Burning Bridges Podcast

Born in Brisbane and raised in the rough streets of Sydney’s west, Ben “The Beast” Hussain’s story is built on struggle, identity, and raw survival.With his father deported and raised by a single mother, from a young age, he struggled to find his voice, both literally and in the classroom, making it hard to learn, connect, and fit in. That struggle made him a target, and the bullying only fueled something deeper inside him — a refusal to ever be pushed around again.Ben found his way into a boxing gym and from there, the hunger grew and the discipline sharpened. Today he is ranked #1 in the super middleweight division, with a record of 13-2 and 8 knockouts.  Holding titles across WBC, WBA, IBO and Australasia.But what separates Ben isn’t just his achievements — it’s his mindset. This is a fighter who has stepped into the ring with a broken jaw and damaged knuckles and still chose to go to war. No excuses, no fear, just pure grit and determination. In this episode, we dive into the journey behind the fighter — the mentality that drives him and the sacrifices that come with chasing greatness.Now training out of All Star Boxing and preparing for his next big fight on the Melbourne stage, Ben is more focused than ever. But beyond the titles and the violence of the sport, his greatest pride is being a father and protecting the life he’s built. He lives by keeping his circle small, valuing loyalty over numbers, and staying locked in on what truly matters.This is more than a boxing story, its proving that no matter where you start, you can fight your way to the top.

In this episode, we dive deep into Luke Brown’s story—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.Raised in a small Australian country town, Luke built a successful life on the outside—a thriving business in the agriculture industry, a strong family foundation, and lifelong friendships. But behind the success, there was struggle.As a young man, Luke battled a drinking problem—blackouts, trouble with the law, and nights he couldn’t even piece back together. In a culture that shrugs things off with “you’ll be right, mate,” accountability was hard to face, and even harder to accept.This episode explores the turning points—losing a mate, watching a close friend battle terminal illness, and the emotional weight that forced Luke to question everything. Despite his success, he felt stuck… like he was living the same day over and over.“It’s not enough for me.”That realisation became the catalyst.What started with running and small wins in social golf turned into something much bigger—the Going Pro journey. A bold mission to qualify for the 2027 Australian Open at 44, using discipline, purpose, and public accountability to change his life.Now off the drink and training full-time, Luke is all in. This is a conversation about identity, pressure, mateship, loss, and what it really takes to take control of your life—when most people would settle.

In this raw and emotional episode, Vika Pasefika opens up like never before. From growing up in a tough Samoan household to arriving in New Zealand unable to speak English, Vika shares the pain of being bullied—and how that pain turned him into the bully.Behind the violence was something deeper. Untold trauma. Abuse by someone trusted. Silence that followed him for years.From fighting in the streets to becoming a father, Vika’s turning point didn’t come easy. Now in Australia, he’s finally facing the demons he once buried.Today, Vika leads the UCE Movement—mentoring youth, supporting mental health, and running men’s groups focused on healing and suicide prevention.A powerful conversation about trauma, identity, and what it really takes to break the cycle.

This episode we speak openly to Aperehama-Rua, Coley, and Haati Bei about the journey to set things right after the past Hīkoi of Iwi Whakamahu – Heal the Nation, and the path they are now walking through UTU. Discussing personal thoughts, experiences, and actions behind two of the organisers Aperehama and Coley, and the movement that began with the intention of healing our people. And Haati Bei, Aperehama’s whānau, shares her own journey of keeping her family close while navigating a hostile environment. The kaupapa began with powerful intentions. The vision was to create a space of healing and unity. A place where people could come together, reconnect, and walk forward stronger.But the journey became complicated. Questions were raised. Trust was tested. People were hurt. What started as a movement of healing slowly became surrounded by confusion, division, and pain - between organisers, supporters and the public. In this kōrero we hear the heartbreak of how a space that began with hope and healing slowly became tangled in lies, pain, and despair. But we also hear something just as powerful — how through those experiences true friendships were formed that became whānau. And within a small group, now known as the LITT Krew, still believed in the Kaupapa and creating a space of whakawhanaungatanga, connection, and healing along the journey. Aperehama and Coley speak honestly about the weight they have carried since then — the guilt, and the feeling of knowing that things did not unfold the way they were meant to. With that comes the courage to face those feelings and walk forward with intention.Now they are walking a different path.A path that leads back to Rātana Pā.A journey of UTU — not revenge, but restoration. A return to balance. A way of putting right what has been thrown out of alignment.

