andy, Author at The Andy Social Podcast

160 – Chris Themelco (Orpheus Omega, Monolith Studios)

December 27, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Chris Themelco is the front man for Orpheus Omega and runs Monolith Studios in Melbourne. Chris has contributed largely to the sound of Melbourne metal over the past several years not only through his own band but producing albums for bands such as Harlott, In Malice’s Wake, Espionage, Hollow, Trigger and more. Only a few years into running his own studio, Chris has built a demand that is expanding beyond the realms of local metal scene.

When it comes to the band, Orpheus Omega have capped off their 10th year in 2018 with a successful tour with Psycroptic and also signing to EVP Recordings. This has set the band up nicely for the upcoming album in the new year, which is a long time coming from the 2015 follow up of Partum Vita Mortem.

Chatting to Chris, I discover that the gap between albums was a necessity as the band needed to re-calibrated and renewed themselves after near burn out. Chris reflects on what happened after the last album came out and why it was crucial to take some time out and invest in themselves individually so that the band could continue.

With adversity being no stranger to the band, there appears to be a revitalised energy that has come from all of the ups and downs that will thrust Orpheus Omega back into the spotlight in 2019.

Lot’s of great topics covered in this episode from mental health and self development to band dynamics, launching his studio and heaps more. Music fans but specifically musicians should enjoy and be able to identify with this one.

To check out more from Chris, Orpheus Omega and Monolith Studios, check out the links below.

Photo by Owen Keswick Gallagher

Photo by Joel Adams

Photo by Eligin Huang Jiale

Podcast

159 – Eddie Woo (Mathematics Teacher, Author)

December 20, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Eddie Woo might very well be the world’s most famous mathematics teacher. Through his own passion for learning, Eddie has inadvertently created mathematical hysteria through his unique delivery of teaching.

When trying to help a student who was absent from the classroom due to illness, Eddie began to video his lessons and send YouTube links to help his pupil stay on top of the content. It wasn’t long before other students started utilising these videos and the lessons began trickling outside of the classroom. That trickle turned into a tsunami of interest and now people all over the world have come to enjoy and get value from Eddie’s teaching.

At the time of putting together this episode, Eddie’s channel (appropriately named ‘WooTube’) has close to 26 million views and 476,000 subscribers. That’s a lot of people interested in mathematics.

Due to the exponential attention pointed in his direction, Eddie made the decision to take advantage of the mainstream appeal and release his first ever Mathematics book (stay with me here, it’s far more interesting than you would think) called Woo’s Wonderful World of Maths.

Mathematics for many of us usually brings back grim memories of school where complicated equations were forcefully taught with no context delivered or perceived relevance in the ‘real world’. Eddie’s book demonstrates not only the importance of mathematics in our very existence but also uncovers some of the surprising patterns and wonder in everyday life and how we can benefit from understanding maths better.

To really highlight that this is not your typical school text book, some of the chapters include;

Lighting Through Your Veins
Teacups and (Almost) Infinite Money
What Sunflowers Know About the Universe
Killer Butterflies
Illuminati Confirmed
My Phone, the Liar
Why Aren’t Left-Handers Extinct?
Why Your Pancreas is like a Pendulum

… just to scrape the surface.

His efforts have not only be rewarded with a successful online presence and book deal, but also community recognition. In 2018 alone, Eddie has been awarded with both the 2018 New South Wales Local Hero and Australia Local Hero awards.

Currently the Head Mathematics Teacher at Cherrybrook Technology Highschool in Sydney, Eddie is in the midst of juggling worldwide fame and his daily task of fuelling his students with mathematical knowledge of the world. Not the easiest of quests, however Eddie has embraced this unorthodox role and is bringing his infectious thirst for learning to as many as he can.

I could sit here and wish that I had someone like Mr Woo when I was in school, however I think it would be far more fitting to share what thousands of others all over the world would be saying and declare that Eddie Woo is my current Mathematics Teacher. How cool.

Grab Eddie’s book Woo’s Wonderful World of Maths from all of your usual good book buying locations and subscribe to WooTube for ongoing mathematical marvel.

Show notes

Follow Eddie Woo via Main Website | Twitter | YouTube (aka ‘WooTube’) | Instagram |
Are you a Mathematics Teacher? Check out Eddie’s second YouTube channel targeted for teachers called Wootube²
Article – Eddie Woo and his rise from anonymous teacher to maths rockstar (ABC News)
Article – Why maths teacher Eddie Woo won’t monetise his YouTube channel (Financial Review)
Article – Eddie Woo: The maths teacher who became an unlikely star (BBC)

Podcast

158 – Monica Strut (Digital Marketer, Musician, The Last…

December 13, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Monica Strut is a Digital Marketer and Vocalist for Melbourne band The Last Martyr.

