Pak Chat

Blake Thorn
  • 0.0 (0)
  • INVESTING

Pak Chat is where ambition and real conversation collide. Hosted by Blake Thorn, Pak Chat shares real lessons, mindset shifts, and strategies from Australia’s leading minds in property, business, sport, and beyond. From building wealth to navigating growth, it’s real people, real lessons, and making the complex simple. The conversation starts now!

Episodes

  1. #12 - Maddy Bockett: Outdoor Passion to Shark Tank - Building a Brand People Believe In

    12/17/2025

    #12 - Maddy Bockett: Outdoor Passion to Shark Tank - Building a Brand People Believe In

    Maddy Bockett didn’t set out to build a brand - she just wanted better outdoor gear for women. What started as a frustration turned into Tilda Outdoors, a women-led outdoor brand built entirely through organic content, with zero paid marketing, and backed by a loyal community of adventurous women. By showing up online as her true self, Maddy has grown both Tilda Outdoors and a powerful personal brand from the ground up. Today, she reaches hundreds of thousands of people across platforms - with over 51,000 followers on Tilda’s Instagram, 26,000 on Tilda’s TikTok, and a personal audience of 149,000 on TikTok and 124,000 on Instagram. Her journey has even taken her to the national stage, featuring on Shark Tank Australia. In this episode of Pak Chat, we dive into how Maddy built a brand and community without ads, and how leaning into who you really are can become your biggest advantage online. If you’re curious about building something real, growing an audience the right way, or backing yourself before anyone else does - this one’s for you.

    1h 18m

  2. 10/07/2025

    #11 - Alex Minter: The Data-Driven Buyers Agent Helping Australians Invest Smarter

    What if you could invest in property with confidence - backed by data, not guesswork? Alex Minter, Founder of Astute Property Network, has helped clients purchase over 1,000 investment properties across Australia. With 15 years in real estate, Alex has built a reputation for uncovering opportunities through geospatial mapping, data analytics and an investment strategy that transcends markets nationwide. In this episode, Alex shares: How to find high-growth suburbs using real data, not online hype Why rentvesting is helping younger buyers enter the market sooner The hidden traps of “cheap” regional investments and inflated insurance costs How to compare established vs new builds and spot real value What to check before investing interstate (and how his team de-risks it) The importance of transparency and how to identify genuine buyers agents This episode breaks down the numbers, tools and strategies that separate educated investors from emotional ones. For anyone building a portfolio or buying their first investment, this episode is a must listen.

    1h 7m

  3. 08/21/2025

    #10 - Jake Moore: $6 Billion Under the Hammer

    What does it take to call 1,000 auctions a year and move more than $6 billion in property under the hammer? For Cooley Auctions Partner Jake Moore, the answer is momentum, discipline and the ability to turn pressure into profit. In this episode of Pak Chat, Jake shares: Why his first five years nearly broke himThe psychology of bidding wars — and how to read people in real timeThe mistakes vendors make that cost them tens of thousandsHow a chef’s apprenticeship prepared him for the auction floorWhy confidence — not cash — often wins the day Auctions are more than sales events. They’re theatre, strategy and human behaviour on display. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how great auctioneers create great results.

    1h 23m

  4. 08/11/2025

    #9 – Jaya Yoannidis: From Startup to $18M – The Man Cave Brand Taking Over Australia

    In this episode of Pak Chat, we sit down with Jaya Yoannidis — the founder of A Man & His Cave, a brand that’s pulled in over $18 million since launching in 2020. What started as a small online store has grown into Australia’s go-to destination for man cave essentials — from kegerators to arcade machines. But behind the numbers is a story about building trust with overseas suppliers, leveraging AI before it was cool, and assembling a team that runs like clockwork. We get into the real playbook Jaya used to scale fast, the marketing moves that cut through in a crowded e-commerce market, and why he believes investing in yourself and your people is the ultimate growth hack. This conversation isn’t just about e-commerce — it’s about thinking bigger, moving faster, and building something that lasts.

