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INDIGENOUS BUSINESS AUSTRALIA
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Providing services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to own their home, start or grow a business and invest in their future.
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The new dreaming Podcast series

Welcome to “The New Dreaming Podcast”, a powerful platform created to celebrate strength, success, and storytelling among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.  

Born from a partnership between IBA and New Dream Productions, this special series holds space for truth-telling and real conversations that inspire, challenge, and empower. Each episode features First Nations men who are reshaping their futures, sharing journeys of resilience, leadership, and cultural pride in a space that honours their voices. 

From stories of overcoming adversity to reflections on identity and purpose, the series invites listeners into conversations that are honest, uplifting, and deeply grounded in lived experience.  

It’s a space where voices are heard, stories are honoured, and futures are imagined – together. 

Episodes below

Robbie Romano 

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In this episode, we explore how Robbie is transforming Australian agriculture through drone technology with his business, Elevate Innovations. A lifelong fascination with flight led him to develop advanced DJI T50 drone‑spraying solutions that replace tractors and helicopters for safer, more efficient crop protection. Robbie shares how he identified a major opportunity in the farming sector, moving from drone light shows to delivering precision spraying for sugar cane growers.

With support from Indigenous Business Australia, Robbie has expanded into dugong surveys, roof inspections, and specialised aerial services, positioning Elevate Innovations as a leader in drone‑powered agritech. He also reflects on the resilience, cultural grounding, and commitment needed to grow a successful Indigenous‑owned business.

This episode is perfect for listeners interested in agriculture technology, drone innovation, Indigenous entrepreneurship, and the future of farming.
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Luke Stensdorf

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What does it take to build a successful family business from the ground up? In this episode, Luke shares his inspiring journey from leaving school in Year 10 to becoming an award‑winning tradesman and business owner. With determination, resilience and support from Indigenous Business Australia, he grew a small plastering operation into a thriving, multi‑service enterprise.

Luke offers practical advice for anyone starting out in business: treat every customer like gold, diversify your skills, and keep showing up especially when challenges arise. His story is a powerful reminder that hard work, family support and commitment can turn a simple idea into long‑term success.

Tune in for an honest, motivating look at what it really takes to build a business that lasts.
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Nathan Yeo 

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In this episode, Nathan shares his journey From Factory Floor to Founder, moving from modular construction to launching Avendo Design, a studio known for creating plans that actually build. With support from Indigenous Business Australia, he refined his brand, strengthened his messaging and unlocked major growth, including a six‑figure development deal.

Nathan speaks openly about the realities behind entrepreneurship: managing mental health, navigating divorce and co‑parenting, and staying honest on both the good and difficult days. His story highlights the power of backing yourself, asking better questions and using vulnerability as a strength rather than a setback.

Tune in for practical insights and inspiring lessons on building a business.
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Dennis Arthur 

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In this episode, Dennis takes us From Boxing Gloves to Home Keys as he shares how a tough childhood and a single life‑changing phone call set him on a new path. What began in the boxing ring grew into a purpose‑driven journey of community work, mentoring young people and ultimately buying a home for his family.

Growing up in public housing, Dennis shows how small choices can create big change. He speaks openly about men’s mental health, reconnecting with culture and the importance of representation for the next generation.

This is a powerful yarn about resilience, dignity and refusing to give up on your dreams. Tune in for an inspiring story of courage, culture and commitment.
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Jordan Neuherz

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In this episode, Jordan shares a raw and relatable journey from feeling stuck in an unfulfilling job to building NHQ Slashing, a thriving business that bridges the gap between large‑scale commercial and residential lawn care. With no formal business training, he trusted his instincts, turning to podcasts, audiobooks and industry research to shape his own path forward. Support from Indigenous Business Australia helped transform his ambition into action, providing practical guidance and funding to grow his operation.

Jordan speaks openly about burnout, balance and the realities of starting from scratch, offering grounded advice for anyone considering a leap into business. His story is a powerful reminder that trusting your gut and taking the first step can lead to purpose, confidence and long‑term growth.
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James Saunders 

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In this episode, James, founder of Barragi Mawang, shares a powerful story of resilience, cultural pride and purpose‑driven entrepreneurship. Raised in Logan as one of nine siblings, he draws strength from his Gunditjmara and Wiradjuri heritage, now at the heart of his digital marketing business. After years of seeing his cultural knowledge benefit others, James created Barragi Mawang to empower Indigenous businesses with digital tools while staying grounded in community values.

With support from Indigenous Business Australia, he has built a platform that blends business with storytelling, producing documentaries like Yurlu Country and writing about his uncle, the first Indigenous person commissioned in the Australian Army.

James’ journey reminds us that success isn’t always about speeding up it’s about honouring culture, connection and authenticity.
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Adam Wooding

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In this episode, Adam, a proud Wemba Wemba man and founder of Empower Digital, shares his journey from building a simple website for his family’s cabinet‑making business to leading a thriving Indigenous‑owned digital agency. He explains how starting with social media before moving into e‑commerce has helped First Nations businesses grow sustainably and at the right pace.

Adam highlights the importance of strong relationships, including support from organisations like Indigenous Business Australia, and shows why real‑world connections matter just as much as digital strategy. With new initiatives like the POS Cafe Shopify app and tailored programs for service‑based businesses, Adam and his partner Carmel are creating meaningful change while staying grounded in culture, community and purpose.
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Josh Power 

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In this episode, we sit down with Josh, an Aboriginal and South Sea Islander entrepreneur and the creative force behind Good Good, a vibrant café in Brisbane’s West End redefining hospitality through warmth, quality and community. From growing up in Bowen and dreaming by the shoreline to opening a small coffee window beside his sister’s clinic, Josh’s journey is grounded in resilience, purpose and cultural pride.

With a background in Indigenous health and HR, he has built a business that prioritises staff wellbeing, customer connection and a genuine family‑first culture. Now expanding into deli‑style offerings and a wine bar, Josh continues to grow his impact while staying true to his artistic roots in music.

A story about instinct, intention and creating spaces where people feel seen.
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