Kings of Joy Podcast

About Kings of Joy Podcast

“What is a Drag King?” “How do I start Drag Kinging?” “Where can I explore gender without toxic masculinity?” “Can I really feel at home in my own skin?” If these are your questions, you’ve just found the podcast you didn’t know you were looking for. Welcome to Kings of Joy, the Drag King podcast hosted by The King Coach, Danica Lani. Each episode is a deep dive into gender expression, queer identity, and the transformational power of performance. You’ll hear real, unfiltered interviews with emerging Drag Kings from the Kings of Joy community—alongside solo episodes where Danica shares tools, stories, and insight to help you explore your own masculinity, express your truth, and step into your power. Whether you’re dreaming of getting on stage or just curious about playing with gender, this podcast is your invitation to feel 100% at home in your own skin. 👑 https://kingsofjoy.com | https://instagram.com/kings.of.joy | Show notes: https://www.danicalani.com/blog?tag=podcast

Publisher

Danica Lani

Category

arts · leisure · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Feb 2025

Latest episode

10 May 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   10 May 2026

   Trans Mission on Drag Kinging, Joy and Queer Solidarity

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Trans Mission, a Naarm-based Drag King whose journey began with a sneaky DM from Malaika Mfalme and unfolded into something far bigger than a first Drag performance. Trans Mission shares how they found their Drag King persona through humour, trans pride, memes, gender euphoria and a very real queer agenda. What began as a playful name became a mission grounded in joy, solidarity and art. We also talk about the Kings of Joy and Queers of Joy journey through online performance during the pandemic, the decision to step away from Midsumma Festival when it no longer aligned with the group’s values, and the unexpected global connection that grew with LGBTQIA+ refugees at Block 13 in Kakuma. At the heart of this episode is Joy, the song Trans Mission wrote for our friends in Kakuma. It is tender, political, hopeful and full of the kind of care that reaches across oceans. In This Episode • How Trans Mission was invited into Drag Kinging through Kings of Joy • Finding a Drag King name through humour, puns, memes and trans pride • What made online performance unexpectedly powerful during the pandemic • The difference between competitive performance spaces and Kings of Joy culture • Why Queers of Joy chose political integrity over staying in a festival that did not align with its values • The connection between Kings of Joy, Queers of Joy and LGBTQIA+ refugees in Kakuma • How Trans Mission created the song Joy as an act of queer solidarity • The power of Drag Kinging as art, community care and resistance Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qabG7WMUDY0 (https://youtu.be/qabG7WMUDY0) Notable Quotes “I definitely do have a queer agenda. And I do have a trans mission.” - Trans Mission “I just loved the joke of having some secret mission that I’m on.” - Trans Mission “It was a funny throwback to me being the trans flag, and really exuding that joy and gender euphoria.” - Trans Mission “The culture and the inclusivity that’s embedded straight away, as soon as you start Kings of Joy, you set it up.” - Trans Mission “That stuff does not happen in Kings of Joy. We are not about that.” - Trans Mission “You could have never ever been on a stage before in your life. And we’d be like, you’re amazing. You’re the best. Let’s do this.” - Trans Mission “There’s no point us performing in a festival that doesn’t represent who we are, and our values of social justice.” - Trans Mission “That just shows the power of art.” - Trans Mission “This is the vision, this is the hope, this is the imagining of a world where we’re together, and we’re all safe.” - Trans Mission “We all grow from lifting each other up.” - Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression, so we can be more at home in our own skin.

2. 

