Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

In this episode, MJ chats with American/Australian baritone Don Windsor, who has gone from growing up on a farm in Kansas to performing in musical theatre productions around the world before eventually calling the Atherton Tablelands home.
Don talks about his career, performing in shows including Les Misérables, Beauty and the Beast and Mamma Mia, meeting some big names along the way, and why he decided to step away from the constant travelling to raise his four boys.
He also shares what audiences can expect from his upcoming Father's Day concert, including some favourite songs from his career, a special song that meant a lot to his dad, and some crowd pleasers.
It's a great conversation about music, family, following your path and finding a place to call home.
Listen to the full conversation.

In this episode, MJ speaks with Ian Maclean from Night Sky Secrets about the upcoming full moon and the fascinating stories connected to it.
Ian shares the traditional Yolngu story of Ngalindi, the Moon Man, a fisherman who appears as the Hungry Crescent Moon. As Ngalindi catches more and more fish, he grows bigger and fatter in the night sky, but there's one problem: he's not sharing the tucker with his wives.
As his wives become increasingly angry with his greed, Ngalindi eventually learns that there are consequences for keeping all the fish to himself...
The conversation also explores what you can see in the night sky right now, including Venus, satellites and a new comet, along with upcoming Night Sky Secrets tours.
Listen to the full conversation.

Shingles Isn't Just an Older Person's Problem
In this episode, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about the rise in shingles cases among younger adults.
Gerald explains why people who have previously had chickenpox can develop shingles later in life, what symptoms to look out for, and why getting symptoms checked early can make a difference.
He also discusses the pain that can come with shingles and why, for some people, nerve pain can continue long after the initial infection has gone.
Listen to the full conversation.

Could Vitamin B3 Help Manage Glaucoma?
In this episode, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about new research into glaucoma and the potential role of vitamin B3.
Gerald explains what glaucoma is, why managing eye pressure is so important, and discusses research suggesting vitamin B3 may help reduce eye pressure in people living with glaucoma.
He also talks about the importance of ongoing treatment and why anyone with glaucoma should speak with their doctor, ophthalmologist or optometrist before making changes to their care.
Listen to the full conversation.

Building Resilience Through Rugby League and Connection
In this episode, MJ speaks with Tamika Upton about her involvement in a partnership between the School for Living, Youth Justice and Queensland Rugby League, supporting young people on Mornington Island.
Tamika shares how she's using video messages and her own experiences in rugby league to connect with students, encourage goal setting, build resilience, and remind young people that their future doesn't have to follow one particular path.
The conversation explores the importance of showing up, staying committed, managing challenges and taking things one step at a time, with Tamika encouraging young people to keep pursuing whatever goals they choose for themselves.
Listen to the full conversation.

In this episode, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about recognising the warning signs of a stroke and why acting quickly matters.
Recorded during National Stroke Week, held from 3 to 9 August 2026, Gerald breaks down the FAST acronym, explaining what to look for when it comes to Face, Arms and Speech, and why Time is the most important part of the message.
Even though National Stroke Week has passed, the message is one worth remembering.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone else, getting medical help quickly can make all the difference.
Listen to the full conversation.