In today's episode, I sit down with Ash Griggs for a yarn about creativity, business, fatherhood, competition, identity, and what it really means to build something over time.
We talk about the evolution of creative work, discipline versus talent, staying in the game when things get hard, and how perspective shifts as life changes.
Ben Lloyd-Smith returns to the BLXCK INK Podcast for a long-overdue deep dive into business, real estate, development, systems, burnout, growth, personal evolution, and everything in between.
Ben has been building Zephyr Real Estate and Zephyr Developments with an obsessive focus on service, structure, and long-term thinking — and in this episode we unpack the realities behind it all. From commission-based highs and lows, to handling clients, to scaling sustainably, to knowing when you’re cooked and need to reset.
Visit www.mgmgroup.com.au/careers today to explore an exciting future in transport
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🎙 Todays guest
From heavy-fab in Kalgoorlie to running one of the cleanest vehicle fabrication workshops in the South West, Zac O’Bree has built Red Hot Engineering into one of WA’s most exciting custom tray and canopy operations.
We dive into the whole journey — leaving subcontracting behind, building systems, scaling the workshop, bringing on staff, learning to delegate, mastering content creation, and preparing for fatherhood.
This is a proper deep-dive into small business reality, fabrication culture, and the mindset behind building a premium custom brand from the ground up.
Visit www.mgmgroup.com.au/careers today to explore an exciting future in transport!
Julie Broad has worn many hats — from CEO of the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce to now being one of Bunbury’s newest City Councillors. In this episode, we go deep into her personal and professional evolution — how early failures, emotional maturity, and a lifelong drive to “get it done” shaped the woman she is today.
Visit www.mgmgroup.com.au/careers today to explore an exciting future in transport!
From a humble coffee van to one of Bunbury’s most loved cafes — this is the full story of Little Spencer. Liam and Corey join me fresh off the sale of their café to talk about how they built it from scratch, the systems behind their success, and what life feels like now that it’s all sold.
We go deep on business, burnout, building community, and what it means to run a thriving café as a couple. It’s a powerful chat about growth, self-belief, and knowing when to step away — all told by two of the sharpest operators Bunbury’s ever seen.
🖤 BLXCK INK tees 🖤
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Check out our latest drops, a fusion between BLXCK INK and our beautiful city of Bunbury.
Printed here in Bunbury by yours truly.
🎙 Todays guest
This episode dives deep into the legacy and evolution of MGM Bulk and the Giacci family dynasty, one of Bunbury’s most iconic business stories, through the eyes of Jimmy Giacci, third-generation leader and marketing mind behind the brand.
We cover everything from the origins of Giacci Brothers, the transition to MGM, and the realities of running a 600-person transport operation, through to Jimmy’s personal journey — from machines and quarries to marketing, snowboarding, cars, creativity, and life balance.
Jimmy’s story is a raw look at legacy, leadership, and what it means to carry a family business into a new era while staying grounded in creativity, humility, and purpose.
Today I sit down with Terry Pantlin, long-time Bunbury accountant and owner of Terry Pantlin & Associates. We talk about the real guts of business — risk, reward, failure, tenacity, and everything that sits between the spreadsheets. Terry’s been guiding local business owners for over 35 years, and this chat goes deep into what makes a winner tick, how imagination and logic overlap in business, and why relationships matter more than numbers.
If you’re running a business, thinking about starting one, or just love hearing straight talk from people who’ve seen it all, this one’s for you.
www.blxckink.com.au 👈🏼 all new goods now available!
Every shirt you buy supports the podcast.
Check out our latest drops, a fusion between BLXCK INK and our beautiful city of Bunbury.
Printed here in Bunbury by yours truly.
🎙 Todays guest
I sit down with Miral Fahmy for a raw, unfiltered conversation exploring life, ambition, individuality, and personal growth. We unpack everything from overcoming fear and embracing failure to navigating change, culture shock, and the shifting pace of modern life. It’s a conversation about thinking for yourself, staying authentic, and finding meaning in a world that’s constantly trying to make you fit in.
Gabi Ghasseb is a Bunbury City councillor, long-time local, and mayoral candidate in the 2025 Bunbury City Council elections. Born in Lebanon to Lebanese and Syrian parents, Gabi migrated to Australia at age 7 and has lived in Bunbury ever since. He has a background in business and community service, and is known for his strong empathy, grassroots engagement, and commitment to making Bunbury a thriving regional city. A man of faith and family, Gabi brings both lived experience and vision to his campaign.
Topics Covered
Gabi’s migrant upbringing and family story
Why he feels called to public service
Lessons from Lebanon and the value of democracy
The underdog mentality in politics
Bunbury’s “youth drain” and need for tertiary options
Opportunities for Bunbury to become WA’s regional capital
Housing, rates, and homelessness challenges
Technology, AI, and the future of community
Faith, forgiveness, and leadership values
Empathy as strength and weakness in politics
Addressing criticism and misconceptions
Why diversity in council matters
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Disclaimer:
The BLXCK INK Podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. Views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of affiliated individuals or organisations.