   30 Apr 2026

   Kate aka Frank Lee Madir on Asexual Drag King Performance

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Kate aka Frank Lee Madir, an activist, educator, archivist, and community builder whose Drag King journey opened up new possibilities in gender, performance, and self-expression. What makes this conversation especially powerful is that it goes somewhere we do not hear nearly enough about. Kate shares what it has meant to explore being an asexual Drag King, and how that has shaped the way Frank performs, connects, and takes up space on stage. This is a rich conversation about body freedom, costuming, political performance, and what becomes possible when Drag Kinging lets you step outside the limits you did not even realise were there. In This Episode How Kate first found Kings of Joy through Queers of Joy The creation of Frank Lee Madir as a Drag King persona Exploring masculinity through kilts, boots, and body freedom How taping and costuming changed the way Kate moved What it means to be an asexual Drag King on stage Building performance without relying on sexual cues Using Drag Kinging for political commentary and protest Why permanent space matters for a thriving Drag King scene Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MVa82_lXUSw (https://youtu.be/MVa82_lXUSw) Notable Quotes “I didn’t realise quite how much the way I could play with gender had been restricted by the people around me and their expectations.” Kate aka Frank Lee Madir “Exploring Drag Kinging gave me a completely other set of rules that weren’t really rules and weren’t there.” Kate aka Frank Lee Madir “Taping at the start, and the freedom to move without bits moving, it’s just amazing.” Kate aka Frank Lee Madir “We’ve worked on finding ways to actually be an ace Drag King.” Kate aka Frank Lee Madir “There are many ways into becoming a Drag King.” Kate aka Frank Lee Madir “I wanted to find a stage presence that is powerful and is not leaning on, drawing on, alluding to sex.” Kate aka Frank Lee Madir “We’ve had some good conversations about asexuality and Drag Kinging.” Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression. This season of The Kings of Joy Show is recorded and produced at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you for supporting independent queer creators and community storytelling.

3. 

   29 Apr 2026

   From First-Time Drag King to Solo Show with Jim Junkie

   In this first episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Jim Junkie, one of the original Kings of Joy performers whose journey began in the very first group and quickly took on a life of its own. Jim brings a bold, hilarious, larger-than-life energy to Drag Kinging. Underneath the comedy, though, is a real story about confidence, self-discovery, and what can happen when someone says yes to trying something new. This conversation looks back at Jim’s debut, the community he found through Kings of Joy, and the path that led him from first-time Drag King to his first solo show. In This Episode How Jim became part of the very first Kings of Joy group Why Drag Kinging became more than just performance What Jim gained in confidence, community, and self-belief The journey from debut at The Red Rattler to solo work Jim’s experience performing at the Butch Fashion Show Winning King of Kings and what that meant The role of mates, support, and accountability in his growth Jim’s next step with his solo show Max Potential Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a-v1dtZ35jQ (https://youtu.be/a-v1dtZ35jQ) Notable Quotes “Drag Kinging is one of the best workouts both for your mind and your body that you can possibly do.” Jim Junkie “I really found who I am through Drag as a workout.” Jim Junkie “I’m hooked.” Jim Junkie “It’s about being your best self.” Jim Junkie “You have been the person who shot out of the gate.” Danica Lani, The King Coach “We can achieve our dreams.” Jim Junkie Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression. This season of The Kings of Joy Show is recorded and produced at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you for supporting independent queer creators and community storytelling.

4. 

   23 Apr 2026

   Maggot Banks on Positive Masculinity, Community, and Drag Kinging

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Kaitlyn aka Maggot Banks, a Kings of Joy producer and performer whose Drag King journey began with one unforgettable night at Queers of Joy. What starts as an instant spark of recognition becomes something much deeper. Kaitlyn shares how stepping into Drag Kinging opened up community, creativity, body confidence, and a whole new relationship with masculinity. This is a conversation about finding your people, building a persona with heart, and discovering that gender can be something to play with rather than fear. In This Episode The Queers of Joy performance that changed everything How Maggot Banks was born from family history and heritage Kaitlyn’s first group debut and the thrill of being on stage Why group Drag Kinging creates such a powerful bond The community that grew far beyond the first performance The story behind the much-loved duet Eat Randy What playing with positive masculinity has opened up Kaitlyn’s vision for a thriving Drag King scene Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6NxUOGD5JJY (https://youtu.be/6NxUOGD5JJY) Notable Quotes “Oh, I have to do that.” Kaitlyn aka Maggot Banks “Gender is such a fun thing to play with.” Kaitlyn aka Maggot Banks “I cannot recommend playing with gender enough.” Kaitlyn aka Maggot Banks “I think every single person that I am friends with in Sydney is a Drag King.” Kaitlyn aka Maggot Banks “I felt handsome. I felt hot. I felt sexy.” Kaitlyn aka Maggot Banks “Masculinity belongs to us all. It’s available for us all to explore.” Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression. This season of The Kings of Joy Show is recorded and produced at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you for supporting independent queer creators and community storytelling.

5. 