From growing up in Aotearoa surrounded by family to stepping into new territory on the Gold Coast, Corbin and Ella share their journey of ambition, adversity, and unwavering commitment to each other.Together, they reflect on the setbacks that forced them to level up — not only individually, but as partners.  We talk love, leadership within a relationship, navigating hard conversations, and building a life aligned with shared goals.This episode dives deep into, communication, resilience, and what it truly means to build a strong foundation for love and family.A reminder that love doesn’t avoid challenges — it grows through them.

Uncle Tamahae Elkington was born in Porirua, Aotearoa, with spina bifida at a time when doctors didn’t know how to support children and their families with disabilities. Being hospitalised for two years from a baby, early institutionalisation planted a seed of anger he didn’t yet understand — an anger that followed him into adulthood.Growing up tough, learning to fight in boys’ homes, surrounded by violence and survival, he found himself pulled into gangs and a life of crime. When his parents moved to Brisbane, Australia he joined them — but the cycle continued. Petty crime turned into heavier offences and prison became a reality.To escape more prison time, he returned to Aotearoa. There, something shifted and he was made to attend Te Wananga Raukawa. Three years later he finishes with a degree. But the real turning point?A men’s group.He attended the same course 3 times, a total of 3 years. Through that journey, he re-discovered his worth, value and voice. He began healing and found solace in music, meeting people and travelling. Today, Uncle Tamahae proudly adorned with his moko kanohi, grounded in culture, wisdom, and self-awareness. Living with spina bifida, having lost his leg, and wheelchair-bound from the age of 16, he refuses to let anything define or limit him.It is proof that:* It’s never too late to heal.* Your past does not decide your future.* A disability does not disable your life.* And no matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise with dignity and mana.We are deeply honoured to share this kōrero.Share this with someone who needs hope ❤️ And let us know what part of Uncle Tamahae’s journey moved you the most.

We step inside the mind of Benny Harrington, owner and head coach of All Star Boxing, as he shares his raw and inspiring journey. From growing up in a working-class Brisbane household to building champions in the ring.With a childhood grounded in all types of sport, Benny excelled early, earning victories in squash, cricket, AFL and finding his true calling in boxing.Now a husband, proud father and leader in Australia’s boxing community, Benny opens up about what it takes to rise above the noise, build a winning mindset, and train the next generation of elite fighters.He speaks on the sacrifices, discipline , and relentless hunger it takes to make it - not just in boxing, but in life.Whether you’re a fighter, coach, athlete of anyone chasing something bigger, this episode is your blueprint for greatness.

Born in Aotearoa, Corbin Mita carried a heavy weight no child should bear. After surviving sexual abuse, he found the courage to speak up—and the strength to heal through discipline, community, and combat. His mother did what she could with Western healing methods, but the real breakthrough came when he discovered martial arts—a space where pain turned into power, and silence turned into purpose.Corbin found more than a gym—he found belonging. Fighting across New Zealand and overseas, he now trains out of Gold Coast, Australia, as a rising force in the IBC (International Brawling Championship). He takes us deep into his world—his daily grind, the mental warfare before every fight, and the soft moments shared with his fiancée Ella, who stands by him through every round in and out of the ring.This conversation is raw, real, and heavy-hitting—just like his punches. Corbin speaks on the power of humility, the quiet strength in healing, and the fire that drives his relentless pursuit of greatness in the ring.

