It all comes down to this. Sam and Michael preview the 2025 AFL Grand Final live from outside the MCG, where Geelong and Brisbane clash for the flag. They revisit the road to the big dance, key injuries and selections, and the heavyweight midfield battles that will decide it all. Plus, Snoop Dogg headlines the entertainment, the weather watch, and of course, their tips for the premiership and Norm Smith Medal. Watch this episode now on Facebook and YouTube, or tune in via all podcast platforms.

It’s the best fortnight in footy! Sam and Michael wrap up the semi-finals. Hawthorn stunning Adelaide and Brisbane steadying against the Suns before diving into two massive prelims at the ‘G. Can Geelong hold off the surging Hawks in a classic rivalry, and will Collingwood or Brisbane book their spot in another Grand Final? Plus, State of Origin’s AFL return, Melbourne’s new coach Stephen King, and early Brownlow predictions.

After 15 months abroad—and nine months of creating Moment Maker’s Daily vlogs—Michael Serpell has officially returned home to Australia, reunited with family and friends. From mentoring creatives and co-teaching documentary programs in Guatemala and Mexico, to rediscovering the importance of rest, recovery, and family connection, this vlog captures this powerful transition and all the life-changing realisations along the way. 

Michael shares how his time abroad shaped his understanding of purpose, storytelling, and social impact. He opens up about the lessons learned from authenticity, the cultural insights gained in North and Central America, and the joy of standing alongside filmmakers as they premiered their documentary stories to the local community.

As he settles back home, Michael looks ahead with gratitude and excitement —continuing to tell stories that matter, building community through creativity, and inspiring others to embrace their own journey of authenticity.

Week One flipped the script: Collingwood silenced Adelaide at Adelaide Oval, Geelong outclassed Brisbane at the MCG, Hawthorn dumped GWS, and the Suns won their first-ever final by a point in Perth — thank you, David Swallow. Sam and Michael own their horror tipping, then preview the semi-finals: Crows v Hawks back at Adelaide Oval and a historic Q-Clash at the Gabba (Lions v Suns). Stakes, selection whispers, and who books an MCG prelim next week.

In this travel vlog episode of In The Ball Park, Michael shares his whirlwind journey through Central America after spending 13 months in the United States. Taking a leap of faith, he set out to explore Mexico, never expecting the incredible opportunities that would come his way. Within days, Michael was invited to teach visual storytelling at Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, and soon after, was named the Program Supervisor for Actuality Abroad's Documentary Outreach Program in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

From colourful festivals and ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant street markets and traditional cuisines, Michael recounts the rich cultural landscapes that left a lasting impression on him during his travels. More than the sights, it was the warmth of the people and the stories they shared with him that truly shaped his path as a social impact storyteller in this period of time. 

This episode was recorded on June 28, at the very start of his teaching in Guatemala, this episode captures his gratitude for being able to pass on his knowledge and passion for storytelling to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and journalists. We hope you enjoy this glimpse into Michael's Central American journey—muchas gracias.

Finals footy is here! Sam and Michael preview the opening week of the 2025 finals series, starting with Adelaide’s huge home clash against Collingwood. They dive into the Cats v Lions rivalry, GWS taking on Hawthorn, and the Suns’ historic first final against Fremantle. Plus, they look back on their season predictions from March!

Recorded live from the Legends Game at Marvel Stadium, Sam Menhennet and Michael Serpell bring you a special edition of In the Ballpark. The boys catch up with three icons of the game — Bob Murphy, Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, and Anthony Koutoufides — to talk finals predictions, footy memories, and what it’s like to be back among the greats. 

Join Sam Menhennet and Michael Serpell as they reunited in Melbourne as they tackle the final round of the AFL season. This episode dives into the high-stakes race for finals spots, Collingwood's mental hurdles, and Ken Hinkley's farewell game. With sharp-ish insights and a dash of humor, we break down key matchups and make bold predictions for the finals. 

With Michael in Mexico and Sam in Melbourne, the boys react to Simon Goodwin’s shock sacking, the round 22 fixture, and Collingwood’s shaky form. Finals are fast approaching — but who’s looking the most dangerous? Plus: Suns surging, Carlton limping, and a shoutout to Sam Docherty.

Join Sam in Melbourne and Michael in Mexico as they navigate the thrilling final weeks of the AFL season. In this episode, they discuss the intense race for the top eight, Fremantle's impressive form, and the emotional farewell of AFL legend Sam Doherty. With insights on upcoming derbies, team predictions, and the return of the AFL Legends game, this episode is packed with footy excitement and heartfelt tributes.

Sam and Michael return after a six-week break with plenty to catch up on! Broadcasting across time zones—live from Guatemala, Central America —they break down the shifting AFL ladder from Round 11 to 17, dissect Carlton and Essendon's downward spirals, and debate who really belongs in the top eight. They unpack the Bulldogs' big win over North Melbourne, preview a huge Carlton-Collingwood clash, and question the AFL’s bizarre double Friday night scheduling. Plus, insights on Port’s woes, the Suns’ finals hopes, turf troubles at the SCG, and much more footy banter.

