Black Magic Woman

Season 2 opens with human rights and discrimination lawyer Prabha Nandagopal. In this straight-talking yarn, Prabha reflects on the moments that shaped her — from working with asylum seekers in detention and contributing to landmark workplace reform inquiries, to navigating cultural expectations, divorce and solo motherhood. We unpack accountability, workplace culture, systemic change and what real leadership looks like under pressure. New format. Same powerful yarns. Resources & Links Elevate Consulting Partners – https://www.elevateconsultingpartners.com.au/ Respect@Work: Sexual Harassment National Inquiry Report (2020) – https://www.humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/ahrc_wsh_report_2020.pdf Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces (‘Set the Standard’ Report) – https://humanrights.gov.au/CPWReview Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au Black Magic Woman is produced by BlakCast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Best Of episode, I revisit some of the most powerful moments from my yarn with Nooky — a conversation that moves between music, culture, grief, and survival. We reflect on the making of his album with 3%, including the collaborations that shaped it and the intention behind centring cultural history and awareness. The iconic album artwork featuring Nicky Winmar stands as a defining moment in the discussion — a symbol of resistance, strength, and truth-telling in the face of racism. Nooky also speaks candidly about his personal journey through grief and addiction, and how community became central to his healing. His commitment to creating space for mob is evident through initiatives like We Are Warriors and his film trilogy centred on the black cockatoo — stories grounded in mentorship, culture, and passing knowledge to the next generation. We also touch on friendship, connection, and shared cultural spaces, including his relationship with The Kid Laroi, highlighting how community and identity continue to shape Indigenous voices in music. This Best Of yarn is a reminder of the power of storytelling — and how resilience, culture, and music can be tools for change, advocacy, and collective strength. Links & Resources: We are Warriors - https://www.wearewarriors.com.au/ 3% - https://amnplify.com.au/first-nations-collective-3-nooky-dallas-woods-angus-field-share-new-single-video-wont-stop-feat-jessica-mauboy-ahead-of-debut-album-kill-the-dead/ Blakout with Nooky - https://www.abc.net.au/triplej/programs/blak-out Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is in partnership with the Australian Government. In this episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I yarn with the deadly Amanda Sibosado, a proud Mardudhunera and Bardi woman, PhD candidate, and long-time sexual health educator. Amanda joins me from Whadjuk Noongar Country to talk honestly about sexual health in our communities — from the gaps many of us experienced growing up, to why STIs like syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea are on the rise. We break down what STI testing actually involves, why confidentiality matters, and why relying on symptoms alone can be risky. We also yarn deeply about shame — how it shows up, how our mob push through it every day, and how we can use that same strength to look after our bodies, have safer conversations, and support our young people. This episode goes beyond prevention and treatment, touching on healthy relationships, consent, boundaries, and the role we all play as parents, aunties, uncles and community. This conversation is for our young people, our families, and anyone who’s ever felt unsure or embarrassed about sexual health. Knowledge is power, testing saves lives, and our mob deserve culturally safe care. For trusted information and resources, visit health.gov.au/sti/first-nations. The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is proudly brought to you by ANZ. A new series of conversations with different mob around the country to yarn about, meaningful career opportunities within ANZ, building the capacity of Indigenous businesses and organisations, and helping individuals in the broader community to achieve financial wellbeing and resilience. If you’d like to know more about how ANZ can help improve your financial wellbeing, or help you start, run or grow your business, visit anz.com or call 13 13 14. In this episode of the ANZ Partnership Series, I sit down with Garry Jaffrey, Managing Director of Kurtarra Pty Ltd — a 100 % Indigenous, family-owned company from the Palkyu region of the Pilbara, Western Australia. Garry shares his powerful journey from growing up on Country to leading one of Australia’s most respected Indigenous businesses, weaving culture, community and economic opportunity into everything he does. Together, we explore the meaning of leadership, resilience, and what it takes to build a business that stays true to Country and community while engaging in large-scale industry partnerships. We also unpack the significance of supportive financial relationships like those with ANZ, and how access to purpose-driven investment and programs has helped Kurtarra scale its operations and deliver real opportunities for First Nations peoples. This conversation is a celebration of Indigenous enterprise, cultural strength, and the kinds of