    1h 27m

  5. 07/14/2025

    #8 - Shane Vincent: Behind the Deals – A People-First Property Vision

    Shane Vincent is the Principal of Belle Property Randwick and one of the most respected figures in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs real estate scene. With nearly two decades of experience in high-performance sales, Shane is known not just for his market knowledge, but for his relentless discipline, work ethic and no-nonsense approach to building a sustainable, values-driven business. In this episode, Shane joins us to unpack the real truths about succeeding in real estate and in life. We discuss how he stays consistent in an industry known for burnout, the mindset needed to outperform in a saturated market and what he’s learned about people, money and long-term success. If you're chasing excellence in any competitive field, this conversation is a blueprint. Expect to learn why most agents fail, how Shane thinks about leadership, why personal standards matter more than motivation and the power of patience.

    1h 29m
  6. #7 - Sam Groutsis - From Family Business to Founder: Redefining the Real Estate Game

    07/01/2025

    #7 - Sam Groutsis - From Family Business to Founder: Redefining the Real Estate Game

    In this episode of Pak Chat, we’re joined by real estate agent and co-founder of Mauve Property, Sam Groutsis. Raised in a family of agents, Sam’s journey started behind the reception desk at his mum’s agency and has evolved into running a high-performing business managing a gowing rent roll and selling homes worth up to $10 million — all while still finishing his university degree. We dive into how Sam broke away from the safety net to build something of his own. Mauve Property isn’t just another agency — it’s a bold new venture with a people-first, quality-over-quantity approach, built to challenge the status quo of Sydney’s Inner West and Upper Harbour markets. Sam opens up about the mindset shift it took to go from self-doubt to self-belief, how training and personal growth fuel his discipline and why he refuses to run cookie-cutter campaigns. He shares what it's like working with his brother as co-founder, how they use tech and targeted digital marketing to outsmart the big players and why they’re building a business that’s about more than just transactions — it’s about creating clients for life. We unpack everything from vendor psychology to imposter syndrome, building brand trust from zero and styling properties with scent and sound.

    1h 13m
  7. #6 - Jason Titus - Behind 650+ Property Purchases: Lessons from a Top Buyer’s Agent

    06/26/2025

    #6 - Jason Titus - Behind 650+ Property Purchases: Lessons from a Top Buyer’s Agent

    In this episode of Pak Chat, we’re joined by Jason Titus - expert Buyer’s Agent and Founder of Buyers Edge Property. With over 650 properties secured across Australia, Jason is a leading voice in the real estate industry, renowned for his fierce work ethic, clear communication and client-first approach. Jason brings expertise in the Australian property market, with a proven ability to identify undervalued suburbs and high-growth areas well before they hit the mainstream radar. Jason doesn’t just buy properties — he builds long-term strategies for his clients. We dive into how he earns trust, the role of transparency in property investing and the smart buying tactics he uses to help clients secure better deals and long-term value. From emerging market trends to property investment and work ethic tips, this episode is loaded with practical advice for home buyers, investors and real estate professionals alike. Jason says he’s “addicted to the progress” and by the end of this episode, you just might be too.

    1h 28m
  8. #5 Josh Ellison - Real Estate Done Right: Trust, Communication and Mentorship

    06/04/2025

    #5 Josh Ellison - Real Estate Done Right: Trust, Communication and Mentorship

    Josh Ellison is a high-performance real estate agent based in Sydney’s East. He’s sold everything from $500k apartments to $19 million trophy homes and built a reputation on trust, pace, and honesty. In this episode, we explore the mindset and tactics that separate average agents from elite performers. Josh reveals how he creates clients for life and why speed beats hesitation every single time. Expect to learn why copying others is the fastest way to lose in business, how Josh reads buyer psychology like a book, and the power of auction campaigns. Josh shares why the best agents are also the most human, and unpacks how to build unstoppable momentum in a saturated market. If you work in property, sales, or any high-pressure field, this conversation will sharpen your instincts, challenge your habits, and remind you why staying authentic is the most powerful strategy of all.