   23 Apr 2026

   From First-Time Drag King to Solo Art Show with Randy Rootrat

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Katie aka Randy Rootrat, a Kings of Joy All Stars performer whose Drag King journey began with one bold yes to something she had never done before. Katie came into Kings of Joy with no background in theatre, dance, or performance. What followed was not only a first time on stage, but a deeper unfolding of confidence, creativity, and community. This conversation moves from the birth of Randy Rootrat to the surprising way Drag Kinging helped Katie reconnect with her artistic voice and step toward a solo art show of her own. In This Episode * How Katie first found Kings of Joy through a Facebook post * Saying yes to Drag Kinging with almost no performance background * The joy and chemistry of the Uptown Funk trio * How Randy Rootrat developed through style, backstory, and solo work * What it meant to go from group performances into All Stars * How Katie’s daughter responded to Randy Rootrat * The link between Drag Kinging and returning to visual art * Why community and creative courage matter so much Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_npMuGsFSH4 (https://youtu.be/_npMuGsFSH4) Notable Quotes “I knew that I could do something like that all on my own.” Katie aka Randy Rootrat “Once I did it, I was hooked.” Katie aka Randy Rootrat “It’s like you go through something together.” Katie aka Randy Rootrat “If I had the courage to do a solo Drag King routine, I have the courage to do a solo art show.” Katie aka Randy Rootrat “I couldn’t imagine my life right now without knowing the people that I do after starting this journey.” Katie aka Randy Rootrat “When we gather together powerful things can happen.” Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression.

6. 

   16 Apr 2026

   Bad Boy Cameo on Drag Kinging, Joy, and Positive Masculinity

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Jo aka Bad Boy Cameo, whose Drag King journey began at a time when life had cracked open and nothing felt simple anymore. What starts as a search for joy and queer community becomes something much deeper. Jo shares how Kings of Joy arrived at exactly the right moment, and how stepping into Drag Kinging opened up not only performance, but belonging, self-expression, and a more loving relationship with masculinity. This is a conversation about reinvention, community, and what can happen when you finally find a space where you do not have to shrink parts of yourself to belong. In This Episode How Jo found Kings of Joy during a major life transition The moment Queers of Joy felt like finding “my people” Creating the first persona, the Art Professor Traeverse How Bad Boy Cameo was born through reinvention and play Exploring positive masculinity through Drag Kinging What Kings of Joy opened up around gender and pronouns Why inclusive community matters, especially for bi and queer people Jo’s vision for a thriving Drag King scene Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uqWh6rMw88o (https://youtu.be/uqWh6rMw88o) Notable Quotes “I manifested Kings of Joy.” Bad Boy Cameo “The relief that my body went through to be in that room with my people.” Bad Boy Cameo “Being a Drag King has allowed me to kind of really step into that masculine and find the positive masculinity that exists in me.” Bad Boy Cameo “It was just going to be fun, but it’s had all this other transformative experience for me that I didn’t expect at all.” Bad Boy Cameo “Gender is something to not be afraid of. It’s something to play with.” Danica Lani, The King Coach “Masculinity belongs to us all. It’s available for us all to explore.” Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression. This season of The Kings of Joy Show is recorded and produced at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you for supporting independent queer creators and community storytelling.

7. 

   14 Apr 2026

   How Toby Found Community and Became a Drag King Wizard

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Toby aka Martin Van Tasmal, a Drag King, illustrator, and deeply creative soul whose journey into Kings of Joy began with searching for queer community in a new city. What unfolds in this conversation is a story about more than getting on stage. It is about finding people who speak the same language of gender exploration, joy, and self-expression, then discovering what becomes possible from there. We also go behind the scenes of the Kings of Joy merchandise artwork Toby created, exploring how queer identity, transformation, iconography, and community values were translated into visual form. In This Episode How Toby found Queers of Joy and Kings of Joy after moving to Sydney What it meant to meet other gender fluid and trans masc people The moment Toby saw Kings of Joy perform and signed up straight away Creating Martin Van Tasmal as a wizard, princely Drag King persona Bringing fantasy and niche artistry into the Kings of Joy space Toby’s work as an illustrator and storyboard artist The creative process behind the Kings of Joy merchandise design How joy, gender affirmation, and inclusivity were turned into artwork Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FF_Wbioeq9A (https://youtu.be/FF_Wbioeq9A) Notable Quotes “I hadn’t found my community yet.” Toby aka Martin Van Tasmal “We just want to dress up like boys and have a good time.” Toby aka Martin Van Tasmal “I want to be a wizard.” Toby aka Martin Van Tasmal “It was really lovely being part of this community.” Toby aka Martin Van Tasmal “I really loved seeing you come alive on stage and shine.” Danica Lani, The King Coach “The world is a better place because you’re in it and because of your art.” Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression.