partnerships that create lasting impact — proving that when culture and business walk hand-in-hand, everyone benefits. Recommendations throughout this episode:  Indigenous small business banking services: https://www.anz.com.au/business/indigenous-banking/  https://dev.kurtarra.com.au/ Call ANZ’s dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customer support line on 1800 037 366 https://www.anz.com.au/support/contact-us/customer-support-line/  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Opportunities https://www.anz.com.au/careers/programs/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-opportunities/  For general enquiries visit anz.com or call 13 13 14  When we reference ANZ in this episode, we are referring to Australia and New Zealand Banking Group operating in Australia and New Zealand.  Given the nature of this podcast, all comments are general in nature and do not take into account the listeners’ financial circumstances, goals or objectives. Please think about what is right for you and seek independent advice.  Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au  Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast  The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.  If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful Best Of episode, we revisit one of our most unforgettable yarns with proud Yuin and Thunghutti man, artist, creator, and community leader Nooky. Recorded live on the iHeart Podcast stage at SXSW Sydney, this conversation dives deep into his journey from growing up in Nowra to becoming a driving force in Australian music and culture. Nooky shares honest reflections on resilience, healing, identity, and the strength found in family and community, while also speaking about the purpose behind his work, including We Are Warriors, and the importance of representation for the next generation. This episode is a celebration of culture, pride, storytelling, and self-determination — a reminder of the power Blak excellence has to inspire change, unity, and hope. Links & Resources: We are Warriors - https://www.wearewarriors.com.au/ 3% - https://amnplify.com.au/first-nations-collective-3-nooky-dallas-woods-angus-field-share-new-single-video-wont-stop-feat-jessica-mauboy-ahead-of-debut-album-kill-the-dead/ Blakout with Nooky - https://www.abc.net.au/triplej/programs/blak-out Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au       See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Best Of episode of Black Magic Woman, I sit down with Dem Mob, a rising Indigenous hip-hop group making waves in the Australian music scene. Formed in 2019 as a school project designed to re-engage Indigenous youth through music and culture, Dem Mob have since evolved into a powerhouse collective. Their music brings Aboriginal language and culture to the forefront, blending English and Pitjantjatjara to reach and connect with diverse audiences. In this yarn, Dem Mob reflect on their origins, their mission to inspire Indigenous young people, and the importance of integrating culture with education. They share how music became an escape, a form of empowerment, and a way to navigate education systems that often leave Indigenous students feeling disconnected. Now performing on major stages and earning national recognition, Dem Mob continue to give back to community while using music as a tool for change. Links & Resources: DEM MOB Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dem_mob/?hl=en DEM MOB Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4aciJpcM8WNsBXP4dQv9yM?si=QIwlH1MwTBmdLSYgpCk3Ng Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Best Of episode, we revisit one of our most loved conversations with Coby Edgar — a proud Aboriginal curator, creative, mentor and cultural powerhouse. Coby’s story is filled with honesty, humour, resilience and deep cultural insight, making this episode a standout moment from the Black Magic Woman archives. As we wrap up the year, we’re sharing a selection of Best Of episodes while the team prepares for an exciting new chapter. Regular weekly releases will resume in the New Year, with a new and improved Black Magic Woman Podcast coming your way. Thank you for your continued support — we can’t wait to bring you a fresh season of powerful storytelling, leadership, and Blak excellence in 2026. Links & Resources: Bankstown Arts Centre website https://powerhouse.com.au/stories/durrmu-arts-aboriginal-corporation https://www.2022.australianceramicstriennale.com.au/presenters-and-artists/coby-edgar Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Mental Fitness Conversations, host Mundanara Bayles chats with Aaliyah Bula - a proud Tongan, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi woman, athlete and community leader - about what mental fitness means to her. Aaliyah’s journey is one of strength, connection and cultural pride. Aaliyah has always balanced her passion for culture with her drive in sport. She’s played Open Women’s footy with the Redfern All Blacks and continues her rugby league journey with the Canterbury Bulldogs U19s Tarsha Gale squad. In 2025, she joined the Wests Tigers NRLW as a development player. Aaliyah’s insights remind us that mental fitness is about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, staying proud of where you come from and trusting your own path. Whether you’re an