Sam and Michael are back with all the AFL insights for Round 11 (and plenty of laughs along the way)! They relish Geelong’s wild shootout win over the Bulldogs (with Jezza Cameron booting six) and soak up the atmosphere of Dreamtime at the 'G – Long Walk included. Of course, the boys can’t help but roll their eyes at the latest media circus starring Bevo and Kane Cornes. Plus, Sam doubles down on a massive upset tip – North over Collingwood?! – and the boys rant about the score review shambles, calling for an ARC upgrade. They even give a shoutout to Ange Postecoglou’s European triumph and preview all the Round 11 clashes – from Carlton’s must-win to a Freo-Port thriller – with a cheeky pub footy showdown at Victoria Park thrown in for good measure. Tune in for a jam-packed episode of footy banter and bold calls!

Sam Menhennet and Michael Serpell are back with all the AFL insights for Round 10! They pay tribute to Carlton legend Robert Walls, celebrating his legacy with the Blues and across footy media. The boys also share a light-hearted rant about confusing stadium scoreboards. It’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round, so they chat about eye-catching Indigenous jumper designs and footy in the Top End. Sam’s social media highlight even got a shoutout from the Blues, and the duo preview all the Round 10 action. Plus, they’re pumped for the EJ Whitten Legends Game’s return, have a cheeky whinge about the fixture. Tune in for a lively, footy-filled Round 10 preview!

Sam and Michael are back with all the AFL insights for Round 9! They dive into the drama surrounding Willy Rioli's controversial social media threats, discuss the best and worst moments from last week, and give their predictions for the upcoming fixtures. The duo also chat about AFL 26 player ratings, with some surprising results. Plus, hear their review on Thursday night's game, thoughts on Spud's Game, the showdown between Port and Adelaide, and the key matchups in Round 9. Tune in for the latest footy analysis and much more!

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Now settled into life in sunny San Diego, Michael reflects on an unforgettable chapter in Northern California. In this special edition of In the Ballpark USA, Michael shares a behind-the-scenes perspective into the Yolo High Wheelers' incredible journey to becoming 2024 Pioneer Baseball League champions.

From their challenges with heat, facilities and travel to their miraculous come from behind win—to the team’s emotional relocation from Davis to Marysville—Michael captures the heart, hustle, and history of a team that defied the odds in their inaugural season to do something remarkable. A must-watch for baseball lovers, sports storytellers, and anyone chasing the magic of an underdog victory.

This week, Sam and Michael fire up over the AFL’s controversial tackle bans as Paul Curtis cops three weeks, sparking backlash across the footy world. They also break down Jamara Ugle-Hagan’s leave from the Bulldogs, the strange saga of Kane Cornes getting banned by North Melbourne, and the wild $28,000 Uber Eats admission by Jayden Stephenson. Plus, Carlton’s giant win over Geelong, tipping upsets, a spicy Q-Clash preview, and the boys debate whether Melbourne should be on upset alert against West Coast. All that and more in another bumper round of footy chat from In The Ball Park.

This week, Sam and Michael dive into the emotion and energy of Anzac Round, reflecting on the significance of the day and previewing the blockbuster Collingwood vs Essendon Anzac Day clash at the ‘G. They unpack Melbourne's messy form, Richmond’s curfew conundrum, and the SCG’s sandpit surface. Plus predictions for every Round 7 game— Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Lest we forget. 🌺

The AFL season continues to heat up with a thrilling Round 6 ahead, and Sam and Michael are back to break down all the key matchups. They kick things off with a recap of a massive weekend, including Sam’s experience at Adelaide's Gather Round, which has quickly become a new tradition.

The duo dive into the drama surrounding Richmond’s controversial selection of Noah Balta, despite ongoing legal proceedings, and explore the implications for the AFL’s image. They also preview the Good Friday Superclash between North Melbourne and Carlton, discussing the stakes for both teams and the pressure on the Blues to keep their momentum going.

Plus, don’t miss their thoughts on Collingwood’s dominant victory at the Gabba and what that means for the rest of their season. From matchups at Marvel Stadium to emotional battles for AFL coaches, Sam and Michael have all the inside info on what to watch this weekend. Can the Giants continue their rise? Will Fremantle capitalize on Melbourne’s struggles? And who will come out on top in the Easter Monday clash between Geelong and Hawthorn?

This week on In The Ball Park, Sam is LIVE  from the road to Gather Round while Michael calls in from San Diego. We break down Geelong’s comeback win, the high-stakes Carlton vs West Coast clash, and Ross Lyon’s Saints on the rise. We also chat AFL 26’s upcoming release, a bizarre incident involving a loaded gun at the MCG, and Christian Petracca showing real emotion in a brutal loss. Plus, we preview every game of Round 5 – from footy in the vines to the fiery Port vs Hawthorn grudge match.

(Apologies there’s a loss of Sam’s audio midway through the ep)

Footy is heating up as Melbourne cools down and already the pressure cooker is on high for multiple clubs including the Demons, Blues and the Power. Round 4 is full of big headlines as Sam and Michael delve into the Melbourne Football Clubs attendance struggles, and the ongoing debate about Marvel Stadium’s roof. Plus, the October finals proposal—should the AFL break tradition? 

The duo preview the blockbuster Collingwood vs. Carlton, one of footy's fiercest rivalries, and break down key matchups like Geelong vs. Melbourne and Gold Coast vs. Adelaide. Can the Demons bounce back? Are the Gold Coast Suns legit contenders? Will Carlton turn its early season blues around? And which teams are already facing make-or-break moments? 

And we remember Andrew Krakouer, who sadly passed at 42.