In this Best Of episode, I revisit some of the most powerful moments from my yarn with Nooky — a conversation that moves between music, culture, grief, and survival.

We reflect on the making of his album with 3%, including the collaborations that shaped it and the intention behind centring cultural history and awareness. The iconic album artwork featuring Nicky Winmar stands as a defining moment in the discussion — a symbol of resistance, strength, and truth-telling in the face of racism.

Nooky also speaks candidly about his personal journey through grief and addiction, and how community became central to his healing. His commitment to creating space for mob is evident through initiatives like We Are Warriors and his film trilogy centred on the black cockatoo — stories grounded in mentorship, culture, and passing knowledge to the next generation.

We also touch on friendship, connection, and shared cultural spaces, including his relationship with The Kid Laroi, highlighting how community and identity continue to shape Indigenous voices in music.

This Best Of yarn is a reminder of the power of storytelling — and how resilience, culture, and music can be tools for change, advocacy, and collective strength.

Links & Resources:

• We are Warriors - https://www.wearewarriors.com.au/
• 3% - https://amnplify.com.au/first-nations-collective-3-nooky-dallas-woods-angus-field-share-new-single-video-wont-stop-feat-jessica-mauboy-ahead-of-debut-album-kill-the-dead/
• Blakout with Nooky - https://www.abc.net.au/triplej/programs/blak-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, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is in partnership with the Australian Government.

In this episode of the Black Magic Woman Podcast, I yarn with the deadly Amanda Sibosado, a proud Wardandi and Bard woman, PhD candidate, and long-time sexual health educator.

Amanda joins me from Whadjuk Noongar Country to talk honestly about sexual health in our communities — from the gaps many of us experienced growing up, to why STIs like syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea are on the rise. We break down what STI testing actually involves, why confidentiality matters, and why relying on symptoms alone can be risky.

We also yarn deeply about shame — how it shows up, how our mob push through it every day, and how we can use that same strength to look after our bodies, have safer conversations, and support our young people. This episode goes beyond prevention and treatment, touching on healthy relationships, consent, boundaries, and the role we all play as parents, aunties, uncles and community.

This conversation is for our young people, our families, and anyone who’s ever felt unsure or embarrassed about sexual health. Knowledge is power, testing saves lives, and our mob deserve culturally safe care.

For trusted information and resources, visit health.gov.au/sti/first-nations.

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, [email protected]

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 episode of the ANZ Partnership Series, I sit down with Garry Jaffrey, Managing Director of Kurtarra Pty Ltd — a 100 % Indigenous, family-owned company from the Palkyu region of the Pilbara, Western Australia.

Garry shares his powerful journey from growing up on Country to leading one of Australia’s most respected Indigenous businesses, weaving culture, community and economic opportunity into everything he does. Together, we explore the meaning of leadership, resilience, and what it takes to build a business that stays true to Country and community while engaging in large-scale industry partnerships.

We also unpack the significance of supportive financial relationships like those with ANZ, and how access to purpose-driven investment and programs has helped Kurtarra scale its operations and deliver real opportunities for First Nations peoples.

This conversation is a celebration of Indigenous enterprise, cultural strength, and the kinds of partnerships that create lasting impact — proving that when culture and business walk hand-in-hand, everyone benefits.

Recommendations throughout this episode: 

Indigenous small business banking services:

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

https://dev.kurtarra.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, [email protected] 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful Best Of episode, we revisit one of our most unforgettable yarns with proud Yuin and Thunghutti man, artist, creator, and community leader Nooky. Recorded live on the iHeart Podcast stage at SXSW Sydney, this conversation dives deep into his journey from growing up in Nowra to becoming a driving force in Australian music and culture.

Nooky shares honest reflections on resilience, healing, identity, and the strength found in family and community, while also speaking about the purpose behind his work, including We Are Warriors, and the importance of representation for the next generation.

This episode is a celebration of culture, pride, storytelling, and self-determination — a reminder of the power Blak excellence has to inspire change, unity, and hope.

Links & Resources:

• We are Warriors - https://www.wearewarriors.com.au/
• 3% - https://amnplify.com.au/first-nations-collective-3-nooky-dallas-woods-angus-field-share-new-single-video-wont-stop-feat-jessica-mauboy-ahead-of-debut-album-kill-the-dead/
• Blakout with Nooky - https://www.abc.net.au/triplej/programs/blak-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, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Best Of episode of Black Magic Woman, I sit down with Dem Mob, a rising Indigenous hip-hop group making waves in the Australian music scene.

Formed in 2019 as a school project designed to re-engage Indigenous youth through music and culture, Dem Mob have since evolved into a powerhouse collective. Their music brings Aboriginal language and culture to the forefront, blending English and Pitjantjatjara to reach and connect with diverse audiences.

In this yarn, Dem Mob reflect on their origins, their mission to inspire Indigenous young people, and the importance of integrating culture with education. They share how music became an escape, a form of empowerment, and a way to navigate education systems that often leave Indigenous students feeling disconnected.

Now performing on major stages and earning national recognition, Dem Mob continue to give back to community while using music as a tool for change.

Links & Resources:

• DEM MOB Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dem_mob/?hl=en
• DEM MOB Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4aciJpcM8WNsBXP4dQv9yM?si=QIwlH1MwTBmdLSYgpCk3Ng

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, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Best Of episode, we revisit one of our most loved conversations with Coby Edgar — a proud Aboriginal curator, creative, mentor and cultural powerhouse. Coby’s story is filled with honesty, humour, resilience and deep cultural insight, making this episode a standout moment from the Black Magic Woman archives.

As we wrap up the year, we’re sharing a selection of Best Of episodes while the team prepares for an exciting new chapter.

Regular weekly releases will resume in the New Year, with a new and improved Black Magic Woman Podcast coming your way.

