Pridefinder: The Rainbow Road Trip Podcast

Merle (she/her) is a 75-year-old activist, athlete, and proud lesbian living in Bendigo, Victoria.In this episode, Merle shares her incredible journey of resilience, from leading strikes for equal pay in the late 1960s to competing in the Gay Games in Amsterdam and Sydney. Growing up in Echuca, she lived the life expected of her—marrying a man and raising children—before finally embracing her true self. Merle reflects on the challenges of coming out in a time when being openly gay was dangerous, the discrimination she faced in Melbourne’s lesbian scene, and her decades of advocacy for women’s and LGBTQIA+ rights. With a lifetime of stories, activism, and hard-won victories, Merle’s journey is a testament to the power of visibility and standing up for what’s right.Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, discrimination, and discussions of past legal persecution of LGBTQIA+ people.

Rhys (they/them) is an arts therapist, LGBTQIA+ advocate, and board member of LINE Wangaratta, working to create safer spaces in regional Victoria.In this episode, Rhys shares their journey of self-discovery and self-love, reflecting on the significant changes they’ve made since their last appearance on the podcast. They open up about the deeply personal decision to change their name as part of reclaiming their identity, setting boundaries, and healing from past trauma. Rhys also discusses the evolving work of LINE Wangaratta, the challenges of social change in regional communities, and the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in the face of local resistance. With a focus on resilience, community care, and the power of language, Rhys’s story is one of transformation and hope.Trigger Warnings: Childhood trauma, name change related to past abuse, and discussions of discrimination.

Claire (she/her) is an oral health therapist and passionate community advocate living in Wangaratta, Victoria.In this episode, Claire reflects on her journey over the past year, from officially changing her name and gender marker to growing into her confidence as a transgender woman. She shares how embracing her sense of style and self-expression has helped her feel more comfortable in her own skin and how her support network has played a crucial role in her journey. Claire also discusses her increasing involvement with LINE Wangaratta, her new role as Secretary, and the importance of fostering safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ people in regional communities.Trigger Warnings: Transphobia, self-discovery, and discussions of gender transition.

Shelley (she/her) is a proud trans woman from Yallourn North, Victoria, who is finally living life on her own terms.In this episode, Shelley shares her journey of self-acceptance, coming out as a trans woman at 51 after decades of suppressing her true identity. She reflects on growing up in the 70s and 80s, facing relentless transphobia, and the deep losses she endured, including losing long-term friends and family members after coming out. Despite these challenges, Shelley stands strong today, embracing the joy of authenticity. She discusses her experiences with resilience, self-love, and the importance of community support in regional Victoria.Trigger Warnings: Transphobia, discrimination, family rejection, depression, and discussions of suicide.

Pypa (she/they) is a genderfluid young person from Wonthaggi, Victoria, exploring self-acceptance and identity in a supportive queer community.In this episode, Pypa reflects on their journey of discovering their gender and sexuality, from questioning their identity at a young age to finding confidence in embracing their authentic self. They share how the YES Youth Hub has provided them with a safe space to explore who they are and connect with like-minded peers. Pypa also opens up about the challenges of self-doubt, the impact of friendships on self-esteem, and the small but meaningful ways they affirm their identity. With a love for creativity, ghost hunting, and self-expression, Pypa’s story is a testament to the power of safe spaces and supportive communities.Trigger Warnings: Self-doubt, struggles with self-esteem, and navigating identity in a school setting.

Tiffany (she/her) is a proud transgender woman living in Shepparton, Victoria, who has overcome immense challenges to embrace her true self.In this episode, Tiffany shares her powerful journey, from growing up in a children's home and struggling with addiction to finally living authentically as the woman she was always meant to be. She reflects on her move to Melbourne in search of acceptance, only to realize that true liberation came from within. Returning to Shepparton, she made a bold decision—to live unapologetically, no matter the reactions from others. Tiffany discusses resilience, self-love, and the peace she has found in being her authentic self.Trigger Warnings: Addiction, depression, transphobia, and discussions of childhood adversity.

