The Mentor With Mark Bouris

In this episode, The Block 2025 contestants Britt and Taz sit down to share their full story — the stuff you didn’t see on TV. They kick things off by talking about their background as police officers and how their unique bond helped them take on the high-pressure world of reality renovation. Then, they break down their Block journey: the day-to-day grind of renovating under pressure, the challenges they faced, and how they tackled key design decisions. You’ll also get an insider look at their auction prep, marketing strategy, and what really goes down in the lead-up to that nail-biting finale. Britt and Taz wrap up with personal reflections, what they’d do differently, and what’s next for them after The Block. Their real estate agent, Mark Nunn, also joins the conversation to discuss the property play and share his expert insights into the auction process. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group.

Paul Scully is a 51-year-old lifelong Wollongong local and the current NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, serving as the Member for Wollongong since 2016. In this episode, we dive into his family heritage and education, the political background and dynamics that shaped his career, and his perspective on raising the standard of living and government responsibility. We break down the challenges around housing supply and planning reforms, explore how political decisions play out in communities, and discuss innovative government policies designed to tackle today’s pressing issues. Paul also shares how he balances budget pressures with policy implementation, before looking ahead to his future plans and legislative reforms for NSW. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.CSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dominique Gill is the Founder and Managing Director of Urban Core, a multi award-winning construction company generating $80 million in annual revenue, with offices in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. A pioneer in diversity and inclusion, Dominique leads one of Australia’s few female-led building firms, with women making up 50% of the Urban Core workforce. In this episode, Mark Bouris speaks with Dominique Gill about how she’s reshaping construction through purpose-driven leadership and a 50% female workforce. They discuss industry challenges, psychological safety, innovation on site, and why construction remains vital in the age of AI. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The housing crisis is hitting everyone, especially first home buyers. Empower Money is changing the game by helping Aussies buy a home with zero deposit. Founder Peter Khoury shares his journey from startup struggles to building an innovative funding model that’s making home ownership possible for more people than ever before. Disclaimer: YBR has a partnership with Empower Money.Check out Empower Money's website here: https://www.empowermoney.com.au/ You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenny O’Brien is the founder of Beyond Wellness, a bespoke retreat and concierge service in the Barossa. This episode was part of our podcast trip down in South Australia. Jenny shares her journey from community work to creating Beyond Wellness, the challenges she overcame, and how burnout led her to focus on health and healing. She also talks about the impact of her retreats, the role of nature in wellness, and her vision for helping people reconnect with themselves and find balance. Check out Beyond Wellness's Website here: https://www.beyondwellnessco.com.au/ South Australia. Celebrate the Simple Pleasures. Visit southaustralia.com.au to discover yours. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sammy Robinson is one of Australia’s most famous influencers, an entrepreneur, and the founder of fashion label One Mile. In this episode, she opens up about her journey from creating content as a teenager to building a successful fashion brand. We dive into her early days on YouTube, the evolution of social media, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life under the spotlight. Sammy also shares the story behind launching One Mile, the realities of building and scaling a fashion business, and the role physical retail plays in today’s digital world. To wrap up, she reflects on what’s next for her career and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Check out One Mile's website here: https://onemilethelabel.com You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week I sit down with Paul Grosmann, CEO of R.M.Williams, to talk about one of Australia’s most iconic and enduring brands. We go back to 1932 and the story of founder Reginald Murray Williams, and how a bloke with no formal training built a business that became a global name. Paul shares what makes the boots and jackets so special, why Aussies are so loyal to the brand, and how it has stayed true to its roots despite decades of changing ownership. He also opens up about his own journey from Nike and McKinsey to Harris Farm Markets, and the leadership lessons he is bringing to R.M.Williams as he drives the brand into its next chapter while keeping its heritage front and centre.  Check out R.M.Williams website here: https://drinkhyro.com/ You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charles Hinckfuss, founder and creative director of MCM House, joins us to share the story of building one of Australia’s most distinctive furniture brands. In this chat, we get into the hustle behind MCM House — where the ideas come from, how you stay ahead of trends, the grind of running logistics and retail, and what it takes to keep a brand “cool” in a tough market. Charles talks about balancing creativity with business, the influence of global design and boutique hotels, and the lessons he’s picked up building a business that resonates with people. Enjoy! Check out MCM's website here: https://www.mcmhouse.com/ You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join me as I sit down with Steve Chapman and Taylor Chapman, the husband-and-wife team shaking up Australia’s hydration game with Hyro. We talk about how they turned personal experiences and a passion for wellness into a bold new product, the science behind electrolytes, and what it really takes to launch a startup, raise capital, and build a loyal community. They open up about the highs, the lows, and the lessons that got them here. Check out Hyro's website here: https://drinkhyro.com/ You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I had the pleasure of hosting a charity breakfast with Premier Chris Minns to raise funds for Chalky’s Gym in Moree. Chalky’s isn’t just a boxing gym — it’s a place where young people in the community learn confidence, discipline, and character. Boxing has changed the lives of many out there. It gives kids purpose, routine, and someone in their corner. It’s also changed the lives of many in areas where crime and poverty are serious problems. As part of the event, I sat down for a live podcast with two legends of the sport, Jeff Fenech and Johnny Lewis. We were also joined by Premier Minns and a representative from Chalky’s (Robert Burton) to talk about the incredible work they’re doing in Moree. We spoke about the power of mentors, the discipline that boxing teaches, and why gyms like Chalky’s are so important — not just for the sport, but for shaping the next generation. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Lamprell — founder of CABN, the off-grid escape reshaping how Australians connect with nature and themselves. Michael opens up about the reality behind a seemingly successful life in global sales and marketing — and the internal struggles that pushed him to make a change. A trip to Harvard and a book on minimalism planted the seed for something different: a simpler, slower, more intentional way of living. We trace Michael’s journey from the first CABN in the Adelaide Hills to a growing movement in regenerative tourism. He shares the lessons learned, the impact on guests and local communities, and why balance is the new luxury. I’m all about working hard — always have been. But I also know what burnout feels like, and why it’s just as important to stop, recharge, and reconnect with what really matters. That’s what CABN is all about. Check CABN's website here: https://cabn.life/ South Australia. Celebrate the Simple Pleasures. V

