TOO MANY PEOPLE AVOID THE REAL CONVERSATIONS…

I sit down and get to know people, understand what makes them tick and share the great and unusual things they’re doing. There’s no sugar coating. There’s no hiding behind fancy marketing slogans. Just an honest conversation with me, Mark Bouris.

Tired of seeing over-polished and scripted talk shows and interviews?

Mark and his team launched a series of social media videos called ‘Straight Talk’. The series was aimed to touch on key issues bothering Mentored’s community and Mark himself.

In 2020, Mark extended Straight Talk into a new video podcast, aimed at breaking through the short attention span of audiences and surface level discussions generated in our society.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is Australia’s latest and biggest Rugby Union signing. At just 21, he’s already played over three seasons with the Sydney Roosters before making the high-profile switch back to rugby. In this episode, we dive into Joseph’s life story, his journey through the NRL, his infamous Origin game, the much-debated move to rugby union, his ambitions with the Wallabies, and much more. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 00:51 Reaction to Wallabies selection 03:06 Upbringing & family background 13:07 Developments as an athlete & a rugby player 16:02 Experience at Kings College & playing first XV at 15 19:59 Joseph's physical stature & all NRL clubs trying to get him 25:11 NRL debut at 17, mentors & approach to the game 30:37 Joseph's infamous origin experience & the NRL game in Vegas 38:28 Relationships with Nick Politis & Trent Robinson 41:32 Discussion on Spirituality & Religion 43:04 Why Joseph chose rugby union & future goals with the Wallabies 49:39 Returning to the NRL & Phil Gould's/Peter Vlandy's criticisms 52:36 Australian Rugby Union issues 55:37 Joseph's preparation & training routines 1:00:41 Not drinking alcohol & lessons from other players 1:03:35 Future goals & life after footy
Joseph Sua'ali'i: Australian Rugby Union's new star on NRL Career, Code Switch & Wallabies future
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Rocky Elsom is a former Wallabies captain with 70 international caps to his name. Rocky was handed a five-year prison sentence by a French court in October 2024 on charges of forgery and misusing funds during his time as president with French Rugby Union club Narbonne. This conviction triggered an international arrest warrant, but Rocky, who strongly denies these allegations, remains on the run, claiming he never got the fair shake to defend himself and plans to appeal. I spoke with Rocky while he was evading French and Irish authorities. Our conversation explored his conviction, the origins of this controversy, how his dealing with the case and what the future might hold for him. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 What is going on with this arrest & Rocky's time at Narbonne 23:00 The Qatar Investment Proposal & media scrutiny 35:00 Rocky's exit from Narbonne & the downfall of the club 40:00 When Narbonne started making allegations on Rocky & the start of the legal battles 47:00 Are they making Rocky a scapegoat? 50:00 When they tried to arrest Rocky & going into hiding 56:30 Rocky's defence strategy & Julian Assange comparison 1:01:54 Rocky's current mental state, needing to win the case & final thoughts
BREAKING: Ex-Wallabies Captain Rocky Elsom Speaks Out on His International Arrest Warrant
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Joe Aston is an influential Australian journalist, widely recognised as the editor and writer behind the Financial Review's "Rear Window" column for 12 years. Joe’s latest book, The Chairman’s Lounge, has sparked a media storm, and we dived into why he thinks Qantas “sold us out.” We talked about his relentless dedication to journalism and took a closer look at the man behind the stories. Don't miss this one. Purchase Joe's new book, The Chairman's Lounge, here: https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/The-Chairmans-Lounge/Joe-Aston/9781761429767 Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 00:59 Why Joe wrote the Chairman's Lounge 05:13 Joe's development as a journalist & his time at the AFR 14:52 What it's like working in a confrontational industry 20:05 Balancing relationships with powerful people as a journalist 26:39 Joe's writing style & previous experience 30:55 Who is Joe Aston & his recovery from alcohol abuse 35:29 Anthony Albanese controversy & the basis of the Chairman's Lounge 39:20 The responsibilities of Qantas & politicians 41:51 Qantas' controversial business strategy in COVID & the Loyalty program 44:49 Alan Joyces's leadership & the role of the Qantas board 1:00:49 Why are we so interested in our flying status & the Qantas frequent flyer program 1:04:15 Qantas' brilliant marketing campaigns & maintaining dominance 1:09:44 Qantas' lobbying power & their treatment of employees 1:12:30 Why this needed to be a book & people being fed up with politicians 1:16:14 Has Joe spoken to Albo or Joyce? 1:20:41 Joe's time in politics & recent controversy around it 1:22:33 Big banks & how to make Qantas more accountable 1:26:31 Governments vs. big business 1:28:57 Audio book process & what's next
