Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

Promoting Understanding: World Autism Awareness Week with Gerald Quigley

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Community Pharmacist and Master Herbalist Gerald Quigley to mark World Autism Awareness Week — an annual event that aims to move beyond awareness and actively promote acceptance and inclusion of people with autism.
Gerald and MJ discuss how autism is not a disease, but a neurological and developmental condition that affects how people interact, communicate, learn, and behave. With 1 in 40 Australians currently living with autism, the need for deeper understanding and genuine support has never been more important.
They also highlight the work of Autism Awareness Australia, an organisation founded in 2007 with a clear mission: to improve the lives of all Australians on the autism spectrum and the families who love them.
Learn more at: https://www.autismawareness.com.au

Creating Belonging: The Message of Neighbour Day with Natalie Ahmat

In this episode of Stars and Stories, Mark Hogan speaks with journalist and Neighbour Day Ambassador Natalie Ahmat about the growing issue of loneliness in Australia — and how small acts of connection can help turn things around.
With nearly one in three Australians reporting loneliness, Natalie shares why the key to overcoming loneliness is taking the time to make that human connection.
Neighbour Day, happening this Sunday, March 30, is a national call to reach out, say hello, and build stronger, more connected communities. The 2025 theme, “Create Belonging, Share Belonging, Grow Belonging,” encourages us all to take simple steps toward fostering belonging and respect.

Concussion Awareness: A Conversation with Gerald Quigley

Concussion Awareness: A Conversation with Gerald Quigley
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, Community Pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about the serious issue of concussions.
This episode discusses brain awareness and concussions at all ages, highlighting the importance of understanding how a knock on the head can potentially become serious, sometimes hours or sometimes days after it happens.
Gerald shares essential advice on the critical steps to take for safety and well-being.

Empowering Communities with Fred Pascoe from GREAT

Empowering Communities with Fred Pascoe from GREAT
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ speaks with Fred Pascoe from the Gulf Regional Economic Aboriginal Trust (GREAT), a major social enterprise dedicated to economic development and cultural sustainability in the Gulf region.
Beyond the business, Fred speaks candidly about what really needs to change to help communities thrive. He discusses the importance of taking ownership, facing challenges head-on, and creating the conditions for people to take control of their own destiny.
GREAT is committed to the development of self-sufficient and economically sustainable Gulf Communities that continue to value traditional cultures.
This is a conversation about leadership, resilience, and the power of community-driven change.

The Surprising Truth About Red Meat: A Conversation with Gerald Quigley

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ sits down with Community Pharmacist and Master Herbalist, Gerald Quigley, to unpack the latest research on red meat.
Gerald shares insights into the benefits of red meat, particularly its importance as a source of iron for women. He also discusses which types of red meat are good for your health and which ones should be considered an occasional treat.
Want to learn more? Listen to the full episode.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness: A Conversation with Gerald Quigley

Ovarian Cancer Awareness: A Conversation with Gerald Quigley
This episode of Stars and Stories originally aired during February, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
MJ sits down with Community Pharmacist and Master Herbalist, Gerald Quigley, to talk about ovarian cancer—what to watch for and why listening to your body is so important.
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be subtle and easy to overlook, often affecting women between 55 and 64. Early detection can make all the difference.
Some of the common signs include:
Abdominal bloating
Lower tummy pain
Extreme fatigue
Changes in bowel habits
Changes in urinary habits
Gerald suggests that these symptoms are sometimes ignored, but if they persist, don’t dismiss them—book an appointment with your doctor.
He also shares why it’s crucial to trust your instincts, seek second (or even third) opinions, and take charge of your health.
Listen now.

The Secret to Slowing Down Our Biological Age with Gerald Quigley

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ chats with Gerald Quigley about the concept of biological age and how lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role in maintaining a healthy body.
Gerald explains that although we all have a biological body, factors like diet, exercise, and stress management can help reduce the effects of aging. He suggests making simple adjustments to slow down the aging process and feel better every day.
Listen to the full episode now!

Setting Your Dog Up for Success with Tracey Motlop

Setting Your Dog Up for Success with Tracey Motlop
In honour of Adopt a Pet Month, Lauren Grace chats with Tracey Motlop, founder of Trace’s Training, who brings over 30 years of experience in dog training.
Tracey shares expert advice on preparing for a successful pet adoption, setting boundaries, understanding dog communication, and fostering a strong, positive relationship with your new furry companion.
Whether you're adopting your first dog or looking to improve your bond with your pet, this episode is filled with valuable insights to help you and your dog thrive together.

Breaking Free from Financial Stress and Past Mistakes with Carrie-Ann McLean

This week on Stars and Stories, the Black Star Radio Podcast, Lauren Grace caught up with Carrie-Ann McLean, author of Budget Right: Eliminate Debt and Improve Your Financial and Mental Wellbeing.
In this episode, Carrie-Ann shares her powerful journey of overcoming debt, addiction, and homelessness and how she now helps others break free from their past financial mistakes. From practical budgeting tips to the importance of an emergency fund, Carrie-Ann offers valuable strategies to help you take control of your finances and improve your mental well-being.
Listen now to hear how you can shift your financial mindset and start building a healthier future.

The Remote OpShop Project: Tanya Egerton on Courage, Community, and the Power of Public Support

Founded in 2016, the Remote OpShop Project now partners with over 30 remote First Nations communities, developing opshops that provide essential goods, create employment opportunities, and promote cultural preservation.
CEO and Founder Tanya Egerton has dedicated her career to empowering First Nations communities. Under her leadership, the Remote OpShop Project has positively impacted over 20,000 people in some of Australia’s most isolated regions.
Tanya caught up with Lauren Grace to share the inspiration behind the project and the power of courage, community, and public support.