8. 

   9 Apr 2026

   Charlie aka Bear Back on Gender Discovery Through Drag Kinging

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Charlie aka Bear Back, a Drag King whose journey began with theatre, performance, and a feeling that there had to be something more. What unfolds in this conversation is a story about much more than getting on stage. Charlie shares how Drag Kinging became a pathway into belonging, self-expression, and gender discovery. We talk about creating Bear Back, finding freedom through performance, and what it means to be held by a community that celebrates who you are becoming. This is a heartfelt, funny, and deeply affirming conversation about identity, transformation, and the power of a Drag King space where people do not have to explain themselves to be welcomed. In This Episode • How Charlie first found Kings of Joy and what drew them into Drag Kinging • The creation of Bear Back as a cowboy persona with a rich backstory • Moving through impostor syndrome and saying yes to performing again • How binding became a powerful moment of gender freedom • The role Kings of Joy played in Charlie’s gender journey and transition • Performing in the trans masc version of “Bye Bye Bye” and what that meant • Why Drag Kinging is about more than performance, and includes belonging, support, and care • Charlie’s vision for a more visible, thriving Drag King culture Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dju74Wh5_es (https://youtu.be/dju74Wh5_es) Notable Quotes “I felt free.” Charlie aka Bear Back “It’s not just getting on stage and dressing up and performing. It’s the support. It’s the community. It’s the love.” Charlie aka Bear Back “It changed my life.” Charlie aka Bear Back “You have blossomed so much and it’s been such a joy to witness you on that journey.” Danica Lani, The King Coach “It’s about joy. Anti-racism, non-toxic masculinity, positive masculinity, gender diversity, celebrating that.” Danica Lani, The King Coach Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression. This season of The Kings of Joy Show is recorded and produced at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you for supporting independent queer creators and community storytelling.

9. 

   3 Apr 2026

   Max and Marie on No Milk In My T and Becoming Drag Kings

   In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, I’m joined by Max and Marie from No Milk In My T and Kings of Joy for a conversation about community, creativity and the journey into Drag Kinging. What I love about this episode is that it captures that moment when something begins as a quiet pull in the background, then slowly becomes real. For Max, being a Drag King had lived as a long-held desire for years. For Marie, it was something they had not even realised was possible until stepping into the world of Queers of Joy and seeing what opened up there. Together, we talk about what it was like to begin this journey as partners, how Kings of Joy became a place of light during a hard season in life, and the unexpected ways performance can reveal who we are, what we need, and what wants to be expressed through us. We also explore Marie’s Drag King persona, Monsieur Mitch, and the catharsis of using performance to mirror toxic masculinity back to the world. Alongside that, Max shares the story behind No Milk In My T, a project that began as a fundraiser for top surgery and grew into something community-led, generous and deeply meaningful for trans and gender diverse people seeking gender-affirming care. What we explore in this episode • How Max and Marie first discovered Queers of Joy and Kings of Joy • What it was like to step into Drag Kinging together as partners • The role of joy, creativity and community during a difficult time at work • How Drag King personas can emerge in surprising and revealing ways • Marie’s reflections on masculinity, satire and catharsis through Monsieur Mitch • The story behind No Milk In My T and how it grew beyond Max’s own fundraiser • Why visibility, connection and mutual support matter so much in queer community Watch the full episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LsD3BABael8 Start your own Drag King journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression, so we can feel more at home in our own skin.

10. 

    1 Apr 2026

    Finding Freedom Through Drag Kinging | Jules Billington

    There’s a moment Jules describes where irritation and jealousy start to surface. Watching other people claim their gender. Watching them take up space. And realising there was something in that freedom that felt… personal. Not comfortable. Not clear. But undeniable. In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, Jules Billington, aka Golden Boy Brad, shares what it’s like to follow that inner pull — from the constraints of drama school training to stepping into Drag Kinging as a space for exploration, expression, and ultimately, freedom. This is a conversation about what happens when you stop ignoring the voice inside you and start listening to what feels true. In This Episode • Feeling jealousy and resistance around gender expression • The impact of rigid training in the performing arts • First experiences with they/them pronouns in performance • Creating the Drag King persona Golden Boy Brad • Performing for the first time in a Kings of Joy group • Gender affirmation, top surgery and following freedom • Bridging queer identity and professional performance work • Why community is essential for a thriving Drag King scene Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5GY086tep-g (https://youtu.be/5GY086tep-g) Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression. This season of The Kings of Joy Show is recorded and produced at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you for supporting independent queer creators and community storytelling.