athlete, a student or just navigating life’s ups and downs, this episode is a reminder that small actions - like leaning on your mates, practising gratitude and staying connected - can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing. Resources and links Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. The Gotcha4Life Mental Fitness Gym App is free and available now. Download it today and start your first mental workout online. Follow Aaliyah on Instagram @aaliyahbula About the podcast Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content note This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At just 25, Wendell French – also known by their stage name Felicia Foxx, the Aboriginal Enchantress – is a proud Kamilaroi and Dhunghutti “brotherboy, sistergirl, brista – brothersister”. They are a performer, advocate and entrepreneur using drag as a powerful tool for storytelling, self-expression and connection. In this honest and uplifting conversation with host Mundanara Bayles, Wendell talks openly about what mental fitness means to them: grounding yourself in who you are, finding strength in vulnerability and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up. Wendell also shares the importance of representation, and how seeing yourself reflected in culture and community can strengthen confidence and self-belief. Resources and links Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. Follow Wednell on Instagram @iam_deadly_feliciafoxx About the podcast Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content note This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with proud Meuram woman Lala Gutchen from Erub island in the Torres Strait — a language teacher, diver, and climate advocate whose life’s work is rooted in protecting Country. We met at the First Nations Clean Energy Summit on Kabi Kabi Country, where Lala shared her story about preserving language, culture, and Sea Country in the face of rising tides and corporate development. From teaching her people’s first language, Erub Mer, to giving evidence in court alongside her parents to defend her homeland, Lala reminds us that caring for Country isn’t just environmental work — it’s cultural survival. Together, we yarn about the Torres Strait 8, youth leadership, the importance of elders’ guidance, and how connection to Country keeps language alive. Lala’s words are powerful and grounding — a reminder that protecting the planet begins with listening to those who live closest to it. 🎧 Tune in to hear a deeply moving conversation about family, resistance, and hope — and why, as Lala says, “Country breathes the language to us.” Resources & Links First Nations Clean Energy NetworkLearn more about the movement bringing mob together to shape a clean energy future.https://www.firstnationscleanenergy.org.au Torres Strait 8 CampaignRead about the landmark human rights case led by Torres Strait Islanders to hold the Australian Government accountable for climate inaction.https://ourislandsourhome.com.au Erub IslandInformation about Erub, its people, and culture from Torres Strait Regional Authority.https://www.tsra.gov.au/the-torres-strait/community-profiles/erub Ben & Jerry’s – Protect the Islands CampaignHow the global ice cream brand partnered with the Torres Strait 8 to raise awareness about rising sea levels.https://www.benandjerry.com.au/values/issues-we-care-about/climate-justice/torres-strait Koori MailAustralia’s national Indigenous newspaper covering stories like the Torres Strait 8 and climate justice.https://koorimail.com The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wiradjuri Elder and Aboriginal activist Uncle Dave Bell has spent more than two decades guiding young people towards strength through culture, mentoring and connection. In this episode of Mental Fitness Conversations, he joins Mundanara Bayles from Black Magic Woman podcasts to share the story of Young Spirit Mentoring - a grassroots program changing lives across Campbelltown by reconnecting youth with Country, culture and community. Together, Mundanara and Uncle Dave explore the importance of cultural identity, safe spaces for open conversation and how meaningful connection can break cycles of disconnection and pain. Resources and links Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. Find out about Young Spirit Mentoring https://youngspiritmentoring.wordpress.com/ About the podcast Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content note This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Cissy Gore-Birch, a proud a Jaru/Kija woman with connections to Balanggarra, Nyikina and Bunuba Country in the Kimberley, and the powerhouse behind Lulujaru — a fashion label that weaves together culture, conservation, and self-determination. Cissy shares her story of growing up in Wyndham as the eldest of eight kids in a big, busy household full of laughter, hand-me-downs, and strong family values. From a long career in Native Title, conservation, and land management to stepping into the creative world of fashion in her fifties, Cissy talks about the power of backing yourself, reconnecting with your creative spirit, and redefining what success looks like for our mob. We yarn about how Lulujaru began — inspired by species of cultural significance — and how every piece tells a story that celebrates Country, sustainability, and