Episodes

  • Flipping the Mic – My Journey with BlackCard : Hosted by Kate Russell
    Feb 11 2025

    This episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast is a little different—we’ve switched things up! Instead of me hosting, I’m in the guest seat while my sister Kate Russell takes over the mic to interview me.

    We yarn about my journey—personally and professionally—from growing up in a family deeply connected to media and activism to creating the Black Magic Woman Podcast and building BlackCard, a business that has been helping organisations engage meaningfully with First Nations people and culture.

    I also talk about the role Supply Nation has played in BlackCard’s growth, from those early days of hustling and cold calling to landing our first major contracts. I share the challenges and opportunities for Indigenous businesses, the importance of relationships in business, and how mob can make the most of networks like Supply Nation.

    We also dive into lessons I’ve learned along the way, my experience working with major brands, and a recent moment where I helped guide Jamie Oliver through cultural accountability.

    This is something I’ve never done before—sharing my own story in this way. So if you’ve ever wondered about the person behind the mic and how BlackCard became what it is today, this one’s for you. I hope you enjoy it!

    Links & Resources:

    BlackCard Official Website: https://www.theblackcard.com.au/
    BlackCard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theblackcard/

    Supply Nation Official Website: https://supplynation.org.au/

    📺 Jamie Oliver & Cultural Accountability

    Exclusive Interview with Nerelda Jacobs on 10 News: https://10play.com.au/news (Search “Jamie Oliver First Nations interview”)

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    31 mins
  • Empowering Indigenous Business: A Yarn with Kate Russell, CEO of Supply Nation
    Feb 4 2025

    In this inspiring episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I sit down with Kate Russell, a proud Worimi woman and the CEO of Supply Nation. Kate shares her journey from growing up in Western Lake Macquarie to leading an organisation that supports and celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurship.

    We yarn about the pivotal moments in her career, the value of education, and the power of mentorship. Kate provides an inside look at Supply Nation’s impact, including their role in facilitating over $4.6 billion in transactions between Indigenous businesses and corporate, government, and nonprofit buyers. She also highlights programs like Jumpstart, which offers targeted mentorship to help Indigenous entrepreneurs overcome challenges and grow their businesses.

    The conversation touches on the broader economic and social impact of Indigenous businesses, the importance of representation, and Kate’s vision for the future of Supply Nation. She also shares how she balances her roles as a leader, wife, and mother, offering heartfelt advice on self-reflection and resilience.

    Don’t miss this empowering yarn that celebrates the achievements of Indigenous businesses and provides practical insights for those looking to engage with Supply Nation or explore entrepreneurial opportunities.

    Links & Resources:

    • Supply Nation
      Explore how Supply Nation supports Indigenous businesses, connects them with buyers, and provides resources like the Jumpstart program.
      🌐 Visit Supply Nation

    • Indigenous Business Australia (IBA)
      Learn more about IBA’s programs and services designed to help Indigenous entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain their businesses.
      🌐 Explore IBA Resources

    • The Sleeping Giant Report
      Discover the economic and social impact of Indigenous businesses through this groundbreaking research cited in the episode.
      🌐 Read the Report -

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    28 mins
  • Yabun Festival Special: Celebrating Survival Day on Gadigal Country
    Jan 29 2025

    In this powerful and uplifting episode, recorded live at Yabun Festival 2025, we celebrate Survival Day on January 26. Join me as I connect with incredible voices from across the community in a spirit of resilience, pride, and joy.

    Set on Gadigal Country at Victoria Park in Sydney, guests share their reflections on the significance of January 26, the challenges faced by First Nations people, and the importance of coming together as a community to celebrate survival, connection, and black excellence. Highlights include stories of thriving Indigenous businesses, the growth of Yabun over the years, and the safe, joyful energy that defines the festival.

    Whether you’re a regular attendee or someone new to Yabun, this episode invites you to feel the love, solidarity, and vibrancy that make this gathering truly special. Don’t miss this celebration of culture, connection, and community! ✨

    Links & Resources:

      • Yabun Festival
        Learn more about Yabun, its history, and upcoming events:
        Yabun Festival Official Website

      • 13 YARN
        Australia’s first 24/7 national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Call 13 92 76 or visit:
        13 YARN Official Website

      • Support Indigenous Businesses
        Explore and support Indigenous businesses like those featured at Yabun:

        • Clothing the Gaps Merchandise: Clothing the Gaps Store
        • Gammin Threads: Gammin Threads Instagram
      • Watch '88' Documentary
        The documentary capturing the 1988 Bicentennial protests and Aboriginal rights movements.

      • Follow the Artists
        Keep up with some of the incredible talent featured at Yabun:

        • JK-47: JK-47 Instagram
      • The Walkabout Barber
        Learn about their incredible work in mental health, trauma recovery, and community building:
        The Walkabout Barber Website

      • Deadly Mentors
        Explore mentorship programs and resources by First Nations people:
        https://www.instagram.com/deadly_mentorz/reels/

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    29 mins
  • Opening Doors: Empowering First Nations Business for Global Impact
    Jan 21 2025

    This episode is proudly brought to you by ANZ. A new series of conversations with different mob around the country to yarn about, meaningful career opportunities within ANZ, building the capacity of Indigenous businesses and organisations, and helping individuals in the broader community to achieve financial wellbeing and resilience.

    If you’d like to know more about how ANZ can help improve your financial wellbeing, or help you start, run or grow your business, visit anz.com or call 13 13 14.

    In this latest episode, we continue our ANZ Partnership Series with an inspiring yarn featuring Donald Betts. A proud descendant of the Choctaw Nation and a trailblazer in his own right, Donald shares his incredible journey from becoming the youngest senator in the history of Kansas, to now a dynamic leader in Australia’s First Nations business space.