11. 

    26 Mar 2026

    From Heartbreak to Drag King: Kaizer’s Kings of Joy Journey

    There’s a moment in life where everything feels uncertain - and then something small shifts. For Kiki, aka Kaizer, that moment came while watching Queers of Joy from their backyard. Not on stage. Not in the spotlight. Just a quiet decision to say yes. What followed wasn’t just a performance. It was a return to creativity, connection, and self-expression after heartbreak, relocation, and a period of feeling lost. In this conversation, we trace how that one decision led to becoming a Drag King, finding community through Kings of Joy, and stepping into a version of self that had always been there - just waiting for space to emerge. In This Episode • Discovering Queers of Joy during a time of uncertainty • Starting Drag Kinging through lockdown experimentation • Finding community and friendship through Kings of Joy • Creating the Drag King persona Kaizer • First time performing on stage and what shifted • Moving from group performance into solo gigs • Exploring gender and sexuality without needing labels • The impact of being seen and expressing your full self Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/33zXN67GnQo (https://youtu.be/33zXN67GnQo) Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you’re feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality and self-expression.

12. 

    19 Mar 2026

    Danielle Cormack: Why I Became a Drag King at 55

    Danielle Cormack is a multi-award-winning actor known for playing Bea Smith in Wentworth and Kate Leigh in Underbelly: Razor. She's worked in film, television, and theatre for over 35 years. And at nearly 55, going through menopause, she decided it was time to fuck shit up. So she became PonyBoi - a naughty teenage boy whose balls haven't dropped yet, a wannabe Hollywood actor gunning to be a stunt double, full of drive and ambition and absolutely zero self-doubt. In this episode, Danielle talks about finding PonyBoi through Kings of Joy, bringing a friend along for the ride, and why performing as a Drag King felt like coming home to the part of herself she's always identified with most. We talk about the blue glitter beard, the mesh tank tops, the voice that was born on stage at the Red Rattler, and what it's like when your teenage son introduces you to his mate's dad while you're running out the door as PonyBoi. This is about play. Permission. And refusing to behave the way society thinks you should at any age. In This Episode: Why Danielle reached out to Kings of Joy after seeing me on social media and thinking, "Who is that person? They're amazing" How performing with first-time Drag Kings brings the purest joy - even for someone with 35 years of professional performance experience The moment PonyBoi's voice was born on stage at the Red Rattler - and why his balls clearly haven't dropped yet Why PonyBoi was inspired by teenage boy movies like The Outsiders and the phrase "Stay gold" Performing as PonyBoi at Wentworth conventions in the States - hosting sexy bingo, judging costume competitions, and loving the camera What it's like when your son introduces you to his mate's dad while you're running out the door in full PonyBoi get-up Why Danielle wants to see a Drag King film, a Drag race for only Drag Kings, and every musical ever made performed only by Drag Kings The advice for aspiring Drag Kings: do it. Tap into the community. No time like now. Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube (https://youtu.be/yVxhbRPEEJ0) Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you're feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality, and self-expression - so we can be 100% at home in our own skin.

13. 