Joe Aston Exposes Qantas & their influence on Australian politicians
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Joe Hockey is a distinguished Australian politician, diplomat, and businessman, best known for serving as Treasurer from 2013 to 2015 under Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Following his time in Canberra, he represented Australia as Ambassador to the United States from 2016 to 2020. Today, he is the founder of Bondi Partners, an advisory and investment firm operating at the pivotal intersection of policy, politics, and the private sector. We dived into next week's U.S. election, his one-on-one experiences with Trump and the potential impact of a Trump or Harris presidency on the global stage. Plus, we break down COVID’s ripple effects, his relationship with Kevin Rudd, Australia’s political landscape, our relationship with China and much more. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Intro/ Promo 01:34 Joe Hockey's early career & negotiations with Mark & Kerry Packer 05:44 The Role of Business in Politics and Public Life 09:29 Joe Hockey's Experience as US Ambassador 12:31 The 2020 US Presidential Election & Trump'/Harris's Campaign Strategy 22:29 What makes a great president & leader 27:29 Australia's political landscape, housing market & negative gearing 35:17 Paul Keating & Australia's relationship with China 42:34 Thoughts on a potential Trump or Harris economy 46:35 The future of Australian politics & question time 51:51 Predictions for the Upcoming US &Australian Elections 59:41 Relationship with Kevin Rudd & what Joe's up to now
Former Treasurer Joe Hockey on Trump vs. Harris, China & Australia's Political Future
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Chantelle Otten is a award-winning sexologist who specialises in helping individuals and couples improve their sexual health and relationships. We covered all the big topics around sex – from debunking myths to the importance of sexual health, what men often get wrong, the impacts of porn, Chantelle’s work as a sexologist and much more. This is one you don’t want to miss. Season 2 of the Audible Original Series Sex Therapy: Sessions with Chantelle Otten is out now. Listen for free at audible.com.au/sextherapy Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 01:00 Chantelle's work as a sexologist 03:28 Common sexual issues & causes 06:45 Sexual health & lifestyle factors 12:52 Importance of sex & intimacy 16:02 Setting boundaries & communication in relationships 21:55 Impact of porn on sexual health 31:12 Masturbation & its benefits 37:58 Sex drives, sexual needs & relationship dynamics 51:35 Love vs Desire & sex being a drug 57:42 Erotomania, dealing with fame & setting boundaries 1:09:28 Chantelle on her relationship with Dylan Alcott 1:11:17 Chantelle's new podcast 'Sex Therapy'
Award-winning Sexologist Chantelle Otten on Sex Myths, Pornography & Relationships
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Zara Seidler is the co-founder of The Daily Aus, Australia’s largest youth news platform, known for simplifying complex current affairs and making them digestible and suitable for younger audiences. Before committing fully to The Daily Aus, Zara gained experience in politics, lobbying, and journalism. Today, the platform has become the go-to news source for young Australians. Our conversation covered a range of topics, including the origins of The Daily Aus, generational divides, the shifting media landscape, the Murdoch family's influence, addressing controversial issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict, the upcoming US and Australian elections and much more. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 01:05 Zara early career & entry into journalism 06:21 Transition from Lobbying to Daily Aus 11:47 Building Daily Aus & addressing young people's needs 26:13 Low levels of trust in the media & ethical reporting 31:11 Reporting controversial issues such as politics & the Israel/ Palestine conflict 42:28 Future of the Daily Aus, generational shifts & impact of social media 45:22 Future of media, competition & final thoughts
Zara Seidler: The Daily Aus co-founder on modern news, power & the Generation wars | Straight Talk