culture. Cissy also opens up about her passion for food security, self-sufficiency, and empowering the next generation through her Young Women on Country program and youth housing initiatives, funded directly through her fashion sales. This is a powerful conversation about purpose, resilience, and the beauty of creating our own futures — on our own terms. Resources & Links Lulujaru website: www.lulujaru.com.auLulujaru Instagram: www.instagram.com/official_lulujaru The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the newest Mental Fitness Conversations episode, produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, host Mundanara Bayles yams with Dr Clinton Schultz, a proud Gamilaroi man, psychologist and Head of First Nations Strategy at Black Dog Institute. Clinton speaks openly about his life and the role of culture in shaping his path. He reflects on growing up disconnected from support, navigating systems that didn’t see him and the turning points that helped him realign with culture, lore and spirit. From building a career as a chef to retraining as a psychologist, Clinton’s journey shows the resilience of spirit that comes from culture and community. At the heart of this yarn is Aboriginal psychology - a way of understanding wellbeing that goes beyond the mind to include spirit, belonging and connection. Clinton explains why psychology must reflect culture and lived experience, and how he works to embed this at Black Dog Institute. Clinton’s story is raw, wise and deeply hopeful. He reminds us that mental fitness is not about going it alone but about drawing on culture, relationships and the practices that keep us strong across generations. Resources and links: Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and Black Magic Woman on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts or follow on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content in this podcast covers topics related to mental health, including suicide which can be confronting and distressing. If you found this content emotionally challenging, please practise self-care. There are support services available 24/7, 13YARN 13 92 76 and Lifeline 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I sit down with Ruby Heard, a proud descendant of the Jaru and Gija peoples and founder of Alinga Energy Consulting. Ruby shares her journey into electrical engineering and how a decision at sixteen to “save the world” set her on a path from Hanging Rock, Victoria, to global projects in Silicon Valley and refugee camps in Ethiopia. We yarn about her role on the First Nations Clean Energy Network steering committee, the push to ensure mob are in the driver’s seat of Australia’s renewable energy transition, and the successes of community-led clean energy projects already underway. Ruby also speaks about the barriers communities face in accessing reliable and affordable power, the reality of prepaid “power cards” in remote areas, and the opportunities to create lasting change through policy, education, and Indigenous leadership. This conversation is both inspiring and practical—showing what’s possible when cultural knowledge and engineering expertise come together to build a just energy future. Resources & Links Alinga Energy Consulting:https://www.alinga.com.au First Nations Clean Energy Network:https://www.firstnationscleanenergy.org.au Engineers Without Borders Australia:https://ewb.org.au Engineers Australia – 100 Engineers Making a Difference:https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fourth episode of the Mental Fitness Conversations podcast features a powerful yarn with Quaden Bayles, a 14-year-old First Nations actor, award-winning advocate and activist. In this episode, Quaden speaks openly about how his life changed overnight, from the pain of relentless bullying to the opportunities and challenges of acting in major Hollywood films. What shines through most is his honesty about the role that culture, family and community have played in grounding him, especially after living in Redfern earlier this year where he found a renewed sense of belonging and strength. Mental Fitness Conversations is part of Gotcha4Life’s mission to create a suicide-free world through stronger connections, inclusive conversations and culturally grounded truth-telling. In partnership with Black Magic Woman, the series explores the depth, strength and diversity of what it means to stay mentally fit, especially for First Nations peoples. Resources and links Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. About the podcast Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content note This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges including bullying which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I sit down with Uncle John Anderson, at the First Nations Clean Energy Network Summit on Kabi Kabi Country. Uncle John shares his journey from his saltwater connections on Palm Island and Innisfail to his work across western Queensland and Brisbane, leading independent and regulatory bodies with integrity and cultural strength. Together, we yarn about the importance of cultural protocols, what it means to be an “honourable ancestor,” and how First Nations knowledge offers powerful lessons for the future of clean energy and coexistence. Uncle John reflects on the legacy of elders, the responsibilities of relationship-building, and the deep wisdom of living and working the “proper way.” This is a powerful conversation about respect, diplomacy, and the role of First Nations peoples in shaping a more sustainable future for all. Resources & Links First Nations Clean Energy Network https://www.firstnationscleanenergy.org.au National Indigenous Radio Service (NIRS) – Deadly Sounds & History of Indigenous Media https://nirs.org.au AIATSIS Map of Indigenous Australia https://aiatsis.gov.au/explore/map-indigenous-australia Supply Nation (Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Businesses) https://supplynation.org.