Stories shared on this podcast may contain fictional elements or be embellished for creative effect. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated.
This podcast is not intended to provide professional advice. Listener discretion is advised.
Rhys “Crawf” Crawford is a South Bunbury footballer and now premiership player. Known for his grit on the field and commitment off it, Crawf’s story is one of discipline, personal growth, and community. From footy culture and Mad Mondays to training, sobriety, and chasing back-to-back flags, he embodies what it means to put everything on the line for club and team.
In this episode I sit down with Sue Chapman – surgeon, former federal election candidate, and community leader – for an unfiltered conversation about life, politics, and personal growth.
We cover everything from emotional intelligence, self-reflection, and the lessons hidden in failure, through to the messy reality of elections, smear campaigns, and the future of Bunbury. Sue shares her journey in and out of politics, the importance of role models, and why she believes emotional awareness should be taught as early as reading and writing.
It’s a raw chat about responsibility, resilience, and the price of speaking up. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to stand up for your community – and what it costs – this one will resonate.
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Back in the studio for the third time is Jaysen Miguel, the current Mayor of Bunbury, who is now putting his hand up for re-election. With ballots going out soon, this conversation dives into what’s at stake for Bunbury’s future — housing, CBD revitalisation, community safety, local events, and how council dynamics shift with new members.
While I keep things fairly neutral in the chat, this is an important one for the community. Jaysen shares openly about the challenges of leadership, criticism in public life, and how he sees the city evolving. I’ll be inviting other candidates on too, so you’ll get the chance to hear multiple perspectives before casting your vote.
Jaysen Miguel is the sitting Mayor of Bunbury, first elected in 2019 after years serving as a councillor. With a professional background in accounting and a strong presence in community events, Jaysen has built his profile as a hands-on leader who shows up. His focus areas include housing availability, CBD activation, supporting grassroots sports and arts, and ensuring Bunbury continues to grow as WA’s coastal capital.
From running one of Bunbury’s most iconic nightclubs for over two decades to now owning a beachfront café, Glen “Fitzy” Fitzgerald has seen it all. In this episode, we dive into the untold stories behind Fitzgerald’s Nightclub, the licensing battles, the nightlife culture of the 2000s, and how the city’s identity has shifted over the years. Glen shares candid reflections on running a late-night venue, the rise and fall of Bunbury’s party scene, and why he believes the city is still a hidden gem with untapped potential.
👤 Guest Bio
Glen Fitzgerald is best known as the former owner of Fitzgerald’s Nightclub, one of Bunbury’s most popular late-night venues from 2001 until its closure more than 20 years later. With decades of experience in hospitality, Glen has seen firsthand the evolution of Bunbury’s nightlife and community culture. Today, he’s the proud owner of 6230 Café, bringing live music, coffee, and good vibes to Bunbury’s foreshore.
This week on the BLXCK INK Podcast, I sit down with Durak Tucker — former AFL player whose journey through footy is as raw as it gets. From the highs of being drafted to the Sydney Swans at just 18, to the heartbreak of repeated injuries and the crushing reality of being delisted, Durak opens up about the mental battles, the identity crisis that followed, and how he found his way back to loving the game again.
This one hits hard — it’s about chasing dreams, losing them, and finding out who you really are when the jersey comes off.
The BLXCK INK Podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. Views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of affiliated individuals or organisations.
Stories shared may contain fictional elements or be embellished for creative effect. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated.
This podcast is not intended to provide professional advice. Listener discretion is advised.
In this episode, I sit down with Kai — a bold, fearless creative who has made waves in hairdressing, fashion, and self-expression at just 21. We dive deep into his journey from facing bullying and violence in high school, to finding empowerment in the hair industry, to becoming unapologetically himself in front of the world. Kai opens up about resilience, authenticity, and using difference as a strength. We also talk business, content creation, and what it takes to stand out in Bunbury and beyond.
This one’s full of laughs, raw honesty, and some very real lessons about growth, confidence, and backing yourself no matter what.
Abandoned the Patreon idea due to popular demand. You're welcome.
From sticky nightclub floors and festival euphoria to building dream homes and chasing family goals. Deon has lived both ends of the lifestyle spectrum. In this episode, we dive into the wild nights of Bunbury’s golden-era party scene, the “boys being boys” antics that somehow didn’t kill anyone, and how those years shaped his drive in business today.
Deon shares what it’s like to walk away from the nightlife when you’re still good at it, the conscious choice to build a family life, and why putting goals in writing has turbocharged his success.
Deon Attard is a Bunbury-based builder, former DJ, and all-round hard worker who’s swapped late nights behind the decks for early mornings on-site. Known for his high-quality craftsmanship, community connections, and relentless drive, Deon’s journey is proof that you can channel wild youthful energy into building a life you actually want to wake up to.
