The Long Game Podcast

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Mark Sleiman | The Long Game Real conversations with people building something meaningful. Business. Life. Perspective. Think bigger. Play longer.

  1. 6d ago

    Craig Mearns | Building Calibre Country

    What does it take to build a successful regional business from the ground up? In this episode of The Long Game, host Mark speaks to Craig Mearns, founder of Tamworth-based Calibre Country, to explore his journey from working in the mining industry to establishing and growing one of the region's well-known outdoor and lifestyle businesses. Craig shares the early challenges of starting a business, the personal and financial risks involved, and the importance of family, strong customer relationships and community connections in creating long-term success. The conversation also explores the realities of operating in a highly regulated industry, the challenges businesses face when navigating change, and how diversification, adaptability and a committed team can help build resilience. From the value of local relationships to the lessons learned along the way, Craig offers an insight into regional entrepreneurship and what it means to build a business that supports not only his family, but the people who have helped make it successful. An engaging conversation about business, relationships, resilience and the legacy we leave behind.

  2. Oct 22

    From Tamworth to the World: The Story Behind Jack's Creek

    What does it take to turn a family-owned regional beef business into a globally recognised brand producing some of the world's best steak? In this episode of The Long Game, Luke from Tamworth sits down with Bob Barker from Jack's Creek to explore the story behind one of the region's most successful agricultural businesses. From its roots in the Willow Tree district to exporting premium Australian beef to more than 30 countries, Bob shares how Jack's Creek has built an international reputation for quality, including multiple wins at the prestigious World Steak Challenge. The conversation explores the family history behind the business, what makes Australian Wagyu and Black Angus beef stand out, and the challenges of operating in a global market. Bob also discusses international trade, tariffs, changing consumer preferences and the importance of supporting local producers. Closer to home, they chat about the Jack's Creek Warehouse in Tamworth, how it came about during COVID, and why locals can purchase the same premium beef enjoyed in restaurants around the world. And, of course, there's plenty of steak talk! Bob shares his tips for cooking the perfect steak, from seasoning and resting to the great debate over how many times you should flip it. Luke also puts him through a round of rapid-fire questions, including whether you can trust a chef who orders their steak well done, pineapple versus mayonnaise on steak, and the mystery of who Jack actually was. Plus, discover the story behind Bob's nickname, Uncle Big Beef. It's a conversation about regional success, family heritage, global ambition and the people behind a business proudly putting our region on the world stage. 🎙️ Hosted by Luke from Tamworth

  3. Oct 15

    Dr Isaac | Beyond the Vet Clinic

    From treating family pets to working with livestock, life as a rural veterinarian is anything but predictable. In this episode, we sit down with Dr Isaac, owner of Tamworth Veterinary Hospital, to talk about the realities of veterinary life, the importance of preventative pet care and what makes working in a regional community like Tamworth so rewarding. Dr Isaac shares his journey into veterinary medicine, the challenges facing rural practices and why vaccinations, nutrition and regular health checks are so important for our four-legged friends. We also bust some common pet health myths, explore how our relationships with animals have changed over the years and discover some of the more unusual experiences that come with being a vet — including performing surgery on fish! Whether you're a pet owner, an aspiring veterinarian or simply an animal lover, this episode offers an entertaining and informative look behind the scenes of veterinary life in regional Australia.

  4. Oct 8

    Ryan Brooke | From Personal Challenges to Local Politics

    In this episode of The Long Game, Luke from Tamworth steps into the guest host seat for a conversation with Ryan Brooke about the experiences and ideas that led him into politics. Ryan shares his journey from working through the COVID period and being diagnosed with testicular cancer, to deciding to turn his long-held political views into action by becoming involved with The Greens. The conversation explores what drew him to the party, some of the common misconceptions he encounters about The Greens, and what it’s like putting your hand up to represent a community. Luke and Ryan also unpack local issues and community feedback, including the ongoing conversation around Ray Walsh House and Ryan’s view on the importance of understanding why certain issues generate such strong responses from the community. It’s a conversation about personal experiences, politics, community and what motivates someone to step forward and get involved.

  5. Oct 1

    Luke from Tamworth | Good Food, Smart Moves & The Long Game

    This week on The Long Game, Mark Sleiman is joined by Luke from Tamworth for an episode that serves up a little bit of everything. With a big focus on Tamworth’s food scene, Mark and Luke chat about local favourites, memorable meals and the places worth knowing around town... before turning their attention to the ultimate test: taking on the infamous Lion’s Paw Challenge at Safari Club. They talk preparation, strategy and exactly how they plan to tackle it. There’s still a little property talk along the way, with Mark and Luke discussing the real estate market post-Budget, investing and what they’re seeing in the current market. It’s a different flavour of The Long Game. Good food, smart moves, local conversation and a challenge that might require a long-game strategy of its own.

  6. Sep 22

    David Colman | Built for the Long Game: Business, Real Estate & Staying Passionate

    In this episode of The Long Game, David Colman shares his journey from starting a franchise at just 26 to building a successful career in real estate and business. He and Mark unpack the key ingredients that make a great real estate agent, what it takes to build a successful real estate business, and why patience, consistency and a genuine passion for the job matter more than chasing overnight success. With years of experience behind him, David also reflects on what has kept him motivated throughout his career and why, after all this time, the excitement of real estate still hasn’t worn off. A conversation about business, longevity, success and building a career you genuinely enjoy.

  7. Sep 10

    Ryan Smith | The Numbers, The Knockbacks & The Mindset

    In this episode of The Long Game, Mark sits down with Ryan Smith from PRD Wagga to talk business, family, community and the mindset behind building a successful career in real estate. Ryan shares his approach to handling rejection, why being a “numbers man” keeps him focused, and the opportunities that come from being part of a franchise network. From embracing the highs and lows to backing yourself and making the most of every opportunity, Ryan shares a simple but powerful belief: the only thing stopping you from being good or great is yourself.

  8. Aug 20

    Luke Feilding | Business, Whiskey and The Long Game

    Mark sits down with Luke Fielding, owner of The Press Basement Bar, for a candid conversation about the realities of business, franchising and the lessons that come from building something of your own. From the story behind Williamsburg and the challenges that came with it, to leadership, looking after your people and navigating the highs and lows of business, Luke shares plenty of lessons learned along the way. And in true Press fashion, the conversation is enjoyed over a glass of whisky, kindly supplied by The Press Basement Bar.    Please enjoy responsibly.

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About

Mark Sleiman | The Long Game Real conversations with people building something meaningful. Business. Life. Perspective. Think bigger. Play longer.

Information

  • Creator
    Thelonggame
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Long Game Podcast

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