ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Two athletes. Two different sports. Two continents. One powerful truth.
In this emotional and timely episode of Everything & Anything… and a Bit Gay, Zach is joined by returning guest Jesse Kortuem, the first hockey player to come out publicly after the cultural wave of Heated Rivalry, and first-time guest AJ Ogilvy, former Australian professional basketball player who recently came out in a viral interview during the NBL’s Pride Round.
What started as personal truth-telling quickly became global conversation.
Jesse opens up about the unexpected chaos of going viral, the overwhelming flood of messages from LGBTQ+ athletes, and what it feels like to suddenly become a symbol of hope. AJ shares what it was like growing up Irish Catholic in suburban Sydney, living a dual life in sports, and finally stepping into the public eye with his husband by his side.
Together, they discuss:
• The hyper-masculine culture of locker rooms
• The relief of no longer living in separate worlds
• The global impact of Heated Rivalry
• Why representation in sports matters now more than ever
• The political climate affecting LGBTQ+ athletes worldwide
• And yes… Zach attempts a little matchmaking
This is a conversation about courage, visibility, masculinity, mental health, and the ripple effect one story can have across the world.
If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to live your truth — this episode is for you.
Follow AJ on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/aj_ogilvy/
Follow Jesse on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pelotonjesse/
1. How Jesse & AJ Connected
From a Drew Barrymore taping to an Instagram DM — how two athletes on opposite sides of the world found community in each other.
2. Going Viral: The Reality No One Talks About
Fight-or-flight mode
Not eating or sleeping
Emotional overwhelm
Thousands of DMs
The pressure of being “the first”
3. Living a Double Life in Sports
AJ discusses maintaining two Instagram accounts — one public, one private — and the quiet exhaustion of separating personal and athletic identity.
4. Hyper-Masculinity & Locker Room Culture
Candid stories about slurs, jokes, and navigating environments where safety isn’t guaranteed.
5. Growing Up Without Representation
Why Heated Rivalry was so powerful — and how positive gay love stories could have changed their adolescence.
6. The Impact on LGBTQ+ Youth
Messages from teens in Texas. Closeted athletes in rural areas. Adults who finally felt seen.
The quitting rate of LGBTQ+ athletes — and why visibility matters.
7. The Political Climate & Global LGBTQ+ Rights
Comparing Australia and the United States — and why stories like these are critical in uncertain times.
8. What’s Next?
Advocacy in youth sports
Ambassador roles
Education for coaches and parents
Creating safe spaces in athletics
9. Zach Tries to Play Matchmaker
Yes, there’s talk of future weddings and Oscar speeches.
Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ
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