Thank you for your continued support — we can’t wait to bring you a fresh season of powerful storytelling, leadership, and Blak excellence in 2026.

Links & Resources:

• Bankstown Arts Centre website
• https://powerhouse.com.au/stories/durrmu-arts-aboriginal-corporation
• https://www.2022.australianceramicstriennale.com.au/presenters-and-artists/coby-edgar

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, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Mental Fitness Conversations, host Mundanara Bayles chats with Aaliyah Bula - a proud Tongan, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi woman, athlete and community leader - about what mental fitness means to her.

Aaliyah’s journey is one of strength, connection and cultural pride. Aaliyah has always balanced her passion for culture with her drive in sport. She’s played Open Women’s footy with the Redfern All Blacks and continues her rugby league journey with the Canterbury Bulldogs U19s Tarsha Gale squad. In 2025, she joined the Wests Tigers NRLW as a development player.

Aaliyah’s insights remind us that mental fitness is about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, staying proud of where you come from and trusting your own path.

Whether you’re an athlete, a student or just navigating life’s ups and downs, this episode is a reminder that small actions - like leaning on your mates, practising gratitude and staying connected - can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing.

Resources and links
Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast.

The Gotcha4Life Mental Fitness Gym App is free and available now. Download it today and start your first mental workout online.

Follow Aaliyah on Instagram @aaliyahbula

About the podcast
Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness.

Content note
This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At just 25, Wendell French – also known by their stage name Felicia Foxx, the Aboriginal Enchantress – is a proud Kamilaroi and Dhunghutti “brotherboy, sistergirl, brista – brothersister”. They are a performer, advocate and entrepreneur using drag as a powerful tool for storytelling, self-expression and connection.

In this honest and uplifting conversation with host Mundanara Bayles, Wendell talks openly about what mental fitness means to them: grounding yourself in who you are, finding strength in vulnerability and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up.

Wendell also shares the importance of representation, and how seeing yourself reflected in culture and community can strengthen confidence and self-belief.

Resources and links
Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast.

Follow Wednell on Instagram @iam_deadly_feliciafoxx

About the podcast
Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness.

Content note
This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with proud Meuram woman Lala Gutchen from Erub island in the Torres Strait — a language teacher, diver, and climate advocate whose life’s work is rooted in protecting Country.

We met at the First Nations Clean Energy Summit on Kabi Kabi Country, where Lala shared her story about preserving language, culture, and Sea Country in the face of rising tides and corporate development. From teaching her people’s first language, Erub Mer, to giving evidence in court alongside her parents to defend her homeland, Lala reminds us that caring for Country isn’t just environmental work — it’s cultural survival.

Together, we yarn about the Torres Strait 8, youth leadership, the importance of elders’ guidance, and how connection to Country keeps language alive. Lala’s words are powerful and grounding — a reminder that protecting the planet begins with listening to those who live closest to it.

🎧 Tune in to hear a deeply moving conversation about family, resistance, and hope — and why, as Lala says, “Country breathes the language to us.”

Resources & Links

First Nations Clean Energy Network
Learn more about the movement bringing mob together to shape a clean energy future.
https://www.firstnationscleanenergy.org.au

Torres Strait 8 Campaign
Read about the landmark human rights case led by Torres Strait Islanders to hold the Australian Government accountable for climate inaction.
https://ourislandsourhome.com.au

Erub Island
Information about Erub, its people, and culture from Torres Strait Regional Authority.
https://www.tsra.gov.au/the-torres-strait/community-profiles/erub

Ben & Jerry’s – Protect the Islands Campaign
How the global ice cream brand partnered with the Torres Strait 8 to raise awareness about rising sea levels.
https://www.benandjerry.com.au/values/issues-we-care-about/climate-justice/torres-strait

Koori Mail
Australia’s national Indigenous newspaper covering stories like the Torres Strait 8 and climate justice.
https://koorimail.com

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, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wiradjuri Elder and Aboriginal activist Uncle Dave Bell has spent more than two decades guiding young people towards strength through culture, mentoring and connection. In this episode of Mental Fitness Conversations, he joins Mundanara Bayles from Black Magic Woman podcasts to share the story of Young Spirit Mentoring - a grassroots program changing lives across Campbelltown by reconnecting youth with Country, culture and community.

Together, Mundanara and Uncle Dave explore the importance of cultural identity, safe spaces for open conversation and how meaningful connection can break cycles of disconnection and pain.

Resources and links
Find out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast.

Find out about Young Spirit Mentoring https://youngspiritmentoring.wordpress.com/

About the podcast
Hosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness.

Content note
This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Cissy Gore-Birch, a proud a Jaru/Kija woman with connections to Balanggarra, Nyikina and Bunuba Country in the Kimberley, and the powerhouse behind Lulujaru — a fashion label that weaves together culture, conservation, and self-determination.

Cissy shares her story of growing up in Wyndham as the eldest of eight kids in a big, busy household full of laughter, hand-me-downs, and strong family values. From a long career in Native Title, conservation, and land management to stepping into the creative world of fashion in her fifties, Cissy talks about the power of backing yourself, reconnecting with your creative spirit, and redefining what success looks like for our mob.

We yarn about how Lulujaru began — inspired by species of cultural significance — and how every piece tells a story that celebrates Country, sustainability, and culture. Cissy also opens up about her passion for food security, self-sufficiency, and empowering the next generation through her Young Women on Country program and youth housing initiatives, funded directly through her fashion sales.

This is a powerful conversation about purpose, resilience, and the beauty of creating our own futures — on our own terms.

Resources & Links

Lulujaru website: www.lulujaru.com.au
Lulujaru Instagram: www.instagram.com/official_lulujaru

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, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.