Shubz first ever in person interview, he reveals his Manager Skye & they both delve deep into their own journeys, trauma, lessons and the plan to Heal The Nation - Iwi Whakamahu.In this raw and deeply emotional episode, social creator Schubz opens up about growing up in New Zealand under the shadow of abuse — and how those wounds still shape his adult life. With thousands watching, Schubz uses his platform to call out injustice of pedophiles and corruption. He speaks candidly about trying to heal the boy within. Skye Sterling, an entrepenuner and well known from working in the media for 20 years NZ, Skye is carrying her own childhood trauma, now walks a similar journey — a mother fighting for peace, for purpose, and for her own healing.Bonded through trauma, Shubz & Skye have found the courage to rise. Iwi Whakamahu – Heal the Nation.  

In this heartfelt season finale, we sit down with the inspiring Keilah Sauni—a woman who turned her childhood need for approval into a powerful drive for growth, healing, and success. Growing up in Auckland, Keilah always felt like she had to prove her love to be seen. Now living in Australia, she shares her powerful transformation story—from emotional struggle to building a thriving successful beauty business, and stepping fully into her purpose as a coach, mentor and leader. We talk blended family’s and the love and support she receives from her husband. How learning to communicate in a relationship is key, sharing her truth and real emotion. This conversation is a reminder that healing is possible, your story holds power, and your past doesn’t define your future.Get ready for truth, triumph, and the kind of wisdom that will stay with you long after the episode ends.This episode is a mix of emotion, empowerment, and straight-up gems on mindset shifts, entrepreneurship, and redefining what “success” really means. Oh—and yes, we laughed a LOT.

The Cuzzys: Love, Kai & Real Talk w/ TJ & KrystalIn this heartwarming and unfiltered episode of The Cuzzys, we sit down with TJ & Krystal — partners in life, love, parenting, and business. From navigating the highs and lows of building a blended family to creating a home where their tamariki come first, this kōrero is full of laughs, hard truths, and deep connection.They open up about their raw journey as step-parents, the challenges of merging two worlds, and how they made love and unity the foundation of their whānau. But that’s not all — TJ & Krystal also share how their passion for traditional Māori kai turned into The Cuzzys, a thriving business that’s not just about food, but about feeding the soul of the community.If you’re all about real stories, cultural pride, and the power of love, this episode is a must-watch.

In this raw and soul-stirring episode, Sam Jones holds nothing back.Once knee-deep in the underworld—crime, drugs, violence—Sam spiraled through addiction and jail time, hitting rock bottom not once, but three times. But rock bottom became the foundation for a powerful comeback.A young father with everything to lose, Sam made the decision to confront his demons for the sake of his kids—and himself. Through jail and rehab, he found his way to healing through the practice of 9D breathwork, unlocking deep traumas and transforming prison into purpose.Now supported by a strong wife and armed with clarity, Sam is on a mission: to guide other lost souls—addicts, convicts, and wounded men—toward their own redemption.This episode is heavy. It’s honest. It’s full of grit, grief, and grace. If you’ve ever believed you were too far gone to change, Sam’s story will prove otherwise. 

What happens when your heart breaks — literally and emotionally — and you have to rebuild your life from the inside out? Nikki Farkas joins us to share her courageous story of surviving sexual assault, a life-threatening heart attack, brutal bullying in school ,emotionally abusive relationships, and the silent longing for a mother’s love. With honesty and grace, Nikki speaks about the struggles of co-parenting, the deep connection with her father, motherhood and how her youngest daughter became the mirror that helped her rediscover love.This episode is a testament to how healing begins when we choose ourselves.