Sharna (she/her) is a journalist and LGBTQIA+ advocate living in Warrnambool, Victoria, dedicated to amplifying queer voices in regional media.In this episode, Sharna shares her journey of growing up in a small country town with a gender-fluid sibling and how this shaped her understanding of identity, acceptance, and advocacy. She reflects on the challenges of supporting her sibling in an environment where queerness was often met with silence or stigma and how those experiences influenced her own journey as a bisexual woman. Sharna also discusses her passion for representation in media, the importance of telling LGBTQIA+ stories, and how she is working to ensure Pride events and queer voices receive the visibility they deserve.Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, bullying, and discussions of self-harm.

Clinton (he/him) is a proud father, LGBTQIA+ advocate, and founding member of the Gippsland Pride Initiative.In this episode, Clinton shares his journey of self-discovery, growing up in a small country town of around 1,000 people, where he struggled to see a future for himself as a gay man. After spending years in a heterosexual marriage and raising three children, Clinton came out in his late 30s and found an entirely new sense of community and belonging. He reflects on the challenges of navigating identity in a conservative environment, the power of visibility, and his deep passion for creating safe and celebratory spaces for LGBTQIA+ people in Gippsland. Clinton also discusses his work with Gippsland Pride and the importance of fostering acceptance and support in regional communities.Trigger Warnings: Internalized homophobia, coming out later in life, and discussions of conservative societal expectations.

Hailey (she/her) is a 16-year-old pansexual young person from Wonthaggi, Victoria, dedicated to creating safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth.In this episode, Hailey shares her journey of self-acceptance, from first realizing she was pansexual at a young age to finding the confidence to fully embrace her identity. She reflects on the impact of supportive friends, teachers, and the YES Youth Hub in helping her feel seen and valued. Hailey also discusses her passion for community work, her role in the Youth Advisory Council, and her involvement in organizing Pride Prom—an event that provides a safe, joyful space for queer young people in her community. As someone who has faced challenges in school, she speaks candidly about the importance of creating environments where LGBTQIA+ youth can feel supported, celebrated, and free to be themselves.Trigger Warnings: Bullying, school-based discrimination, and discussions of self-worth.

Liam (he/him) is a passionate LGBTQIA+ advocate based in Albury, NSW, working to create safer spaces for queer people in regional communities.In this episode, Liam reflects on his journey of self-acceptance, growing up in regional NSW where he didn’t feel safe to be his authentic self. He shares his experiences of hiding his sexuality, navigating secrecy, and the risks he took in his search for connection. Liam discusses the challenges of coming out in stages, the importance of building support networks, and how finding love changed his perspective on self-worth. Now in a happy long-term relationship and actively involved with Way Out Wodonga, Liam is dedicated to making the world a safer and more accepting place for future generations.Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, unsafe situations, and discussions of internalized shame.

Cass (they/them) is a genderfluid young person living in Ballarat, Victoria, who is learning to find validation from within.In this episode, Cass reflects on their journey of self-discovery, coming out as bisexual at a young age before later embracing their genderfluid identity. They discuss the challenges of growing up in Ballarat, experiencing bullying at school, and the impact this had on their mental health, leading them to leave school early. Cass opens up about their struggles with self-worth, the pressure of seeking validation from others, and the personal growth that has helped them begin to embrace self-love. They also share how their mother played a crucial role in supporting them through tough times, and how finding community has made all the difference.Trigger Warnings: Bullying, mental health struggles, and discussions of self-worth.

Sav (she/her) is a proud lesbian and social worker living in Wodonga, Victoria.In this episode, Sav reflects on her journey of self-acceptance after growing up in a small rural town of just 1,000 people in New South Wales. She shares how the fear of coming out deeply impacted her mental health and how leaving her hometown gave her the space to embrace her identity. Sav discusses the importance of safety cues in the LGBTQIA+ community, the role of events like the Rainbow Ball in fostering belonging, and the power of reconnecting with her younger self through self-love and healing. She also speaks about the urgent need for regional councils and businesses to show up for the queer community, particularly in the face of rising hostility.Trigger Warnings: Internalized homophobia, mental health struggles, and discussions of suicide.