    18 Mar 2026

    Gender Fluidity & Asian Pop Culture: A Drag King Origin Story

    Kit went to Queers of Joy for the first time, was blown away by the energy, and their friend Laura grabbed them and said, "You must do this with me." Kit signed up for Kings of Joy with no idea who their Drag King persona would be. Then lockdown hit. Seven aspiring Drag Kings met on Zoom for weeks, not knowing when they'd ever get on stage. They became a support group. They leaned on each other. And Kit spent months in their bedroom exploring YouTube makeup tutorials, learning both feminine and masculine Drag makeup, and discovering Slaychuan Peppa - a gender-fluid, beautiful boy inspired by Asian pop culture. When they finally got on stage in December 2021, it was Kit's first time in the spotlight. Ever. The adrenaline was so intense, they can't even remember if there was a standing ovation. But Slay was born. And the journey had begun. In This Episode: How Kit got taken to Queers of Joy and signed up on the spot - with no Drag King persona in mind The lockdown Kings of Joy group that became a support group when no one knew when they'd get on stage Practicing alone in a bedroom for months, exploring makeup tutorials and gender fluidity The realisation that Slay wasn't a switch to flick - Slay was just a different combination of aspects of Kit How Asian pop culture and standards of beauty for men shaped Slaychuan Peppa as a beautiful boy, not a man Debuting solo at The Bearded Tit with Worship Collective - a queer Asian performance platform Why the spotlight blinds you and the memory plays a different game when adrenaline takes over How Drag has integrated into Kit's art practice and everyday life Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube (youtu.be/80pFRlFA-ng) Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you're feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here. (danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality, and self-expression - so we can be 100% at home in our own skin.

14. 

    13 Mar 2026

    From George Michael to Gender Euphoria: A Trans Comedian's Drag King Story

    Chris McAllister, aka Chase Cocks, walked past a mirror after performing as George Michael and thought, "Who's that handsome guy?" That moment cracked something open. Neural pathways shifted. And a gender journey that wasn't available before suddenly became possible. In this episode, I sit down with my spouse - yes, my actual spouse - to talk about how we met through Drag Kinging, what it was like witnessing Chris's gender exploration unfold, and how we built Kings of Joy and Queers of Joy together as a way of giving back what we'd found: community, belonging, and permission to become. Chris is The Trans Comedian, the founder and host of Queers of Joy, and the person behind the viral "I Can Tell" allyship campaign that's now reached over 4 million people worldwide. This conversation goes deep into the sliding doors moments, the top surgery fundraiser that raised $6,000, and what it means to build a community where people don't just feel included - they actually belong. In This Episode: How Chris and I met as backup dancers for a Drag King parody of "September Morn" (yes, really) The George Michael performance that unlocked Chris's gender journey - and the moment in the mirror that changed everything What it was like for Chris to explore gender with a completely safe person to talk to The top surgery fundraiser Bye Bye Bye and what it felt like to get a standing ovation from 120 people How the viral "I Can Tell" campaign reclaimed three words that once triggered dysphoria and turned them into allyship Why participation is the source of vitality - and what that means for aspiring Drag Kings Building a community where people belong, not just where they're included What it's like performing in They Will Be Kings at Qtopia for Mardi Gras 2026 Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5KkFT1_WxJY (https://youtu.be/5KkFT1_WxJY) Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you're feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality, and self-expression - so we can be 100% at home in our own skin.

15. 

    12 Mar 2026

    Getting Gigs & Living the Dream: Interview with Drag King JSTARR aka Rory

    Rory went to Queers of Joy, saw a group of Drag Kings on stage, and thought, "I really want to do that." Their friend said, "If you do it, I'll be in the front row." Their son asked, "Why don't you do it?" And that was it. Rory signed up for Kings of Joy. A year later, JSTARR - the loveable tradie with a signature black cap, a dad bod six-pack, and a Human Sundae act - is performing at venues up and down the coast. Cis het men love him. Queer crowds scream for him. And Rory's processing what it means to have built something this big, this fast. In this episode, we talk about sliding into DMs, backing yourself, reclaiming songs from a former life, and what it feels like when your Drag King persona is just the unfiltered, ADHD hyper version of you - but with a moustache. In This Episode: * How Rory's son gave them the final push to sign up for Kings of Joy * The six-month Zoom rehearsal process during lockdown - and what it felt like to finally hit the stage * JSTARR's secret to getting gig after gig: show up, make connections, and slide into DMs * Why cis het men love JSTARR as much as JSTARR loves cis het men * The Human Sundae act, Magic Mike energy, and reclaiming songs from the sex industry * The homoerotic tradie chemistry between JSTARR and Night Shift that writes itself * Why chronic health issues and invisible disability don't stop JSTARR from performing - and the messages Rory receives because of it * Advice for aspiring Drag Kings: do it now, back yourself, and don't wait another day Watch the Episode Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cOL3bTjWbe0 Start Your Own Drag King Journey If you're feeling the pull to explore Drag Kinging yourself, begin here: danicalani.com/dragkingname Kings of Joy is a global Drag King community helping LGBTQIA+ people break free from constraints around gender, sexuality, and self-expression - so we can be 100% at home in our own skin.