Playing in bands since her early teens, Monica has seen many of her peers come and go, all trying to chase a career in music. Seeing repeated failures from musicians trying to get attention and exposure, Monica decided to put her years as a musician and professional marketer in the music industry to further use, launching her own self branded marketing and coaching business.

I’ve got to admit, I always cringe when I hear the term ‘personal brand’ (I can hear people saying – “Wanker alert!”). The term however simply refers to your reputation and value, which I believe is a critical component to our identity. With social media playing such an integral role in people’s lives, it’s often underestimated just how much of your ‘reputation’ (both personal and professional) is impacted by the way in which you share your life online.

While many of us don’t hesitate in sharing personal information and opinions with the world, it’s seems to be far more difficult to stake your claim and tell others what you have to offer, or in other words – what your true value is. There are many reasons why this is the case, but finding the courage to not be worried about the judgement of others and the confidence in your own ability is what commonly holds many people back.

Monica has found her ‘why’ and feels passionate about helping bands and artists succeed. This has helped her find the confidence and courage to put her name out there and share with the world what value she can bring to others. It can be really daunting to take that step but if you follow through and back it all up, I think the rewards will be bountiful.

We all have something of value to share. It doesn’t have to be a business endeavour but merely rethinking how we interact on social media and delivering value to each other (friends, family, and strangers) could provide plenty of fulfilling and meaningful opportunities.

We cover quite a bit in this chat from earlier days playing in bands in Sydney before relocating to Melbourne and re-establishing with her current band, The Last Martyr. We also talk about entrepreneurial tendencies and traded thoughts on improving our mind set, which I’m always excited to talk about.

It’s always great to hear stories from those stepping out to help others and in turn improving their own lives. It’s inspiring stuff and certainly pushes me to continuously search for ways that I can share my value with others.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a little help in the social media world when it comes to the exposure of their music, be sure to shoot Monica a message. You can also check out The Last Martyr’s latest single Stay Awake in the show notes. Give it a crack!

Show notes

Podcast

157 – Trina Collins (Artist, Musician and Studio Owner)

December 6, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

In my humble opinion, Trina Collins is living the good life. Working as an artist and business owner of an art studio, every day is surrounded by what she loves.

Over the years, Trina has carved out a reputation in the art world under the pseudonym Poncho Army, winning multiple art prizes and having her works displayed not only across the country but in global cities such as New York, London, Dubai, Los Angeles and more.

Off the back of that momentum, Trina found opportunities along the way to experience private creative spaces which provided inspiration and lead to the eventual opening of her own studio, Anchors Aweigh Art Studio, located in the heart of Wollongong.

The art studio is the ultimate set up. A separate location to home and equipped to cater for a whole range of projects from her own art to screen printing, workshops/classes (for people of all ages), dark rooms and even a small drum/music room where Trina can keep her 25 years of drumming chops up to speed.

For anyone know has been following the podcast for a while now, I am always harping on about people starting their own business or simply being self employed. There is nothing better than seeing people have the courage to take the initiative and build a lifestyle from their passion. I was drawn to Trina’s story and her studio so much so that I featured the business on episode 25 of my Self Starter podcast. If you’re keen to learn more about the behind the scene mechanics and origin story surrounding the business itself, be sure to go and check it out.

Trina is interwoven in Wollongong’s creative community. Whether it be with Poncho Army, her years of drumming with bands such as The Watt Riot and now Babymachine, or Anchors Aweigh Art Studio, her impact and contribution to the area is significant. No doubt a lot of people would claim to be inspired and better off from having Trina in their world.

If you want to support Trina and the great work she is doing, be sure to check out Poncho Army and the studio if you’re in the area.

Podcast

156 – Nat’s What I Reckon (Comedian, Viral Videos)

November 29, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

We’re back for round 2 with Nat’s What I Reckon. I caught up with Nat almost a year ago (episode 111) and thought it would be fun to see what he has been up to this year since we last spoke.

In 2018, Nat has taken his comedic video commentary to the next level. With a butt tonne of videos put out this year, there are now more 11 million views on Facebook alone. Before he knows it, he’ll be a cultural icon and have his own pin ups in the back of TV Week (does that still exist?).

Without Nat shining a light on many of life’s oddities, I would have never taken notice of tissue boxes resting near the back windshields of a stupid amount of Toyota Camrys or wonder how utterly ridiculous a home display centre truly is.

I even look at Jim Beam fondly these days (shock horror), as a symbol of newly acquainted friendships rather than a simple rough as guts bottle of bourbon.

It’s amazing how much of the absurd consumes our day to day existence without ever taking any notice or just accepting things they way that they are. Luckily we have Nat pointing out the ludicrous and taking the piss out of it for our enjoyment.

