Episodes
Whether you love him or hate him, you cannot deny Nick Kyrgios's uncanny ability to entertain. It’s taken a while to get Nick on the pod but the wait is finally over. It was awesome to get to know who the real Nick Kyrgios is. We covered a wide range of topics, including his Greek heritage, journey to success, challenges of fame and social media, his relationship with his girlfriend Costeen, interactions with the media, return to professional tennis, his various business ventures, involvement...
Published 05/01/24
Published 05/01/24
As someone who has been a rugby league fan since the '60s, it's fair to say that the NRL could be in its best state yet. Much of the strength we see in the game today is owed to the work of my latest Straight Talk guest, John Quayle. John served as the General Manager and CEO of the NSWRL and ARL from 1983-1996. Under his leadership, the game underwent significant changes, including the iconic Tina Turner campaign, the Super League War, and the sport's expansion throughout Australia. In this...
Published 04/24/24
In these politically divisive times, whether we sit on the left or the right, it’s crucial to engage in respectful conversations with one another. In this week's Straight Talk pod I spoke to founder of Cheek Media Hannah Ferguson about the current state of journalism and Australian politics. Hannah and I have different perspectives from our life experiences, but I found it very insightful to hear how she views the world. We spoke about her experience studying law, starting Cheek Media, the...
Published 04/17/24
I've always been fascinated by successful leaders and coaches. Why can some make it happen and others not? Paul Roos turned around a 72-year losing culture at the Sydney Swans and deeply contributed to the club’s popularity we see today. If there’s someone qualified to talk about leadership and coaching, it’s Paul. I’ve long admired how he inspired change and instilled a winning mentality at the Swans. In our second podcast together we spoke about Paul's new life in Hawaii, his early AFL...
Published 04/10/24
George Kambosos Jr has never cut corners in his boxing career, and his next bout is shaping up to be his toughest challenge yet. The former world champ will face Vasiliy Lomachenko, one of this generation's most decorated boxers, on May 12 in Perth. Us Aussie boxing fans are greatly indebted to George for his relentless pursuit in bringing the best fights Down Under. If you're looking for motivation, this podcast is a must-listen. In our third round of recording a pod together, we spoke...
Published 04/03/24
It's always puzzled me how those who bring us the most laughter often battle the greatest demons. Dan reinvented himself after an underwhelming AFL career and became one of Australia's most popular podcasters. But reaching this success off the footy field has been a hell of a mental battle.  We spoke about : Dan's childhoodBecoming a no.10 pick in the AFL draft The struggles in his footy careerHitting rock bottom after retirementDan's mental health journeyGoing viral on social mediaThe...
Published 03/27/24
Robert Kiyosaki is an acclaimed entrepreneur, author, and investor best known for his influential book series "Rich Dad Poor Dad," which emphasises financial education and wealth-building principles. The legendary book has gone on to sell more than 40 million copies in over 100 countries worldwide. I caught up with Robert while he was Down Under for his last speaking tour ever in Australia.We spoke about his love for Australia, growing up in Hawaii, serving in Vietnam, his relationship with...
Published 03/20/24
The first cricketer to represent Australia without a first-class match to his name... David Warner has never shied away from going first, he has made a career out of it. It was a real privilege to hear David's perspective on his legendary career in my latest Straight Talk. We spoke about his childhood, rise to the national cricket team, his batting approach, relationships with teammates such as Steve Smith, Shane Warne's genius, dealing with controversy, the financial side of professional...
Published 03/13/24
We all love a success story, but what we value even more is a comeback story. George Calombaris has made his mistakes but he is not hiding from them. George is an accomplished Australian chef and restaurateur, widely recognised for his culinary expertise and contributions to the food industry. Renowned as a former judge on the popular television show 'Masterchef Australia'. While George's career has seen much success, he has also faced multiple controversies. We spoke about the highly...
Published 03/06/24
Willie Mason has observed the NRL for over 20 years as a junior player, NRL star, veteran, commentator and now as a coach. The 43-year-old's keen eye is now paying dividends as as a pathways coach for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and a co-host for one of rugby league's most popular podcasts on the 'Levels Network'. We discussed various topics, including the 2024 season launch of the NRL in Vegas, his childhood, the impact of his father's death, the highs and lows of his career,...
Published 02/28/24
Before there was such a thing as Nedd Brockmann, Pat Farmer was who inspired the Australian people regarding endurance feats... Pat is most well known as the only person who ran successfully from the North to the South Pole. Yes, Pat ran 21,000 km from the top of the earth to the bottom, nearly dying in his pursuits, but his no.1 rule in life is when you start something, you have to finish it. The proud Aussie also had a 10-year political career serving as Liberal MP with the help of Prime...
Published 02/21/24
Melissa Leong is an independent Australian food writer, critique connoisseur, and media personality.  Driven by curiosity, Melissa has transitioned from writing books to becoming a star on television, marking a successful career journey. From judging on the Masterchef to interviewing UFC fighters, Melissa finds it easy to adapt in the media with her genuine fascination of human being's stories. Mark asks Melissa about her childhood and how she became such a lover for food. The two engage in a...
