Stars and Stories: The Black Star Radio Podcast

Health Check: Managing Asthma with Gerald Quigley

In this episode, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, a practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to discuss asthma—a condition affecting approximately 2.7 million Australians.
In 2023, there were 474 asthma-related deaths in Australia, highlighting the importance of effective asthma management.
Is asthma preventable? Tune in to learn more.
And remember—always consult your GP for personalised medical advice.

Health Check: The Power of Movement for Irregular Heartbeats

In this episode, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, a practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk about irregular heart rhythms — and how to lower your risk if this is something that affects you.
While the symptoms can be unsettling, there are simple lifestyle changes that may help.
Gerald explains how regular brisk walking —  can support heart rhythm health and potentially reduce your risk over time.
Tune in for practical, natural ways to care for your heart and improve your overall wellbeing.
And remember — always speak to your GP for personalised medical advice.

Boodie Bloore: Running with Purpose

Boodie Bloore: Running with Purpose
In this feel-good episode, MJ chats with Boodie Bloore, who was diagnosed with epilepsy — but hasn’t let that stop him from chasing his goals.
Boodie shares his inspiring journey, including how he recently completed the 2025 Great Wheelbarrow Race. It’s a story of resilience, determination, and the power of support from family, friends, and community.
Can we expect to see Boodie back for the 2026 race?
Tune in to find out.

Wheelbarrow Winners & Big Chillagoe News, featuring MJ speaks with Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt

Get caught up in this jam-packed episode as MJ speaks with Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt about the excitement of this year’s Great Wheelbarrow Race.
Held each May, this iconic event sees teams push empty wheelbarrows along the Wheelbarrow Way from Mareeba to Chillagoe over three gruelling stages — all while raising money for charities and community groups.
Lenore shares highlights from the race, including a new social team
record set by a group of men from Vanuatu, who completed the course in 7 hours, 15 minutes, and 29 seconds.
Plus — big news for Chillagoe! The town has officially been named
as a finalists in the Top Tiny Tourism Town category (for populations under 1,500).
Listen now to hear how it all unfolded.

The Everyday Habits That Could Save Your Heart

In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk about the importance of heart health—and the small, sustainable steps we can all take to live longer and live better.
Gerald reminds us that while many Australians are living longer, the goal should be to enjoy those extra years in good health and with quality of life. A great place to start? Book a heart health check with your doctor.
He discusses common risk factors such as overindulging in sugar, saturated fats (like those found in processed meats, fried takeaway foods, and store-bought pastries), and high-sugar/high-fat combinations that can place unnecessary stress on the heart—the engine room of your body.
Instead, Gerald encourages a return to balanced meals using fresh, in-season ingredients. Think a lean piece of steak or chicken with seasonal vegetables, cooked however you like. Watch your portion sizes, and aim for a healthy balance between the energy you take in and the energy you burn.
Daily movement matters, too. Whether it’s parking a little further from the shops, gardening, or vacuuming—all physical activity adds up over the day and contributes to better heart health.
Gerald also talks about angina—a warning sign of heart trouble—and what symptoms to look out for. His message is clear: small lifestyle changes now can make a big difference later.

Heart Health Tip: Stress and Your Heart—Calm Your Way to Better Health

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ and Gerald Quigley highlight the role of stress in heart disease.
 
Stress could be doing damage to your heart. Try this calming technique:
Inhale for 4 seconds
Hold for 4 seconds
Exhale for 4 seconds
Repeat
It’s called box breathing—and it can help calm both heart and mind.
 
Listen now.

Heart Health Tip: Recognising Early Warning Signs of Heart Trouble

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, Gerald Quigley joins MJ to talk about recognising early signs of heart trouble.
 
Any chest pain needs to be investigated.
 
Pain down the left arm could signal angina—a warning your heart shouldn't be ignored.
 
Don’t take risks. See your doctor.

Heart Health Tip: Food That Fuels a Healthy Heart

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ and Gerald Quigley explore the impact of food on heart health.
Eating more fruit and veggies supports a stronger heart. As Gerald says, “We call heart-healthy food a package of goodness.”
Think fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains—it’s a simple recipe for better health.

Heart Health Tip: Walk Your Way to a Stronger Heart

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ chats with Gerald Quigley about everyday ways to protect your heart.
 
Just 30 minutes of walking a day can reduce your risk of a heart attack.
 
Make your exercise comfortable and enjoyable. The goal is regular, joyful movement—not punishment.

Heart Health Tip: Strengthen Your Heart with Simple Habits

In this mini-episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by Gerald Quigley, a practising Community Pharmacist and Accredited Herbalist, to talk heart health.
Want a stronger heart? Start with the basics:
Eat heart-healthy foods
Manage stress
Quit smoking
Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in check
The best part? Many of these are manageable without medication. Start small. Your heart will thank you.
Listen now.