Have a squiz at some of Nat’s videos in the show notes and give him a follow on social media. Good on ya champ!

Show notes

Follow Nat on Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Podcast

155 – Michael Yardney (Property Expert, Director of Metropole)

November 22, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Michael Yardney is one of Australia’s leading property experts and a best selling author. He’s penned 8 books to date, hosts his own podcast, has mentored over 2,000 business people and is the Director of Metropole Property Strategists.

Since Jess and I bought our first home down the South Coast of New South Wales in 2015, I have been an avid listener of Michael’s podcast and follow a lot of his advice and commentary through his online content. One of the best things about Michael is how he cuts through the noise and dispels a lot of myths surrounding property affordability in Australia. Whether it be the goal of attaining property or in fact anything in life, Michael is a firm believer that your mindset is catalyst to achievement. Michael co-wrote ‘Rich Habits, Poor Habits’ with Tom Corley which analyses the psychology behind our decisions and why some of us make better decisions than others. A great read!

Jess and I made a short term sacrifice of getting out of Sydney and buying a cheaper property. This ensured we got into the property market, kept our mortgage and overheads low and also helped us still save a deposit for our second property which we hope to get in the near future. This isn’t a blue print but one of many ways to purchase property and in fact I have many friends who have purchased a home in Sydney with 1 source of income with some short term sacrifices. It can be done!

In our chat, Michael talks about his path to success, purchasing his first property with a $2,000 deposit and how he has incrementally built his wealth over the past several decades. We talk about the market now, the fear mongering pushed by the media (don’t get sucked in!) and how mindset is key to your individual meaning of success.

If you want to dig deeper into Michael’s world, check out the Michael Yardney Podcast and subscribe to his newsletter. Lot’s of great ongoing information that will help anyone wanting to take more control of their own wealth.

Show notes

Check out Michael’s 8 books below;

Podcast

154 – Bianca Nogrady (Science Journalist, Author, Broadcaster)

November 15, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Bianca Nogrady is a Freelance Science Journalist, Author, Broadcaster, Tutor and much more. In my opinion, Bianca is a jack of all trades when it comes to world of Science commentary.

For more than a decade, Bianca’s work has been featured in Nature, The Guardian, Undark, the BMJ, Australian Geographic, Scientific American, the ABC, and BBC. This no doubt gives an indication of what kind of reputation Bianca has created from years of hard work covering a multitude of topics in the world of Science.

Bianca has authored/co-authored two books The End: The Human Experience Of Death and The Sixth Wave: How To Succeed In A Resource Limited World which cover respective topics of how we experience and interpret death and the now present sixth wave of global human innovation. We talk quite a bit about both books which I highly recommended and links to purchase them can be found in the show notes link.

As many of you will know, I have a real fascination with the freelance/self employed lifestyle. In fact, I created a podcast all about it (see the ‘Self Starter‘ podcast). As Bianca has been working as a Freelance Journalist for quite a few years now, I had to pick her brain on her own experiences working for herself. Bianca reflected on how she transitioned from traditional employment, the challenges experienced a long the way and the clear benefits of being able to earn a living doing what you’re passionate about, on your own terms.

Lot’s of nuggets of insight for anyone who is looking to take the plunge or is in the thick of being a freelance worker.

Bianca is never short of a subject to research or talk about. As you will discover in our chat, there’s a never ending list of topics to discuss and we managed to cover quite a bit in a short space of time, without even truly scraping the surface. Bianca’s curiosity is infectious and left me with a real thirst to continue to learn about the world around me without any constraints.

If you want to learn more about Bianca, her articles & blog, her books and much more, check out the links in the show notes below.

Show notes

Follow Bianca via Main Website | Twitter |
Learn more about Bianca’s books The End and The Sixth Wave
Listen: Observable universe, new elements & black holes (Triple J Radio)
Article: As Australia’s mining boom wanes, rehabilitation of abandoned mines offers lessons for the world (Ensia)

Podcast

153 – Luke Robertson (Ale of Time, Author, Podcaster)

November 8, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Luke Robertson might have my dream job. Writing about drinking beer.

It sounds absolutely, deliciously perfect.

For close to a decade, Luke has running his Ale of a Time blog which has gradually positioned him to be a key person of influence in the Australian Craft Beer industry. Years of slogging out reviews and opinion pieces landed him an opportunity to pen his first ever book ‘Keg, Bottle, Can’ which is now found everywhere good books are sold.

I picked Luke’s brains about how he got the blog up and running, those earlier days of writing his reviews and how he eventually got to a point where he could officially do this all full time. We also spoke about how beer and drinking culture has changed over the years in Australian and even dig into some technical talk about distinctions surrounding what actually makes a craft beer.