Dave Klaiber built his career in advertising and directing — pitching big ideas and leading creative campaigns for major brands. But these days, he’s using his skills to tackle something more personal: men’s mental health, community, and connection. In this episode, Dave opens up about the highs and lows of the ad world, his own mental health journey, and why he's now focused on storytelling with purpose. From his True South documentary, to his virtual reality projects, and now his new series It Ain’t Over Yet — aimed at emotional resilience — Dave is proof that creativity can evolve and still hit just as hard. Learn more about It Ain't Over Yet and check out David's Website here: https://www.itaintoveryet.tv/ Follow David on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/daveklaiber/ You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.Se

After five years of serving up the soul of Sicily in the heart of Paddington, Simone Crivello and Isobel Galloway made headlines a couple weeks ago with a raw, heartfelt message announcing the closure of their beloved restaurant, Zafferano Trattoria Mediterranea. In this episode, MB sits down with the couple behind the viral video that struck a chord with small business owners across Australia. From Simone’s roots in Porticello to building a community around Mediterranean hospitality, we explore their journey—what Zafferano meant to them, the harsh realities that forced them to close, and what they believe needs to change to keep small business culture alive. This isn’t just a farewell—it’s a call to action. And it’s not the end of the road for Simone and Isobel. Hear how they’re taking their passion for food, storytelling, and tradition to the next chapter: a cookbook, food tours, and a dream project in Sicily. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https

We headed down to Aldinga, South Australia, to sit with Trinh and Mike—the couple behind The Little Rickshaw. What started as a weekend pop-up in an old blacksmith’s workshop is now one of the most talked-about restaurants in South Australia. In this episode, we unpack their journey—how they built this restaurant from scratch, what it’s really like working side by side, and the bold, creative approach they bring to modern Asian cuisine. We also talk about life in South Australia—why the slower pace, the strong sense of community, and the focus on quality of life offer a welcome contrast to the hustle of Sydney or Melbourne. Check out The Little Rickshaw's Website here: https://www.thelittlerickshaw.com.au/ South Australia. Celebrate the Simple Pleasures. Visit southaustralia.com.au to discover yours. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn&n

