Straight Talk with Mark Bouris #225 Big Chocky: Australia’s New Controversial Voice on Why Politics Is Failing Us
Jan 21, 2026
Chris Katelaris, also known as Big Chocky, is a social media commentator who dives deep into his journey from adoption in Australia to becoming a vocal critic of national issues. He shares candidly about his childhood struggles, the impact of fatherhood, and how he found his voice through social media. Chris discusses the failures of Australian politics, the importance of community values, and advocates for accountability from leaders. His insights on unity, identity, and resilience are both thought-provoking and inspiring.
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Adopted Into A Greek-Cypriot Family
- Chris Katelaris recounts being adopted from Colombia into a Greek-Cypriot family and growing up in St Ives, Australia.
- His father's fight for medicinal cannabis and subsequent deregistration profoundly shaped Chris's worldview and resilience.
Dad's Cannabis Fight Shaped Values
- Chris describes his father helping children with neurological disorders using medicinal cannabis and facing legal consequences.
- His father beat charges on medical necessity but was remanded for six months, teaching Chris defiance and conviction.
From Teen Turmoil To Responsibility
- Teenage identity struggles led Chris into alcohol, drugs, crime and losing many friends to suicide or violence.
- Fatherhood at 19 saved him and pushed him into steady trades like boilermaking and crane work before shifting to coaching.