Published 02/14/24
An Australian film getting a sequel is a rare sight, but The Dry was such a good mystery-thriller that it demands a follow-up titled The Force of Nature. In an exclusive long-form interview, world-class Australian actor Eric Bana joins Mark Bouris to discuss the making of The Dry 2, directed by Robert Connolly and Eric's business partner. Bana talks about what it took to make the sequel, the importance of keeping the Australian filmmaking industry alive, and what makes him a successful...
Published 02/07/24
Jeff 'Morgs' Morgan is a former bank robber who has become a life and mindset coach. He had a difficult upbringing in Redfern but was able to transform his life by creating a program called "Cut the B******t". Jeff shares his insights into his past challenges and the principles that guide his coaching approach. In this conversation, you will discover how he overcame adversity, served prison time, and emerged as a person determined to create positive change in the world. Mark and Jeff delve...
Published 01/31/24
Jonathan Pease, an experienced creative and communication expert, shares practical insights from his latest book “Winning The Room: Storyteller Tactics for Speeches, Pitch Meetings, and Everyday Life.” Jonathan will help you conquer your public speaking fears, captivate your audience and build trust in any room. He will share his proven strategies for turning nervous energy into charisma and provide tangible takeaways for immediate application. His book outlines a tight, actionable, and...
Published 01/24/24
Vincent Wong is a 37-year-old Chinese Australian who has faced varying degrees of adversity throughout his life.  Despite a challenging upbringing in Auburn, he has risen to great heights of success in business as the Director of Astute Agency, showcasing his resilience. Vincent's survival mentality, the impact of his father, and the turbulent business journey led to an almost downward spiral. However, he has learned valuable lessons along the way and now shares his insights into rebuilding...
Published 01/17/24
Sports journalist Andrew Webster has authored a revealing exploration of Wayne Bennett, Australia's greatest rugby league coach. Webster delves into the intriguing life of Bennett, who has won seven premierships and unparalleled ability to manage players and the public eye. Webster uncovers the paradoxes within Bennett's character, revealing a self-professed introvert who effortlessly captivates audiences, an autocrat who aims to instil virtue in his young charges, and a family man who caused...
Published 01/10/24
Disclaimer: This episode was first released on 22nd June 2023. --- Kayla Itsines is the co-founder of the Sweat app.  Kayla Itsines has amassed an impressive following of 15 million on Instagram and has become a household name in the fitness world. As the co-creator of BBG, which later evolved into the popular Sweat with Kayla and now simply Sweat, Kayla revolutionised the fitness industry. From humble beginnings posting before and after photos of her clients, she has created the highly...
Published 01/03/24
Thank you for the biggest year YET. Want to hear the full episode of your Top Five Guests for 2023? #99 Matty Johns #66 Ed Kavalee #66 Charlie Teo #92 Ben Crowe#85 Kayla Itsines Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.   You can subscribe to the newsletter here: https://lnkd.in/e7C8akgj. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Published 12/27/23
John Wayne Parr, an Australian Muay Thai legend, started his martial arts career at the young age of 11. He went on to become a 10-time World Champion before retiring at the age of 45 after a memorable cage bout against Eduard Folayang. From his early days practising taekwondo to his storied career as a 10-time World Champion, Parr's legacy is a testament to his skill and dedication. In a discussion between Mark and John, they touch upon his family ties to combat sports and iconic clashes...
Published 12/20/23
Matt Formston was diagnosed with Macular Dystrophy at age five and has since lived life with only 3% of his vision. Growing up in 1980s Australia, he shattered stereotypes by excelling in mainstream school and sports, including Rugby and surfing. Battling bullying, he transformed into a world-class athlete, setting a cycling world record in 2009, riding 1,200 km from Sydney to Melbourne. Matt shares his triumphs and tribulations, from violence in response to bullying to becoming one of the...
Published 12/13/23
Chris Hill was once a promising Data Analyst at the Australian Bureau of Statistics. However, he became an accomplice in Australia's only known insider trading case. In this story, Chris takes us through the high-stakes world of currency trading, betrayal, and the aftermath of a scheme gone awry. Chris shares his experience of being arrested, the shocking deception by his colleague Lukas Kamay, and his journey from prison to becoming the Head of Risk at EightCap. This riveting narrative...
Published 12/06/23
Abbie Chatfield is an Australian media sensation known for her reality TV work, political opinion, and podcast "It's A Lot with Abbie Chatfield." From her rise on The Bachelor to launching businesses and coping with online scrutiny, Abbie opens up about her journey. Join for an honest conversation and an exclusive insight into Abbie's life, career, and perspectives. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.   You can subscribe to the newsletter...
Published 11/29/23
Bondi born and bred, Andrew ‘Reidy’ Reid is a lifeguard and TV personality, best known for saving lives on Channel 10’s Logie award-winning TV series, Bondi Rescue. The programme, which has aired since 2006, follows the daily lives and routines of the Waverley Council professional lifeguards who patrol Bondi Beach. A ratings smash in Australia since its inception, Bondi Rescue has now been shown in over 190 countries worldwide, making household names of Reidy and his fellow lifeguards. From...
Published 11/22/23