Straight Talk with Mark Bouris

Just in time for the UFC in Sydney, one of the most iconic fighter managers, Tim Simpson, joins us for a deep dive into the business of the fight game. We get into how Tim became one of the most prominent managers in the sport, what it really takes to be smart in this game, the new broadcast deal, what fighters actually go through, some wild behind-the-scenes stories, the White House card, and much more. Join my exclusive Mentored+ community: https://mentored.com.au/become-a-member/  Claim $500 Bitcoin with OKX SMSF. SMSF trustees: Successfully sign-up your SMSF and getverified for an OKX SMSF trading account. Deposit $5 and receive $500 worth of Bitcoin. Eligibilityrequirements and T&Cs apply. Book a 1-1 call with the OKX SMSF team today for guidance. Offer ends 31 March 2026. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

Ross Coulthart, an esteemed Australian investigative journalist, shares his journey from skepticism to belief in unexplained aerial phenomena (UAPs). He discusses the challenges of reporting on UAPs, including newsroom censorship and public fascination. Ross critiques mainstream media's negligence regarding vital topics, emphasizing the need for transparency in government. He dives into military encounters with UAPs, speculates on non-human intelligences, and explores connections between ancient civilizations and contemporary phenomena, leaving listeners questioning what’s kept hidden from the public.

Shiza Shahid, an entrepreneur and social activist, co-founded the Malala Fund to champion girls' education alongside Malala Yousafzai. In this conversation, Shiza shares her journey from activism in Pakistan to founding Our Place, a non-toxic kitchenware brand dedicated to fostering community. She discusses the importance of ethical entrepreneurship and designing multifunctional products. Shiza also highlights the environmental impact of cookware materials and her commitment to educating consumers about health risks, illustrating her drive to blend purpose with business.

This highlight reel features Greg Norman, a former world No.1 golfer turned entrepreneur, discussing LIV Golf's revolutionary impact on player rights and wealth creation. Chef Andy Cooks dives into the high-pressure kitchen culture and his inspiring recovery from addiction to build a thriving online content career. Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott shares his views on leadership courage amidst the evolving political landscape. Lastly, champion jockey Michelle Payne reflects on her Melbourne Cup victory and the challenges of life in the spotlight.

Former Prime Minister John Howard examines the Liberal Coalition's challenges and stresses the importance of regional diplomacy. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shares his vision for Australia’s future, highlighting opportunities in green energy. Delvene Delaney reminisces about the magic behind the Crocodile Dundee documentary. Three-time surfing champion Mick Fanning reflects on family loss and spiritual connections. Cricket legend Ricky Ponting discusses his fearless mindset, the pressures of competition, and the essential values that shaped his leadership.

Richard de Crespigny, former Qantas A380 captain, shares his harrowing experience from the cockpit of Qantas Flight 32, which faced a catastrophic engine failure shortly after takeoff. He delves into the themes of leadership and teamwork, detailing how decisive action averted disaster. Richard introduces concepts of micromorts to compare aviation risks with everyday activities and emphasizes the importance of resilience and thorough training. He also discusses the evolution of aviation technology and the critical role of trust in automation.

In this chat, Greg Norman, a golf legend and entrepreneur, dives into his revolutionary LIV Golf initiative aimed at transforming the sport. He reveals his insights on leadership, drawing from experiences with iconic figures like Bob Hawke and Kerry Packer. Greg shares heartwarming stories of playing golf with US presidents and reflects on his Australian roots. His thoughts on the Brisbane 2032 Olympics highlight potential growth for the region. Tied together with tales from his adventurous life, Norman embodies the spirit of innovation and connection.

Wyatt Roy, Australia’s youngest ever federal MP and former head of innovation at NEOM, discusses the ambitious NEOM project in Saudi Arabia. He reveals how Vision 2030 is transforming the region, shifting towards a vibrant non-oil economy. Wyatt highlights the influx of global talent and investment into Riyadh, contrasting cultural attitudes on risk and innovation between Australia and Saudi Arabia. He reflects on the importance of long-term leadership and mentorship, encouraging entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

Larry Emdur, a beloved Australian TV presenter with a 40-year career, shares his journey from Bondi childhood to TV icon. He discusses the thrill of live broadcasting and the authenticity needed to connect with viewers. Larry recounts the inception of his Ben Buckler whisky brand, emphasizing its approachable flavor and marketing strategies. He values fan interactions and reflects on the evolution of his TV career, revealing his excitement for mornings on set. With stories of industry legends and the challenges faced, Larry's passion for storytelling shines through.