For those who are playing along at home, Luke is also a co-host of The Hypothetical Institute with Andrew Saltmarsh (Episode 87) and fello podcaster Cam Smith of Gather Round Me. Luke and I chat about the cooked units and topics covered on the podcast, which is one of my personal favourites.

To learn more Luke and beer in general, check out the links below. If you have a beer loving friend or family member who you need to buy a present for, Luke’s book ‘Keg, Bottle, Can’ might be exactly what you’re looking for!

Show notes

Podcast

152 – Macinley Butson (Award Winning Young Inventor)

November 1, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Like a lot people, I’m never short of an idea. The problem I have though is that the ideas are usually fleeting thoughts that are never followed through on. Macinley Butson, on the other hand, is one of the few who has taken action on her light bulb moments which are having a profound impact on people all over the world.

Over the past several years, Macinley has been the brains behind several inventions from water filtration, accurate medicine dosage to radiation protection armour for breast cancer patients.

Oh yeah, it might be worth noting that Macinley is only 17.

Now, I could feel utterly useless in comparison (it’s not worth commenting on what I was like as a 17 year old – trust me) or I could feel completely inspired. Let’s choose the latter!

Macinley’s accomplishments have seen her gracing the Tedx stage (video below), receive the 2018 NSW Young Australian of the Year and a multitude of other awards that would no doubt overwhelm even the proudest of parents of trophy cabinets.

In our chat we covered some of her most talked about inventions and ideas to date, how she has handled the increasing attention, public speaking and her first clash with the media where some of her words were taken out of context and how she has had to deal with some of those consequences.

Macinley is not only focused on impacting as many as possible through her academic abilities, but also through her words. There is a strong message in her actions which encourages everyone to excel in what they are passionate about and use these strengths to help others.

You can discover more about Macinley and follow her endeavours via the links and videos below.

Show notes

Follow Macinley via Main Website | Facebook | Instagram |

Article – TIGS inventor MacInley Butson is the first NSW high school student to win a new science grant (Illawarra Mercury)
Article – How this schoolgirl teaches herself the science behind these genius inventions (News.com.au)
Article – More international success for teenage Mangerton scientist Macinley Butson (Illawarra Mercury)

Podcast

151 – Adam Ballinger (ex-NBL Player, Artist Illustrator)

October 25, 2018November 27, 2020
by andy

Adam Ballinger had a long career in the National Basketball League (NBL) playing with the Victorian Giants, Wollongong Hawks, Adelaide 36ers and Melbourne Tigers. During this time Adam was named to All NBL teams, had a number of finals appearances, and competed with some of the leagues all-time best players.

Born in Bluffton Indiana, Adam came out to Australia in 2003 to test the waters after trying out in the NBA. There wasn’t a lot of convincing needed for him to stick around and now 15 years later, he’s completed a successful career in the league, started a family and calls Australia home.

After retiring from the league in 2015, Adam took an unorthodox approach compared to many other sporting athletes and decided to immerse himself in his love of art. Adam has created a business from his art and has gained the attention from not only those who love his work, but the people who he recreates in illustration.

You all know my love of basketball, so it’s no surprise to know that I was instantly drawn to his caricature styled illustrations of some of the larger-than-life characters of 90s NBA basketball. Of course, Adam’s art covers a whole range of sporting and pop culture icons, but living and breathing basketball as a kid, it was wild for me to see these players i worshipped being brought to life in cartoon form.

Adam and I spoke about his new career in art, growing up in the US, pursuing the basketball dream, relocating to Australia and his decade plus career in the NBL. We also get into some nostalgic NBA talk – always fun!

Be sure to check out Adam’s art (prints, stickers, t-shirts & other types of apparel) via the links below.

Show notes

309 – Rohan Stevenson (I Built the Sky)
Rohan Stevenson is the man behind I Built the Sky. An instrumental guitar project which Rohan has been self releasing music under since 2012. Follow Rohan via the I Built the Sky pages. New album coming soon in 2022. Show notes Follow Rohan/I Built the Sky via Main Website | Bandcamp | Patreon | Facebook |
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308 – Shep Hyken (Customer Service Expert)
Shep Hyken is a Customer Service and Experience Expert as well as the Chief Amazement Officer of Shep Presentations. I’ve been a big fan of Shep’s books for a while now and use a lot of his teachings to improve the way we run our band LORD. In particular, how we interact with our friends
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307 – Ben Hamilton (Kickin’ the Punt)
Ben Hamilton and his wife Jasmine formed Kickin’ the Punt in 2020 which encourages honest conversations about gambling addiction, as well as exposing the predatory behaviour of the gambling industry. Ben has battled a gambling addiction himself over the years and is now using his platform to help others. If you want to learn more
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