Linda (she/her) is a 64-year-old pansexual woman living in Shepparton, Victoria, who recently discovered her queer identity.In this episode, Linda shares her deeply personal journey of self-discovery, coming to the realization that she was queer just months before this conversation. She reflects on a lifetime of feeling like she didn’t quite fit in, how societal expectations shaped her path, and the immense relief of finally understanding herself. Linda discusses her involvement with Goulburn Valley Pride, the joy of finding community later in life, and the small but powerful ways she is embracing her authentic self—right down to her wardrobe choices. She also opens up about past struggles with depression and how coming into her identity has brought her a sense of freedom she never thought possible.Trigger Warnings: Depression, internalized struggles, and discussions of identity suppression.

Olivia (she/her) is a Polish, Bosnian, Italian, Australian cis woman living with her wife and young child in a small town west of Albury-Wodonga.In this episode, Olivia reflects on her experience growing up in a Catholic family and the challenges she faced while coming to terms with her identity as a young lesbian woman. She shares the powerful moment she first said the words "I am a lesbian" to herself and how that act of self-acceptance changed her life. Olivia also discusses her long career working with and for LGBTQIA+ young people, her passion for personal storytelling as a tool for advocacy, and the joy of raising a child in a close-knit regional community. From weddings to motherhood, intersectionality, and activism, Olivia’s story is one of resilience, love, and connection.Trigger Warnings: Internalized homophobia, religious-based stigma, and discussions of family conflict.

KL Joy (they/them) is a trans and genderqueer advocate, LGBTQIA+ advisor, and disability rights activist living in Ballarat, Victoria.In this episode, KL reflects on their lifelong journey of self-discovery, from publicly identifying as a cis woman at 48—despite knowing it didn’t feel right—to embracing their true identity. They share how their transition has been shaped by personal growth, resilience, and community support. KL discusses their work in LGBTQIA+ housing and homelessness, their role as an advisor to the City of Ballarat, and the progress they’ve witnessed in regional Victoria. They also open up about their relationship with their mother, who went from being non-accepting to becoming their biggest ally, and how their personal experiences fuel their advocacy for a more inclusive future.Trigger Warnings: Gender dysphoria, medical transition, past experiences of discrimination.

Keven (he/him) is an 80-year-old former tram conductor, LGBTQIA+ activist, and storyteller living in Melbourne, Victoria.In this episode, Keven shares his experiences of coming out in the 1970s when holding hands in public could lead to arrest. He reflects on the profound changes he has witnessed in LGBTQIA+ rights over the decades, from police persecution to Pride celebrations filling the streets. Keven also takes us on a journey through his rich and varied life—from working as a tram conductor in Melbourne to spending 20 years in the U.S., where he met his late partner of 21 years. Now retired, Keven dedicates his time to spreading joy at festivals, dressing as a vintage tram conductor, handing out old tram tickets and pennies, and reminding people of the importance of connection and community.Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, historical discrimination, and discussions of grief.If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.​Episode Credits​Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas​Co-Producer: Ashlee HintsMusic & Underscoring: Mieke LouiseWant to know more about Pridefinder?​www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/​Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?​www.thewayfinder.com.au/​Music CreditsOriginal jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusik and on Spotify​Seek Support​If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:​Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/​QLife (3pm-midnight) – 1800 184 527 | www.qlife.org.au/resources/chat​Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat​Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/​