Deon Attard, Bunbury nightlife stories, Bunbury builder, DJ to builder, WA tradespeople, goal setting success, Bunbury podcast, BLXCK INK Podcast, burnout pad story, Bunbury party scene
In this marathon 3.5-hour conversation, I sit down with designer, creative, and former Club Good co-host Scott Mellor for a deep dive into the realities of creative life, personal growth, and everything in between. We talk openly about the evolution of our views on work, relationships, and self-worth, the addictive pull of projects, and what happens when the fire that once drove you starts to fade.
Scott unpacks his time in music, the highs of the SoundCloud boom, and the decision to walk away when it stopped feeling right. We get into mental health, cycles of motivation, and building a life that actually makes sense for you — not just one that looks good on paper.
From club nights and streetwear to AI hype, relationship maturity, and the discipline needed to build something bulletproof, this one is packed with raw honesty and those “off-mic” style conversations that just happen to be recorded.
Find more of Loston here: https://www.instagram.com/loston__/?hl=en
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Check out our uniform supply & print shop here!
www.outfitco.com.au
Please drop a comment with a question about BLXCK INK..
What you might want to hear about on the next podcast..
What you enjoyed the most about this podcast.. I'd love to hear from ya!
Disclaimer: The BLXCK INK Podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. Views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of affiliated individuals or organisations.
Stories shared on this podcast may contain fictional elements or be embellished for creative effect. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated.
This podcast is not intended to provide professional advice. Listener discretion is advised.
You dont get much more unique than Brandon Willington. Founder of Where U?, the digital agency behind some of the sharpest ad strategies in the game, Brandon has built a reputation on results — and built an empire by saying no to the wrong clients.
In this episode, we sit down in his office on Adelaide Terrace for a wide-ranging conversation about business, behaviour, and the brutal truths most people aren’t ready to hear. From filtering tyre kickers with his now-famous "Red Flag Test" to quitting alcohol and reengineering his environment for high performance, Brandon doesn’t just talk growth — he lives it.
Whether you’re running Facebook ads, building funnels, or just trying to get out of your own way, this episode is a masterclass in what it actually takes to win.
If this episode lit a fire under you, don’t keep it to yourself — send it to someone who needs a reality check. Hit follow, leave a review, and if you’re serious about growth… maybe listen to it twice.
Find out more about Where U here: https://ahoy.whereu.com.au/
Find Bradon IG here: https://www.instagram.com/brando.nlychild/
Timestamps for this episode with Brandon Willington 👇
00:00 – Intro: $700 in a caravan
03:10 – Turning clients away
06:20 – Business owners = best marketers
09:15 – Red flag application test
14:55 – Jake’s print journey
20:45 – System building
25:20 – Data & mindset
31:00 – Coaching breakthroughs
36:10 – Spending vs investing
39:40 – Bunbury's $100M opportunity
42:00 – Manifestation vs intention
45:00 – Routines & lifestyle
47:30 – Wrap-up
And for all of your uniform needs
Check out our uniform supply & print shop here!
www.outfitco.com.au
Please drop a comment with a question about BLXCK INK..
What you might want to hear about on the next podcast..
What you enjoyed the most about this podcast.. I'd love to hear from ya!
Disclaimer: The BLXCK INK Podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. Views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of affiliated individuals or organisations.
Stories shared on this podcast may contain fictional elements or be embellished for creative effect. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated.
This podcast is not intended to provide professional advice. Listener discretion is advised.
In this episode, I sit down with Shire President of Dardanup: Tyrrell Gardiner.. He's a cattle farmer and proud fourth-generation councillor. We unpack the realities of local government, the identity of regional WA, and the emotional weight of community leadership. From the evolving urban sprawl of Eaton and Millbridge to the ambitious future city of Wanju, Tyrrell brings grounded insight on what it really means to shape a growing region. We dig into council dynamics, generational perspective, infrastructure, sport, and the hot topic of council amalgamations.
👤 About Tyrrell Gardiner
Tyrrell Gardiner is the current Shire President of Dardanup, a fourth-generation councillor, and lifelong local with deep roots in farming and public service. With over 12 years on council and a background in economics and agriculture, Tyrrell brings a grounded and strategic view to regional development. He's a proud local advocate passionate about balancing growth with community, sustainability, and genuine engagement.
And for all of your uniform needs
Check out our uniform supply & print shop here!
www.outfitco.com.au
Please drop a comment with a question about BLXCK INK..
What you might want to hear about on the next podcast..
What you enjoyed the most about this podcast.. I'd love to hear from ya!
Disclaimer: The BLXCK INK Podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. Views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of affiliated individuals or organisations.
Stories shared on this podcast may contain fictional elements or be embellished for creative effect. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated.
This podcast is not intended to provide professional advice. Listener discretion is advised.