16. 

    26 Feb 2026

    From London Workshop to King of Kings: Drag King Jim Junkie

    Ever looked in the mirror and thought, "I'd make a damn fine Drag King"? Becks did. And then they did something about it. In this episode, I sit down with Becks Blake, aka Jim Junkie - director, producer, and one of Sydney's most beloved Drag Kings. Becks was part of the very first Kings of Joy cohort and went on to win King of Kings at the 2021 Sydney Mardi Gras Heaps Gay competition. We talk about the London workshop that planted the seed, the "sliding doors" Facebook message that changed everything, and how Jim Junkie - the loveable gym bro with 200 Instagram followers and big dreams - became a persona that explores vulnerability, masculinity, and the quiet heartbreak of just trying to belong. In This Episode: How a bra cup and a London workshop sparked confidence Becks had never felt before The moment Becks said yes to Drag Kinging - and why it was a sliding doors decision What it felt like coming off stage after that first Kings of Joy performance: "My whole body was humming" How Jim Junkie was born - from gym culture observation to TAFE student with a heart of gold Why Jim isn't mocking masculinity - he's exploring the vulnerable side of it The two non-negotiable rules at Kings of Joy: don’t do anything racially problematic, and you can have a dick, just don't be a dick What a thriving Drag King scene looks like in Sydney and beyond About Becks Blake: Becks is a Sydney-based director, producer, and Drag King. As Jim Junkie, they've performed at Heaps Gay, Queers of Joy, The Drag Kings, The Bearded Tit, and co-produced Bois Night Out - Sydney's regular Drag King night. Becks developed the solo show Jim Junkie: Max Potential at Brand X and co-devised They Will Be Kings, a Werewolf x Kings of Joy collab and a sell-out theatre work returning for Mardi Gras 2026. They've also been a Kings of Joy Deputy Assistant Coach. Connect: Follow Kings of Joy on Instagram: @kings.of.joy Follow Jim Junkie on Instagram: @king_jimjunkie Start your Drag King journey: kingsofjoy.com Grab the free resource: Claim Your Drag King Name danicalani.com/dragkingname Resources & Links: Queers of Joy: @queersofjoy Bois Night Out: @kings.of.joy Hugo Girl Makeup Tutorials Brand X Theatre Qtopia Sydney They Will Be Kings by Werewolf Productions x Kings of Joy Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to the Kings of Joy Podcast 01:09 Becks' Origin Story in Drag Kinging 06:12 The Birth of Jim Junkie 12:25 The Journey of Jim Junkie 17:16 Developing Jim's Persona 20:51 Exploring Masculinity in Performance 23:32 The Impact of Jim's Shows 25:30 Advice for Aspiring Drag Kings 30:27 Creating a Thriving Drag King Scene 🎧 Loved this episode? Follow, review & share the show. 👑 Curious about Drag Kinging? Explore free resources and start your journey at kingsofjoy.com

17. 

    18 Feb 2026

    If You’re Scared, Do It: Kaz Therese on Drag Kinging and They Will Be Kings

    In this episode of The Kings of Joy Show, Danica Lani speaks with Kaz Therese - CEO and Artistic Director of WEREWOLF Productions - about their journey into Drag Kinging, coming out as non-binary, and creating their Drag King persona Brad Armpit. Kaz shares what it meant to step into drag as a Gen X artist who initially felt “a bit too old to kind of start the new thing,” and how Drag Kinging became part of rewriting “all the queer narratives that… were lodged in my brain by other people.” Together, Danica and Kaz unpack the making of They Will Be Kings - a collaboration between Kings of Joy and WEREWOLF Productions - and what it means to create a work Kaz calls “a bloody big political joy.” They also talk about devised theatre versus Drag King culture (“Fast and Furious”), the lack of visible Drag King role models, and why Kaz believes “there’s absolutely no reason why Drag Kings shouldn’t be embraced in the same way as Drag Queens.” This is a conversation about courage, gender play, community, and the radical act of taking up space. In this episode, we cover: • Feeling “too old” to start - and doing it anyway • Coming out as non-binary and finding freedom in gender expression • Brad Armpit: satire, entitlement, and masculinity • Why They Will Be Kings exists, and why it matters • Drag King culture, visibility, and what needs to change • Kaz’s advice for aspiring Drag Kings: “If you’re scared… you should do it.” Memorable quotes from Kaz: • “I thought that maybe I was a bit too old to kind of start the new thing.” • “If you’re scared of something, then… you should do it.” • “The show is just a bloody big political joy.” • “It’s a radical act… to just do it sober, put on some costume, and just doing it because you want to.” Resources: Claim Your Drag King Name in 4 Simple Steps (free): https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname (https://www.danicalani.com/dragkingname) Connect with Kings of Joy: Instagram: @kings.of.joy Website: danicalani.com This episode was recorded at Bambuddha Studios in Sydney. Thank you to their team for producing and supporting this season of The Kings of Joy Show. Acknowledgement of Country: Kings of Joy acknowledges and pays respects to the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and play. We pay respects to Elders past and present, and acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded.