Stella (she/her) is a Canadian medical student living in Geelong, Victoria, who is passionate about challenging relationship norms and advocating for aromantic visibility.In this episode, Stella shares her journey of self-discovery, from realizing she was aromantic just shy of 20 to navigating the societal pressures of romantic relationships. She reflects on how relationship hierarchies often prioritize romantic partners over friendships, a structure she has never subscribed to. Stella also discusses the challenges of moving to Australia to pursue her dream of studying medicine, the complexities of being far from family, and how finding the right community has helped her embrace her identity with confidence.Trigger Warnings: Loneliness, societal pressures around relationships, and discussions of self-doubt.If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.​Episode Credits​Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas​Co-Producer: Ashlee HintsMusic & Underscoring: Mieke LouiseWant to know more about Pridefinder?​www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/​Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?​www.thewayfinder.com.au/​Music CreditsOriginal jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusik and on Spotify​Seek Support​If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:​Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/​QLife (3pm-midnight) – 1800 184 527 | www.qlife.org.au/resources/chat​Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat​Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/​

Cath (she/her) is a later-in-life lesbian, community advocate, and proud mother living in Wangaratta, Victoria.In this episode, Cath shares her journey of self-discovery and coming out in her 50s after spending much of her life conforming to societal expectations. She reflects on growing up in a culture where being with a woman never seemed like an option, her experience navigating relationships, and the turning point that led her to embrace her identity. Cath also opens up about her recent marriage breakup, the importance of self-reflection, and her involvement with LINE Wangaratta, where she hopes to support others on their own journeys of coming out and self-acceptance.Trigger Warnings: Discussions of identity struggles, relationship breakdown, and societal pressures.If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.​Episode Credits​Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas​Co-Producer: Ashlee HintsMusic & Underscoring: Mieke LouiseWant to know more about Pridefinder?​www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/​Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?​www.thewayfinder.com.au/​Music CreditsOriginal jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusik and spotify ​Seek Support​If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:​Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/​QLife (3pm-midnight) – 1800 184 527 | www.qlife.org.au/resources/chat​Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat​Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/​

Ren (they/them) is a genderqueer, neurodivergent social worker, podcaster, and proud parent living in Shepparton, Victoria.In this episode, Ren shares their journey of self-discovery and the intersections of being trans, neurodivergent, and a parent in regional Victoria. They reflect on their experience growing up in Shepparton, navigating gender identity, and the challenges of visibility in a small town. Ren discusses their work in mental health, the importance of community care, and their podcast Transcending the Narrative, which explores trans and gender-diverse stories through a narrative therapy lens. They also open up about a traumatic incident of transphobic abuse and how they’ve found strength in their community, advocacy, and self-love.Trigger Warnings: Transphobia, discrimination, and discussions of trauma.If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.​Episode Credits​Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas​Co-Producer: Ashlee HintsMusic & Underscoring: Mieke LouiseWant to know more about Pridefinder?​www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/​Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?​www.thewayfinder.com.au/​Music CreditsOriginal jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusik or on Spotify ​Seek Support​If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:​Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/​QLife (3pm-midnight) – 1800 184 527 | www.qlife.org.au/resources/chat​Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat​Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/​

Reilly (he/him) is a youth worker, community advocate, and self-proclaimed cheerleader for young people living in Warrnambool, Victoria.In this episode, Reilly shares his journey of self-discovery and personal growth, from navigating life in a small regional town to working at The Foyer, a youth accommodation service run by Brophy Family and Youth Services. He opens up about the transformative period following the end of his 10-year relationship, embracing his “Eat, Pray, Love” era, and the importance of friendships in times of change. Reilly also reflects on fashion as a form of self-expression, his love for community connection, and the joy of stepping outside his comfort zone—whether at the Speedway, the rodeo, or in everyday life.Trigger Warnings: Discussions of breakups, self-exploration, and navigating identity in a regional setting.If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.​Episode Credits​Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas​Co-Producer: Ashlee HintsMusic & Underscoring: Mieke LouiseWant to know more about Pridefinder?​www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/​Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?​www.thewayfinder.com.au/​Music CreditsOriginal jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusikor on Spotify ​Seek Support​If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:​Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/​QLife (3pm-midnight) – 1800 184 527 | www.qlife.org.au/resources/chat​Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat​Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/​