We’ve hit the halfway checkpoint.Let’s take a look back at some of the best moments from The Mentor this year — packed with powerful insights and lessons. Who do you want to see next on The Mentor? Drop your suggestions below. Here are some of the highlights so far… Listen to the full podcasts via the links below. #478 Sam Kelly  #483 Deb Sams #482 Tracy Sheen #481 Ben Crowley You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m proud to be a co-owner of The Bird Whiskey, alongside Andrew Nugent — but the person running the show every day is Paul Giles. In this episode, we sit down with the man who’s been flying the flag for The Bird since day one.Paul shares how this whiskey came to life, the story behind the name, and why we’ve taken a different path—focused on authenticity, First Nations culture, and creating something that connects with people, especially women, in a space traditionally dominated by men.This is the real story behind The Bird, from the guy who’s made it soar.Check out The Bird Whiskey's Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thebirdwhiskey/You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-upJoin the Facebook Group.Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Short went from running major operations in the liquor industry to backing himself and launching Shorty's Liquor—a boutique business that built a reputation serving some of Australia’s biggest corporates. In this episode, he takes us through the highs and lows of building Shorty's from scratch, the grind of sales and team building, and the bold expansion decisions that set him apart.We dig into how COVID-19 forced a business rethink, what came next after a major acquisition, and why David’s now investing in the next wave of growth—including his take on AI’s role in business. It’s a candid, insightful chat with a straight-talker who’s lived the transition from corporate to entrepreneur and come out with hard-won lessons and a renewed vision.Find David's website here: https://shortinc.com.au/You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-upJoin the Facebook Group.Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/

When Joey Pepperoni and Marty McFly launched Pizza Bros in 2019, they saw a pizza scene obsessed with tradition—and asked: Where’s the rebel energy? Their answer? A mobile pizza truck that crashed festivals until COVID left them bankrupt, in debt, and delivering pizzas to survive.I sat down with Joey and Marty (between oven rotations at The Imperial Hotel) to break down their phoenix-from-the-ashes comeback. We talk about their story, how getting expelled at 16 led Joey to a decade-long pizza apprenticeship, how Marty went from the fitness industry to joining his brother’s dream and why legally renaming themselves was the ultimate branding power move.The bottom line? The Pizza Bros story isn’t just a pizza story—it’s a masterclass in grit. Listen. Order a pizza. Repeat.You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-upJoin the Facebook Group.Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystu

When Jason Titman took the helm of Swyftx in 2019, he saw a crypto industry riddled with complexity—and a glaring gap: Where was the customer-first mindset? His answer? An exchange that treats Web3 like any trusted service, not a Wild West gamble.Jason and I sit down for a conversation as he breaks down the Swyftx difference, and why culture—not just code—is their competitive edge. We also discussed how they’re rewriting crypto’s risky reputation, with security as a selling point, the societal shift ahead… and why Australia shouldn’t just watch, but lead.The bottom line? Swyftx isn’t just trading digital assets—it’s building the infrastructure for financial freedom. And for Jason, that starts with one radical idea: Trust shouldn’t be revolutionary.You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-upJoin the Facebook Group.Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When they launched Bassike in 2006, Deborah Sams and Mary Lou Ryan weren’t just starting a brand—they were solving a problem. Frustrated by the lack of high-quality, sustainable wardrobe staples, they set out with a mission to build what didn’t exist. From day one, their vision was clear: organic cotton, Australian craftsmanship, and ethics woven into every decision. What began as a commitment to local makers and responsible materials has grown into a relentless pursuit of better—pushing boundaries in design, production, and transparency.In our conversation, Deb opens up about the early hustle, the commitment to sourcing high-quality materials, and why Australian-made was always non-negotiable. She also shares how she navigated a co-founder’s departure while staying true to her mission — and outlines her plans to scale creatively and breathe new life into the brand.Some brands chase trends. Bassike builds legacies. And for Deb, the next chapter is about proving ethical fashion can go bigger - without compromi