18. 

    12 Feb 2025

    Cara, Juliet & Lily on I Want It That Gay – A Queer Cabaret

    In this episode of Kings of Joy, I sit down with Cara Whitehouse, Juliet Hindmarsh, and director Lily Hayman to talk about their fabulous queer cabaret-comedy, I Want It That Gay! Featuring 90s and 00s pop hits with a rainbow twist, this show takes you on a hilarious and heartfelt journey through queer milestones—think discovering sexuality, unraveling gender, and navigating the queer scene, all wrapped up in a nostalgic, musical experience. 🎤 We dive into: ✨ The inspiration behind I Want It That Gay and reclaiming queer stories ✨ The power of satirical rewrites of iconic pop songs ✨ How queer nostalgia shapes our understanding of gender & sexuality ✨ Why this show is a must-see at Qtopia Sydney during Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 🎟️ See I Want It That Gay at Qtopia Sydney! 🗓 Dates: February 18-22, 2025 – 7:00 PM 📍 Venue: Qtopia Sydney – The Loading Dock Theatre 🎟️ Tickets: $49 Full Price | $45 Concession 🔗 Get tickets now https://events.humanitix.com/i-want-it-that-gay (https://events.humanitix.com/i-want-it-that-gay) 🎧 Listen now & join the conversation! 💡 Connect with Kings of Joy: 🌐 Website: kingsofjoy.com 📲 Instagram: @kings.of.joy 📩 Email: info@danicalani.com (mailto:info@danicalani.com) 📣 Follow I Want It That Gay 📲 Instagram: @iwantitthatgay 🎭 Show Info: Sydney Mardi Gras Event https://events.humanitix.com/i-want-it-that-gay (https://events.humanitix.com/i-want-it-that-gay) 🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & review the Kings of Joy Podcast!

19. 

    12 Feb 2025

    Kaz Therese on They Will Be Kings & Queer Visibility

    In this episode of Kings of Joy, I sit down with Kaz Therese—Drag King, artist, and director of WEREWOLF—to talk about their latest show, They Will Be Kings. Funded by the Australian government, this groundbreaking work blends Drag King culture with documentary theatre, tackling themes of gender, masculinity, and queer visibility. We dive into: ✨ The journey from joining Kings of Joy to creating They Will Be Kings ✨ How Drag Kings are reshaping conversations on gender and masculinity ✨ Why this show is a must-see for queer visibility 🎟️ See They Will Be Kings at Qtopia Sydney during Mardi Gras! 🗓 Dates: February 25-28, 2025 📍 Venue: Qtopia Sydney – The Loading Dock Theatre 🔗 Get tickets now: https://events.humanitix.com/they-will-be-kings (https://events.humanitix.com/they-will-be-kings) 🎧 Listen now & join the conversation! 💡 Connect with Kings of Joy: 🌐 Website: kingsofjoy.com 📲 Instagram: @kingsofjoy 📩 Email: info@danicalani.com (mailto:info@danicalani.com) 📣 Follow Kaz Therese & They Will Be Kings 📲 Instagram: @kaztherese | @__thewerewolf__ 🎭 They Will Be Kings info: https://events.humanitix.com/they-will-be-kings (https://events.humanitix.com/they-will-be-kings) 🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & review the Kings of Joy Podcast!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

16,730

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 41 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

32

Social presence

94

YouTube

76

Engagement

0