    1h 27m
  9. #4 - Clive Carter - The Power of Auctions, Brand and Buyer Psychology

    05/20/2025

    #4 - Clive Carter - The Power of Auctions, Brand and Buyer Psychology

    Clive Carter is a leading agent at Belle Property Randwick, known for delivering high-performance auction campaigns across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Originally from Wollongong, Clive has leveraged the strength of the Belle Property brand to consistently achieve standout results while maintaining a strong focus on client relationships and emotional connection. In this conversation, we explore what makes a great auction campaign, the impact a national brand can have on seller success and how understanding how a property feels to a buyer can be the ultimate advantage. Clive also shares the story of his first property purchase and the lessons it taught him about emotion, decision-making and value — lessons that now shape the way he works with buyers and sellers today. Expect powerful insights on real estate, branding, emotional buying and the human side of great property transactions.

    1h 29m
  10. #3 - Josh Cottam - Revolutionising Private Finance

    05/12/2025

    #3 - Josh Cottam - Revolutionising Private Finance

    Josh Cottam is the Founder of Think Private, a tech-driven platform designed to connect brokers, clients, and private funders in one streamlined system. In a world where traditional lending can fall short, Josh is at the forefront of a growing movement that’s reshaping how private finance is accessed and delivered. In this episode, we unpack why private funding is becoming an essential part of the financial ecosystem, the challenges of building a technology platform from scratch and the future opportunities Josh sees in an evolving industry. Josh also shares the vision behind Think Private and why he believes bridging the gap between funders and borrowers will define the next generation of lending. Expect insights into entrepreneurship, finance innovation, and how to spot growing opportunities in underserved markets.

    1h 8m
  11. #2 - Josh Meli - Building Australia's #1 Buyer’s Agency

    05/05/2025

    #2 - Josh Meli - Building Australia's #1 Buyer’s Agency

    Josh Meli is the Co-Founder of CH Secure, a fast-growing buyer’s agency created in partnership with leading industry expert Simone Cohen. With a bold ambition to become Australia's top buyer’s agent, Josh is building not just a business, but a trusted brand for people entering and investing in the property market. In this episode, we dive into the mindset behind building a reputation in a competitive industry, the critical role of gentrification when choosing suburbs, the power of strategic renovations, and how buying off-market can give buyers a major edge. Josh also shares what he looks for in a property and the long-term vision that drives CH Secure's success.Expect practical insights for anyone thinking about buying, investing, or understanding what separates good advice from great advice.

    1h 32m
  12. #1 - Mitchell Farah - Inside Sales, Property Strategy and the Mindset of a Third-Generation Agent

    04/28/2025

    #1 - Mitchell Farah - Inside Sales, Property Strategy and the Mindset of a Third-Generation Agent

    Mitchell Farah is a third-generation real estate professional and the Managing Director of First Hand Property, a boutique agency specialising in property management, holiday letting, and strategic sales across Sydney. In this episode, we explore Mitchell's journey growing up in a real estate family, the sales tactics that work in today’s market, and the evolving landscape of property management and holiday rentals. Mitchell also shares tactical advice for buyers navigating a competitive market, and the mindset it takes to build trust and longevity in the property industry. Expect real-world lessons in negotiation, client service and how to think long-term in real estate.

    1h 32m
  • 12 Episodes

About

Pak Chat is where ambition and real conversation collide. Hosted by Blake Thorn, Pak Chat shares real lessons, mindset shifts, and strategies from Australia’s leading minds in property, business, sport, and beyond. From building wealth to navigating growth, it’s real people, real lessons, and making the complex simple. The conversation starts now!

Information

  • Creator
    Blake Thorn
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Blake Thorn
  • Show Website
    Pak Chat