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Fresh off their fourth NRL premiership, I had the privilege of sitting down with two of rugby league's biggest names, Nathan and Ivan Cleary, for a standout episode of Straight Talk. Nathan and Ivan walk us through their incredible journey to a historic four-peat, giving us a rare, behind-the-scenes look at everything—from the intense Grand Final celebrations to their responsibility as community role models. We dive into the pressure that comes with elite coaching, how they lead with their own distinct styles, and the mental toughness it takes to stay at the top. Plus, Ivan opens up about his new book, offering deeper insights into his leadership philosophy and how he’s navigated the highs and lows of his career. This episode offers an exclusive look into the mindset of two legends who’ve made history in the game. Purchase Ivan Cleary's new book here: https://www.harpercollins.com.au/9781460717936/not-everything-counts-but-everything-matters/ Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 00:57 Celebrating after a grand final & the Penrith community 07:01How does Ivan & Nathan deal with the stress 14:24 The influence of Jarome Luai, James Fisher-Harris & the Pacific Island/ Maori community on the club 19:48 How the Penrith Panthers have stayed on top 4 times in a row 25:55 How Penrith dominated the Melbourne Storm 29:22 Bellamy's v Cleary's coaching approaches 35:23 Do the Cleary's want anything to change? 36:19 How long does Ivan want to be coaching for? 38:21 The Cleary family & Nathan's love for the game 44:17 How Nathan's injury changed things & being a perfectionist 48:30 NRL Grand Final best performers 52:13 Nathan's & Ivan's inspirations 54:41 Relationship with Mary Fowler 57:34 Gus Gould's impact & tension 1:04:19 Drink West, business & post-footy 1:10:17 Nathan & Ivan's relationships & congratulations on raising great kids 1:13:28 Ivan's new book & final thoughts
Nathan & Ivan Cleary reflect on the Penrith Panthers' Legendary NRL 4-Peat | Straight Talk Podcast
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Ben English is a seasoned journalist, currently serving as the Editor of the Daily Telegraph, one of Australia's leading newspapers. With a career spanning over three decades, he has extensive experience in the media industry, covering major national and international stories. We had an interesting conversation about the current state of Australian media, the authoritative power of search engines and social media powerhouses, the legendary Packer/Murdoch rivalry, his work relationship with Lachlan Murdoch, insights into the US and Australian election, and much more. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 01:00 Nick Politis & the Vegas Trip 04:23 The role of a Modern Newspaper editor & how media has evolved 09:47 Planning and Structure in the Newsroom 14:52 The role of Media in society & the Murdoch family 26:51 The Future of Newspapers & AI 31:51 Daily Telegraph's audience & Project 100 42:10 What Ben's job entails today & his James Packer interview 50:52 Will AI replace journalism & future way we consume news 54:52 The US election (Trump v Harris) 1:05:26 Australia's political landscape & are we going into a recession? 1:28:11 What is Ben & the Daily Telegraph fearful of 1:35:22 Ben's schedule & what he does to relax
Daily Telegraph's Ben English: Working with the Murdochs, AI & US Election Insights | Straight Talk
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Andrew Hamilton is an Australian comedian who made a remarkable transformation from former mushroom kingpin to a rising star in the comedy scene. Andrew Hamilton thought he had life figured out: a beautiful fiancée, a successful career in PR, his popular pizza restaurant Brooklyn Crispy, two beloved dogs, and a thriving side business supplying magic mushrooms and LSD to eager Sydneysiders. But everything came crashing down one night when the police raided his Surry Hills home. After serving time in prison, Andrew emerged a changed man, determined to rebuild his life. Channeling his experiences, he found his true calling in comedy, using humour as a way to process his past and create a fresh start. We discussed Andrew’s privileged upbringing, his struggle with addiction, his successful career in PR, and his time in prison. Along the way, he shared outrageous and often hilarious stories that captured both the highs of success and the lows of hitting rock bottom. We also discussed his new book and his future works in comedy. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 00:42 The time Mark's son sent him clip of Andrew & his connection with Con Fit 02:15 Andrew's childhood & his Journey from PR to Drug Dealing 08:19 Struggles with Addiction & self escape 16:33 The Pizza Business & getting locked up 27:19 Finding purpose through comedy 42:25 Building a career in comedy 52:08 Being vulnerable & the challenges of making a living as a comedian 1:00:21 Future plans and Andrew's new book
Andrew Hamilton’s Redemption: From Magic Mushroom Kingpin to Comedy Star | Straight Talk Podcast
