fellowships.

As a proud trans woman of colour living with disability, Mama Alto is a powerful advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has worked tirelessly to promote social justice and amplify marginalized voices.

Join us as we chat with Mama Alto about her remarkable journey, her creative process, and her inspiring commitment to using her platform for positive change.

Photo Credit: Kelly Cook.

Tune into Word for Word every Sunday night at 6pm on JOY 94.9, or across Australia on the Community Radio Network every Monday at 7:04pm

This episode may contains discussions of sensitive personal experiences that may be triggering for some listeners. There is support available. Click here for a list of support services.

The post Mama Alto appeared first on Word for Word.