Justin Cox - Given up as a baby, moving through three adopted parents. Beaten. Abused. Bullied. Addicted. Suicidal. But something inside him refused to die. In this emotional conversation, JC opens up about his darkest moments — and the pain that nearly destroyed him.Through meditation, mindfulness, and spiritual growth, JC discovered that healing doesn’t mean forgetting — it means facing the past with courage and compassion.This episode will move you.JC’s story reminds us that peace isn’t found in perfection — it’s found in perseverance.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Marcus Schultz, the owner of Breathe Health Clubs Morayfield, to hear his raw and inspiring journey of resilience, transformation, and unshakable determination. Marcus shares his story from adversity in his childhood through to his time in the Australian Army, detailing the physical and emotional toll it took on him—including injuries that led to an addiction to pain medication. He opens up about the dark reality of suicidal thoughts and just how close he came to ending it all. Despite the pain, Marcus saved every cent he could, achieving the incredible milestone of owning a home and a business by the age of 21. But life threw more challenges his way, instead of giving up, he used the weight of those failures to pivot into something even greater. Now, as the owner of Breathe Health Clubs Morayfield, Marcus is more driven than ever to grow and expand his business.This episode is a testament to the power of turning pain into purpose—and you don’t want to miss it.

In this exclusive episode, we sit down with Say True God?, the voice behind the powerful BLAK album. He opens up about the inspiration behind his latest music, upcoming collaborations, and what drives him as an artist — including his deep love for his partner and family.We dive into the struggles, breakthroughs, and real-life moments that have shaped his journey — from growing up with challenges, to finding his purpose through music, and now preparing for his biggest move yet: the BLAK Australian Tour. Whether you're a fan of real hip-hop, Indigenous voices, or just love powerful storytelling, this episode hits deep.Drop a comment, like, and subscribe to stay tuned for more real conversations.#burningbridgespodcast#SayTrueGod #TheRise #BLAKAlbum #AustralianTour #IndigenousVoices #PodcastInterview #RealTalk #HipHopAustralia#mentalhealth

How do you turn childhood trauma into personal transformation and business mastery?In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Rado Trenciansky—an author featured on Amazon, entrepreneur, and speaker—who shares his journey from witnessing domestic violence in Czechoslovakia to building a new life in Australia focused on healing, growth, and legacy.After attending seminars with personal development giants like Tony Robbins, Rado went on to write two powerful books:📘 How to Get a Bigger Bite Out of Life: Power-Packed Ideas for Personal Growth and Prosperity (co-authored with George Faddoul)📘 Creating Customers for Life: Tips, Techniques, and Strategies for Growing Any Business, Even in the Toughest Economies (written by Rado himself)In this episode, you’ll discover:✔️ How early trauma sparked his pursuit of personal freedom and purpose✔️ The journey from Czechoslovakia to Australia—and what it taught him✔️ Mindset shifts that change lives and build businesses✔️ His proven strategies for building lifelong customers—even in difficult markets✔️ How to reframe your past to unlock your future

In this raw and inspiring episode, we sit down with Daniel Proctor, a Māori man born in New Zealand who shares his gripping life journey — from growing up in a violent household and running the streets, to joining gangs, battling addiction, and losing himself in a cycle of trauma, violence, and broken relationships.Daniel opens up about the pain he caused and endured, deep feelings of abandonment, his struggles and fears, and how his life spiraled out of control.But this isn’t just a story of pain — it’s a story of powerful transformation. Daniel takes us through the moment he decided to change, the role men’s groups played in his healing, and become a present father, better partner, and a man on a mission to spread hope.Now living in Australia, Daniel is using his past to empower others to break cycles and become a better person.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Andrew Walker, the first Indigenous Australian dual-code international, who opens up like never before. From growing up in country New South Wales to becoming a star in both rugby league and rugby union, Andrew shares the raw truth behind his journey.For the first time, he reveals why he went walkabout from the Wallabies camp—not once, but twice—and the personal battles he faced behind the scenes. From moments of triumph to deep struggles, this episode uncovers the emotional highs and lows of a trailblazer who broke barriers in Australian sport.Don’t miss this intimate, inspiring conversation that gives voice to the untold story of a true Australian icon.

In this raw and unfiltered first episode of the Burning Bridges Podcast, I open up about my childhood battles with bullying and a stutter that silenced me, the painful truth I learned about my father years later, and the abusive marriage that followed.This is a journey through my anger, hurt, and betrayal - and how I began to reclaim my voice and my life.