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Yvonne Sampson is a leading Australian sports presenter and journalist, widely recognised for her contributions to rugby league broadcasting. In 2016, Yvonne made history as the first woman to host Channel Nine's State of Origin coverage, marking a significant achievement in Australian sports media. Her deep understanding of the game and engaging on-screen presence have garnered her immense respect and recognition in the industry. In our conversation, we discussed her childhood, her passion for rugby league, navigating a career in a male-dominated field, motherhood, her relationship with her husband, and much more. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 01:07 Yvonne's early aspirations & the role of sport in Queensland's Identity 05:33 Why Queensland has such a strong rugby league culture 13:19 Yvonne's journey into journalism 20:56 The challenges Yvonne faced as a female sports journalist 25:31 Yvonne's role at FOX League & the evolution of Rugby League coverage 28:53 Yvonne's relationship with key figures in rugby league & behind the scenes at FOX League 38:26 How Yvonne deals with big personalities & the different shows on Fox League 47:29 What Yvonne has got out of her job as a rugby league journalist 49:35 Current state of Rugby Union & how valuable V'landys/Abdo have been 51:32 How Fox League provided an alternative to Channel 9 & Mark's thoughts on Vegas 54:27 Yvonne's relationship with Chris O'Keefe & being a parent 1:06:31 Adoption & final thoughts
Yvonne Sampson talks Rugby League, Career Milestones & Personal Life | Straight Talk Podcast
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Arthur Laundy is one of Australia’s most respected publicans and business figures. As the driving force behind Laundy Hotels, a family-owned venture, he oversees a vast portfolio of pubs, hotels, and hospitality venues across the nation. After the tragic passing of his father in 1969, Arthur, then just 28, stepped in to lead the family pub business. What started with two venues has grown into Australia’s largest privately-owned pub group, now boasting over 90 establishments—a testament to his vision and determination. In our conversation, we reflected on the profound loss of his father, his deep passion for the pub industry, and the critical role family has played in his journey. You don’t want to miss the full, untold story of how Arthur and the Laundy family built Australia’s largest pub empire. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 01:16 Family Business & Legacy 03:24 Health & Work Ethic 06:37 Publican life & hotel operations 13:03 Arthur's father's influence & what pubs used to be 35:28 Arthur taking over the family business after the tragic death of his father 41:00 How Arthur turned his pubs into a billion dollar business 46:05 Will Arthur ever stop working & how proud Arthur is of his family 53:04 When his son Craig went into politics 54:46 Arthur's decision to sponsor the Canterbury Bulldogs & his role as a mentor 1:12:43 The importance of community & giving back 1:18:22 Arthur's three most importance virtues to live by
Arthur Laundy’s Rise: The Man Behind Australia’s Biggest Pub Empire | Straight Talk Podcast
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Cody Simpson is an Australian pop star, songwriter, and competitive swimmer who made the remarkable transition from a thriving music career to competing for Australia at the Commonwealth Games. At just 27, Cody Simpson has already lived an extraordinary life, achieving more than most could ever imagine. We explore his remarkable transition from music stardom to elite swimming, the dark side of LA, his relationship with Olympic champion Emma McKeon, what the future holds for him, and much more. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram https://bit.ly/2TiyQtJ Follow Mark Bouris on Twitter https://twitter.com/markbouris Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email to support@mentored.com.au Head of Production: Jonah Mclachlan Head of Content: Samuel Morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction/ Promo 01:27 Swimming Training Routine & Cody's challenges adjusting 13:47 Coaching, finding mentors & team mates 22:10 Returning to swimming & the dark side of LA 32:45 How Cody became a famous pop star 52:07 Temptations & the challenges of maturing when famous 55:48 Importance of family, how swimming saved his life & Australia being home again 1:00:56 Cody's relationship with Emma McKeon 1:04:37 Cody's creative process 1:10:12 Dr Hydrate & the importance of hydration 1:16:11 Cody's new love for Jazz Music 1:24:10 Starting a family & would Cody encourage his kids to swim?
Cody Simpson on remarkable career shift, the dark side of LA & his relationship with Emma McKeon
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