    Donald talks about his role (at the time of recording) as Acting CEO of Kinaway Chamber of Commerce and their groundbreaking initiatives to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. From global trade alliances to hosting the World Indigenous Business Forum in 2025, Kinaway is making waves in Indigenous enterprise.

    This episode dives deep into the importance of partnerships like the one between ANZ & Kinaway, which is fostering opportunities for Indigenous businesses through financial literacy, tailored services, and global support. It’s an empowering yarn about resilience, community, and the limitless potential of First Nations entrepreneurship.

    Tune in for an episode full of inspiration, collaboration, and vision for a brighter future.

    Recommendations throughout this episode:

    Indigenous small business banking services:

    https://www.anz.com.au/business/indigenous-banking/

    https://www.kinaway.com.au/

    Call ANZ’s dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customer support line on 1800 037 366 https://www.anz.com.au/support/contact-us/customer-support-line/

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Opportunities https://www.anz.com.au/careers/programs/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-opportunities/

    For general enquiries visit anz.com or call 13 13 14

    When we reference ANZ in this episode, we are referring to Australia and New Zealand Banking Group operating in Australia and New Zealand.

    Given the nature of this podcast, all comments are general in nature and do not take into account the listeners’ financial circumstances, goals or objectives. Please think about what is right for you and seek independent advice.

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    32 mins
  • Best of Black Magic Woman Podcast - Mystery Guest Edition 3
    Jan 14 2025

    In this special "Best Of" episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, we revisit one of our most heartfelt and inspiring yarns with a guest whose journey embodies resilience, pride, and representation. Hailing from the lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people, this trailblazer is known for breaking barriers in Australian media as a celebrated news presenter and advocate for social justice.

    Our mystery guest grew up as the youngest of five daughters in a loving, culturally rich household and now uses their platform to amplify Indigenous voices across the country. They traveled over 36,000 kilometers in 2023 alone, engaging with grassroots communities, elders, and leaders, all while bringing authenticity and lived experience to the stories they tell.

    Here’s a clue: You’ve likely seen this Black Magic Woman in the spotlight—whether anchoring the news, dancing in trackies on Instagram, or hosting thought-provoking conversations about cultural heritage and equality.

    Can you guess who it is before the big reveal? Tune in to celebrate this iconic episode with a guest who truly embodies the spirit of the Black Magic Woman Podcast! 🌟

    We’re on holidays and will return with new episodes on the 22nd of January 2025! In the meantime, enjoy this unforgettable yarn and relive one of our best moments on the podcast. 🎧✨

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    38 mins
  • Best of Black Magic Woman Podcast - Mystery Guest Edition 2
    Jan 7 2025

    Get ready for a special "Best of Black Magic Woman Podcast" episode featuring a Mystery Guest who has inspired thousands with their eloquent words, fierce love for their people, and unwavering commitment to creating a better Australia. Who could it be? Here are some clues:

    • They’ve had a profound international career, reporting from over 80 countries, but their heart has always remained connected to their roots in Wiradjuri country.
    • This guest is a passionate advocate for preserving Indigenous languages and was instrumental in the development of the first Wiradjuri dictionary alongside their father, a language trailblazer.
    • They’ve delivered a viral speech, turning the Australian Dream on its head to spotlight the reality for First Nations people.

    Can you guess who it is? Tune in for this powerful and inspiring conversation that showcases the heart and wisdom of one of Australia’s most influential voices.

    We’re on holidays and will return with new episodes on the 22nd of January 2025! In the meantime, enjoy this unforgettable yarn and relive one of our best moments on the podcast. 🎧✨

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    19 mins
  • Best of Black Magic Woman Podcast - Mystery Guest Edition 1
    Dec 17 2024

    This special episode revisits one of our most captivating conversations of the year, featuring a guest whose journey is as dazzling as it is inspiring. 🌟

    Clue #1: Known as the "First Nations Drag Queen," they’re a proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti person making waves in the LGBTQIA+ and First Nations communities. 💃🏽
    Clue #2: Their story is one of resilience, passion, and breaking barriers, all while shining a light on the importance of self-expression and cultural pride. 🎭
    Clue #3: They use their art to educate and empower, leaving an indelible mark on the worlds of drag and First Nations activism.

    We’re on holidays and will return with new episodes on the 22nd of January 2025! In the meantime, enjoy this unforgettable yarn and relive one of our best moments on the podcast. 🎧✨

    Think you know who it is? Tune in now to find out!

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    33 mins
  • Threads of Identity: Fashioning Culture and Sovereignty
    Dec 10 2024

    As we approach Christmas, we’re taking time to reflect on the incredible stories shared on the Black Magic Woman Podcast this year. This week, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with my childhood sis, Samala Thakialee Cronin, the powerhouse behind MumRed the Label.

    Samala is more than a designer; she’s a storyteller, weaving culture, identity, and resilience into every piece she creates. From using kangaroo sinew and weaving techniques passed down through generations to showcasing her work on international runways, she’s breaking barriers and ensuring our people are not just seen but celebrated.

    We talked about her recent achievements, like creating stunning bespoke pieces for Thelma Plum and representing our culture at major events like New York Fashion Week. Samala also shared her powerful reflections on kinship, black matriarchy, and the strength of our mob.

    💬 “How can they hear us if they can’t see us?”

    This yarn is close to my heart, and I know you’ll feel the same. Samala’s passion and determination are inspiring, and I couldn’t be prouder of the deadly work she’s doing.

    Check out the links below for more info about MumRed the Label and how you can support my sista.

    Links & Resources:

    • https://www.mumred.com.au/
    • https://www.instagram.com/mumred_the_label/

    Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

    Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

    The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, info@blackmagicwoman.com.au

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    32 mins