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning comedian, actor and writer Steph Tisdell is one of Australia’s brightest creative forces. Known for her quick wit and powerful storytelling, she uses humour to break down barriers and spark conversations about identity, culture and mental health. In this episode, host Mundanara Bayles sits down with Steph for an open yarn about what it means to live authentically and use your platform for change. Steph reflects on her journey from aspiring lawyer to celebrated performer, the wisdom she’s received from Elders, and the way running, love and community have shaped her wellbeing. She speaks candidly about representation, self-acceptance and the importance of making space for others to shine. Steph’s story is one of laughter, courage and deep connection. From viral comedy moments to acclaimed young adult author, she continues to use her voice to challenge stereotypes and open doors for the next generation. This conversation is open, funny and inspiring - and a reminder that building mental fitness is about courage, connection and showing up as your whole self. Resources and links Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. Follow Steph on Instagram About the podcast Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content note This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, I sit down with Tommy Hicks, Head of Cultural and Community at Indigenous Energy Australia, recorded at the First Nations Clean Energy Network Summit on the Sunshine Coast. Tommy shares his journey as a proud Badimia-Yamatji & Narungga man working at the intersection of culture, community, and infrastructure. He opens up about the importance of storytelling, relationship-building, and place-based knowledge in driving genuine progress across the clean energy and infrastructure sectors. Together, we explore what it means to put relationships before projects, how to stay grounded while leading in fast-paced industries, and the challenges and opportunities of scaling impact while staying true to community values. We also yarn about identity, resilience, and the lessons Tommy has learned as a young business leader creating pathways for the next generation. This is an inspiring conversation about culture, leadership, and why centring Aboriginal ways of knowing and being is critical to building a healthy, sustainable future for all. Resources & Links First Nations Clean Energy Networkhttps://www.firstnationscleanenergy.org.au/ Tommy Hicks Linkedin Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities.  Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do. If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor, presenter and podcaster Matty Mills is a proud First Nations and queer storyteller whose energy lights up every room. Known for his “sparkly” persona on screen and stage, Matty also brings honesty and depth to conversations about healing, culture and mental fitness. In this episode, host Mundanara Bayles sits down with Matty for an open conversation about identity, belonging and the courage it takes to reclaim your story. Matty reflects on reconnecting with family, navigating grief and the role therapy played in strengthening his mental health. He speaks candidly about breaking through in the media, the pressure of representation and refusing to be boxed in by stereotypes. Matty’s story is one of persistence, authenticity and cultural pride. From hosting red carpets to working with Baz Luhrmann, and now co-hosting First Things First with Brooke Blurton, Matty continues to use his platform to amplify First Nations and LGBTQIA+ voices. This conversation is a reminder that behind every persona is a human story - of vulnerability, courage and connection. As Matty shares, building mental fitness means finding the strength to show up as your whole self and creating space for others to do the same. Resources and links Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and Black Magic Woman Podcast on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. Follow Matty on Instagram @itsmattymills. About the podcast Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content note This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi, i’m Mundanara Bayles, host of the award-winning Black Magic Woman Podcast, where I celebrate the voices of First Nations people, leaders, and changemakers who are shaping our communities today. With honesty, laughter, and deep connection, I invite you into yarns that help us all learn, unlearn, and walk together towards a more just future. 🎙️ Tune in now and hear the stories that inspire, challenge, and uplift — told through a Blak lens. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.