In this episode, I sit down with the deadly Elijah McDonald – a proud a Noongar|Yamatji|Pitta-Pitta man from WA– who’s part of the team behind Blaktasia: Invasion of the Merk, Australia’s first-ever Aboriginal-led mobile game.

I caught up with Elijah fresh from Yabun Festival on Gadigal Country, where he and his team were showcasing Blaktasia and spreading the word about this groundbreaking project. Made by mob, for mob, this game isn’t just about fantasy and fun – it’s about reconnecting with Country, fighting back the darkness with mulga magic, and seeing our stories and faces represented in digital spaces.

We yarn about Elijah’s journey from playing games with his dad to studying Game Art and Design at TAFE, and how he landed a role at Guck – a majority Blak-owned company making big waves in the gaming world. This was such a refreshing convo – I’ve never had a game developer on the podcast before, and Elijah is leading the way for young First Nations creatives in the tech space.

If you’re a young fulla dreaming of a future in gaming, design or digital storytelling – or just curious about how culture and coding can come together – this one’s for you.

And the best part? Blaktasia is 100% free – no ads, no microtransactions. Just pure Blak brilliance.

🔗 Resources from this episode:

• Follow Blaktasia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blaktasia_game

• Follow Blaktasia on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blaktasia_game

• Follow Blaktasia on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/blaktasia_game

• Like on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blaktasiagame

• Learn more about Guck: https://www.guck.com.au

• Indigenous Game Developers (IGEA article): https://igea.net/2022/10/indigenous-game-developers

• CSIRO Indigenous STEM Programs: https://www.csiro.au/en/education/programs/Indigenous-STEM

• Indigitek – Mob in Tech & Innovation: https://indigitek.org.au

• Unity Learn (Free Game Dev Tutorials): https://learn.unity.com

• Unreal Engine Learning Portal: https://dev.epicgames.com/community/learning

• Roblox Studio (Create Your Own Games): https://create.roblox.com

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.

In this episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I yarn with two deadly young changemakers, Brianne Yarran and Jeremy Last, who are part of the Culture Is Life Fullaship Program. Brianne, a proud Noongar woman from Ballardong, Whadjuk, and Wagyl Kaip Country, and Jeremy, a proud Wangkangurru, Yankunytjatjara, and APY Lands man currently living on Kaurna Country, share their journeys through the Fullaship experience.

We talk about how the Fullaship supports young mob through leadership development, cultural connection, and personal growth—all without financial barriers. Bri and Jeremy reflect on the opportunities they've had to visit different First Nations communities, learn from respected Elders like Aunty Steph and Uncle Kenny Bedford, and gain tools to strengthen their mental health with support from Abstar Consulting.

This conversation is filled with wisdom and practical insight—not just for young mob, but also for organisations and allies wanting to back First Nations excellence in meaningful ways.

✨ Learn more about the Culture Is Life Fullaship Program:
https://cultureislife.org/fullaship/

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.

In this special episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I sit down with two incredible young leaders, Koby Sellings and Joel Matysek, who are part of the Culture is Life Fullaship Program. Recorded at iHeart Studios on Yuggera and Turrbal Country, this yarn dives deep into the personal journeys of these two deadly fullas and how the Fullaship has shaped their growth, leadership, and connection to culture.

The Fullaship is a 12-month program open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Young People who are on a journey to become community leaders, role models and mentors. The Fullaship provides personal and professional development pathways for Young People to continue their own journey of cultural, personal, and professional growth and development.

Koby and Joel share their motivations for joining the program, the importance of stepping outside their comfort zones, and the powerful relationships they've built while travelling to different mobs' Countries. We talk about the value of culture, community and the courage it takes to embrace new opportunities, especially for young mob finding their path.

If you're a young First Nations person looking to grow personally and professionally—or if you're just looking for some inspiration—this episode is filled with wisdom, reflection, and encouragement to take that next step.

Resources & Links

🌐 Culture is Life – Fullaship Program Info:
Learn more about the Culture is Life Fellowship Program and how to apply:
https://cultureislife.org/fullaship/

🌐 Culture is Life Official Website:
Explore more programs, resources, and initiatives supporting First Nations young people:
https://cultureislife.org/

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.